Do the Rijksmuseum tickets sell out? Do I need to buy them in advance in 2026? Or can I keep my plans flexible and enter the museum at any time? Let’s find out.
Do tickets to the Rijksmuseum ever sell out?
Rijksmuseum tickets do not sell out six weeks prior in advance, like the Anne Frank house or the Van Gogh museum tickets. But still, for the Rijksmuseum visit you always need to present a pre-booked ticket with a selected date and time slot.
We recommended to buy the Rijksmuseum tickets at least 2-3 days in advance. While the museum itself is large and can host lots of visitors, some time slots, especially during weekends, holidays and special exhibitions, are limited and are likely to sell out.
Tip! Also check the combi-tickets (including Rijksmuseum + canal cruise combi) for availability and possible discount.
What happens if I show up without a ticket?
Officially, a limited number of tickets are still sold at the museum entrance – but only while stocks last. During busy periods (weekends, summer months, and around major temporary exhibitions), these walk-up tickets can run out fast, sometimes before the museum even opens. If you show up without a pre-booked ticket and the day’s slots are full, you won’t be admitted.
The safest approach is to always book a time slot online before you arrive – even if it’s just a few hours ahead on a quiet weekday.
How far in advance do Rijksmuseum tickets go on sale?
Rijksmuseum tickets are released on a rolling basis, typically up to about 3 months (90 days) ahead of the visit date – there’s no fixed weekly release like at the Anne Frank House. For a weekday visit outside the summer season (September to May), you can often book just a few days ahead without any trouble.
For weekend visits in June–August, or around a major temporary exhibition, aim to book 2–4 weeks in advance instead – morning slots on summer Saturdays are usually the first to sell out.
Looking for current ticket prices and full visiting tips? See our complete Rijksmuseum guide.
Do I need to book a time slot with the I amsterdam card?
Yes, you need to book a timeslot even if you visit the Rijksmuseum with the Dutch Museum card or I amsterdam city card.
Go to the Rijksmuseum official website and click Visit and Tickets. In the list of options, check the box I already have a voucher/ticket.
Follow the steps: choose the date and time of your visit, and fill in your name and e-mail address. You are not required to provide any details related to your I amsterdam city card. You don’t even need to have it on hand while booking your timeslot. Also you don’t need to pay anything.
After you’ve confirmed your booking, you will receive your ticket/voucher by e-mail.
When you arrive at the Rijksmuseum, you will need to show this ticket with the time reservation and your I amsterdam card or Museum card.
FAQ about visiting the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam in 2026
Where can I store large luggage near the Rijksmuseum?
The Rijksmuseum’s own cloakroom only fits small bags and backpacks – there’s no space for large suitcases or travel luggage. If you’re arriving with bigger bags, drop them off beforehand at a Lockerpoint on the Museum Square, a short walk from the entrance.
Is there free WiFi available at the Rijksmuseum?
Yes, you can use free WiFi at the Rijksmuseum.
Can I leave the Rijksmuseum and come back later?
No, generally it’s not allowed to go outside during your visit to the Rijksmuseum.
Enjoy your visit to the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam!
Related articles:
- Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam: tickets, prices and tips
- Top-rated museums in Amsterdam in 2026
- How to book a timeslot with the I amsterdam card?
- Where to buy tickets for the Anne Frank house?
- Van Gogh museum tickets are sold out: what to do?
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