Amersfoort – Discover the charm of Amersfoort

Amersfoort was voted the best in Europe by the Academy of Urbanism. As such, it is an atmospheric city, where the stones radiate ancient history. Yet it feels surprisingly hip, lively and fun to visit every time. The famous Koppelpoort, the cozy canals and Muurhuizen, hidden courtyards and the cozy Eemplein, every bit of Amersfoort is fun. Of course, we also explored this area ourselves and are happy to share our tips with you!

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The center of Amersfoort

Amersfoort still has its complete medieval ring of city walls and gates. Take a stroll past the Kamperbinnenpoort and the Koppelpoort – the latter is truly unique with its combination of water and land gate. The Koppelpoort is one of the most photographed spots in the Netherlands and rightly so!

Also be sure to stroll through the cozy downtown with its winding streets, historic buildings and cozy little squares. Het Hof is such a hidden square, surrounded by historic buildings where time seems to have stood still.

Stroll along the Muurhuizen that surround the center of Amersfoort

At the edge of the center you come to the wall houses. On the site of this street there used to be the city wall. When Amersfoort needed more space, this city wall was torn down and they used pieces and stones from this wall to build the Muurhuizen. And did you know that Johan van Olde Barneveld also lived here? His house is still there and can be found by a plaque on the facade.

Climb the Tower of Our Lady

You can’t visit Amersfoort without admiring the famous Tower of Our Lady. This 98-meter tower, affectionately called “Lange Jan,” is the symbol of the city. Climb the 346 steps to the top for a breathtaking view of Amersfoort and its surroundings. On clear days, you can even see as far as Amsterdam!

Hidden courtyards in downtown Amersfoort

Armen de Poth courtyard

Hidden in the inner city of Amersfoort you will find Hofje De Armen de Poth. This medieval hofje was created in the 15th century and still exudes a special tranquility. You walk past cozy little houses, old walls and the beautiful St. Rochus Chapel, while the courtyard garden invites you to pause for a moment. It feels like taking a step back in time, in the middle of the city. A special place you should definitely not miss during your visit to Amersfoort.

Dreyershofje

Unlike many older courtyards, Dreyershofje is relatively young, but its architecture and materials match classic courtyards, providing a charming contrast to older parts of the city. The hofje used to be for artists with modest incomes. That fact, plus the fact that many artists still live there, gives Dreyershofje a creative, quirky atmosphere. It feels like a hidden corner of Amersfoort: you walk in through a small tunnel and end up in a picturesque courtyard where every home contributes to the atmosphere.

Take a canal cruise through Amersfoort’s waterfront

In Amersfoort, as in Amsterdam, you can take a delightful cruise through the canals. The boat tours offer a different perspective of the city and you hear great stories about its rich history along the way. Especially fun to do if the weather is bad because most boats are covered!

Shopping in Amersfoort

The Langestraat and Utrechtsestraat form the shopping heart of Amersfoort. Here you will find well-known chains as well as unique boutiques. Definitely worth a walk through the smaller streets such as the Breestraat and Groenmarkt, where you will find the cutest vintage stores and concept stores.

Amersfoort is full of cultural activities

Get to know the history of Amersfoort in Museum Flehite

Museum Flehite takes you on a journey through the fascinating history of Amersfoort. From the Middle Ages to today, here you will learn all about how this beautiful city came to be. The museum is housed in three historic buildings and has regularly changing exhibitions. Perfect for a rainy day!

Step in the footsteps of Piet Mondrian at the Mondrian House

Did you know that the world-famous artist Piet Mondrian was born in Amersfoort? At the Mondrian House you will discover all about his life and work. The museum shows not only his famous geometric art, but also his lesser known realistic period. Highly recommended for art lovers!

Dwell on the past at National Monument Camp Amersfoort

For those who like to dwell on history: the National Monument Kamp Amersfoort is an impressive place. Through objects, stories and exhibitions, it respectfully reflects on a turbulent past.

A day full of animal fun in Amersfoort Zoo

DierenPark Amersfoort is an absolute must with kids, but honestly super fun for adults too! The park is known for its natural enclosures and beautiful jungle-like atmosphere. The City of Antiquity, where you will come face to face with vultures, lions, camels and crocodiles, as well as the new Chimpanzee Valley with the Great Apes group, is also not to be missed.

Good food and drink in Amersfoort

Amersfoort is full of nice coffee shops, restaurants, brasseries, squares and terraces. For example, the squares Hof, Appelmarkt and Lieve Vrouwenkerkhof are always the place to be. It is also highly recommended to sit down at the Groenmarkt. This can be found behind the Sint-Joriskerk and is known for its coziness, nice terraces and lively nightlife.

Feast your eyes at Dikke Dirck

You should definitely drop in at Dikke Dirck. This restaurant not only offers great food, but you really feast your eyes. Behind the bar, you can take a seat next to a large clock and strain your neck to admire the many colorful hot air balloons moving up and down. Everywhere around you something is moving. And for the little ones there is a super fun play corner.

Enjoy delicious wines and good food at Sister Margaux

Wine bar Sister Margaux is located in the atmospheric city monastery De Mariënhof, in a beautiful location just outside the historic city center, with tall windows, warm lighting and an inviting interior that immediately brings peace. Instead of a fixed wine list, they work with over 40 wines by the glass: the waiters talk to you about your tastes and choose wines that suit you accordingly. That way you taste and discover something new all the time. We enjoyed the high wine here: you start with bubbles and a drinks board, followed by fine wines with hot dishes and ending with coffee or dessert. An ideal setting to end a nice day in Amersfoort.

Want to taste more atmosphere? Then watch this video:

Credits photos: StepWithLisa