Have you always wondered what it would be like to live as a prince or knight during the Middle Ages? Or do you simply feel a certain magic the moment you see a castle? Admire the beauty of times gone by and listen to fascinating stories in one of the castles on this list. And you don't have to cross the border to find a beautiful castle, because there are plenty of treasures to be found in the Netherlands too. There are more than 600 castles scattered throughout the country, many of which date back to the Middle Ages. Travel back in time for a day in your own country. In this blog post, you'll find the top 21 most beautiful castles you can visit in the Netherlands. Enjoy!
The magnificent Ammersoyen Castle is strategically located between the Maas and Waal rivers. This castle is a true medieval castle with four towers, a vast knight's hall, and a moat dating back to around 1300. There's a museum attic with archaeological artifacts from the moat, providing insight into Ammersoyen's past. For drinks and snacks, you can visit the castle pub. The castle is located in Ammerzoden, in the western province of Gelderland. For more information, visit: https://ammersoyen.glk.nl/
Address: Kasteellaan 1, 5324 JR Ammerzoden
Province: Gelderland

© Ammersoyen Castle
Enter the world of Kaiser Wilhelm II and be transported to an era of intrigue, luxury, and historical upheaval. Nestled in the Green Heart of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug lies Huis Doorn, an elegant country house where the last German Kaiser spent his exile. Now a museum with an impressive collection, it offers a unique glimpse into the impact of the First World War on Europe. Family tours are regularly organized during holidays, and you can also embark on a scavenger hunt through the estate's park. You can certainly enjoy a lovely walk there before or after your visit. More info & tickets >>
Address: Langbroekerweg 10, 3941 MT Doorn
Province: Utrecht

© Huis Doorn
For over 700 years, the fortified Muiderslot castle has stood near Amsterdam, surrounded by water and castle gardens. It is one of the oldest and best-preserved castles in the Netherlands. Get a feel for what it's like to live in a castle. Discover what it was like to live at Muiderslot in the past. You might feel like you're back in the Middle Ages as you wander around. The castle and its grounds offer a variety of additional activities every day. Learn more at: https://muiderslot.nl/
Address: Herengracht 1, 1398 AA Muiden
Province: North Holland

© Muiderslot Castle
Ruurlo Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Gelderland. Ruurlo Castle is nestled in a wooded area with winding paths and picturesque towns. Besides being one of the most beautiful castles in the Netherlands, it has also served as the home and studio of the famous modern realist artist Carel Willink since 2017. This is the second branch of Museum MORE. A fable brought to life. The castle has been featured in several television programs, including De Zevensprong. Want to know more? Visit the Ruurlo Castle website: https://www.museummore-kasteelruurlo.nl/
Address: Vordenseweg 2, 7261 LZ Ruurlo
Province: Gelderland
View this post on Instagram
]
Cannenburch Castle, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is situated in the heart of a beautiful old forest park with meadows and ponds. The castle is open to visitors, and the surrounding area is ideal for walking and cycling. Inside, the castle is a museum. All the furniture, paintings, and other items are antique, giving you a clear picture of how people lived in the 18th century. Cannenburch Castle is hosting a variety of activities in October. For more information, visit: https://cannenburch.glk.nl/
Address: Maarten van Rossumplein 4, 8171 EB Vaassen
Province: Gelderland

© Cannenburch Castle
De Haar Castle is the largest castle in the Netherlands. The vast and opulent history of this medieval castle is its distinguishing feature. De Haar Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the province of Utrecht. As a guest, you can take a guided tour of the magnificent castle and wander through the beautiful surrounding park. De Haar Castle hosts a number of events and fairs throughout the year. Learn all about De Haar Castle at: https://onlineticket.kasteeldehaar.nl/
Address: Kasteellaan 1, 3455 RR Utrecht
Province: Utrecht

© De Haar Castle
Sypesteyn is one of the newest castles in the Netherlands. Esquire Henri van Sypesteyn commissioned the castle in 1900, built on the foundations of earlier structures. The castle has since been converted into a museum. Sypesteyn Castle is a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Vecht and Lakes region, nestled in the Green Heart of the Netherlands. Its beautiful castle garden (a national monument) is perfect for a relaxing stroll and a cup of tea on the terrace. Read more at: https://sypesteyn.nl/
Address: Nieuw-Loosdrechtsedijk 150, 1231 LC Loosdrecht
Province: North Holland

