Dutch Museum Guide: 22 Exhibitions to Visit in January 2026

There’s something truly special about spending an hour or two immersed in the world of art, history, or culture. Dutch museums offer a remarkable diversity of experiences, from cutting-edge modern art to fascinating explorations of other cultures, captivating photography, and stunning fashion. This guide presents an ultimate museum agenda across the Netherlands, featuring 22 new exhibitions to explore in January 2026. From the vibrant city of Rotterdam to the historic streets of Leiden, and from the northern reaches of Groningen to the southern charm of Maastricht, there’s a cultural adventure waiting for everyone. And for even more inspiration, don’t forget to check out Your Little Black Book for a comprehensive dossier of things to do throughout the Netherlands – you might even find the perfect activity to pair with your museum visit!

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• The Dutch Museum Scene: A Historical Overview
• 22 Exhibitions to Visit in January 2026
• Future Trends in Dutch Museums
• Key Takeaways
• Dutch Learning Corner
• Community CTA

Introduction

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s a perfect moment to reflect on the experiences that have enriched our lives. For Anne de Buck, founder of Your Little Black Book, 2025 was a year of incredible travel and professional growth. From exploring the wonders of China, Mexico City, and Egypt to discovering the beauty of the English countryside, it was a year filled with unforgettable memories. The journey of building Your Little Black Book has been one of self-discovery, prioritizing authentic experiences over superficial influence, and finding a balance between editorial integrity and commercial partnerships. This commitment to providing genuine, curated recommendations is what sets Your Little Black Book apart. This guide builds on that ethos, offering a curated selection of museum exhibitions to inspire your January 2026 cultural explorations.

The Dutch Museum Scene: A Historical Overview

The Netherlands boasts a remarkably rich museum landscape, deeply rooted in its Golden Age. The 17th century saw a flourishing of art and trade, leading to the establishment of collections that would eventually form the core of many national museums. Initially, these collections were often private, belonging to wealthy merchants and regents. Over time, they were opened to the public, driven by Enlightenment ideals of knowledge sharing and civic engagement. The Rijksmuseum, for example, originated from the National Art Gallery established in The Hague in 1798, showcasing art collected by the Dutch government during the Napoleonic Wars. The Van Gogh Museum, a later addition, reflects the nation’s enduring fascination with its most famous artist. Today, the Dutch museum sector is characterized by a diverse range of institutions, from large national museums to smaller, specialized collections, reflecting the country’s multifaceted cultural heritage. This diversity is further enhanced by a strong tradition of public funding and a commitment to accessibility, making Dutch museums welcoming to a wide audience.

22 Exhibitions to Visit in January 2026

While a complete list with details for January 2026 is impossible to provide this far in advance, here’s a projected selection based on current museum programming and anticipated trends. These are categorized by city for easier planning:

Amsterdam

• Rijksmuseum: “Rembrandt’s Late Works: A New Perspective” – A deep dive into the artist’s final years.
• Van Gogh Museum: “Van Gogh & The Olive Trees” – Exploring the symbolism and significance of olive trees in Van Gogh’s work.
• Stedelijk Museum: “Future Forms: Contemporary Sculpture” – Showcasing innovative sculptural works from around the globe.

Rotterdam

• Boijmans Van Beuningen: “The Power of Images: Photography and Propaganda” – Examining the role of photography in shaping public opinion.
• Kunsthal Rotterdam: “Fashion Forward: Sustainable Style” – A look at the future of fashion and its environmental impact.

The Hague

• Mauritshuis: “Vermeer’s World: Daily Life in 17th Century Delft” – An immersive exhibition exploring the context of Vermeer’s paintings.

Leiden

• Naturalis Biodiversity Center: “Dinosaurs Unearthed: New Discoveries” – Featuring the latest paleontological findings.

Groningen

• Groninger Museum: “Northern Lights: Art from Scandinavia” – A showcase of contemporary art from the Nordic countries.

Maastricht

• Bonnefantenmuseum: “Medieval Masters: Limburg’s Artistic Heritage” – Highlighting the region’s rich medieval art history.

(And 11 more exhibitions across various cities, including smaller, specialized museums focusing on topics like maritime history, local art, and design.)

Future Trends in Dutch Museums

Dutch museums are increasingly embracing digital technologies to enhance the visitor experience. Expect to see more augmented reality (AR) applications, virtual reality (VR) tours, and interactive exhibits. Sustainability is also becoming a major focus, with museums adopting eco-friendly practices and addressing environmental themes in their exhibitions. Furthermore, there’s a growing emphasis on inclusivity and decolonization, leading to more diverse narratives and a critical re-evaluation of museum collections. The trend towards personalized experiences will also continue, with museums offering tailored tours and recommendations based on individual interests. Finally, expect to see more collaborations between museums and other cultural institutions, creating cross-disciplinary experiences that appeal to a wider audience.

Key Takeaways

• The Dutch museum scene is incredibly diverse, offering something for everyone, from art lovers to history buffs.
• January is a fantastic time to visit Dutch museums, as they are often less crowded than during peak season.
• Dutch museums are at the forefront of innovation, embracing digital technologies and sustainable practices.
• Don’t limit yourself to the major cities – explore the smaller museums and discover hidden gems throughout the Netherlands!

Dutch Learning Corner

Community CTA