Dordrecht on a Budget: 4 Days of Dutch Delight

Discover the charm of Dordrecht without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

For budget travelers, Dordrecht in the Netherlands is a charming destination with a rich cultural heritage, picturesque canals, and historic architecture. Strolling along the city's cobbled streets is an affordable way to soak up the local ambiance and admire landmarks like the 14th-century Grote Kerk and the impressive old merchant houses. To keep costs down, visitors can opt for simple accommodations like hostels or budget hotels and enjoy picnics in the city's beautiful parks.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Settling In

  • Check in to Hotel Dordrecht, a budget hotel with clean, comfortable rooms and friendly staff.
  • Take a leisurely walk through the historic city center, admiring the old buildings and quaint canals.
  • Stop for a traditional Dutch snack, such as bitterballen or stroopwafels, at 't Gulden Vlies.
  • Visit the Dordrechts Museum, featuring works by Dutch masters like Vermeer and Rembrandt.
  • Watch the sunset over the picturesque Merwelanden nature reserve.
Day 2

Discovering Dordrecht's History

  • Take a guided walking tour of Dordrecht's historic sites, including City Hall and the Grote Kerk.
  • Visit Het Hof van Nederland, a museum exploring the city's role in Dutch politics and culture.
  • Have lunch at Villa Augustus, a stylish restaurant and hotel housed in a former water tower.
  • Explore the hidden gardens and medieval architecture of the Begijnhof, a tranquil oasis in the city center.
  • Catch a concert or play at the Kunstmin Theater, a cultural center with a rich history and modern amenities.
Day 3

Exploring the Surrounding Area

  • Rent a bike from Het Tweewielers and cycle to Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring historic windmills and water management systems.
  • Stop for lunch at De Krom, a cozy cafe overlooking the river where locals gather for beer, sandwiches, and lively conversation.
  • Visit the National Park De Biesbosch and take a kayak or canoe tour to explore the wetlands and wildlife.
  • Have dinner at Het Bolwerck, a charming restaurant serving creative cuisine made from locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Return to Dordrecht and enjoy a drink at Café de Vrijheid, a popular local hangout with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Day 4

Market Day and Departure

  • Start the day early by exploring the weekly market in the city center, featuring fresh produce, flowers, and handmade crafts.
  • Visit the Simon van Gijn House Museum, showcasing the lavish lifestyle of a 19th-century Dutch banker and collector.
  • Have a light lunch at Omelegg, a cozy restaurant famous for its healthy omelettes and pancakes.
  • Wander through the gorgeous botanical gardens at the Arboretum Trompenburg in nearby Rotterdam.
  • Return to Hotel Dordrecht to gather your belongings and bid farewell to this charming Dutch city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Dordrecht by plane is to fly to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and then take a train to Dordrecht. The train station is located inside the airport, and trains run regularly to Dordrecht.

Car

The best way to get to Dordrecht by car is to take the A16 motorway from Rotterdam. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic.

Train

The best way to get to Dordrecht by train is to take a train from Amsterdam Central Station. Trains run regularly from Amsterdam to Dordrecht, and the journey takes approximately 1 hour.

Boat

The best way to get to Dordrecht by boat is to take a Waterbus from Rotterdam. The Waterbus stops at several locations in Dordrecht, including the Merwekade and the Hooikade.

Bus

The best way to get to Dordrecht by bus is to take a FlixBus from Brussels to Rotterdam and then take a train from Rotterdam to Dordrecht. The FlixBus stops at Rotterdam Central Station, where you can catch a train to Dordrecht.

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