Gelderland Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for exploring the beautiful province of Gelderland in the Netherlands. Read on for a week-long itinerary, hiking and biking routes, recommendations for food and drink, and more.


A Comprehensive Travel Guide to Gelderland, Netherlands

Welcome to Gelderland, the largest province in the Netherlands. Located in the eastern part of the country, Gelderland is known for its scenic landscapes, vibrant cultural attractions, and rich culinary offerings. Whether you’re interested in exploring charming towns and villages, embarking on outdoor adventures, or delving into the region’s fascinating history, there’s something here for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for exploring Gelderland to help you make the most of your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Gelderland

  • Arnhem
  • Nijmegen
  • Zutphen
  • Doesburg
  • Apeldoorn
  • Harderwijk
  • Doetinchem

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Gelderland is home to a number of noteworthy cultural attractions, including museums and historical landmarks that showcase the region’s rich history and artistic heritage. Some of the top cultural attractions to visit in Gelderland include:

  • Kröller-Müller Museum: Located in the heart of De Hoge Veluwe National Park, this museum showcases an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artworks by prominent Dutch and international artists.
  • Castle Rosendael: This stunning 18th-century castle is situated in the town of Rozendaal and boasts beautiful gardens, a butterfly house, and a collection of antique furniture and artwork.
  • Airborne Museum ‘Hartenstein’: Housed in a former British headquarters building, this museum tells the story of the Battle of Arnhem during World War II and pays tribute to the soldiers who fought and died in the conflict.
  • Het Loo Palace: This opulent palace in Apeldoorn was once home to the Dutch royal family and boasts intricate gardens, ornate interiors, and a fascinating museum that showcases life at the palace throughout the centuries.

Natural Attractions of Gelderland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Gelderland is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Some of the top natural attractions to visit in Gelderland include:

  • De Hoge Veluwe National Park: This expansive nature reserve is home to diverse wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and numerous hiking and cycling trails that allow visitors to explore its trails and forests.
  • Veluwezoom National Park: Located just east of Arnhem, this park features stunning hills, valleys, and forests, and numerous hiking routes and cycling paths where visitors can take in the natural beauty of the region.
  • Gelderse Poort National Park: Situated on the banks of the Rhine River, this park is home to diverse flora and fauna, as well as numerous walking and biking trails that offer scenic views of the river and surrounding landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gelderland

Gelderland is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with an abundance of hiking and biking trails that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty firsthand. Some of the top hiking and biking routes in Gelderland include:

  • Veluwezoom Route: This 45 km cycling route passes through diverse landscapes, including hills, forests, and heathland, and takes visitors past charming towns and villages along the way.
  • River Waal Trail: This 120 km hiking trail follows the banks of the River Waal, one of the main rivers in the Netherlands, passing through picturesque scenery and historical landmarks along the way.
  • Van Gogh cycling route: This 450 km route takes visitors through the landscapes that inspired Vincent van Gogh’s famous paintings, including the countryside of Gelderland and Brabant.

Best Things to Do in Gelderland: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in exploring the region’s history, indulging in local cuisine, or embarking on outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Gelderland. Here are some of the top activities and tours to consider:

  • Take a hot air balloon ride over the region’s stunning landscapes, offering a bird’s-eye view of Gelderland’s natural beauty.
  • Visit a local farm or vineyard to learn about the region’s agricultural traditions, sample some of the local produce, and enjoy scenic views of the countryside.
  • Take a guided tour of one of the region’s many castles or historic landmarks, such as Het Loo Palace or Castle Rosendael, to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Explore the region’s vibrant nightlife scene, with its countless bars, pubs, nightclubs, and live music venues.
  • Take part in a traditional Dutch pancake-making workshop, where you can learn how to make this beloved local dish and sample a variety of sweet and savory toppings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gelderland

Day 1: Explore the historic city of Arnhem, with its impressive cathedral, charming cafes, and vibrant cultural scene. Day 2: Visit the Kröller-Müller Museum and take a bike ride through the stunning De Hoge Veluwe National Park. Day 3: Drive to the scenic town of Zutphen and take a leisurely stroll through its picturesque streets, taking in the many historic buildings and local boutiques. Day 4: Embark on a guided tour of Het Loo Palace and its stunning gardens, followed by a visit to nearby Apeldoorn for a taste of the local cuisine. Day 5: Take a hot air balloon ride over the region’s stunning landscapes or go hiking in the Veluwezoom National Park. Day 6: Spend a day in Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, exploring its many historic landmarks and tasting some of the local cuisine. Day 7: Visit Doesburg, a charming town on the banks of the IJssel River, and take in its picturesque setting, boutiques, and museums.

Food and Drink Scene of Gelderland

Gelderland is known for its delicious local cuisine, with a focus on fresh and seasonal ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stamppot: A hearty dish made from mashed potatoes and kale, often served with smoked sausage and gravy.
  • Gelderse Rookworst: A smoked sausage made from pork and beef, often served with stamppot or other traditional dishes.
  • Appeltaart: A classic Dutch apple pie, often served with whipped cream or ice cream.
  • Poffertjes: Small, fluffy pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever: A traditional Dutch spirit similar to gin, often served with a slice of lemon or lime.
  • Dutch beer: Gelderland boasts a number of excellent breweries that produce a range of unique and flavorful local beers, such as Grolsch and Hertog Jan.

