Weekend Wonders in Apeldoorn, Netherlands

Discover the charm of the Dutch countryside in Apeldoorn.

22 April 2023

For tourists visiting Apeldoorn, Netherlands, a must-see attraction is the beautiful Het Loo Palace and Gardens, with its stunning architecture and sprawling gardens. Nature enthusiasts can also explore the nearby Veluwe National Park, which offers opportunities for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. To learn more about the city's history, visitors can stop by the CODA Museum, which features art and artifacts from Apeldoorn and the surrounding region.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

City Sights and Local Bites

  • Stay at the Hotel et le Cafe de Paris, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Apeldoorn.
  • Start the day with a visit to the beautiful Paleis Het Loo, a former royal palace and stunning example of Baroque architecture.
  • Continue the morning by exploring the city center, admiring the quaint shops and cafes, and perhaps taking a stroll through the nearby park, Oranjepark.
  • For lunch, head to the local hotspot, Klein Berlijn, known for its delicious sandwiches and cozy atmosphere.
  • In the afternoon, delve into the history of Apeldoorn at the CODA Museum, featuring exhibits on modern art, local culture, and more.
  • End the day with a dinner at de Librije, rated one of the best restaurants in the Netherlands, for a truly unforgettable culinary experience.
Day 2

Nature and Adventure

  • Start early with a hike in the nearby Hoge Veluwe National Park, featuring stunning landscapes, wildlife, and unique natural formations.
  • If hiking is not your thing, take a bicycle tour through the park instead, or explore the Kröller-Müller Museum, showcasing one of the largest collections of Van Gogh paintings in the world.
  • For lunch, head to the Pancake House, famous for its savory and sweet pancake dishes, and situated in the middle of the park.
  • In the afternoon, visit the Apenheul Primate Park, where you can observe monkeys and other primates up close and personal.
  • End the day with a sunset hot air balloon ride, offering a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside and ending with a champagne toast upon landing.
  • Apeldoorn may be a small town, but it is packed with personality, charm, and adventure, making it the perfect destination for any traveler.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Apeldoorn by plane is to fly into Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and then take a train to Apeldoorn. There are several train services available, including the NS Intercity which runs regularly from the airport to Apeldoorn. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Car

The best way to get to Apeldoorn by car is to take the A1 highway from Amsterdam. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.

Train

The best way to get to Apeldoorn by train is to take the NS Intercity from Amsterdam Central Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train from Rotterdam Central Station or Utrecht Centraal Station. Both journeys take approximately 1 hour.

Boat

There is no direct way to get to Apeldoorn by boat. However, you can take a boat from Amsterdam to the nearby town of Harderwijk and then take a train or bus to Apeldoorn. The boat journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes and the train or bus journey takes approximately 30 minutes.

Bus

The best way to get to Apeldoorn by bus is to take the Flixbus from Amsterdam Sloterdijk Bus Station. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

More travel plans

Apeldoorn Adventure: 4 Days of Fun, Nature, and Culture!

Apeldoorn in the Netherlands offers a great family-friendly trip with its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Explore the enchanting Apenheul Primate Park, home to over 300 monkeys and apes, where kids can learn about these fascinating creatures up close. Discover the wonders of the Het Loo Palace, a former royal residence surrounded by beautiful gardens, providing a perfect backdrop for a leisurely family stroll.

Magical Adventures in Apeldoorn: A Family-Friendly Escape

Apeldoorn in the Netherlands offers a wonderful family-friendly destination with its wealth of attractions and activities. Visit the enchanting Apenheul Primate Park where kids can interact and learn about various primate species. Explore the charming Fairy Tale Forest at the iconic Koningin Juliana Toren amusement park, which offers rides, shows, and fairytale characters for a magical experience.

Romantic Weekend Getaway to Apeldoorn, Netherlands

Apeldoorn is a beautiful town nestled in the Dutch countryside and is the perfect location for a romantic getaway. With its stunning gardens, romantic castle, and top-notch restaurants, there is no shortage of romantic things to do in Apeldoorn. Whether you want to relax by the water, take a romantic stroll through the forest, or indulge in some delicious local cuisine, Apeldoorn has it all.

Safari, Eats, and Hidden Gems in Apeldoorn

Apeldoorn, located in the province of Gelderland, offers a wealth of affordable activities for budget-conscious travelers. Highlights include visiting the famed Palace Het Loo, hiking or biking in the nearby Veluwe National Park, and exploring the charming city center filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. Accommodations and dining options can be found at a variety of price points, making Apeldoorn a great destination for those looking to explore the Netherlands without breaking the bank.