- All visitors must book a ticket with a specific start time in advance, including Museumkaart holders and visitors eligible for free entry.
- Entry is only valid for the selected time slot. Once inside, you may stay until closing, but re-entry after leaving is generally not permitted.
Rijksmuseum rules & regulations
Entry & tickets
ID, security and ticket checks
- Tickets are usually not name-based, but you should carry valid proof of identity, especially when accessing special areas or using discounted tickets.
- All visitors are subject to security screening before entry and must comply with staff instructions at all times to ensure safety and protect the collection.
- Bags and personal items may be inspected at any time.
Dress code
- There is no formal dress code at the Rijksmuseum although you are expected to dress appropriately for a public cultural institution.
- Comfortable clothing and footwear are recommended, as the visit involves extended walking across multiple floors.
Cloakroom & personal belongings
- A free, supervised cloakroom is available for bags, backpacks, umbrellas, and coats. Only small bags up to A4 size are allowed inside the galleries.
- Large bags, travel luggage, folding bikes, musical instruments, skateboards, and bulky items cannot be stored in the cloakroom and must be kept at external storage facilities.
Photography rules
- Personal photography using handheld cameras or mobile phones is allowed.
- Flash photography, tripods, selfie sticks, lighting equipment, props, and drones are not permitted.
- Photography must not disturb other visitors or damage artworks. Commercial or professional photography requires prior approval.
Food & drinks
- Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum or in the exhibition galleries.
- You may use the museum’s restaurant and café located within the building.
Smoking & vaping
- Smoking is strictly prohibited inside all areas of the Rijksmuseum, including electronic cigarettes and vaping devices.
- Smoking is only allowed outside the museum premises.
Pets & service animals
- Pets are not allowed inside the Rijksmuseum.
- Certified service animals are permitted but may be restricted to certain areas of the museum depending on safety and conservation requirements.
Families & children
- Strollers and pushchairs are allowed throughout the museum.
- Backpack-style baby carriers must be stored in the cloakroom.
- Children must be supervised by an adult at all times. Family facilities such as baby changing rooms are available.
Accessibility rules
- The Rijksmuseum is wheelchair accessible, with elevators, ramps, and adapted restrooms.
- Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walking sticks, and hearing aids are permitted.
- Visitors requiring assistance may be accompanied by one companion free of charge with a reserved entry time.
Research Library & Study Room access
- Admission is only possible with valid proof of identity, material requested in advance, and a workspace reservation. The reservation does not give access to the rest of the museum.
- Coats, bags, and umbrellas must be left at the checkroom or in the lockers, both of which are free of charge.
- Bringing your own books, and eating and drinking inside the library are not permitted.
- Taking pictures and making scans of materials is permitted for personal use.
Forbidden items
- Sharp objects such as knives, firearms, blunt objects that could be used as weapons, drones, banners, signs, alcohol, large bags, and professional photography equipment are not permitted inside the museum.
