Van Gogh Museum Shop – What to Buy (and Skip)

The Van Gogh Museum shop is beautifully tempting: Sunflowers on everything from magnets to silk scarves. To avoid suitcase regret, go in with a simple strategy.

1. Decide your souvenir type before you enter

Pick one main category:

• 📚 Book – catalogue, biography, or themed guide.
• 🖼️ Wall art – poster, print, or postcard set.
• 🧣 Wearable – scarf, socks, T‑shirt.
• ☕ Practical object – mug, notebook, tote.

🎯 Rule of thumb:
If you can’t picture where it will live or how you’ll use it at home, leave it.

2. Books worth considering

Look for editions that:

• Reproduce colours faithfully.
• Include both images and good essays.
• Are comfortable to hold and actually read, not just giant coffee‑table bricks.

Good starting points:

• A compact overview of the collection.
• A slim volume of letters.
• A thematic book (e.g. on Sunflowers or landscapes).

3. Prints and wall art

Instead of a huge poster you may never frame, consider:

• A small, high‑quality print of your favourite lesser‑known work.
• A set of postcards you can frame in a grid.
• A reproduction that includes both image and signature in a tasteful way.

Mini exercise:

1. Close your eyes and recall the one painting that stayed with you longest.
2. Buy that image, not necessarily the famous Sunflowers.

4. Everyday objects

Practical souvenirs can keep the memory alive:

• Mugs or cups
• Notebooks and sketchbooks
• Tote bags or pouches

Ask:

• Will I use this weekly?
• Does the design feel timeless or “touristy”?
• Is it easy to pack without damage?

5. Kids and gift ideas

For children or friends back home:

• Colouring books or activity sets.
• Simple puzzles based on key paintings.
• Soft items (scarves, socks) that travel well.

🎁 Thoughtful twist:
Add a small handwritten note about why you chose that specific painting or item for the person.

6. Budgeting and timing

• Decide on a budget range before you enter (e.g. 20–50 €).
• Visit the shop after the galleries so you know which works resonated.
• If you’re undecided, take a photo of the item and sleep on it; you can often order similar items online later.

Done mindfully, the shop becomes an extension of your visit rather than a blur of impulse buys.