Where to Stay in Gelderland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gelderland offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Some of the top places to stay in Gelderland include:

  • Hotel-Restaurant De Gelderse Poort: A charming hotel situated in the heart of the Gelderse Poort National Park, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Boutique Hotel Straelman: A stylish boutique hotel located in the charming town of Zutphen, boasting luxurious rooms and a popular on-site restaurant.
  • Stayokay hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in the heart of Arnhem, offering comfortable rooms and a range of amenities for backpackers and budget travelers.

What to Buy in Gelderland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gelderland is known for its beautiful handicrafts and artisanal products, making it a great place to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts. Some of the top items to consider include:

  • Traditional Dutch clogs: Wooden shoes that have been a hallmark of Dutch culture for centuries, available in a range of styles and sizes.
  • Delft Blue ceramics: Hand-painted blue and white ceramics that are synonymous with Dutch design and craftsmanship.
  • Local cheeses: Gelderland boasts a number of excellent cheese producers, offering a range of unique and tasty cheeses to choose from.

Local Culture and Customs of Gelderland

Gelderland is a friendly and welcoming place, with a strong sense of community and tradition. Some of the local customs and traditions to be aware of include:

  • Biking is a popular means of transportation in Gelderland, with many visitors opting to explore the region by bike.
  • Dutch people are generally polite and reserved, and may not engage in small talk with strangers.
  • Tipping is not required in the Netherlands, but it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount as a gesture of appreciation for good service.

Best Time to Visit Gelderland

The best time to visit Gelderland depends on your interests and preferences. The summer months (June-August) offer warm weather and plenty of outdoor events and festivals, while the fall (September-November) is a great time to visit for fall foliage and seasonal produce. Winter (December-February) can be cold and snowy, but also provides an opportunity for winter sports and holiday markets. Spring (March-May) is a great time to visit for blooming flowers and mild weather.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gelderland

Do:

  • Do try local cuisine, including traditional dishes like stamppot and Gelderse rookworst.
  • Do take advantage of the region’s stunning natural landscapes, including De Hoge Veluwe National Park and the River Waal.
  • Do rent a bike and explore the region’s many cycling routes at your own pace.

Don’t:

  • Don’t expect people to speak English fluently, although most Dutch people are proficient in English.
  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate clothing for the season and weather, as the Netherlands can be rainy and windy.
  • Don’t litter or damage the region’s natural landscapes, including parks and forests.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gelderland

Gelderland is a safe and welcoming destination, with low crime rates and a high standard of living. However, visitors should still exercise caution and common sense, such as keeping valuables secured and avoiding walking alone late at night.

Health in Gelderland

The healthcare system in the Netherlands is of high quality, with hospitals and clinics located throughout the country. Visitors from the EU can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access medical treatment, while those from other countries should have adequate travel insurance in case of emergency.

Getting to Gelderland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Gelderland is easily accessible by a range of transportation options, from air travel to public transportation and driving. Some of the key transportation options to consider include:

Airports Near Gelderland

  • Amsterdam Airport Schiphol: The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 1.5 hours northwest of Gelderland.
  • Eindhoven Airport: A smaller airport located approximately 1 hour south of Gelderland, offering a range of domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Gelderland

  • Arnhem Centraal Station: A major train station in Gelderland that connects to cities throughout the Netherlands and Europe.
  • Nijmegen Centraal Station: Another major train station in Gelderland that provides easy access to other parts of the region and beyond.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car in Gelderland is a great way to explore the region on your own schedule, with numerous car rental companies located throughout the region.
  • Cycling: Biking is a popular means of transportation in Gelderland, with many visitors opting to explore the region by bike.

How to Get Around in Gelderland

Gelderland is a relatively compact province, with good infrastructure and transportation options for getting around. Some of the most common ways to get around in Gelderland include:

  • Public transportation: The region is well-served by public buses and trains, with affordable fares and frequent service.
  • Biking: With its numerous cycling routes and bike-friendly culture, biking is a popular means of transportation in Gelderland.
  • Driving: Renting a car or bringing your own vehicle is another convenient option, with well-maintained roads and highways throughout the region.

Where to Go Next from Gelderland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Gelderland is located in a prime location for exploring other parts of the Netherlands and nearby European destinations. Some of the top places to consider for your post-Gelderland travels include:

  • Amsterdam: The vibrant capital of the Netherlands, known for its world-class museums, canals, and nightlife.
  • Rotterdam: A dynamic city with a thriving arts and culture scene, as well as a bustling port and numerous architectural landmarks.
  • Münster: Located just across the border in Germany, this charming university town is known for its historical sites and picturesque setting.

Conclusion

Gelderland is a beautiful region with something to offer everyone, from sprawling nature reserves and historic landmarks to charming towns and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting the Netherlands for the first time, Gelderland is a destination not to be missed. Use this guide to plan your perfect trip and get ready to discover all that Gelderland has to offer!

Map of Gelderland with division into municipalities Map of Gelderland with division into municipalities


    Achterhoek
    Arnhem
    Culemborg
    Hoge Veluwe National Park
    Nijmegen
    Rivierenland
    Tiel
    Veluwe