Top 5 Photography Ideas For Amsterdam
In this blog Historical Amsterdam Tours has curated some of the most iconic spots, as well as several snappy ideas to capture this vibrant old city.
Rijksmuseum Private Tour
Private tour in the Rijksmuseum
Rijksmuseum Private Tour
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StartingpointWe meet at the CoBrA Cafe ATM, in front of the Rijksmuseum, at the museum square side of the museum.
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Duration | Distance2,5 hours | Elevators available
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Highlights- The Dutch Masters of the Golden Age
- The Dutch Revolt against Spain
- Rembrandt’s Night Watch
- The Museum Library -
PriceSee Booking page
-
StartingpointWe meet at the CoBrA Cafe ATM, in front of the Rijksmuseum, at the museum square side of the museum.
-
Duration | Distance2,5 hours | Elevators available
-
Highlights- The Dutch Masters of the Golden Age
- The Dutch Revolt against Spain
- Rembrandt’s Night Watch
- The Museum Library -
PriceSee Booking page
Private Rijksmuseum Tour: A Journey Through Dutch Art & History
Experience the Rijksmuseum, the largest and most prestigious museum in the Netherlands, through the lens of a professional art historian. Our private tour explores the rise and fall of the Dutch Republic and the masterpieces of the Golden Age, providing a deep dive into the cultural soul of Amsterdam.
The Rise of the Dutch Republic (17th Century)
Learn how a young nation of merchants became a global superpower. Our “crash course” in 1600s history covers:
The Struggle for Independence: How the Lowlands took up arms to become a sovereign powerhouse.
Key Historical Figures: Get to know the leaders who shaped the era, including Prince William of Orange, Admiral Michiel de Ruyter, and the statesman Johan de Witt.
Masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age
Why is 17th-century Dutch art so unique? We go beyond the canvas to explain the techniques and stories behind the museum’s most famous works:
Johannes Vermeer: The domestic tranquility of The Milkmaid.
Rembrandt van Rijn: The psychological depth of his mysterious portraits and the iconic Night Watch.
Jan Steen: The chaotic and humorous symbolism of a “Jan Steen Household.”
Frans Hals: The innovative group portraits of the civic guards.
Albert Cuyp: The golden, Italianate light of his lush Dutch landscapes.
The “Second Golden Age” & Dutch Impressionism
The Rijksmuseum also bridges the gap between the 17th and 19th centuries. We explore how the Dutch Masters influenced a new generation:
Vincent van Gogh: View his early Dutch works and self-portraits.
Breitner & Mauve: Discover how the Hague School and Dutch Impressionists integrated French influences into the Lowlands tradition.
Architecture & Secrets of “The Rijks”
The building itself is an architectural masterpiece. Your private guide will reveal:
The Pierre Cuypers Design: Why this “Cathedral of Art” was controversial when it opened in 1885.
Hidden Details: Uncover the secrets of the museum’s decor, its library, and its role as a national institute for culture.
The Eventful History: From the 19th-century inception to the massive 21st-century renovation.
Why Choose an Art Historian as Your Guide?
Exclusive Access to Knowledge: Go beyond basic plaques with academic-level insights.
Tailored Itinerary: We focus on the areas that interest you most, from weaponry and ship models to fine lace and oil paintings.
Skip the Overwhelm: Navigate the massive collection efficiently with a curated path through the highlights.
Unlock the secrets of the Netherlands’ greatest treasures.
Tour reviews
- A Tripadvisor Member
This was an amazing walking tour of Rembrandt’s steps, where he lived, about his work, the good and bad, etc. It was extremely informative and our guide was Tijs who... read more 
August 1, 2020
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