Walking into the Van Gogh Museum felt like stepping into the mind of a genius. The chronological layout takes you through Vincent's life journey, from his dark Dutch period through the vibrant colors of his time in Arles. I arrived right at opening time on a Tuesday, and even then, there was already a queue of eager art lovers.

The Sunflowers series absolutely took my breath away. Standing before these iconic paintings, you can see every brushstroke, every layer of thick paint that Van Gogh applied with such passion. The yellows are more luminous than any reproduction could capture. I spent nearly 30 minutes in this room alone, studying the different versions and reading about his technique.

The museum does an excellent job of contextualizing Van Gogh's work with letters to his brother Theo. Reading his own words about his struggles and artistic vision while viewing the paintings adds incredible depth. The top floor dedicated to his final years in France is particularly moving - you can trace his mental state through the increasingly bold and emotional brushwork.

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the temporary exhibition space on the ground floor, which featured Japanese prints that influenced Van Gogh's style. The museum café on the top floor offers a perfect spot to rest your feet while reflecting on what you've seen, with large windows overlooking Museumplein.

The museum shop is dangerous for your wallet - it's extensive and beautifully curated. I couldn't resist buying a print of "Almond Blossoms" and a book about Van Gogh's letters. Overall, this was one of the most profound museum experiences I've had. Budget at least 2-3 hours to properly appreciate the collection.