You will appreciate a visit to the château of Muiderslot, just 20 kilometers southeast of Amsterdam.
It's a great idea for a day trip from Amsterdam.
In this article, I've summarized everything you need to know about Muiderslot Castle.
Castle near Amsterdam: article summary
A brief history of Muiderslot Castle
Muiderslot Castle, located in the village of Muidenis one of the most impressive castles in the Netherlands.
To understand the importance of the château, let me tell you a little about its history.
Count Floris V built the castle at the mouth of the River Vecht around 1280. At the time, it was a small stone fortress whose main purpose was to levy taxes on passing merchants traveling to and from Utrecht via the River Vecht.
Some 15 years later, Count Floris V was imprisoned in his own castle by Gerard van Velsen for the alleged rape of the latter's wife.
After this event, Muiderslot Castle passed into the hands of Willem van Mechelen, Archbishop of Utrecht. By 1300, the fortress was in a state of complete ruin. abandoned for approximately a century.
At the end of the 18th century, the château was once again abandoned. It had become so dilapidated that there were plans to demolish it completely. Fortunately, King William I intervened, and Muiderslot Castle was rebuilt and renovated to reflect its 17th-century glory.
Things to see at Muiderslot Castle
Muiderslot Castle is open to the public all year round. The permanent collections focus on life, history and art in the Middle Ages and the 17th century.
Of course, the château itself is worth the detour! Some of its halls and rooms are decorated as they were in those days, and the castle moat, orchard and organic garden are a sight not to be missed. And don't miss the dungeon!
There's also a café if you fancy a light snack, which you can enjoy in the café, on the courtyard terrace or in the castle gardens.
Castle near Amsterdam: a place to celebrate
Another reason why people flock to Muiderslot Castle is that it's a place of celebration. In summer, for example, the gates open and you can enter and take part in free yoga classes held on the castle grounds.
You can also order a picnic basket and enjoy an evening picnic. If you wish to stay, you can even camp in the château grounds from mid-July to mid-August!
Various tours and workshops are also on offer. All you have to do is visit their website to see what activities are on the program.
How to get to Muiderslot Castle
Since the Amsterdam Central StationAt Weesp station, you can take the 110 bus to Muiden Centrum. The bus stop is a 10-minute walk from Muiderslot Castle.
If you're traveling by car, you're just a 20-minute drive from Amsterdam via the S100.
Finally, if you're visiting from April to October, you can reach Muiderslot Castle by ferry via the Amsterdam tourist ferryfrom Amsterdam's IJburg port to Muiderslot Castle at weekends and during school vacations.
What are the opening hours?
Muiderslot Castle opens daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m..
You'll need about 1-2 hours for your visit, depending on what you'd like to see. If you're attending an event, you'll probably spend more time on site.
How do I get tickets?
Tickets can be purchased on site. Due to the popularity of some events, tickets can sell out quickly. I recommend reserving them in advance to make sure you don't go for nothing.
Note that admission is free if you have the I Amsterdam City Card. The ticket is accompanied by a free audio tour, available in several languages.
If you have to visit just one castle near Amsterdam, Muiderslot Castle is a must. It's a truly exceptional place, just a stone's throw from the famous Dutch city.
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