Apeldoorn: City in the Forest
Apeldoorn, nestled in the province of Gelderland, offers visitors a refreshing blend of urban amenities and natural beauty. The city is known for its green spaces and parks, making it a perfect destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities. Whether you want to stroll through landscaped gardens or cycle along forest trails, Apeldoorn provides ample opportunities to connect with nature just steps from the city centre.
The city centre itself is compact and easy to explore on foot, featuring charming streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Apeldoorn also boasts a vibrant cultural scene with theatres, galleries, and regular events that showcase local talent. The atmosphere is relaxed yet lively, making it a pleasant place to unwind while still having plenty to see and do.
For families and those interested in unique attractions, Apeldoorn is home to several popular spots, including a world-famous palace nearby and a renowned wildlife park. These venues offer engaging experiences for all ages, combining education, entertainment, and the beauty of the Dutch countryside. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural exploration, or family fun, Apeldoorn in Gelderland has something to offer every traveler.
Table of Contents
- History of Apeldoorn
- Apeldoorn: Early Beginnings and Medieval Growth
- Apeldoorn: The Rise of Royal Influence
- Apeldoorn: Modern Development and Expansion
- 1 Best places to See in Apeldoorn
- Apeldoorn: Het Loo Palace
- Apeldoorn: Apenheul Primate Park
- Apeldoorn: Veluwe National Park
- Apeldoorn: CODA Museum
- Apeldoorn: Paleispark Berg & Bos
- Apeldoorn: Radio Kootwijk
- Apeldoorn: Julianatoren Theme Park
- Apeldoorn: Veluwsche Stoomtrein Maatschappij
- Apeldoorn: Museum Bronbeek
- Apeldoorn: Stadspark Orderbos
- Apenheul Primate Park
- 13 Best Day Trips from Apeldoorn
- Deventer
- Kröller-Müller Museum
- Zutphen
- Hoge Veluwe National Park
- Arnhem
- Zwolle
- Doetinchem
- Nijmegen
- Hengelo
- Giethoorn
- Oss
- Utrecht
- Enschede
- Where to Stay in Apeldoorn
- Best Time to Visit Apeldoorn
- How to get to Apeldoorn
History of Apeldoorn
Apeldoorn: Early Beginnings and Medieval Growth
Apeldoorn began as a small agrarian settlement during the early Middle Ages, gradually developing into a modest village surrounded by dense forests and heathlands. By the 13th century, it was part of the estates controlled by regional nobility, which helped shape its early growth. The town remained relatively quiet and rural through the medieval period, with small-scale farming and forestry as the main activities.
Apeldoorn: The Rise of Royal Influence
The city’s fortunes changed significantly in the 17th and 18th centuries when it became closely linked to the Dutch royal family. The construction of Het Loo Palace in the late 1600s transformed Apeldoorn into a favored royal residence. This brought wealth and status to the town, encouraging the development of elegant parks, gardens, and infrastructure. The palace remains a major landmark and symbol of Apeldoorn’s royal heritage.
Apeldoorn: Modern Development and Expansion
During the 19th and 20th centuries, Apeldoorn evolved from a royal retreat into a bustling modern city. Industrialization and improved transport links spurred rapid growth, with new neighborhoods and amenities added to accommodate a rising population. Today, Apeldoorn balances its historic roots with modern living, offering a mix of cultural attractions, green spaces, and vibrant urban life.
Visiting Apeldoorn for the first time and wondering what are the top places to see in the city? In this complete guide, I share the best things to do in Apeldoorn on the first visit. To help you plan your trip, I have also included an interactive map and practical tips for visiting!
This website uses affiliate links which earn a small commission at no additional cost to you.
1 Best places to See in Apeldoorn
This complete guide to Apeldoorn not only tells you about the very best sights and tourist attractions for first-time visitors to the city but also provide insights into a few of our personal favorite things to do.
This is a practical guide to visiting the best places to see in Apeldoorn and is filled with tips and info that should answer all your questions!
Apenheul Primate Park
Location: Apenheul, J.C. Wilslaan, Apeldoorn, Netherlands | Hours: April to October, 10:00 to 17:00 | Price: €21 | Website | Distance: 3.5km
Visiting Apenheul Primate Park
Best Day Trips from Apeldoorn
A day trip from Apeldoorn offers the perfect opportunity to escape the urban rhythm and discover the surrounding region's charm. Whether you're drawn to scenic countryside, historic villages, or cultural landmarks, the area around Apeldoorn provides a variety of easy-to-reach destinations ideal for a one-day itinerary.
