Things to see and do in Amersfoort
Amersfoort is often overlooked in favor of bigger Dutch cities, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It boasts one of the most well-preserved medieval city centers in the Netherlands, with its famous Koppelpoort, charming cobbled streets, and scenic waterways. Whether you’re a history lover, art enthusiast, or food connoisseur, Amersfoort offers something for everyone. Plus, it’s centrally located, making it a perfect day trip from Amsterdam, Utrecht, or The Hague.
Top 10 things to do and see in Amersfoort
Amersfoort is packed with historic landmarks, hidden gems, and cultural attractions. Here are the must-visit spots in this medieval city.
#1 Koppelpoort
The Koppelpoort is Amersfoort’s most iconic landmark. This stunning medieval gate, built in the 14th century, is a unique combination of a land and water gate, designed to protect the city from invaders. Today, it stands as a breathtaking piece of history that you can admire from the outside or explore with a guided tour. At night, it’s beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
#2 Onze Lieve Vrouwetoren (The Tower of Our Lady)
Nicknamed “Lange Jan” (Tall John), this 98-meter-high church tower dominates the skyline of Amersfoort. It is one of the tallest medieval towers in the Netherlands and offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Climb the 346 steps to the top and enjoy a breathtaking perspective on Amersfoort’s historic beauty.
#3 Muurhuizen (Wall Houses)
One of the most unique streets in the Netherlands, Muurhuizen is a collection of historic houses built directly onto the old city walls. These charming 16th-century buildings create a beautiful, fairy-tale-like setting. Take a leisurely walk along this street to admire the architecture, and don’t forget to bring your camera it’s one of the most photogenic spots in the city.
#4 Mondriaanhuis
Art lovers should not miss the Mondriaanhuis, the birthplace of Piet Mondriaan, the famous Dutch abstract artist. This museum takes you on a journey through his life and work, from his early landscape paintings to his revolutionary geometric compositions. It’s a fascinating look at one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
#5 De Nieuwe Stad
For a taste of modern Amersfoort, head to De Nieuwe Stad. This creative and cultural hub is built in a former industrial area and now hosts trendy cafés, innovative businesses, and art galleries. It’s a great place to grab a coffee, explore street art, or experience Amersfoort’s vibrant contemporary culture.
#6 Hof Square
At the heart of Amersfoort’s old town lies Hof Square, a lively plaza surrounded by historic buildings, cafés, and restaurants. This is the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy a drink on a terrace, and watch the world go by. On Saturdays, the square hosts a bustling market with fresh local produce.
#7 Amersfoort Zoo (DierenPark Amersfoort)
One of the best family-friendly attractions in the city, Amersfoort Zoo offers a fantastic mix of animal encounters, play areas, and beautiful walking routes. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, tigers, and monkeys, and is designed to provide an immersive and educational experience.
#8 Flehite Museum
The Flehite museum, housed in three stunning medieval buildings, tells the story of Amersfoort’s history through art, artifacts, and interactive exhibits. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s past, from its medieval origins to its role in World War II. The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing Dutch art and history.
#9 Eemhaven & Eemplein
The Eemhaven harbor area has been transformed into a vibrant waterfront destination. Enjoy a relaxing boat tour along the river Eem, explore the trendy restaurants and bars, or visit the modern Eemplein shopping district. This part of the city perfectly blends Amersfoort’s historical charm with a fresh, urban feel.
#10 Waterlijn Boat Tours
One of the best ways to explore Amersfoort is from the water. Waterlijn boat tours take you through the city’s picturesque canals, offering a unique perspective on its historic buildings and hidden gardens. The tours are guided by local volunteers who share fascinating stories about Amersfoort’s past and present. You can also just rent a kayak and paddle yourself.
The absolute best hotels in Amersfoort
Amersfoort offers a diverse range of accommodations that blend historical charm with modern comfort. Here’s a brief overview of three notable establishments:
Saya Loft
Located in the heart of Amersfoort, Saya Loft is a spacious 90 m² apartment featuring two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a cozy living area. Guests appreciate its modern amenities, including air conditioning and free Wi-Fi. The loft’s central location provides easy access to local attractions, though some guests have noted occasional nighttime street noise.
Saya Boutique Hotel
Situated just steps away from Amersfoort’s historic center, Saya Boutique Hotel (we only promote both places because they are actually really good) offers stylish rooms with garden views and private terraces. The hotel’s boho-chic design and high-end furnishings create a luxurious atmosphere. Guests commend the hotel’s excellent location, cleanliness, and responsive staff. The proximity to shops and restaurants adds to its appeal.
Logement de Gaaper
Housed in a monumental building in Amersfoort’s old city center, Logement de Gaaper combines historical architecture with modern comforts. The hotel offers rooms with views of the bustling market square or the charming Langestraat. Guests highlight the friendly staff, cleanliness, and the unique character of the building. Its central location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city.
Food and local specialties
Amersfoort’s culinary scene offers a mix of traditional Dutch dishes and modern cuisine. Be sure to try:
- Amersfoortse Keit – A local chocolate treat inspired by the city’s famous boulder.
- Stroopwafels – Freshly made at the local market, these syrup-filled waffle cookies are irresistible.
- Bockbier – Amersfoort has a strong brewing tradition, and many local bars serve excellent seasonal bockbier.
For an authentic Dutch dining experience, visit Het Lokaal, which serves farm-to-table dishes made with local ingredients, or De Vier Broers, a great spot for classic Dutch cuisine with a modern twist.
Events and festivals
- Keistadfeesten (August) – A lively city festival featuring music, food, and cultural events.
- Amersfoort Jazz Festival (May) – One of the best jazz festivals in the Netherlands, attracting top international musicians.
- Spoffin (August) – A street theater festival that transforms Amersfoort into an open-air stage with performers from around the world.
Where to buy as an expat
Amersfoort is an attractive city for expats due to its central location, high quality of life, and relatively affordable housing compared to cities like Amsterdam and Utrecht. Popular neighborhoods include:
- Bergkwartier – A beautiful, green area with historic homes and a village-like feel.
- Schothorst – A family-friendly neighborhood with modern housing and good schools.
- Vathorst – A newly developed area with spacious homes and excellent amenities.
A bit of history
Amersfoort’s history dates back to the 13th century, and it quickly grew into an important trade city due to its strategic location. During the Middle Ages, it became a center for religious pilgrimage and later thrived as a brewing and textile hub. The city’s well-preserved medieval core remains a testament to its rich past, making it one of the most historically significant cities in the Netherlands.
How to get there from other big cities
- From Amsterdam: A direct train to Amersfoort takes just 35 minutes.
- From Utrecht: A quick 15-minute train ride makes it an easy day trip.
- From Rotterdam: Travel time by train is about 1 hour.
Things to do in the area
- Utrecht (15 min) – A charming city with canals, historic architecture, and a lively student vibe.
- Soestdijk Palace (20 min) – The former royal residence, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
- Nationaal Park Utrechtse Heuvelrug (30 min) – A stunning nature reserve with hiking and cycling trails.
- Other noteworthy Dutch cities are Hilversum, Zeist, Culemborg and Nijkerk.