Fun day out: visit a castle!

Last updated: May 11, 2026.

There are many beautiful castles and fortresses in the Netherlands. Many of these castles are open to the public. They always capture the imagination, especially when you consider the history of these imposing buildings. But visiting a castle can also just be a really fun day out! We’re happy to share some tips with you.

Loevestein Castle

The beautiful Loevestein Castle is famous for Hugo Grotius’ legendary escape from a book chest. This escape is therefore a central theme when you visit this castle. A visit to this castle is an adventure for young and old alike. Upon arrival, you’ll receive your own personal key, allowing you to explore the castle at your own pace. There are several spots where you can ask the staff questions. That’s nice, because most kids aren’t really into guided tours. There are also all sorts of activities organized at Loevestein Castle, such as a nature walk, an Easter brunch, or a real jousting tournament! There’s even an escape room in this castle!

Doorwerth Castle

Nestled in the countryside, near Arnhem, lies Doorwerth Castle —a castle where you might just bump into a knight or a damsel. With its thick walls, a real drawbridge, and a stunning view of the Rhine floodplains, it’s a wonderful place to step back in time. Inside, you’ll wander through charming rooms and discover fascinating exhibits, ranging from hunting tales to old paintings. For kids, there’s a scavenger hunt (always a hit!) and the old prison is sure to impress. What makes it extra special: you can not only look around here, but even stay the night! Above the gate is a cozy vacation home for four people—how cool is that? End your day with a bite to eat at the cozy castle café De Zalmen, featuring treats from their own garden. A wonderful outing for young and old alike!

Keukenhof Castle

Planning to visit Keukenhof from March through May? Be sure to stop by Keukenhof Castle too! It’s not a massive castle, but it’s certainly charming. You can book a guided tour and relax in the café, where you can enjoy a delicious cup of coffee and have lunch. For the little ones, there’s a petting zoo. You can stroll through the castle and sculpture gardens, and you can even host a great party there.

De Haar Castle

De Haar Castle in Haarzuilens near Utrecht has been featured on OpstapmetLisa before, but it really is a beautiful castle. The castle has everything you need to make everyone happy. When the weather is nice, it’s lovely to relax in the castle garden (complete with a maze!) and the woods, and kids can go on a fun scavenger hunt to learn all about life in a castle. There’s plenty going on, especially during the holidays. Events are organized year-round, so don’t forget to check the calendar every now and then. There are regular fascinating exhibitions, for example. You can also enjoy a delicious lunch there, making it an ideal day out!

Hoensbroek Castle

Another stunning castle is Hoensbroek Castle in Limburg. Here, too, there’s plenty to do for all ages. For children, there’s a super fun interactive scavenger hunt (using a tablet), and the little ones can enjoy castle games in the courtyard. Of course, you can take a guided tour, but everything is clearly marked. So you can also explore the castle on your own. There’s also a “grandparents’ package,” where grandchildren up to age 12 get free admission. If you’re in Limburg, a visit to this castle is definitely worth it!

Heeswijk Castle

Prominently situated in the wooded Brabant countryside stands the monumental Heeswijk Castle, the most beautiful castle in Brabant. It reflects nearly a thousand years of power, pride, and culture of the Brabant elite. In addition to being a popular wedding venue, you can also simply visit the castle. Climb the towers, explore the opulent castle halls, and enjoy the castle gardens. Special tours and scavenger hunts are organized for children, and afterward, you can enjoy a delicious snack and drink at the Brasserie in the Coach House. On Sundays, concerts and other events are on the schedule.

Muiderslot

Muiderslot in Muiden (near Amsterdam) is also a beautiful castle to visit. There are various guided tours for different age groups, and a stroll through the castle’s herb garden is always enjoyable. During school breaks, there’s always something extra organized for the children, and the guided tour for adults is also very entertaining. After the tour, you can explore the castle on your own. Afterward, it’s always nice to relax with a delicious cup of coffee in the Taverne.

So be sure to visit a castle in the Netherlands!

Photo credits: OpstapmetLisa