Deventer
Visiting Deventer
Kröller-Müller Museum
| Hours: Winter: Tuesday to Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00 Monday: Closed Summer Period: Open Daily: 10:00 – 17:00 Sculpture Garden: Open until 19:00 on weekdays during summer | Price: Museum and Park: €26.90 | Website | Distance: 16.5km
Visiting Kröller-Müller Museum
Zutphen
Visiting Zutphen
Hoge Veluwe National Park
| Hours: Park Gate: Winter: 09:00 - 18:00, Summer: 08:00 - 21:00 Kröller-Müller Museum: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 – 17:00 | Price: €14 | Website | Tickets | Distance: 17.5km
Visiting Hoge Veluwe National Park
Arnhem
Visiting Arnhem
Zwolle
Visiting Zwolle
Doetinchem
Visiting Doetinchem
Nijmegen
Visiting Nijmegen
Hengelo
Visiting Hengelo
Giethoorn
Location: Giethoorn, Netherlands | Distance: 57.1km
Visiting Giethoorn
Oss
Visiting Oss
Utrecht
Visiting Utrecht
Enschede
Visiting Enschede
Where to Stay in Apeldoorn
In the city centre of Apeldoorn, visitors will find a mix of modern and charming accommodations within easy walking distance of shops, restaurants, and key attractions like Het Loo Palace. This area suits those wanting to be in the heart of the action. Options include Van der Valk Hotel Apeldoorn, known for its comfortable rooms and convenient location, and Postillion Hotel Amersfoort Veluwemeer, which offers stylish accommodation with excellent amenities.
For a quieter, more residential experience, the Berg en Bos district is popular. It’s close to the beautiful Paleispark and offers peaceful surroundings with easy access to nature. A good choice here is Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant Apeldoorn, blending comfort with proximity to the city’s green spaces. This area is ideal for visitors seeking relaxation after a day of exploring.
Near the Apeldoorn train station and the southern parts of the city, travellers will find practical hotels suited for those arriving by train or car. Boutique Hotel Hoog Soeren is a cozy option surrounded by woodland, perfect for a nature getaway, while Van der Valk Hotel Apeldoorn also caters well to business travellers with ample parking and modern facilities.
Lastly, the Apeldoorn outskirts, close to the Veluwe National Park, offer countryside retreats and charming guesthouses. For guests wanting to combine nature with comfort, Hotel Berg en Bos provides a rustic yet modern stay, just a short drive from the city centre and close to hiking and cycling routes. This area is perfect for those looking to unwind in the surrounding natural beauty.
Using the our Hotel and Accomodation map, you can compare hotels and short-term rental accommodations in Apeldoorn. Simply insert your travel dates and group size, and you’ll see the best deals for your stay.
Apeldoorn Accommodation Map
Best Time to Visit Apeldoorn
Visiting Apeldoorn in Spring
Spring in Apeldoorn sees mild temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C, making it an ideal time to enjoy the city’s many parks and gardens as they burst into bloom. This season is perfect for outdoor walks, cycling through the nearby Veluwe forest, and visiting attractions like Het Loo Palace without the summer crowds. Spring also features local flower festivals that add a splash of color and charm to the city.
Visiting Apeldoorn in Summer (Best)
Summer is the best time to visit Apeldoorn, with temperatures averaging between 18°C and 24°C. The warm weather invites visitors to fully explore the extensive green spaces, take part in outdoor events, and enjoy open-air concerts and festivals. One of the highlights is the Apeldoorn Jazz Festival, which brings vibrant music and lively atmosphere to the city streets. Longer daylight hours also mean more time to discover nearby nature reserves and outdoor attractions.
Visiting Apeldoorn in Autumn and Winter
Autumn in Apeldoorn brings cooler temperatures, generally between 8°C and 13°C, with the surrounding forests displaying stunning fall colors. It’s a peaceful time for hiking and enjoying seasonal events like harvest markets. Winter sees temperatures drop to between 0°C and 6°C, with occasional frost and snow. The city embraces the festive season with Christmas markets and light displays, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere despite the chill.
Annual Weather Overview
- January 5°C 45°F
- February 8°C 50°F
- March 11°C 55°F
- April 16°C 64°F
- May 19°C 71°F
- June 23°C 77°F
- July 25°C 80°F
- August 25°C 80°F
- September 21°C 73°F
- October 15°C 63°F
- November 9°C 52°F
- December 8°C 51°F
How to get to Apeldoorn
Getting to Apeldoorn by air
Nearest airports: The closest major airport to Apeldoorn is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), about 90 km away. Another option is Eindhoven Airport (EIN), approximately 110 km from the city. From Schiphol, travelers can take a direct train or arrange a taxi or shuttle service to Apeldoorn.
Getting to Apeldoorn by train
Apeldoorn is well-connected by the Dutch rail network with frequent direct services from major cities including Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Zwolle. The city’s train station is centrally located, making it easy to access local attractions upon arrival. Train tickets and schedules are available directly through NS Dutch Railways and NS International for international services. However, for a smoother experience, we recommend using Omio, which simplifies the booking process and lets you compare prices and schedules all in one place.
Getting to Apeldoorn by Car
Apeldoorn is easily accessible by car via the A1 motorway, which runs east-west just south of the city. The well-maintained roads provide straightforward connections to surrounding cities and regions. Parking is available in several city center garages and on-street locations.
Travelling around Apeldoorn
Getting around Apeldoorn is simple thanks to its compact size. Public buses connect the city to nearby towns and attractions, while cycling is popular with well-marked bike lanes throughout the area. Many visitors also explore the surrounding Veluwe region by car or bike.
