Apeldoorn

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Apeldoorn's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Apeldoorn. Admire the beautiful architecture of the buildings and visit the stunning St. Joseph's Church, which showcases intricate Gothic details. Stop by a local bakery to enjoy a traditional Dutch breakfast of fresh bread and pastries.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the CODA Museum, which features contemporary art and a fascinating collection of applied art. Take time to explore the nearby Het Loo Palace, once a royal residence, where you can wander through the lush gardens and learn about Dutch royal history. Spend some time shopping at local boutiques, discovering unique souvenirs and artisanal crafts.

evening
:

As the sun sets, dine at a cozy restaurant in the heart of the city, where you can indulge in traditional Dutch cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the charming ambiance of the historic center. Cap off the night with a visit to a local café for a drink and perhaps some live music.

day 2
Nature and Wildlife Encounter
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Hoge Veluwe National Park, just a short drive from Apeldoorn. Rent a bike to explore the park's vast landscapes, dotted with heaths, forests, and sand dunes. Keep an eye out for the unique wildlife, including deer and wild boar, that roam freely in this stunning natural environment.

afternoon
:

After a morning of cycling, stop at the Kröller-Müller Museum, home to a remarkable collection of Vincent van Gogh's paintings. Enjoy lunch at the museum's café, which offers a delightful menu featuring local ingredients. Spend the afternoon strolling through the sculpture garden, where you can appreciate art in a natural setting.

evening
:

Return to Apeldoorn and unwind with a relaxing dinner at a restaurant that specializes in regional dishes. If you’re up for it, take a short walk to the nearby village of Beekbergen to experience local nightlife at a pub or café. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you reflect on a day filled with nature and art.

day 3
Royal Retreat at Het Loo Palace
morning
:

Visit the magnificent Het Loo Palace, immersing yourself in the royal history of the Netherlands. Begin your exploration with a guided tour of the opulent rooms and the stunning gardens that surround the palace. Don’t forget to take photographs of the impressive fountains and sculptures that adorn the grounds.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café within the palace grounds, where you can savor delicious Dutch dishes while overlooking the manicured gardens. Afterward, spend time wandering through the expansive gardens, taking in the seasonal blooms and the intricate hedge mazes. Consider renting a bike or taking a guided tour to learn more about the palace's history and architecture.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to the city center for dinner at a historic restaurant that combines modern cuisine with traditional Dutch flavors. After your meal, take a stroll through the nearby park, enjoying the peaceful ambiance as the sun sets. End your evening at a cozy pub, engaging with locals and sharing stories about your day.

day 4
Adventure in the Apenheul Primate Park
morning
:

Kick off your day with a visit to Apenheul, a unique primate park in Apeldoorn where monkeys roam freely. Spend the morning observing different species of primates in their naturalistic habitats, and don't miss the chance to feed some of them during scheduled sessions. The playful antics of the monkeys will surely bring joy to your visit.

afternoon
:

After a morning of animal encounters, enjoy a packed lunch in the park's designated picnic areas or dine at the on-site café. Continue your adventure by exploring the park’s various themed areas, learning about conservation efforts and the behaviors of the apes. Take a relaxing stroll through the lush greenery, soaking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

evening
:

Head back to the city for dinner at a family-friendly restaurant that offers a variety of dishes to suit all tastes. Reflect on your day filled with wildlife experiences and share highlights with your dining companions. End the night with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, enjoying the flavors of Dutch specialties.

day 5
Cultural Experience at CODA Museum
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to exploring the CODA Museum, where contemporary art and applied arts come together. Participate in an engaging workshop or guided tour to learn about the creative processes of various artists. Take your time to appreciate the wide range of exhibits and installations that reflect Dutch culture.

afternoon
:

After immersing yourself in art, head to a nearby café for lunch, sampling traditional Dutch pancakes or a light sandwich. Post-lunch, explore the museum's library, which houses a collection of artistic literature and design books. Spend some time in the museum shop, where you can find unique art pieces and gifts.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a trendy restaurant known for its fusion cuisine that incorporates local flavors. After your meal, catch a performance at a local theater or music venue, enjoying an evening of entertainment. Reflect on the cultural experiences of the day over drinks at a nearby lounge.

day 6
Day Trip to De Hoge Veluwe National Park
morning
:

Start your day early with a drive to De Hoge Veluwe National Park, where you can immerse yourself in nature. Begin with a hike along one of the many trails that weave through the park’s diverse landscapes. Keep your camera ready for stunning views and potential wildlife sightings.

afternoon
:

After a morning hike, stop for a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings or visit the park’s café for a bite to eat. Spend the afternoon exploring the park on a free white bicycle, which can be found throughout the trails. Discover the unique sculptures and art installations scattered throughout the park as you ride.

evening
:

Return to Apeldoorn and enjoy a hearty dinner at a local restaurant specializing in seasonal dishes. After dinner, take a peaceful evening walk along the scenic canals of the city. Conclude your day with a relaxing drink at a bar, reflecting on your adventures in the great outdoors.

day 7
Relaxation at Spa and Wellness
morning
:

Treat yourself to a rejuvenating morning at one of Apeldoorn's renowned wellness centers. Start with a soothing massage or facial treatment, allowing you to unwind and recharge. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you indulge in spa facilities like saunas, steam rooms, and relaxation lounges.

afternoon
:

After your spa treatments, enjoy a light and healthy lunch at the wellness center's café, focusing on fresh and nutritious options. Spend the afternoon lounging by the pool or participating in wellness activities such as yoga or meditation sessions. Take time to reflect and relax, experiencing true tranquility.

evening
:

For dinner, visit a nearby farm-to-table restaurant that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy a leisurely meal, savoring each course while soaking in the calm ambiance. Wrap up your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, enjoying a peaceful end to a day of self-care.

day 8
Local Market and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to a local market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere filled with fresh produce, flowers, and artisanal products. Engage with local vendors and sample regional specialties, from cheeses to baked goods. This is a great opportunity to gather ingredients for a picnic later in the day.

afternoon
:

After exploring the market, head to a cooking class where you can learn to prepare traditional Dutch dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Enjoy the culinary experience as you work with an experienced chef, gaining insights into Dutch cooking techniques. Afterward, enjoy the fruits of your labor during a communal lunch with fellow participants.

evening
:

Conclude your culinary adventure with dinner at a highly-rated restaurant known for its innovative take on Dutch cuisine. Savor a multi-course meal that highlights seasonal ingredients and local flavors. End your evening with a visit to a nearby wine bar, sampling exquisite wines paired with artisanal cheeses.

day 9
Exploring Local History and Heritage
morning
:

Dive into the rich history of Apeldoorn by visiting the Municipal Museum, where you can learn about the city's development and its historical milestones. Explore the exhibits featuring local artifacts, photographs, and art that showcase the region's heritage. Take notes on interesting facts to share with your travel companions later.

afternoon
:

After the museum visit, enjoy lunch at a quaint café nearby, soaking in the local atmosphere. Spend the afternoon walking through historical neighborhoods, admiring the architecture of traditional Dutch houses and buildings. Consider visiting local heritage sites or monuments that reflect Apeldoorn's past.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a restaurant that offers a cozy, traditional atmosphere with hearty Dutch dishes. Afterward, attend a local cultural event or performance, such as a concert or art exhibition, to experience Apeldoorn's vibrant community. Reflect on the day's historical insights over drinks at a nearby pub, enjoying the local ambiance.

Discover Apeldoorn

Read more in our Apeldoorn 2025 Travel Guide.

Apeldoorn Travel Guide