Safari, Eats, and Hidden Gems in Apeldoorn

Explore Apeldoorn without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Apeldoorn's Hidden Gems

  • Start the day with a breakfast bagel at Coffee Cat, a cozy café with a feline-friendly vibe
  • Visit the CODA Museum for a taste of Dutch art and design, including a cool exhibit on 3D printing
  • Take a stroll through beautiful Het Loo Palace gardens, home to charming water features and a maze
  • Grab a bite at Kebab Connection, where delicious Turkish wraps dominate the menu
  • Head to the Veluwezoom National Park for a refreshing hike or bike ride
  • End the day with a drink at Café Jansen & Jansen, a neighborhood hotspot for craft beer and live music
  • Hotel Recommendation: Stayokay Apeldoorn a budget-friendly hostel in a converted school building, complete with a cozy lounge and outdoor terrace.
Day 2

Wildlife Safari and Local Eats

  • Get up early for a sunrise safari at De Hoge Veluwe National Park, where you can spot wild boar, deer, and even mongoose
  • Take a break for brunch at De Babbel, a charming café with tasty sandwiches and coffee
  • Visit the Apenheul Primate Park, where you can interact with curious monkeys and apes in a lush, natural setting
  • Head back to the city for dinner at Balkan Restaurant Evropa, known for its hearty Balkan fare and friendly service
  • Cap off the night with a drink at De Flierefluiter, a lively bar with a spacious outdoor terrace
  • Hotel Recommendation: Hotel Pegasus a cozy, family-run hotel located in the heart of Apeldoorn, with budget-friendly rooms and a welcoming atmosphere.

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.

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Escape to Apeldoorn: An Adventure on a Budget

Apeldoorn is a delightful city to visit in the Netherlands on a budget. The city offers free entry to top attractions like the Palace Park, CODA Museum, and Veluwe National Park. Affordable accommodation options like Airbnb and hostels are plentiful, and delicious food can easily be found in local markets and street food vendors.

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