Best 20 things to do in Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to Arnhem, where tulips bloom and bicycles reign supreme! In this amusing travel guide, we'll reveal the 20 absolute best things to do in this charming Dutch city. Be prepared to twirl around the Openlucht Museum in traditional clogs, discover your inner fashionista at the Modekwartier (Fashion Quarter), and for the brave souls among us, take on the relentless challenge of finding the emblematic rhinoceros at the Zoo. So grab your sense of adventure (and maybe an umbrella, you never know!) and get ready to fall in love with Arnhem, one quirky activity at a time.

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1. Park Zypendaal

4.6 (1216)

6814 CL Arnhem, Netherlands

Nestled within the picturesque city of Arnhem lies the enchanting Park Zypendaal, a haven for nature enthusiasts yearning for a glimpse of the wild side. As you meander through its lush green paths, be prepared to encounter an abundance of majestic trees that seem to have mastered the art of being effortlessly cool. The park's crowning glory, an 18th-century manor, awaits your discovery, leaving you with the delightful quandary of whether to daydream about becoming its next resident or simply snap some envy-inducing pictures for your Instagram feed.

zypendaal.glk.nl

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2. Korenmarkt

4.1 (10)

Korenmarkt, 6811 GW Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to Korenmarkt, the lively heartbeat of Arnhem! Located in the heart of the city, this bustling square is like a never-ending party, where locals and tourists mingle amidst a delightful mishmash of quaint cafes, quirky shops, and lively bars. With a dash of Dutch charm and a sprinkle of bohemian vibes, Korenmarkt is the perfect spot to sip on a locally brewed beer, indulge in some scrumptious bitterballen, and witness the incredible talent of street performers who are so impressive, they might make you question your own career choices. So, grab a seat, soak up the vibrant atmosphere, and let Korenmarkt sweep you off your feet with its undeniable charisma!

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3. Eusebius Church

4.4 (1358)

Kerkplein 1, 6811 EB Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to the fabulous Eusebius Church in Arnhem, where the architecture will make you question whether it's a church or a majestic fortress in disguise! From afar, its towering spire seems like the perfect hiding spot for Batman, but don't worry, you won't need a grappling hook to enter. Step inside and explore an interior so grand, it's like the Hogwarts Great Hall had a secret affair with a medieval cathedral. Enjoy the unique blend of history, stunning stained glass, and Danish pastry-like vaulted ceilings - a true delight for both architectural enthusiasts and pastry lovers alike.

eusebius.nl

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4. Historical Museum Arnhem

4.1 (791)

Utrechtseweg 87, 6812 AA Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to the Historical Museum Arnhem in Arnhem, where history comes alive, but thankfully doesn't haunt you! This charming museum takes you on a journey through time, offering a delightful mix of artifacts, interactive displays, and well-dressed mannequins that haven't moved for centuries—talk about dedication to fashion! And fear not, the museum's coffee shop is the perfect spot to caffeinate and recover from any sudden encounters with ghostly spirits of historical figures. Enjoy your visit!

www.museumarnhem.nl

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5. Netherlands Open-Air Museum

4.5 (15372)

Hoeferlaan 4, 6816 SG Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to the Netherlands Open-Air Museum in Arnhem, where history comes to life like the spring in a Dutch tulip field! Step back in time and prepare for a journey through decades of Dutch heritage, without the hassle of a time machine or a pesky wizard. Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply curious about how the Dutch survived without smartphones, this living museum promises a delightful blend of knowledge, quirkiness, and perhaps a sudden urge to wear clogs.

www.openluchtmuseum.nl

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6. Brouwerij de Hemel

4.5 (108)

Franseplaats 1, 6511 VS Nijmegen, Netherlands

Welcome to Brouwerij de Hemel, a delightful establishment nestled in the heart of Arnhem where beer enthusiasts find solace and hoppy happiness. As you step inside, the sweet smell of malted barley tickles your nose, beckoning you to explore this beery haven. The quirky murals on the walls tell the story of beer, making you wonder if Van Gogh himself got lost on his way to the art museum and ended up here instead.

www.brouwerijdehemel.nl

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7. Mariëndaal

Welcome to Mariëndaal, the enchanting forested area in Arnhem where even the squirrels wear tiny wooden clogs! This picturesque destination will whisk you away from the hustle and bustle of city life, transporting you to a world where birds compose symphonies and rabbits are prone to staging adorable flash mobs. Get ready to frolic through the verdant meadows, where the grass tickles your toes and the trees whisper ancient secrets (though they tend to exaggerate a bit).

