Van Gogh Museum location

By bus

The most popular option for international travelers is the Amsterdam Airport Express (Bus 397), which provides a direct and frequent connection from Schiphol Airport to the Museumplein stop. Additionally, several local and regional R-net buses serve the area, including Lines 347 and 357, which connect the city center with the southern suburbs. These buses stop at the Museumplein or Rijksmuseum stations, both within a short walking distance of the entrance.

This mode of transport is particularly useful if you are arriving from the outskirts of the city or directly from the airport, as it drops you right in the heart of the cultural district with minimal navigation required.

Photo: “Amsteveen: Iveco Crossway 'R-Net'” by Harry_nl.

By metro

Utilizing the metro is the fastest way to traverse the city and reach the Museum Quarter. The most direct route is via Metro Line 52, also known as the North-South Line. You should exit at the Vijzelgracht station, which is the closest stop to the museum.

From the station exit, it is a straightforward and pleasant 10-minute walk heading south toward Museumplein. The metro is highly efficient for visitors staying in the northern parts of Amsterdam or near the RAI Convention Center, providing a high-frequency service that avoids street-level traffic.

Photo: “Metro train on the North-South line at North Station.” by Eriksw.

By tram

Trams are the most iconic and frequent way to reach the Museum Quarter, offering a scenic ride through Amsterdam’s historic center. From Amsterdam Central Station, you can hop on Tram Line 2 or 12, both of which stop at Van Baerlestraat, located just a few steps from the museum entrance.

If you are coming from the direction of Leidseplein or the Jordaan, Tram Line 5 provides a direct connection to the Museumplein stop. These lines run every few minutes throughout the day, making them incredibly reliable.

Photo: “Amsterdam Prinsengracht GVB 2013 Line 2 Nieuw Sloten” by Artix Kreiger 2.

By train

Travelers arriving from outside Amsterdam or staying near the periphery will find the train a seamless option. Most visitors arrive at Amsterdam Central Station, which serves as the city’s primary transit hub. From there, you can easily transfer to tram lines 2 or 12, which go directly to the museum area.

Alternatively, if your train stops at Amsterdam Zuid Station, you can take Metro Line 52 or Tram 5 to reach Museumplein quickly. The Dutch rail network is incredibly punctual and well-integrated with local transit, making the journey from cities like Utrecht, The Hague, or Haarlem simple and stress-free for museum-goers.

By car or taxi

While driving in central Amsterdam can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited space, arriving by car or taxi is possible. Taxis and rideshare services can drop you off near the museum entrance at Museumplein.

If you choose to drive, note that on-street parking is scarce and expensive. The most convenient option is the Q-Park Museumplein underground garage, located directly beneath the square with an entrance near the Concertgebouw. From the garage, the museum is just a short walk across the lawn. This is a practical choice for those with limited mobility or groups traveling together who prefer door-to-door service.