Apeldoorn is in the province of Gelderland and the perfect location if you're looking for a base with possibilities. It's home to the former royal hunting lodge, a great zoo, a theatre and a variety of museums. What more do you want?
Until around 1800, Apeldoorn consisted of only a few streets and a palace, but things changed when the Apeldoorn Canal was built. Industry established itself and after the railway was built at the end of the 19th century, hotels, factories and offices started establishing themselves too. Apeldoorn has since grown into a lovely little city.
Say Apeldoorn and Het Loo Palace immediately springs to mind. Don't miss this beautiful hunting lodge with its coach houses, stables and extravagant garden. The inside of the palace is also worth visiting. Next to the palace you’ll find Natuurpark Berg & Bos, an expansive nature reserve in the Veluwe.
If you're travelling with the kids, take them to Apenheul Primate Park and walk among the monkeys, or to Julianatoren, an amusement park with attractions for all ages. Culture lovers will thoroughly enjoy the CODA Museum, with its numerous exhibitions by international and domestic artists. End the day with an evening of cabaret, theatre or music at the Orpheus theatre.
Apeldoorn has a good network of scheduled bus services should you not want to do everything on foot. There are also buses to Het Loo Palace. If you're travelling by car, you can park on the street in the city centre or in one of the parking garages. There are also a number of park and ride (P+R) parking lots outside the city centre. If you're flying into Amsterdam, there are numerous trains that will get you there.
Apeldoorn is a lovely little city with something to do for all ages.
