Apeldoorn

🎭 Activities

• Paleis Het Loo – Year-Round: Visit the former royal palace with stunning gardens and exhibitions about Dutch history. It provides a unique insight into the life of the Dutch royal family, the House of Orange. 

• Apenheul – Year-Round (Seasonal Opening): This zoo, where monkeys roam freely, is a popular destination for families. Meet various species of primates in a natural setting. 

• King’s Day in Apeldoorn – April: During King’s Day, Apeldoorn becomes a festive city with flea markets, performances, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s one of the largest celebrations in the Netherlands. 

• CODA Museum – Year-Round: A museum featuring fascinating exhibitions on art, fashion, and design. It also houses the CODA Library and Archive. 

• Open-Air Concerts in Oranjepark – Summer Months: Enjoy live music in the outdoors during these free concerts. A variety of genres and artists ensure a diverse program. 

• Veluwe Fiets4Daagse – July: This four-day cycling tour takes participants through the breathtaking natural beauty of the Veluwe. Ideal for cycling and nature enthusiasts. 

• Glow in the Park – October: An evening walk filled with light art and spectacular installations in Beekpark, Apeldoorn. A magical event for all ages. 

• Winterfair Market Apeldoorn – December: This charming market features stalls with handmade products, Christmas decorations, and delicious treats. A festive start to the holiday season. 

• Julianatoren Amusement Park – Year-Round (Seasonal Opening): A family-friendly amusement park with attractions for children up to around 10 years old. Seasonal events like Halloween and Winter Julianatoren make it even more special. 

• Theater Orpheus – Year-Round: This theater hosts a wide range of performances, from cabaret to musicals and classical concerts. A cultural hotspot in Apeldoorn. 

• Midwinter Marathon – February: The oldest marathon in the Netherlands attracts runners of all levels. The route winds through the city and surrounding landscapes. 

• Park Open – Summer Months: A series of cultural and musical outdoor events held in various parks in Apeldoorn. Free and accessible to all. 

🔹 Small Facts

• Apeldoorn Means “Water Spring”: The name Apeldoorn comes from the Germanic word “Apa,” meaning water, and “Lô,” meaning forest or clearing. 

• Royal History: Paleis Het Loo, built in 1684, was once the summer residence of the Dutch royal family and is now a museum and park. 

• Largest City on the Veluwe: With over 165,000 inhabitants, Apeldoorn is the largest city on the Veluwe and a key regional hub. 

• Birthplace of De Stentor: The regional newspaper De Stentor originated in Apeldoorn and has been in publication since 1848. 

• Home to Apenheul: Apeldoorn is home to Apenheul, a unique zoo where monkeys roam freely among visitors, which opened in 1971. 

• Veluwe Steam Train Society: Apeldoorn is the starting point of the Veluwe Steam Train Society, a historic steam train route through the Veluwe. 

• Green City: Known as one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands, Apeldoorn boasts many parks and easy access to the Veluwe. 

• Julianatoren for Families: Julianatoren, a theme park catering to children up to 10 years old, is one of the region’s most popular attractions. 

• The Apeldoorn Canal: The Apeldoorn Canal, constructed in the 19th century, was once used for shipping but is now primarily used for recreation. 

• Midwinter Marathon: Apeldoorn hosts the oldest marathon in the Netherlands, the Midwinter Marathon, which has been attracting runners since 1974. 

• The Needle Monument: The Needle of Apeldoorn is a famous obelisk erected in 1901 to commemorate Queen Wilhelmina’s marriage. 

• Headquarters of the Tax Office: Apeldoorn is home to the largest tax office in the Netherlands, making it a major employer in the city. 

• Royal Road: The Loolaan, one of Apeldoorn’s most iconic streets, leads directly to Paleis Het Loo. 

• Birthplace of Princess Margriet: Princess Margriet, daughter of Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard, was born in Apeldoorn in 1943 during World War II. 

• Guide City for Sustainability: Apeldoorn is actively working on sustainability with innovative projects in energy conservation, waste management, and nature preservation.