Things to do in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is not that large: in half a day you can travel from the northernmost tip to the deep south. This makes the Netherlands suitable for both weekend breaks and longer holidays. Although the country is modest in size, there is a lot to discover. Those heading east will find the Kröller-Müller Museum nestled among the tall trees, with a collection of almost 20,000 modern and contemporary paintings and sculptures by many Dutch and international artists. Because the Netherlands has produced numerous artists throughout history. From Vincent van Gogh and Johannes Vermeer to Rembrandt van Rijn and Karel Appel: their names are known all over the world! And the most beautiful Van Goghs can be found here, on the Veluwe. What to see in the Netherlands? The Kröller-Müller! 

Have you admired all the beautiful art in the museum? Not to worry: actually, you are only halfway through your visit. Put on your coat and step outside, because around the museum you will find an extraordinary collection in one of the largest sculpture gardens in Europe. Strolling along forest paths, you will encounter small and huge sculptures, such as Jean Dubuffet's famous Jardin d'émail. This gigantic work of art is one of the best known and most popular at the museum. If you are looking for things to do in the Netherlands, a visit to this exceptional work definitely belongs on your list. Anyone who regularly visits a museum knows that art is not for touching. However, that does not apply to Jardin d'émail. You can touch it, walk across it and even play on it. This artwork is therefore extremely popular among our youngest visitors. Are you looking for that little bit extra to make your day at the Kröller-Müller a unique experience? Bring a blanket and some goodies, choose the most beautiful spot in the garden and enjoy a picnic you will never forget.

One of the world's most famous painters, whose art you will find in abundance at the Kröller-Müller Museum, is the Dutchman Vincent van Gogh. The museum's collection includes more than 90 paintings and over 180 drawings by Van Gogh. Helene Kröller-Müller, the museum's founder, was a big fan of the painter from North Brabant and she worked tirelessly to amass this huge collection. Located at the heart of the museum since its opening in 1938, you will find the Van Gogh Gallery, which includes his world-famous works The Potato Eaters and Terrace of a Café at Night. Curious about the museum's Van Gogh collection? Then take a look at our online collection search tool. Here you will also find all the other art on display at the museum. 

The Kröller-Müller offers a warm welcome to children. They won't be bored for a moment, because there is so much for them to discover at the museum! With the Detective Game, you can search for famous noses in works of art together. Time to run around and burn off some energy? Then discover the sculpture garden together with the Geo Route app and hunt for real treasure. Search for the code and find out whether you can open the treasure chest... There is plenty to do for the whole family at Kröller-Müller!

Do you love art and would like to learn more about the works on display at the Kröller-Müller Museum? You can, with the help of the audio tour. This provides background information on about 30 works of art from the permanent collection and is available in Dutch, English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Japanese and Chinese. You can hire the audio tour for €2.50 at the museum's reception desk. There is also the option of joining a guided tour. Choose between a tour of the museum or the sculpture garden and receive interesting background information about masterpieces and their creators. 

Guided tour of the museum

Explore the museum's permanent collection together with the tour guide. The tour includes the life-size portrait of Mata Hari, Georges Seurat's festive Le Chahut and abstract works by Bart van der Leck and Piet Mondrian. Central to the tour are the artworks of Vincent van Gogh, which he painted in the Netherlands and France. You will also learn more about the museum's founder Helene Kröller-Müller. 

Guided tour of the sculpture garden 

Discover one of Europe's largest sculpture gardens with a tour guide, and stroll past sculptures by Auguste Rodin, Barbara Hepworth and Jean Dubuffet, among others. During the tour, you will learn more about the history of the sculpture garden and get a very close look at the artworks.

A stunning museum with a unique and diverse collection of modern and contemporary art, and one of the largest sculpture gardens in Europe: the Kröller-Müller Museum is a special day out. But the museum's location is every bit as special, as you will find the Kröller-Müller in De Hoge Veluwe National Park: a breathtaking nature reserve in the east of the Netherlands. A visit to the museum is not complete without a walk or bicycle ride through this landscape of forests, heathland, moors and streams. Marvel at the expansive beauty of the Dutch landscape. And who knows, you might even come across a deer or a wild boar along the way. In short, the national park is well worth a visit!

Are you coming to the Kröller-Müller Museum for a day? Prepare your visit well and make the most of your day out. You can book your ticket in advance and read up on the collection. There are regular temporary exhibitions, lectures and other activities. You will find all the information you need in the museum's calendar. Do you have questions about the accessibility of the museum, for example if you require a wheelchair or other aids? Read all about it on the accessibility page.

Whether you are looking for the best things to do in the Netherlands in spring, summer, autumn or winter, the Kröller-Müller Museum is open all year round and has the power to enchant in every season. Nowhere else will you find such an amazing combination of art and nature. Enjoy the paintings, the sculptures and the magnificent scenery. Of all the things to do in the Netherlands, the museum should certainly be on your list. This is truly one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands.