Van Gogh Museum

Journey through the life and art of Vincent van Gogh, whose passionate vision and vibrant colors transformed the world of painting and continues to inspire millions today.

Plan Your Visit

A Window Into Genius

The Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam houses the largest collection of artworks by Vincent van Gogh (1853-1890) in the world. The museum opened its doors in 1973 and preserves the artist's legacy through his paintings, drawings, and letters.

"I dream of painting and then I paint my dream." — Vincent van Gogh

With over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 750 personal letters, the museum traces van Gogh's development from his early dark Dutch period through his vibrant French years. Famous works such as "Sunflowers," "Almond Blossom," "The Bedroom," and several self-portraits offer visitors a comprehensive look at the evolution of his artistic style.

Beyond showcasing van Gogh's work, the museum provides context through works by his contemporaries and the artists who inspired him. Through innovative exhibitions and educational programs, the Van Gogh Museum ensures that Vincent's story and artistic vision remain accessible to audiences from around the world.

Interior gallery of the Van Gogh Museum

Visitor Information

Everything you need to know to plan your visit to the Van Gogh Museum

Opening Hours

  • Daily: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Friday (Late Night): 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • December 25: Closed
  • January 1: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Note: The museum can get very busy. For the most enjoyable experience, plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon.

Admission

  • Adults: €20.00
  • Youth (0-17): Free
  • Students: €10.00
  • Museumkaart: Free
  • I Amsterdam City Card: Free

Important: All visitors must purchase tickets online in advance with a time slot. Same-day tickets are rarely available.

Getting There

  • Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam
  • By Tram: Lines 2, 5, and 12, stop Van Baerlestraat
  • By Bus: Lines 347, 357, and 397, stop Museumplein
  • By Bike: Bicycle parking available at the museum

Located in Amsterdam's Museum District, the Van Gogh Museum is within walking distance of the Rijksmuseum and Stedelijk Museum.

Facilities

  • Museum Shop with prints, books, and exclusive van Gogh merchandise
  • Café with indoor and outdoor seating
  • Free Wi-Fi throughout the museum
  • Fully wheelchair accessible
  • Audio guides available in 11 languages (€3)
  • Coat check and lockers
  • Photography without flash permitted in most galleries

Masterpieces from the Collection

Explore Vincent van Gogh's most celebrated works

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Sunflowers by Vincent van Gogh

Sunflowers

1889

One of van Gogh's most famous works, this vibrant still life is part of a series of sunflower paintings created during his time in Arles. The painting's radiant yellows and oranges reflect the artist's fascination with color and his emotional connection to these flowers, which for him symbolized gratitude and devotion.

Van Gogh painted the sunflowers in anticipation of his friend Paul Gauguin's visit, using them to decorate the guest room. His innovative approach to the subject and masterful use of variations in a single color make this an iconic work in art history.

Almond Blossom by Vincent van Gogh

Almond Blossom

1890

Painted as a gift for his newborn nephew, "Almond Blossom" represents hope and new beginnings. The work shows the influence of Japanese prints that van Gogh admired, with its unusual perspective and decorative quality.

The delicate white blossoms against a bright blue sky create a sense of joyful optimism, contrasting with the turmoil in van Gogh's personal life during this period. This painting was created during his stay at the asylum in Saint-Rémy, just months before his death.

The Bedroom by Vincent van Gogh

The Bedroom

1888

This painting depicts van Gogh's bedroom in the "Yellow House" in Arles, where he hoped to establish an artists' colony. Through the simple interior, van Gogh expresses his desire for home and stability, using bold colors and unconventional perspective to create a deeply personal space.

In a letter to his brother Theo, van Gogh wrote that he wanted to express "absolute restfulness" through the colors. The distorted angles and strong outlines make the room appear both inviting and slightly unsettling, reflecting the artist's complex relationship with the concept of home.

Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat by Vincent van Gogh

Self-Portrait with Grey Felt Hat

1887

One of over 30 self-portraits that van Gogh created during his time in Paris, this painting demonstrates his experimentation with Neo-Impressionist techniques. The short, rhythmic brushstrokes and complementary colors show the influence of artists like Georges Seurat.

The penetrating gaze and tense expression reveal van Gogh's intense self-scrutiny. Through these self-portraits, the artist not only practiced his craft but also explored his identity during a period of artistic transformation.

Van Gogh's Life & Legacy

Follow the journey of a visionary who forever changed the art world

March 30, 1853

Birth in Zundert

Vincent Willem van Gogh is born in Zundert, Netherlands, to Theodorus van Gogh, a minister, and Anna Cornelia Carbentus.

1869-1876

Early Career

Works at art dealership Goupil & Cie in The Hague, London, and Paris. Develops interest in art but struggles professionally.

1880

Decision to Become an Artist

After failed attempts at religious work and teaching, van Gogh decides to pursue art seriously, focusing initially on drawing.

