Is there a best time to visit? I know to book a time and buy the tickets in advance - in fact, I did that for the first tour of the day on a Monday. But we'll be in Amsterdam for three days and I wondered if it makes a difference. Thanks, Dan
Posted by
San Francisco, California, USA
446 posts
Incredibly popular. I was there last December, and it seems like there is always a line [INVALID] although, it being December, I didn't have to wait more than a few minutes to get in.
Posted by
Philadelphia
655 posts
It is worth every minute. As I recall it is a self-guided tour which follows a film. I strongly suggest that you arrive at least 35 minutes prior to opening. We did - there were only about eight people before us.
Posted by
OP
Las Cruces, NM, United States
136 posts
I have a time of 9:15 to 9:45, so I assume I arrive then and either go in or wait for a bit. You could also book a introductory lecture, but I did not do so.
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
Take your flask. You'll want a couple of snorts to clear your head when you get done.
Posted by
Michigan, USA
162 posts
We were there earlier this summer and got there about an hour earlier than our ticket said because it did not take as long to walk there as we thought it might. On the off chance we could get in earlier I rang the buzzer in the entrance door and they let us in when I explained we were a bit early, the woman said "oh , it is not so busy now , so that will be okay!" We were there about 4pm on a weekday. I think you are stuck with the tickets you bought anyway, so hope it works out well for you. It is a very special place to visit.
Posted by
Calgary
2297 posts
The place is very small and can only handle a limited number of visitors at the time. And then it is a very popular destination for school classes. Just one or two groups in line ahead of you will increase your wait substantially. So yes, booking your tickets ahead of time is a very good thing indeed.
Posted by
Danville, VT
12040 posts
The one time I walked by, in the middle of December, there was no line.
Posted by
San Francisco/Marin County
9436 posts
We were there late afternoon on a weekday in July '08 and there was no line, and very few people there. Sounds like we got lucky.
Posted by
Sacramento, California U.S.A.
10683 posts
We have been in the summer-very long line (in the rain) and we have been in the winter-smaller line (we had a reservation). We got right in with the reservation.
Posted by
Huntington Beach CA
1162 posts
I guess it depends on the time of year. We took a chance during our Sept. visit. We got there about 3pm and waited about 30 min. Since you're staying in the city 3 days, just book in advance so you can plan around it.
Posted by
sacramento, CA
102 posts
We were there late May, bought our tickets ahead of time online and found that to be the best way. I think the beginning of the day should be the least crowded, but in the middle of the day was fine too. We are glad we went there.