Dutch Museum Agenda: 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 wealth of experiences, from fashion and photography to modern art and explorations of different cultures. This Dutch Museum Agenda is your ultimate guide to 22 new exhibitions across the Netherlands to explore in January 2026, spanning from Rotterdam to Leiden and Groningen to Maastricht. And if you’re looking for even more inspiration, check out Your Little Black Book for a comprehensive dossier of things to do throughout the Netherlands!

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• The Enduring Appeal of Dutch Museums
• Reflecting on 2025 & The Future of Travel
• The January 2026 Exhibitions
• Key Takeaways
• Dutch Learning Corner
• Community CTA

Introduction

As 2025 draws to a close, it’s a perfect time to start planning for a year filled with enriching experiences. For many, that includes a visit to a museum. The Netherlands boasts a remarkably diverse and accessible museum landscape, catering to every taste and interest. This agenda, curated by Your Little Black Book, aims to provide a starting point for your cultural explorations in January 2026.

The Enduring Appeal of Dutch Museums

The Netherlands has a long and proud tradition of supporting the arts and preserving its cultural heritage. From the Rijksmuseum’s masterpieces to the Van Gogh Museum’s iconic collection, Dutch museums are world-renowned. However, the appeal extends beyond the famous institutions. Smaller, specialized museums offer unique insights into Dutch history, design, and contemporary art. The accessibility of these museums – both in terms of location and cost – makes them a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Historically, the Dutch Golden Age (17th century) saw a flourishing of art and trade, leading to the accumulation of significant collections that form the basis of many museums today. This legacy continues to shape the Dutch cultural landscape.

Reflecting on 2025 & The Future of Travel

2025 presented unique challenges for entrepreneurs and travelers alike. The shift towards authentic experiences, as highlighted by Anne de Buck of Your Little Black Book, is a significant trend. The desire to move away from purely “influencer” driven content and towards genuine recommendations is growing. This means prioritizing quality over quantity, and valuing experiences that offer a deeper connection to a place and its culture. The ability to curate and filter information, as Anne de Buck describes herself as a “leisure expert and queen of curation,” is becoming increasingly important in a world saturated with content. The future of travel will likely see a continued emphasis on sustainable tourism, responsible travel, and immersive cultural experiences. The rise of personalized travel itineraries, tailored to individual preferences, is also expected to continue.

The January 2026 Exhibitions

Here’s a curated selection of 22 exhibitions to consider visiting in January 2026 (details are based on current planning and subject to change – always check museum websites for the most up-to-date information):

1. Rotterdam: ‘Fashion Forward’ at the Kunsthal – Exploring the future of sustainable fashion.
2. Amsterdam: ‘Rembrandt’s Late Works’ at the Rijksmuseum – A deep dive into the artist’s final period.
3. The Hague: ‘Mauritshuis Highlights’ at the Mauritshuis – A curated selection of the museum’s most iconic paintings.
4. Leiden: ‘The Golden Age of Science’ at Museum Boerhaave – Exploring scientific discoveries of the 17th century.
5. Groningen: ‘Contemporary Ceramics’ at the Groninger Museum – Showcasing innovative ceramic art.
6. Maastricht: ‘Roman Maastricht’ at the Bonnefantenmuseum – Uncovering the city’s Roman past.
7. Utrecht: ‘Medieval Tapestries’ at the Centraal Museum – A stunning display of medieval textile art.
8. Delft: ‘Delftware Evolution’ at the Princessehof Museum – Tracing the history of Delft Blue pottery.
9. …and 14 more exhibitions across various cities! (Details available on Your Little Black Book)

Key Takeaways

• Embrace the curation: With so much choice, a curated list like this is invaluable. Don’t be afraid to let experts guide you to the best experiences.
• Prioritize authenticity: Seek out museums and exhibitions that offer genuine insights and avoid overly commercialized experiences.
• Plan ahead: January can be a popular time to visit museums, so book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Explore beyond the big names: Don’t limit yourself to the famous museums. Smaller, specialized museums often offer unique and rewarding experiences.

Dutch Learning Corner

Community CTA