1885

"The Potato Eaters"

Completes his first major work in dark, earthy tones. This painting portrays the harsh reality of peasant life in Nuenen.

1886-1888

Paris Period

Moves to Paris to live with his brother Theo. Exposure to Impressionism transforms his palette to brighter colors. Meets artists including Gauguin, Pissarro, and Toulouse-Lautrec.

1888-1889

Arles & Saint-Rémy

Moves to southern France seeking better light and color. Creates many of his masterpieces including "Sunflowers" and "Starry Night." Mental health deteriorates, leading to hospitalization.

July 29, 1890

Death at Age 37

After moving to Auvers-sur-Oise under Dr. Gachet's care, van Gogh dies from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, having sold only one painting during his lifetime.

1973

Museum Opening

The Van Gogh Museum opens in Amsterdam, founded on the collection of Vincent's brother Theo, which was inherited by Theo's widow Jo van Gogh-Bonger.

Today

Global Recognition

Van Gogh is recognized as one of history's greatest artists. His paintings sell for record prices, and his distinct style continues to influence contemporary culture worldwide.

Current & Upcoming Exhibitions

Discover special exhibitions that provide new perspectives on van Gogh's work

Van Gogh and Japanese Influences Exhibition
April 5 - August 15, 2025

Van Gogh and Japanese Influences

This exhibition explores how Japanese prints and artistic techniques revolutionized van Gogh's approach to composition, perspective, and color. See the direct parallels between ukiyo-e prints and van Gogh's paintings, revealing the profound impact of Japanese aesthetics on his work.

Learn More
The Letters: Vincent's Inner World Exhibition
June 10 - September 25, 2025

The Letters: Vincent's Inner World

Dive into van Gogh's extensive correspondence with his brother Theo and others through this innovative exhibition. Original letters, digital displays, and audio readings reveal the artist's thoughts on art, nature, literature, and his personal struggles, providing intimate insight into his creative process.

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Van Gogh's Techniques Revealed Exhibition
October 8, 2025 - January 12, 2026

Van Gogh's Techniques Revealed

This technical examination of van Gogh's painting methods uses cutting-edge scientific analysis to illuminate his creative process. X-rays, infrared reflectography, and microscopic examination reveal the artist's experimental approach to materials and methods that created his distinctive style.

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Educational Programs

Engage with van Gogh's art through interactive learning experiences

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Guided Tours

Join our expert guides for in-depth explorations of van Gogh's artistic development, techniques, and inspirations. Tours are available in multiple languages and can be customized for different age groups and interests.

Book a Tour
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Workshops

Discover your own creativity through hands-on art workshops inspired by van Gogh's techniques. From brushstroke exercises to color theory explorations, these sessions offer insight into the artist's methods.

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School Programs

We offer specialized programs for students of all ages, with curriculum-based activities that connect van Gogh's work to subjects including art, history, language, and science. Virtual options available for remote classrooms.

For Educators
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Digital Resources

Explore our extensive online learning materials, including interactive timelines, high-resolution images, educational videos, and digital publications about van Gogh and his artistic context.

Access Resources

Visitor Experiences

What others are saying about their visit to the Van Gogh Museum

Seeing the evolution of van Gogh's work in chronological order was incredible. The audio guide provided fascinating context about his life and technique. I was especially moved by the letters to his brother Theo displayed alongside the paintings—they added such emotional depth to the experience.

Emily R.

Emily R.

Melbourne, Australia

The museum does an excellent job of managing crowds—despite its popularity, I never felt rushed. The building's design creates perfect lighting for viewing the artworks. "The Bedroom" has always been my favorite painting, and seeing it in person was a truly emotional experience.

James L.

James L.

Chicago, USA

I brought my children (ages 8 and 11) and was impressed with how the museum engaged them. The family guide and interactive stations made van Gogh's art accessible and interesting for them. My daughter was particularly captivated by the vivid colors in the sunflower paintings.

Martina C.

Martina C.

Madrid, Spain

Location & Directions

How to find the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam

Map showing location of Van Gogh Museum

How to Reach Us

  • Address Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Public Transportation Tram lines 2, 5, and 12 (stop: Van Baerlestraat)
    Bus lines 347, 357, and 397 (stop: Museumplein)
  • From Amsterdam Central Station 20 minutes by tram or 30-minute walk through the scenic canal district
  • From Schiphol Airport 30 minutes by direct bus (line 397) or train to Amsterdam Zuid + tram
  • Nearby Attractions Rijksmuseum (5-minute walk)
    Stedelijk Museum (2-minute walk)
    Vondelpark (7-minute walk)

Experience The Colors of Vincent

Book your tickets today to immerse yourself in the extraordinary vision of an artist who continues to touch hearts and inspire minds across generations. The world of Vincent van Gogh awaits.

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