Getting Around the Netherlands to Visit Museums

How to easily travel between cities and reach the country’s top cultural destinations.

The Netherlands is compact, well-connected, and ideal for museum lovers eager to explore beyond Amsterdam. With a smart and efficient public transport system, visiting major museums in cities like The Hague, Rotterdam, Utrecht, Leiden, and Otterlo is easier than you might expect. Here's everything you need to know to travel stress-free while immersing yourself in Dutch art and culture.

🚄 1. National Train Travel (NS)

Best for: Intercity travel between major museum destinations.

  • Operator: Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
  • Coverage: Nationwide, connects all major cities and museum hubs
  • Popular museum trips by train:
    • Amsterdam → The Hague (Mauritshuis, Escher Museum)
    • Amsterdam → Utrecht (Centraal Museum)
    • Amsterdam → Otterlo (Kröller-Müller Museum via Ede-Wageningen + bus)
    • Amsterdam → Leiden (Museum De Lakenhal, Naturalis)
    • Amsterdam → Rotterdam (Boijmans Van Beuningen, Kunsthal)

🎟 Ticket Tips:

  • Buy tickets via NS app, NS.nl, or at yellow kiosks in stations.
  • Use contactless debit/credit cards or OV-chipkaart for quick check-in/out.
  • Look out for NS day deals and group discounts on weekends.

🚋 2. Public Transport in Cities

Best for: Getting to museums within Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht.

  • Amsterdam (GVB): Trams and metros connect directly to Museumplein (Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh, Stedelijk).
  • Rotterdam (RET): Metro and tram access to Kunsthal, Depot Boijmans, and Maritime Museum.
  • The Hague (HTM): Trams to Mauritshuis, Escher Museum, and Kunstmuseum.
  • Utrecht (U-OV): Buses and trams to the Centraal Museum and Railway Museum.

🚍 Tip:

  • Use the OV-chipkaart or mobile apps like 9292.nl or NS Travel Planner for real-time directions.
  • Some city cards (e.g. I amsterdam City Card, Rotterdam Welcome Card) include public transport.

🚲 3. Biking to Museums

Best for: Short distances and hidden gems within cities.

  • The Netherlands is one of the safest and most scenic places to bike.
  • Many museums offer bike parking and are located in bike-friendly zones.
  • Rent bikes from providers like MacBike (Amsterdam), OV-fiets (nationwide for rail pass holders), or local tourist offices.

🚕 4. Taxi, Rideshare & Car Rentals

Best for: Rural museum trips or groups.

  • Taxis are reliable but expensive—best for off-hour or inaccessible locations.
  • Use rideshare apps like Uber or Bolt in major cities.
  • Renting a car is practical for places like the Kröller-Müller Museum or Zuiderzee Museum, where train/bus combos can be lengthy.

🧭 5. How to Plan Efficient Museum Days

  • Group nearby museums: Amsterdam’s Museumplein houses 3 major museums within walking distance.
  • Use Google Maps or 9292.nl to plan exact routes and transfers.
  • Visit larger museums early in the day and smaller, lesser-known spots in the afternoon.
  • Combine travel with scenery: Take trains past tulip fields or coastal routes for added beauty.

🧡 Final Tip: Keep It Flexible

Dutch transport is famously punctual, but some museums require timed entry. Plan your routes in advance, but leave time for lunch, unexpected gems, or a second visit to a favorite exhibit.