play video

Castles & Gardens

Delve into the fascinating history of the Dutch Golden Age by exploring the ancient castles that were once the homes of wealthy merchants. Many of the castles and exquisitely manicured gardens are open to the public. Find out which ones to see, what's in the area and how to plan your trip from Amsterdam. 

Travel back in time at historic castles

Castles and majestic country estates are dotted through the countryside in the Amsterdam Area - some are even within cycling distance of Amsterdam. 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 by the water. 

Reasons to visit Castles and Gardens:


  • Just 30 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station

  • A land of fairy tale castles and charming gardens


     

  • Highlights: Muiderslot, Fortress Island Pampus


Castles and gardens destinations

Breukelen

Breukelen castle, CC BY 2.5 Loki2003 via Fotothing.com
With its nature areas, large mansions and spectacular castle, Breukelen offers visitors a wealth of historic sights and experiences.

Ouderkerk aan de Amstel
Take a short bike ride from Amsterdam and discover a scenic refuge away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Weesp
Step back in time in Weesp, a historic city brimming with spectacular forts and windmills, and buildings that date back hundreds of years.

Muiden
Dating back to the 10th century, Muiden's peaceful streets, small cafés, historic landmarks and picturesque harbour make for a perfect day trip out of Amsterdam.

Naarden
One of the best preserved fortified towns in Europe, Naarden's remarkable ‘star fort’ grid layout and cafés, shops and attractions make it simply unmissable.

Activities, excursions, hotels and more

Naarden boat, Geert Snoeijer
Explore what to do and where to stay, eat and drink while visiting the Amsterdam region's superlative Castles & Gardens.

Visitor information centres

De Haar Castle Ryan Beck flickr cc via 2.0
Whether you’re looking for excursions, accommodation, restaurants or information on getting around, find out how the Visitor Information Centres can help.

Castles & Gardens: Get inspired!

Castles & Gardens itineraries

Whether you have a full day to spend or just half, here's a selection of suggested itineraries for taking in the best sights and experiences of Castle...
GM Plassen Geert Snoeijer

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.
DC Amstelpark Edwin van Eis

Amstel River Countryside

Amsterdam has a green oasis right on its doorstep, meaning everyone can easily enjoy the natural diversity of the Amstel River Countryside.

Where next?

Tulips close up and Windmill Cris Toala Olivares

Flowers of Amsterdam

If you're lucky enough to visit Amsterdam in spring, don't miss a visit to the nearby flower growing region. See the flower strip or 'Bollenstreek' bu...
Zaanse Schans windmills Cris Toala Olivares

Old Holland

With its countless windmills, churches and old-fashioned farmhouses, stepping out into Old Holland can feel like being in a Golden Age painting.
Zandvoort Amsterdam Beach Cris Toala Olivares

Amsterdam Beach

When the temperatures soar in Amsterdam, sun-seekers flock to the Dutch coast and the beaches at Bloemendaal and Zandvoort to bask on the sands and so...

Still didn't find what you were looking for?

Popular pages
Our network

Cookies on Iamsterdam.com

Amsterdam Marketing uses cookies on I amsterdam to analyse usage of the website and to enable content sharing on social media. Cookies may be placed by third parties. By closing this message and continuing to use the site you consent to cookie use by iamsterdam.com.