8. Dutch Bicycle Rental

4.9 (15)

Paletstraat 13a, 6813 DZ Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to Dutch Bicycle Rental, where your pursuit of two-wheel adventures begins! Nestled in the charming city of Arnhem, this quirky rental service offers an abundance of bicycles that will make you feel like a local in no time. Whether you want to explore the historical sites or simply pedal your way through the picturesque streets, Dutch Bicycle Rental has got you covered – as long as you promise not to challenge any locals to impromptu bike races, unless you're secretly a pro cyclist in disguise!

www.citybikeexperiencearnhem.nl

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9. Park Sonsbeek

4.6 (7385)

Zijpendaalseweg 24A, 6814 CL Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to Park Sonsbeek, where nature's charms embrace you like a cheeky pickpocket. This urban oasis in Arnhem boasts lush greenery, winding paths, and even a waterfall, which is perfect for those moments when you need a natural alternative to those overpriced spa treatments. Be prepared for unexpected encounters with mischievous squirrels, who have perfected the art of stealing picnic snacks while making your heart flutter with their acrobatic skills.

sonsbeek.nl

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10. Arnhem Open Air Museum

4.5 (15372)

Hoeferlaan 4, 6816 SG Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to the Arnhem Open Air Museum, where history comes to life like a quirky reenactment play! Step into the enchanting time machine and experience Dutch culture from the Stone Age to the present, with plenty of windmills and wooden shoes to boot. Marvel at the sight of villagers dressed in traditional costumes, as if they just stepped out of a Dutch fairytale, while secretly hoping they'll burst into an impromptu tulip dance.

www.openluchtmuseum.nl

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11. Fashion Quarter Arnhem

5 (1)

IJssellaan 69, 6826 Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to Fashion Quarter Arnhem, where the fashion-conscious lions roar and the trends dance gracefully in the streets of Arnhem! This vibrant district is a mecca for all fashionistas looking to dive into an ocean of style. Prepare yourself to be dazzled by the quirky boutiques that pop up like mushrooms after a spring rain, where you can find the perfect feathered hat to make even a peacock jealous.

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12. Nederlands Watermuseum

4.1 (1039)

Zijpendaalseweg 26-28, 6814 CL Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to the Nederlands Watermuseum in Arnhem, where you can dive into a watery world of entertainment and education! This quirky museum will make your brain soak in fascinating water-related facts faster than you can say "I'm all wet!" With interactive exhibits that are as refreshing as a splash in the face, this museum will make even the driest subject entertaining. So grab your water wings and come prepared for a flood of amusement!

www.watermuseum.nl

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13. Burgers' Zoo

4.6 (31223)

Antoon van Hooffplein 1, 6816 SH Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to Burgers' Zoo in the charming city of Arnhem, where you can embark on a wild adventure like no other! Marvel at their incredible collection of animals, which miraculously managed to escape the mundane task of reading the zoo rulebook. Prepare to be astounded by their ability to roam freely in well-designed enclosures, adding a pinch of spontaneity to your visit. As you wander through the lush park, you'll encounter a variety of habitats that make you question if you've accidentally stumbled into Noah's Ark. From the dense rainforest, where monkeys playfully swing from tree to tree, to the arid desert, where you might bump into camels pondering the meaning of humps, the zoo's diversity will leave you scratching your head in both wonder and amusement. Rest assured, Burgers' Zoo also offers unique experiences that will make your heart race faster than a cheetah chasing its dreams. From feeding sessions where you can test your bravery against ravenous crocodiles, to interactive shows where trainers attempt to communicate with penguins using interpretive dance (yes, really!), this place promises countless unforgettable moments that will make your friends envious.

www.burgerszoo.nl

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14. Duivelshuis

4.6 (14)

Koningstraat 38, 6811 DG Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to the infamous Duivelshuis in Arnhem, a devilishly charming sight that will tickle your imagination! This historical gem is believed to have once been the devil's very own hangout spot – yes, you heard that right! Nestled among quaint Dutch architecture, this hauntingly beautiful house boasts a unique façade adorned with whimsical devilish sculptures that are sure to make you smile, or maybe even shiver a little! Inside, you'll discover a fascinating and somewhat eerie collection of artifacts, giving you a glimpse into the devilish antics that supposedly took place here centuries ago. So, don't forget to visit Duivelshuis – a place where legends intertwine with laughter, and where the devil's presence is sure to put a mischievous grin on your face!

