Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
VAN GOGH
MUSEUM TOUR
he Van Gogh Museum (we say “van GO,” the Dutch say “van
HHHOCK”) is a cultural high even for those not into art.
Located near the Rijksmuseum, the museum houses the 200
paintings owned by Vincent's younger brother, Theo. It's a user-
friendly stroll through the work and life of one enigmatic man.
If you like brightly colored landscapes in the Impressionist style,
you'll like this museum. If you enjoy finding deeper meaning in
works of art, you'll really love it. The mix of Van Gogh's creative
genius, his tumultuous life, and the traveler's determination to
connect to it makes this museum as much a walk with Vincent as
with his art.
ORIENTATION
Cost:
€15 during special exhibit (Feb-June 2009); regularly €12.50,
free for those under 12 and for those with one ear.
Hours:
Daily 10:00-18:00, Fri until 22:00, closed only on Jan 1.
Special Exhibit:
From February-June 2009, “Van Gogh and the
Colors of the Night” will fill the new exhibition wing with
Van Gogh works, bringing together a rare gathering of his
nighttime paintings, including
Starry Night
.
Sightseeing Strategies:
Visit on Friday evening (when crowds
are sparse and sometimes there are musicians or a DJ and a
wine bar in the lobby). During the day, the lines move fairly
quickly (with wait times of just 15-30 minutes if all cashiers
are working); you'll be herded into a line based on whether
you're buying a ticket (slowest line, which also includes the
I amsterdam
Card crowd) or if you have a ticket in hand or a
Museumkaart (fastest line). It's easy to buy your ticket online
(no extra charge, www.vangoghmuseum.nl). For information
