Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen travel guide

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, located in Rotterdam, has a rich history dating back to 1849. It was originally founded based on the art collection of Frans Jacob Otto Boijmans, a Dutch lawyer and art collector. In 1958, the museum expanded significantly after receiving a substantial donation from Daniël George van Beuningen, a Rotterdam-based businessman and art connoisseur, thereby adopting its current name.

With its roots deeply embedded in the 19th century, the museum has grown to become one of the Netherlands' most prominent cultural institutions. The collection spans centuries, featuring works from the Middle Ages to contemporary art, including masterpieces by renowned artists such as Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Salvador Dalí.

Throughout its history, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen has undergone several renovations and expansions to accommodate its growing collection and enhance visitor experience. A notable addition is the Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, the world's first publicly accessible art storage facility, which opened in 2021. This innovative depot allows visitors to explore the museum's entire collection, even those pieces not currently on display, offering a unique and educational experience.

Today, the museum continues to play a vital role in preserving and showcasing art, making it a must-visit destination for art lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen stands out for its extensive and diverse collection, encompassing artworks from the early Middle Ages to contemporary pieces. It is particularly renowned for its impressive assortment of Dutch and Flemish masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Bosch. One of the museum's most unique features is its surrealist collection, which is among the most significant in the world, featuring iconic works by Salvador Dalí and René Magritte.

Another distinctive aspect is the museum's innovative Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, the world’s first publicly accessible art storage facility. This architectural marvel allows visitors to explore behind the scenes and offers a unique perspective on art preservation and curation. The depot's reflective façade and rooftop forest provide an immersive experience, blending art with nature and urban design.

Additionally, the museum’s commitment to sustainability is evident through its various eco-friendly initiatives, making it a pioneer in green museum practices. These elements collectively make Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers alike.

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is home to one of the world's oldest art collections, initiated in the 19th century by the collector Frans Jacob Otto Boijmans. The museum's eclectic collection spans over seven centuries, from medieval to contemporary art. One of its most notable pieces is 'The Tower of Babel' by Pieter Bruegel the Elder, which offers a fascinating glimpse into 16th-century thought. The museum's depot, Depot Boijmans Van Beuningen, is the first publicly accessible art storage facility in the world, allowing visitors a behind-the-scenes look at over 151,000 art pieces. Additionally, the museum's garden features surreal sculptures by world-renowned artists like Auguste Rodin and Henry Moore, making it an outdoor extension of its indoor treasures.

Located in the dynamic Rotterdam, the popular Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful city of Rotterdam or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through the Netherlands.

Rotterdam is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Rotterdam offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Rotterdam and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Kijk-Kubus Museum-house, Erasmusbrug, Kunsthal Rotterdam, Maritime Museum, and Miniworld Rotterdam.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Rotterdam has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Rotterdam, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in the Netherlands!

The best time to explore Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is during the spring and early autumn months, from April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather in Rotterdam is comfortably mild, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor activities. The museum is less crowded compared to the peak summer months, offering a more intimate experience with the art collections. In spring, the city comes alive with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, enhancing your overall visit.

Additionally, visiting in early autumn allows you to enjoy Rotterdam's cultural events and festivals, such as the Rotterdam Art Week, which often includes special exhibitions and events at the museum. Weekdays, particularly in the mornings, are generally quieter, providing a more serene atmosphere to appreciate the artworks.

Moreover, keep an eye out for special exhibitions and events that are periodically held at the museum, as these can provide unique and enriching experiences. Planning your visit during these times ensures a memorable and enjoyable exploration of one of Rotterdam's most treasured cultural institutions.

Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. If you're flying in, Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is approximately 29.9 miles (48.1 km) away from Rotterdam. From there, you can easily reach Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Rotterdam, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, which is located 0.7 miles (1.2 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Museumpark 18, 3015 CX Rotterdam, Netherlands.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen!

To truly enjoy your visit to Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, joining a tour that features this popular art museum in Rotterdam is highly recommended. As one of the Netherlands's most iconic attractions, Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen starting at just 25 EUR below.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and other top attractions in Rotterdam than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Rotterdam include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind art museum in the Netherlands.

With a rental car, discovering the popular Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and the Netherlands's captivating landscapes becomes a breeze, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Upon arrival, international travelers can choose from 3 reputable rental car companies near Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and the city of Rotterdam, making transportation seamless and efficient.

Rental car companies in the Netherlands cater to a variety of preferences, offering vehicles ranging from compact and midsize to premium, estate, and even camper vans or convertibles. To select the perfect ride, consider your itinerary and specific travel plans in Rotterdam and beyond.

Conveniently explore Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and plenty more captivating attractions in Rotterdam by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the city. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Rotterdam has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen below.

Aside from Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, Rotterdam is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the city offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Rotterdam, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Kijk-Kubus Museum-house, Erasmusbrug, and Kunsthal Rotterdam.

Kijk-Kubus Museum-house is a bucket-list museum and top attraction in Rotterdam, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 18,000 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the city. The exact address of Kijk-Kubus Museum-house is Overblaak 70, 3011 MH Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Another appreciated attraction in Rotterdam is Erasmusbrug. Like Kijk-Kubus Museum-house, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the city. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars among 13,000 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this establishment is Erasmusbrug, 3011 BN Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Kunsthal Rotterdam is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Rotterdam. This museum and top attraction in Rotterdam has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,900 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Museumpark, Westzeedijk 341, 3015 AA Rotterdam, Netherlands.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the city of Rotterdam below.