Things To Do
in Apeldoorn
Apeldoorn is a vibrant city located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, known for its beautiful landscapes and green spaces. It is home to the stunning Het Loo Palace, a former royal residence with extensive gardens that attract tourists from around the world. The city also boasts a variety of cultural attractions, such as museums, theaters, and historic buildings.
With its mix of modern amenities and rich history, Apeldoorn offers a charming destination for visitors seeking a blend of nature and culture.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing stroll through the beautiful Hoge Veluwe National Park. Enjoy the fresh air and stunning nature views as you wander the many trails.
Visit the Kröller-Müller Museum, which features an incredible collection of Van Gogh paintings. Spend time enjoying the art and the surrounding sculptures in the park.
Have dinner at a cozy local restaurant, savoring traditional Dutch cuisine. Take a walk through the charming town square afterward.
Visit Het Loo Palace, the former royal residence, and explore its lush gardens. Learn about Dutch royal history in the beautifully preserved rooms.
Have lunch at the palace café, followed by a visit to the museum showcasing royal artifacts. Enjoy the serene atmosphere of the gardens.
Return to the city center and dine at a restaurant with views of the palace. End your day with a leisurely stroll around the palace grounds.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful green spaces and parks, including the Hoge Veluwe National Park nearby.
- Rich cultural heritage with various museums and historic sites.
- Family-friendly city with good schools and recreational facilities.
- Well-connected transport system, making it easy to travel to nearby cities.
- Safe and welcoming community with a small-town feel.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Public transport options may be less frequent outside peak hours.
- Higher living costs compared to some other regions in the Netherlands.
- Job opportunities may be more limited compared to larger urban areas.
- Weather can be rainy and cloudy for much of the year.
Best Activities in Apeldoorn
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife on the marked trails within Veluwe Park.
Enjoy cycling through the stunning national park and visit the Kröller-Müller Museum and the sculpture garden.
Paddle along the scenic IJssel River for a peaceful and serene outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Apeldoorn with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Apeldoorn
Visit one of these nice places.
Former royal palace with beautiful gardens and scenic views
Offers the chance to take photos of various primates in a natural setting
Park with a variety of flora and fauna, ideal for capturing natural beauty
Vast natural area with diverse landscapes, perfect for landscape photography
Food in Apeldoorn
Apeldoorn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These small, fluffy pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter are a must-try local delicacy. They can be found in numerous pancake houses and street food stalls across Apeldoorn, with the De Konijnenberg and 't Pannekoekhuisje as popular venues.
Must-Try!
A traditional Dutch dish made from pork offal and buckwheat. It's typically served with rye bread and apple syrup, offering a hearty and flavorsome experience. Notable places to sample Balkenbrij include the Brasserie No 14 and Restaurant de Bon Vivant.
For seafood enthusiasts, Kibbeling - deep-fried chunks of fish usually served with a side of garlic or tartar sauce - is a local favorite. Visitors can enjoy this dish at the Vis Bar and various fish stands around the city.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Apeldoorn better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Apeldoorn Market, held in the city center, is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheeses, flowers, and more. It's an ideal spot to sample street food specialties like stroopwafels (syrup-filled waffle cookies) and freshly fried oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts), which are widely available.
The Oranjerie Food Court is a vibrant hub for street food, offering an array of international cuisines alongside Dutch classics. Visitors can savor diverse dishes ranging from Asian stir-fries to Italian wood-fired pizzas in this lively market setting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Apeldoorn, it is customary to shake hands and maintain direct eye contact. Address people using their title and surname unless invited to use their first name.
Punctuality is highly valued in Dutch culture, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments and social gatherings in Apeldoorn.
Dutch people value personal space, so it is important to maintain a suitable distance when conversing and avoid standing too close to others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Apeldoorn with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Apeldoorn
Ensure a smooth experience
In Apeldoorn, Netherlands, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to add a small amount, usually 5-10% of the total bill, as a tip in restaurants and for other services like taxi rides or hotel staff.
Payment in Apeldoorn is predominantly done through electronic means such as debit and credit cards. Cash is also widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments and for transactions involving tips. Contactless and mobile payments are becoming increasingly popular as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Apeldoorn.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Apeldoorn as the city comes alive with beautiful blooms and greenery. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the stunning gardens and parks.
Summer is peak tourist season in Apeldoorn, with warm weather perfect for enjoying the outdoors. Visitors can take advantage of numerous outdoor events and festivals, and also explore the Hoge Veluwe National Park and its wildlife.
Autumn in Apeldoorn is characterized by stunning foliage as the leaves change color. The temperatures begin to cool, creating a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. It's a great time for nature walks and cycling through the beautiful countryside.
Winter in Apeldoorn brings a magical atmosphere, especially during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy festive markets, ice skating, and winter activities. The city is less crowded, offering a serene experience for those who enjoy winter landscapes.
Apeldoorn at Night
Hiking in Apeldoorn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A unique sand dune area located near Apeldoorn, offering various trails through striking landscapes, featuring heath, forests, and sandy plains.
One of the oldest national parks in the Netherlands, known for its rolling hills, extensive wooded areas, and diverse wildlife. It offers numerous hiking trails of varying difficulty.
A large national park famous for its varied landscapes including heath, sand dunes, and woodlands. It has an extensive network of trails and also includes the Kröller-Müller Museum.
Located within a short distance from Apeldoorn, this park features heathlands and wooded hills, with excellent hiking trails that provide beautiful views.
A scenic hiking area that combines nature walks with outdoor sculptures, making for a unique walking experience in a tranquil setting.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Apeldoorn through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Apeldoorn by plane.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 100 kilometers from Apeldoorn. It serves as a major international gateway.
Located around 125 kilometers from Apeldoorn, Eindhoven Airport is the second-largest airport in the Netherlands, focusing on low-cost carriers.
Located about 130 kilometers from Apeldoorn, it primarily serves domestic and some international flights.
Approximately 150 kilometers from Apeldoorn, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located around 150 kilometers away in Belgium, it is a major European airport offering a wide range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Apeldoorn, comprising the largest percentage of the population.
A significant ethnic minority, representing a notable portion of the immigrant population in Apeldoorn.
Another prominent ethnic group in Apeldoorn, forming part of the diverse multicultural landscape.
Includes various nationalities, such as Polish and Romanian, contributing to the demographic diversity.
A smaller, yet important demographic, reflecting the historical migration patterns from Suriname.
Includes groups from various countries, adding to the multicultural character of Apeldoorn.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Apeldoorn, with several local clubs and a strong community following.
Field hockey has a significant presence in Apeldoorn, with dedicated clubs and active participation at various levels.
Volleyball is widely played in Apeldoorn, with multiple clubs and recreational opportunities available for all ages.
Cycling is a popular activity in Apeldoorn, thanks to the extensive network of bike paths and the city’s bike-friendly environment.
Handball is gaining popularity in Apeldoorn with local clubs focusing on youth and professional levels.
Athletics has a strong following in Apeldoorn, with events and competitions held throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Apeldoorn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Apeldoorn's dining scene is accommodating to vegetarian and vegan diners, with many restaurants and cafes offering dedicated plant-based menus alongside their regular offerings. Notable venues like De Pastazaak and Familie Stroet include flavorful vegetarian and vegan choices on their menus.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can confidently explore Apeldoorn's food establishments, as several eateries provide gluten-free alternatives. Restaurants such as Robin Food and Waaghalzen prioritize offering a range of delectable gluten-free dishes to cater to diverse dietary needs.