Discover your perfect stay in Apeldoorn.
Discover the most iconic attractions in Apeldoorn
Find the perfect place to stay in Apeldoorn









Questions You Might Need to Know About Traveling to Apeldoorn
In Apeldoorn, recommend staying at Hotel De Grote Kerk, a boutique hotel near Sint-Maria Kerk, offering family rooms and complimentary breakfast. The area is within walking distance of Apeldoorn Museum and Groene Park, perfect for kids. Also consider Hotel de Loo, featuring family suites and an indoor pool, ideal for relaxed vacations. Both blend Dutch architectural charm with modern comfort, providing cultural immersion and convenience.
Key landmarks: Sint-Maria Kerk, Groene Park Special experiences: Museum tours, outdoor family activities
The city center (Centrum) is the top choice for accommodation in Apeldoorn. Located close to Sint-Maria Kerk and City Hall, it offers easy access to major attractions and restaurants. With wide, tree-lined streets and excellent bus connections to Apeldoorn Train Station, this district hosts highly-rated options like Hotel De Grote Kerk and B&B De Stadswal. It combines historical ambiance with modern convenience, ideal for cultural explorers and short-term visitors.
Key landmarks: Sint-Maria Kerk, City Hall Transport advantage: 10-minute walk to train station
Don’t miss the annual Apeldoorn Agricultural Market (Apenraadse Agrarische Markt), showcasing local produce and crafts. Visit the Apeldoorn Museum to explore regional history and natural ecology. For authentic Dutch life, join a gardening workshop at Woldheim Garden or tour the Van Gogh Museum branch in Hoge Veluwe National Park. These experiences blend nature, art, and local traditions, offering deep insight into Apeldoorn’s character.
Core experiences: Farmers’ market, museum tours, gardening workshops
Hotel De Grote Kerk stands out as the most historically atmospheric hotel in Apeldoorn. Housed in a former 16th-century monastery, it retains original stone walls, arched windows, and stained-glass windows. Rooms blend classical design with modern amenities, some offering views of the church tower. The hotel offers historical guided tours and hosts period-themed dinners. Its location beside Sint-Maria Kerk makes it a prime spot to experience Dutch religious heritage and architecture.
Key building: Monastery conversion, next to Sint-Maria Kerk
Hoge Veluwe National Park is a photographer’s dream—featuring forests, lakes, and the Van Gogh Museum branch, with stunning light effects at dawn and dusk. Sint-Maria Kerk’s Gothic spire and colorful stained glass offer dramatic compositions. Groene Park’s fountains and ancient oaks provide serene backdrops. For candid shots, visit Marktplein to capture locals at street markets and daily life. These locations combine natural beauty and cultural depth.
Key spots: Hoge Veluwe National Park, Sint-Maria Kerk, Groene Park
Apeldoorn’s nightlife leans toward artsy and relaxed. Koffie & Kunst is a café-gallery hybrid hosting weekly exhibitions by local artists. De Oude Molen, a windmill-turned-bar, serves craft beer and live jazz on Fridays. The Apeldoorn Theater regularly stages musicals and dance performances. Overall, the vibe is quiet yet vibrant—perfect for evening strolls and cultural evenings.
Key venues: Koffie & Kunst, De Oude Molen, Apeldoorn Theater
Explore Hoge Veluwe National Park at a leisurely pace—its trails and picnic areas invite long walks and nature observation. Woldheim Garden offers guided gardening sessions and mindfulness workshops for relaxation. The Apeldoorn Museum features chronological exhibits on regional history, ideal for thoughtful browsing. These sites emphasize immersive, unhurried experiences—perfect for slow travelers seeking depth and tranquility.
Core experiences: Nature trails, garden wellness, historical immersion
Many hotels in Apeldoorn provide bicycle rental services, especially those near Hoge Veluwe National Park. Hotels like Hotel De Loo and B&B De Stadswal offer free bike rentals with maps and route suggestions. Renting a bike lets you easily explore Groene Park and surrounding countryside paths, embracing the Dutch cycling culture. Some even provide e-bikes for longer or hilly routes, enhancing comfort and freedom.
Core service: Free rental, e-bikes, navigation support
Try traditional dishes like Dutch stew (Stoofpot) and pan-seared duck breast (Peking-style) at De Kromme Vinger, known for using locally sourced beef and house-made sauces. Don’t miss the cheese platter at Oud Apeldoorn, paired with artisan bread and red wine. For street food, visit stalls at Marktplein for hot sausage and fries. These flavors reflect Apeldoorn’s culinary identity and regional pride.
Key restaurants: De Kromme Vinger, Oud Apeldoorn Must-try: Stew, duck breast, cheese platter
Yes, Apeldoorn is highly accessible. Apeldoorn Train Station connects to Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Nijmegen with frequent trains—just 30–50 minutes away. The city has an extensive bus network covering Hoge Veluwe National Park, museums, and the city center. Bike-sharing stations are widespread, promoting eco-friendly travel. Whether commuting between cities or exploring locally, transportation is convenient and reliable.
Key transport: Train station, buses, bike-sharing
Apeldoorn, located in Gelderland, Netherlands, is a city rich in history. Known for its Dutch traditional architecture and stunning natural landscapes, it features the iconic Royal Palace "Het Loo", showcasing Dutch royal heritage. The forests and national parks around Apeldoorn are paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Must-visit spots include Het Loo Palace, a 17th-century royal palace with exquisite gardens. Apeldoorn Forest is the largest contiguous forest area in the Netherlands, perfect for hiking. The historic churches and market square in the city center reflect medieval charm. Don’t miss the Van Gogh Path, the world’s first glowing bicycle trail.
Apeldoorn’s cuisine blends Dutch traditions with modern flavors. Try Poffertjes (mini pancakes) and Appeltaart (Dutch apple pie). Cozy cafés serve authentic Dutch coffee and snacks. Local farmers’ markets offer fresh produce and artisan cheeses.
Public transport relies on buses, with extensive coverage. Bike rentals are popular for exploring the city and nature. Trains connect to Amsterdam in about 1 hour. The city center is walkable, but plan routes to avoid rush hours.
Best seasons are spring (April-June) and summer (July-August) for mild weather and outdoor activities. Autumn offers vibrant foliage, while winter features charming Christmas markets.
Language: Dutch is official, but English is widely spoken. Payment: Cards are accepted, but small shops may prefer cash. Internet: Free WiFi in public areas. Emergency: Dial 112. Pharmacies are marked "Apotheek". Voltage: 230V, Type C/E plugs.