Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Palace open to the public?
Most of the year, the Palace is open to the public. For opening hours: click here.
Why are the opening hours of the Palace so varying?
The Royal Palace Amsterdam is one of the three palaces officially used by the Dutch Royal House. The Royal Palace is used for State Visits, the Queen’s New Year receptions and many other official functions, including the annual presentation of the Erasmus Prize, the Silver Carnation, the Royal Awards for Painting, and the Prince Claus Prize. During this events the Royal Palace is closed to the public.
Which rooms are open to the public?
On the ground floor you can visit the Tribunal. Furthermore, almost all the rooms on the first floor are open to the public, including the imposing Citizens’ Hall, the Burgomasters’ Council Room, the City Council Chamber and the Magistrates’ Court.
Map with list of rooms to visit.
Can I reserve an audio tour?
No, it’s not possible to make a reservation for an audio tour. An audio tour is free (if available).
In which languages is an audio tour available?
An audio tour is free and available in several languages: Dutch, English, German, French, Spanish and Italian.
Do I have to pay an additional admission-price for exhibitions?
No, for exhibitions no additional admission-prices are charged.
Can admission tickets to the Palace be ordered or reserved in advance?
Unfortunately it is not possible to reserve tickets or to order them through the website. Nor can tickets be bought in advance at the ticket desk.
Is it necessary that I make a reservation for less than ten people?
No, it is not necessary for less than ten people to make a reservation. People visiting the Palace individually can buy a ticket at the ticket desk. If available, you get an audio tour with it. Unfortunately it is not possible to join a tour. If you want to book a tour, this is only possible if your group is larger than ten persons. More information about guided tours: click here.
How can I get to the Royal Palace?
From Central Station take any tram in the direction of the city centre; alight at ‘Dam Square’. For full directions from your departure point, see http://www.9292ov.nl/.
On foot: ten minutes from Central Station
Am I allowed to make photos or to film in the Royal Palace?
Photography is allowed if you don’t use a tripod or flashlight. No filming of any kind is permitted.
Can I take my bag into the Palace?
Coats, umbrellas, backpacks and backpack baby carriers must be deposited in a locker or in the cloakroom. No object larger than a briefcase may be taken into the building. Pushchairs and strollers are allowed.
Can we have lunch or coffee at the Royal Palace?
No, eating and drinking is not prohibited inside the building. There’s no café-restaurant inside the Palace. You can find several cafés and restaurants in the direct neighbourhood.
Are there facilities for the disabled?
Visitors with special needs the building offers easy wheelchair access. The facilities include a lift, a wheelchair-accessible toilet, and wheelchairs for the use of visitors.
Can I bring my dog to the Royal Palace?
No, dogs and all other pet animals are not allowed in the Royal Palace, except for therapy dogs.
Can I buy a Museum Card at the ticket desk?
No, you can not buy a Museum Card at the ticket desk. For more information where to buy a Museum Card, go to http://www.museumkaart.nl/.
I am a journalist, where can I sign up for information?
During regular opening hours, press can sign up at the ticket desk. Upon presentation of a press card a press map is available. Specific press request can be submitted to the Educational Department, t. +31 (0) 20 6204060, e. info@dkh.nl
I have a question about the restoration work of the Palace, where can I ask this question?
Questions about the restoration can be asked at the Dutch Government Building Agency. Call: +31 (0) 800-899 11 03 or have a look the website for more information: http://www.rgd.nl/english/.
For more information about the Dutch Royal House: http://www.koninklijkhuis.nl/english/index.html.
