Choose a starting point
The collection covers a large area. So first choose a department that makes you curious. A free audio tour gives you more context for what you see, without having to go through the whole museum straight away.
Connect the departments
A second department can broaden your first impression. Notice, for example, the questions archaeologists ask of objects: what were they used for, where do they come from and what is known about their use? Keep the object and the accompanying explanation distinct.
In the evening too
Besides the ordinary daytime hours, the museum opens on Thursday evenings. That is a separate time slot. The library has a different address and its own visiting arrangements; do not treat it as a matter-of-course part of the museum route.
Before you go
Archeologie van Nederland (Archaeology of the Netherlands) is closed for maintenance on 22 September 2026 from 13.00 to 17.00. Also check for public-holiday changes; mobility scooters are not permitted.
Sources
This first edition has been compiled from collected museum information. Not all of the information has yet been confirmed by the museum. Viewing tips are by the editorial team. The sources used are listed below.
- Rijksmuseum van Oudheden — source 1
Source reference supplied; independent source check still needed. Research reference supplied; source content and claims still to be verified independently.
- Rijksmuseum van Oudheden — source 2
Source reference supplied; independent source check still needed. Research reference supplied; source content and claims still to be verified independently.
- Rijksmuseum van Oudheden — source 3
Source reference supplied; independent source check still needed. Research reference supplied; source content and claims still to be verified independently.