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15. National Park De Hoge Veluwe

4.6 (10914)

Netherlands

Welcome to National Park De Hoge Veluwe in Arnhem, a place that puts the 'wild' in wildlife. Prepare yourself for a game of hide-and-seek with the local inhabitants, where spotting a rambunctious red deer feels like winning the lottery. And don't forget to bring your binoculars - the only thing better than a squirrel's acrobatic performance is watching it while safely perched on a park bench (because trust me, they're not shy). Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just an adrenaline junkie seeking the thrill of encountering a tiny yet surprisingly fierce hedgehog, this park won't disappoint.

www.hogeveluwe.nl

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16. Arnhems Oorlogsmuseum 40-45

4.4 (824)

Kemperbergerweg 780, 6816 RX Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to Arnhem's Oorlogsmuseum 40-45, where history buffs and war enthusiasts can dive into the captivating world of World War II. Brace yourself for an immersive experience that will leave you more knowledgeable about the war and slightly scared of wax figures, in a good way, of course. Explore the museum's impressive collection of artifacts, hear engaging stories from knowledgeable guides, and maybe even take a selfie with a fearsome-looking tank – just remember, don't challenge it to a game of hide and seek!

www.arnhemsoorlogsmuseum.com

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17. GelreDome

4.2 (7471)

Batavierenweg 25, 6841 HN Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to GelreDome, the colossal spaceship-like stadium that has crash-landed in the charming city of Arnhem, giving Aliens a run for their money! This behemoth of architecture not only hosts soccer matches and electrifying concerts; it doubles as the finest spot for extraterrestrial sightseeing. Its peculiar shape will make you question: "Did they actually import UFOs for the design?" but worry not, as the GelreDome's oddity perfectly complements Arnhem's spirit, where even the wildest dreams become stadium-sized realities.

www.gelredome.nl

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18. Rijnkade

Rijnkade, Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to Rijnkade in Arnhem, where the sidewalks are just begging to be strolled upon by a brave wanderer. This charming street, not to be mistaken for a runway, boasts a magical blend of historical buildings and trendy eateries. So, grab your taste buds and your camera, and get ready for a riverside adventure that will leave you craving for more river and historic architecture action!

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19. Sint-Eusebiuskerk

4.4 (1358)

Kerkplein 1, 6811 EB Arnhem, Netherlands

Welcome to the Sint-Eusebiuskerk in Arnhem, a church that is so tall it practically high-fives passing planes! This towering beauty stands tall and proud, like a real-life Jenga tower reaching for the heavens. Full of history and charm, this church is a must-visit for those who want a neck workout from constantly looking upwards and an unforgettable view from the top.

eusebius.nl

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20. Airborne Museum 'Hartenstein'

4.6 (3496)

Utrechtseweg 232, 6862 AZ Oosterbeek, Netherlands

Welcome to the Airborne Museum 'Hartenstein' in Arnhem! This charming museum is housed in a grand old building that was once a hotel. Explore the fascinating exhibits that depict the heroic efforts, but don't worry, they won't make you jump out of any planes or dodge enemy fire like in the movies. Just bring your curiosity and a sense of humor, and get ready for a historical adventure like no other!

www.airbornemuseum.nl

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How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Arnhem by plane is to fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and then take a direct train to Arnhem from the airport train station. The train ride takes approximately 1 hour.

Car

Arnhem is easily accessible by car, with the A12 and A50 highways connecting it to major cities in the Netherlands and Germany. The city has several parking garages and on-street parking is also available, although it can be difficult to find a spot in the city center.

Train

If you are coming from within the Netherlands or neighboring countries, the best way to get to Arnhem is by train. There are direct train connections to major cities in the Netherlands and Germany. Arnhem Centraal is the main train station in Arnhem.

Boat

While there are no direct boat services to Arnhem, you can take a boat along the Rhine river and get off at a nearby city, such as Nijmegen or Rotterdam. From there, you can take a train or bus to Arnhem.

Bus

There are several bus companies that operate services to Arnhem from different parts of the Netherlands and neighboring countries. Flixbus and Eurolines are popular choices. The bus will drop you off at the Arnhem bus station, which is located next to the Arnhem Centraal train station.

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