Otterlo(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

For boutique stays with historical charm, Hotel de Gouden Kruis stands out as a hidden gem. Housed in a 17th-century merchant’s house, it blends original stone walls with modern amenities. Located steps from the Grote Kerk and Stadhuis, guests enjoy quiet alleyway access to the city’s heart. The hotel features themed rooms like "The Weaver's Chamber," inspired by local textile history, and offers guided walking tours of old Apeldoorn. Breakfast includes homemade Dutch pancakes and locally roasted coffee, setting a warm tone for your day. Perfect for travelers seeking authenticity and character beyond chain hotels.

The Old Town (Oudstedelijk) district is the most walkable and charming area to stay in Apeldoorn. With cobbled streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes, it offers an immersive experience. Stay at Stadshuis Hotel, located just across from the City Hall, giving you immediate access to Market Square, St. Jacob’s Church, and the Canal Pathway. Enjoy morning coffee at De Pijp, a family-run café known for its artisanal pastries. Evenings bring soft lighting along the water, ideal for strolls. The compact layout means most attractions are within a 10-minute walk, making it perfect for independent exploration without needing transport.

The Grote Kerk (Great Church) is Apeldoorn’s most iconic landmark—dating back to the 14th century, this Gothic cathedral features a soaring 80-meter spire and exquisite stained-glass windows. Nearby, Paleis Het Loo is a former royal summer residence turned national museum, showcasing 17th–19th century Dutch court life, royal garments, and fine art. The War Memorial honors local resistance during WWII and serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s resilience. Together, these sites offer deep insight into Apeldoorn’s cultural identity, blending religious heritage, monarchy, and wartime memory in one compact, accessible area.

Tourists must try Hollandse Oliebollen, traditional fried dough balls filled with raisins and citrus peel, often sold fresh at weekend markets. Visit De Witte Leeuw, a centuries-old restaurant famed for its hearty Stoofpot met Runderbout (beef stew). For a hands-on experience, join a Farm-to-Table Cooking Workshop at Kulinarium Apeldoorn, where you’ll learn to prepare authentic Dutch dishes using regional ingredients like Gouda cheese and smoked sausage. Don’t miss the local apple wine (appelsapwijn) served at the weekly market—sweet, tangy, and uniquely Apeldoorn.

Couples will adore Hotel De Burcht, a secluded boutique hotel nestled in the old town’s quiet alleys. Its private rooftop terrace offers panoramic views of the Apeldoorn Canal at night. The hotel provides candlelit dinners on request, paired with local wines and handmade chocolates. Start your day with a sunrise ride on rental bicycles along the Loo Forest Trail, then explore the Royal Palace Garden hand-in-hand. Some suites feature vintage bathtubs with lavender bath salts—perfect for unwinding after a day of shared discovery. This intimate escape blends privacy, beauty, and timeless moments.

Yes, Apeldoorn’s public transport system is highly tourist-friendly. The Tram Line 1 connects the train station directly to the city center, running every 10–15 minutes. From Apeldoorn Train Station, you can reach major attractions like Paleis Het Loo and Grote Kerk in under 10 minutes. The Apeldoorn City Pass offers unlimited travel on trams, buses, and discounts to museums and parks. Bike-sharing stations are widespread—ideal for exploring nearby forests and rivers. Clear signage in English and multilingual staff ensure ease of navigation, making it simple for visitors to move freely without renting a car.

Apeldoorn shines during the International Music Festival held annually in Het Loo Park, featuring world-class orchestras and soloists performing under fairy lights. Winter brings the Christmas Light Festival, where the entire old town glows with festive decorations and pop-up markets sell mulled wine and handmade gifts. In spring, the Flower Festival (Bloemenfestijn) transforms the city into a blooming canvas—residents decorate streets with tulips and hyacinths. These events not only draw international visitors but also create unforgettable memories through music, light, and community spirit.

Yes, Hotel De Zonneweide welcomes pets with open arms, offering pet beds, bowls, and a dedicated cleaning service. Located near Loo Forest, it’s ideal for walks with your dog along scenic trails. B&B De Vleugel also accepts small pets and has a fenced garden area for them to play. Both hotels require advance notice and proof of vaccinations. The city itself is pet-friendly, with designated dog parks and water fountains. Whether you’re hiking the Forest Trails or relaxing by the lake, your furry companion is welcome—and loved.

Apeldoorn sits at the heart of Het Loo National Park, the largest protected forest in the Netherlands. Here, visitors can hike through ancient oak woods, HopeGoo on the Lak van Apeldoorn, or spot wild deer along the Nature Trail. In autumn, the Maple Walkway turns golden red—a breathtaking sight. For adventure seekers, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) sessions are available on calm waters. At dusk, join a nighttime glow-worm tour in the forest, where tiny bioluminescent insects light up the undergrowth. These experiences connect travelers deeply with the region’s untouched beauty and ecological richness.

Apeldoorn offers a distinctive shopping experience centered on craftsmanship and tradition. The Market Square (Marktplaats) hosts a vibrant weekly farmers’ market with organic produce, handmade cheeses, and local honey. De Bijenkorf Apeldoorn features curated collections from Dutch designers like Mensje van Keulen and Eduard & Co. For vintage lovers, Oude Markt Antiquiteiten houses dozens of antique shops selling 18th-century paintings and silverware. Don’t leave without buying a bottle of Apeldoorn-exclusive tulip perfume or a wool scarf with the city’s coat of arms—each item tells a story of heritage, quality, and local pride.