Private Rijksmuseum Tour

The Rijksmuseum can feel overwhelming—it’s vast, rich in detail, and surprisingly tricky to navigate. That’s where we come in. Our guided walk focuses on the Dutch Golden Age, a period that flourished in the 1600s when wealth flowed into the Dutch Republic. The wealthy left a lasting mark on art, culture, and society, and our tour will help you uncover this fascinating history.

The Rise of the Dutch Republic

Discover the incredible story of the Netherlands’ ascent to power. We use allegorical paintings to illustrate key historical moments and dive deeply into the large works intended to morally instruct the leaders and citizens of the emerging Dutch Republic. Each painting reveals something important about the time.

A Treasure Trove of Dutch Golden Age Splendor

As well as seeing stunning examples of the era’s grand art, there’s also lavish furniture, tapestries, silverware, intricate Delftware and exceptional dolls’ houses. Even unique items like drinking games capture the spirit of the time. This part of the tour shows just how much creativity and luxury were woven into everyday life.

All Periods of Rembrandt’s Career

We’ll explore Rembrandt’s career from start to finish. Beginning with the early Biblical paintings from his Leiden period, followed by his hyper-realistic portraits created in his early Amsterdam days. Finally, we’ll look at his late works, where emotion and depth come to the forefront. Each piece helps you understand his evolution as an artist.

Four of Vermeer’s Gems

We’ll discuss Vermeer’s peaceful and introspective paintings. You’ll learn about the symbolism he uses and how his work captures quiet moments of everyday life. These paintings reveal a different side of the Dutch Golden Age, one that’s more personal and reflective.

Gallery of Honour

We’ll guide you through the Gallery of Honour, where the entrance hall highlights the responsibilities of 17th-century citizens. This section introduces you to the cultural achievements of the time in both the arts and sciences. It’s a place where you can see the pride and accomplishments of the Dutch people on full display.

Rembrandt’s Night Watch

We’ll take in one of the world’s most famous paintings in the Rijksmuseum — Rembrandt’s Night Watch. The painting is currently undergoing a public restoration in the Gallery of Honour. This is a rare opportunity to see how experts work to preserve such a masterpiece. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for its significance and ongoing legacy.

Naval Conflicts with the English

One gallery takes us through the intense naval conflicts between the Dutch and the English. Here, you’ll see the stern of the Royal Charles, the flagship of the English fleet, which was captured by the Dutch in a daring raid. This powerful artifact offers a rare glimpse into the boldness and naval prowess of the Dutch Republic.

Dollhouses 

We’ll explore a gallery showcasing two exquisite dollhouses crafted by the grand ladies of the time. These miniatures reveal the intricacies of running a grand household during the Dutch Golden Age from the women’s perspective. 

The Era of William and Mary

The last gallery we visit reflects the style of the Dutch Golden Age during the reign of William and Mary. Here, you’ll see beautiful Delft Blue porcelain—an art form they loved and popularized—as well as grand furniture influenced by Louis XIV’s court. Despite frequent conflicts with France, Dutch tastes in fashion and furnishings drew heavily from French styles, blending elegance with their own unique craftsmanship.

This tour brings to life the opulence, creativity, and power of the Dutch Golden Age. It offers you an unforgettable museum experience that connects you to a time of extraordinary cultural achievement.