© Sypesteyn Castle
Doorwerth Castle is a powerful medieval castle where you can experience how people used to live on estates. Gelderland boasts one of the oldest castles in the Netherlands. Doorwerth Castle has been home to many noble families since the Middle Ages. A diverse, hilly landscape awaits on the moraine behind the castle, perfect for walking, cycling, or visiting the vegetable garden. You can visit three wonderful museums housed in the castle. Other activities and events are also planned there throughout the year. For more information about Doorwerth Castle, visit: https://doorwerth.glk.nl/
Address: Fonteinallee 2 B, 6865 ND Doorwerth
Province: Gelderland

© Doorwerth Castle
As you enter the Staverden estate, you're immediately struck by its unique character. The blend of rich history, distinctive architecture, beautiful gardens, and the presence of white peacocks makes this a truly unique experience. The Staverden estate is located between Ermelo and Elspeet, in a beautiful wooded area. The Overeem family has lived on the Staverden estate for three generations. During a covered wagon tour, they'll show you the most beautiful spots in Staverden and the surrounding area in a unique way. Want to know more? Visit: https://www.glk.nl/landschappen-kastelen/locatie/landgoed-staverden
Address: Staverdenseweg 287, 3852 NV Staverden
Province: Gelderland

© Staverden Castle
One of the most beautiful and best-preserved castles in the Netherlands is Hoensbroek Castle. Take the tour brochure with you, or add some extra excitement with a treasure hunt and discover Hoensbroek Castle. This enormous castle also serves as a castle museum. There are nearly forty rooms to explore. This castle has something for everyone, young and old, with or without children! Consider, for example, the annual Knights' Tournament. Want to learn more about its history and the people who have lived there over the years? You can find that information here: https://www.kasteelhoensbroek.nl/
Address: Klinkertstraat 116, 6433 PB Hoensbroek
Province: Limburg

©Hoensbroek Castle
Doornenburg Castle is a true family castle where you can enjoy a truly enjoyable day out. This castle boasts a unique location, nestled right on the border of the Rhine and Waal rivers. The castle is divided into two sections: the main castle and the outer bailey, connected by a wooden bridge. There are various activities nearby, such as a playground and beautiful walking and cycling paths, or you can relax with a snack and a drink in the inn. Read more about Doornenburg Castle at: https://www.kasteeldoornenburg.nl/
Address: Kerkstraat 27, 6686 BS Doornenburg
Province: Gelderland

© Doornenburg Castle
Zuylen Castle, located just west of Utrecht, is one of the oldest castles on the Vecht River. The castle boasts a long family history with prominent residents. At Zuylen Castle, you can experience the daily lives of the castle's residents. You'll be guided through the castle by an audio tour. A trip to Zuylen Castle wouldn't be complete without a stroll through the castle gardens. This beautiful garden is cared for by dozens of volunteers. The Koetshuis (Coach House) is a good starting point for hiking and cycling adventures. See the website for more information: https://www.slotzuylen.nl/
Address: Tournooiveld 1, 3611 AS Oud Zuilen
Province: Utrecht

© Zuylen Castle
Rosendael Castle lies between the highlands of the Veluwe and the lowlands of the IJssel Valley, near the village of Rozendaal. Rosendael Castle is known for its cheat park, shell gallery, tea house, ponds, and fountains. You can enjoy a specially designed themed tour of the castle and grounds. For children, the adventure begins at home with a coloring page of the castle on the website. There's also plenty for children to do on the grounds. For more information, visit the Rosendael Castle website: https://rosendael.glk.nl/
Address: Rosendael 1, 6891 DA Rozendaal
Province: Gelderland

