Things To Do
in Soest
Soest is a charming town in the central Netherlands famed for its historic center, medieval architecture, and tranquil canals. It sits on the fringe of lush forests and expansive dune landscapes, offering easy access to outdoor adventures. The town blends cozy cafes, local shops, and country-style charm with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
Visitors can easily combine city strolling with nature walks and scenic bicycle rides.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Soest’s historic center. Visit the iconic St. Thomas Church, where you can admire the beautiful architecture and learn about its history. Stop by a local bakery to enjoy a traditional Dutch breakfast of fresh bread and pastries.
After lunch, explore the Soestdijk Palace, the former residence of the Dutch royal family, and its stunning gardens. Take your time to wander through the lush greenery and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Don’t forget to visit the nearby museum for fascinating insights into the royal history of the Netherlands.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy restaurant in the heart of Soest for dinner, sampling local dishes such as stamppot or herring. After your meal, take a gentle walk along the canals, enjoying the reflections of the quaint houses in the water. End your evening at a charming café with a nightcap, soaking in the local ambiance.
Begin your morning with a refreshing hike in the Soesterduinen, a stunning nature reserve known for its unique sand dunes and heathland. Breathe in the fresh air as you encounter various wildlife and picturesque landscapes. Pack a picnic to enjoy among the dunes, surrounded by the serene beauty of nature.
After your picnic, continue your adventure by exploring the nearby forest trails, where you’ll find ancient trees and peaceful surroundings. Take the time to stop and listen to the sounds of nature, or perhaps spot some local birds. As you walk, consider visiting the Soest Nature Museum to learn more about the region's ecology.
As evening approaches, return to Soest and unwind at a local bistro, savoring a hearty meal made from seasonal ingredients. After dinner, visit a local pub to enjoy some traditional Dutch beer and chat with friendly locals. The day wraps up perfectly with a stroll through the quiet streets of the town, basking in the peacefulness of the night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🥪Lunch sandwich | $4-7 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $3-4 |
| 🛏️Budget hostel bed | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic town with easy access to nature
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife within the town itself
- Smaller town feel may mean fewer high-end dining options
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Soest
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobblestone square centered on the historic church, perfect for golden-hour photography with the bell tower and quaint facades.
Medieval gates and canal-side houses provide reflective water imagery and moody shadows, ideal at dawn or dusk.
Open dune landscapes with pine forests and heath, offering expansive skylines and texture-rich foregrounds.
Quiet channels and charming bridges create classic Dutch profile shots, especially with boats and seasonal blooms.
Food in Soest
Soest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Dutch dish of mashed potatoes mixed with kale or sauerkraut, typically served with smoked sausage or bacon.
Must-Try!
Smoked sausage served over stamppot for a comforting, classic Dutch meal.
Large Dutch pancakes that can be enjoyed with sweet or savory toppings, a popular family-friendly option.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and regional specialties.
Casual stalls and small eateries offering quick bites, pastries, and local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch people are often straightforward in conversation; greetings with a hand shake are standard and punctuality is valued.
Safety
Tipping in Soest
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.
Most places accept pin card and contactless payments; cash is accepted but less common in newer establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with varied showers; flowers and green spaces come alive. Great for canal-side strolls and early-morning photography.
Warm days with long daylight hours; ideal for outdoor dining, cycling, and dune walks. Sudden showers possible, so carry a light rain layer.
Cooler temperatures and rich foliage; perfect for forest hikes and intimate city photography with autumn tones.
Chillier and wetter with shorter days; cozy cafes and ambient town lighting create a different, intimate mood for photos.
Soest at Night
Hiking in Soest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive dune landscapes with pine forests and heath; popular for long walks and photography.
Forest trails with varied terrain and wildlife, offering peaceful routes close to Soest.
Airports
How to reach Soest by plane.
Major international airport about an hour by rail or road; excellent rail connections to Amersfoort and Soest.
Smaller international airport; reachable by longer road or rail routes with transfer.
Regional option with connections to major Dutch cities; further from Soest but convenient for some itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and commuters; generally community-oriented with a strong sense of regional identity.
A number of international residents who work in nearby cities or schools, contributing to a small but present expat scene.
Visitors drawn by historical charm, dune scenery, and easy day trips to Utrecht and Amersfoort.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The Netherlands' national pastime with local clubs and community fields nearby.
Flat terrain and scenic routes perfect for day trips and scenic rides.
Common recreational options in parks and club facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Soest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries offer cheese-forward vegetarian options; look for veggie quiche, salads, and pasta dishes. When in doubt, ask for the daily vegetable plate or simpler cheese-based dishes.