Castles & Gardens

Explore the fascinating history of the Dutch Golden Age by visiting the ancient castles and country estates that were once the homes of wealthy merchants.

Majestic fortresses, castles and country estates that were once the homes of wealthy merchants are dotted through the Amsterdam Area. Take a guided tour of a castle, attend an exhibition or just sail along the River Amstel or River Vecht dreaming of an aristocratic life on the water.

Our guides to Castles & Gardens

Plan your perfect day trip

Enjoy the highlights of Castles & Gardens

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Explore Castles & Gardens with Bart van der Huct

Explore the region and discover its best sights and hidden gems with resident Bart van der Hucht.
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Explore the Amsterdam Area's Castles & Gardens region

Delve into the fascinating history of the Dutch Golden Age by exploring the ancient castles that were once the homes of wealthy merchants and exquisitely manicured gardens.
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Take a 360-degree tour of Amsterdam's Castles & Gardens region

Explore amazing sights and places of the Amsterdam Area's Castles & Gardens region with I amsterdam's 360-degree video, including the fairy tale Castle Muiderslot.

Practical info

Castles & Gardens: Get inspired!

Leisure Lakes

For a beautiful day beside or on the water, you needn’t simply take to the seaside: head inland and enjoy the many Leisure Lakes near Amsterdam.

Historical River Estates

Take a trip south of the city and enjoy the grandeur and nature of the Historical River Estates.

Best spots for boating around Amsterdam

There is absolutely nothing half so much worth doing as messing around in a boat on the riverbank. Taking in the scenery and a breath of fresh air fro...

Muiden

The fortified town of Muiden sits near the IJmeer, just east of Amsterdam. It dates back to the 10th century and is now known for its peaceful streets...

Breukelen

Breukelen, located north-west of Utrecht, is best known for its nature areas and the large mansions and castle that adorn the banks of the winding Vec...

Laren

Though small, Laren has a lot to offer visitors, including charming streets, abundant nature and fascinating museums. A walk around Laren makes it eas...

Weesp

Lying just to the south east of Amsterdam near Muiden and Naarden, Weesp is a quaint town famed for its historical buildings. The town dates back to t...

Ouderkerk aan de Amstel

Ouderkerk aan de Amstel is a quaint village located south of Amsterdam on the bank of the Ouderkerkerplas lake. The village dates back to the 12th cen...

The Fortress Stretch

Step back in time when you visit the Fortress Stretch. Home to many old castles, fortified towns and ruins, this picturesque region offers a vivid win...

Where next?

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Amsterdam Beach

Explore Dutch dunes, take part in water sports, or just relax along one of the most unspoilt coastlines in Northern Europe. Amsterdam Beach makes for ...

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