© Rosendael Castle
Heemstede Castle is one of the most beautiful buildings in Houten, the province of Utrecht. This magnificent castle was built in 1645 but was completely rebuilt in 2002 after a major fire. Today, the castle is known for its French Baroque gardens and unique artwork. You can dine in the restaurant at the foot of the castle and overlook the moat. Have you always dreamed of spending the night in a castle? In Heemstede, you can! Read more about Heemstede Castle at: https://restaurant-kasteelheemstede.nl/
Address: Heemsteedseweg 20, 3992 LS Houten
Province: Utrecht

© Heemstede Castle
In 1358, knight Dirc Loef van Horne had his castle built on the banks of the Meuse and Waal rivers in the province of Gelderland. Originally designed to collect tolls, the castle is now an excellent choice for a fun day out. The castle, the outer bailey, and the military settlement offer something for everyone. Hugo Grotius, the Middle Ages, and the Dutch Waterline are all explored in the museum. See the website for more information: https://www.slotloevestein.nl/
Address: Loevestein 1, 5307 TG Poederoijen
Province: Gelderland

© Loevestein Castle
The enormous Heeswijk Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in the Netherlands, stands proudly amidst the wooded Brabant landscape. For over 1000 years, it has symbolized the power, pride, and culture of the Brabant elite. In and around the castle, visitors can discover its long and illustrious history. Read more about Heeswijk Castle at: https://www.kasteelheeswijk.nl/
Address: Kasteel 4, 5473 VA Heeswijk Dinther
Province: North Brabant

© Heeswijk Castle
This magnificent castle in the Netherlands is not to be missed. You can take a tour and enjoy the castle. The castle gardens are beautiful. Want to admire it in all its splendor? Then consider an overnight stay! The bedrooms at Huis Bergh Castle are housed in two old towers on the castle's outer walls. Visit the website for more information: https://www.huisbergh.nl/
Address: Hof van Bergh 8, 7041 AC 's-Heerenberg
Province: Gelderland

© Huis Bergh Castle
Middachten Castle is a cultural heritage site with a unique character. The estate is currently managed by the 25th generation of the family. It is not a museum or exhibition, but it is open to the public. The Middachten gardens are open to the public during the summer months, and an annual Christmas opening is held in the winter. Three former servants' rooms in the coach house have been transformed into a B&B. Want to stay overnight? Learn more at: https://www.middachten.nl/
Address: Estate Middachten 3, 6994 JC De Steeg
Province: Gelderland

© Middachten Castle
Groeneveld Castle in Baarn is a magnificent example of an 18th-century estate. Built in 1710, it's considered one of the finest examples of a rococo country house. There's plenty to do, from guided tours to concerts, treasure hunts, and fairs—there's something for everyone. Keep an eye on the castle's events calendar: https://kasteelgroeneveld.nl/
Address: Groeneveld 2, 3744 ML Baarn
Province: Utrecht

© Groeneveld Castle
Hernen Castle is a medieval castle surrounded by a moat. The owners of this medieval castle didn't use it as a permanent residence. As a result, its medieval character is still clearly visible today. Beautiful forests and avenues surround the area, providing the perfect setting for a relaxing day out. More information is available on the website: https://hernen.glk.nl/
Address: Dorpsstraat 40, 6616 AH Hernen
Province: Gelderland

© Hernen Castle
Westhove Castle in Zeeland is a 13th-century castle with towers and a moat. The coast is within walking distance of the castle. Westhove Castle houses a hostel. You'll stay in a private room with a private bathroom. Breakfast is included. Visit the cozy bar, the waterfront terrace, or the charming restaurant for a drink or a delicious meal. Learn more at: https://www.stayokay.com/nl/hostel/domburg
Address: Duinvlietweg 8, 4356 ND Oostkapelle
Province: Zeeland
Spotted something fun that's opening soon or just opened? Or just a great tip that shouldn't be missing from Your Little Black Book? Let us know via the TIP THE EDITORS button!
Your Little Black Book is packed with hundreds of staycation tips for a holiday in your own country. Find the perfect accommodation and plan that well-deserved weekend getaway!
► The holiday home overview with the best tips for the Netherlands >>
View this post on Instagram
With love,
Anne
| PS: Do you know Your Little Black Book's Green PolicyHere you'll find my personal tips on how to travel and live greener, and I'll explain why and how I offset the CO2 emissions from all the trips #teamyourlbb makes.