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What Are Must-Do Things to Do in the City of Arnhem?
Arnhem is a charming city in the Netherlands, located in the eastern part of the country. It is a popular destination for tourists and offers a lot to see and do. So if you’re looking for some great attractions to check out while visiting Arnhem, here are some of the must-do activities you should consider.
Museums & Galleries
Arnhem is home to several great museums and galleries. For example, the Kanaleneiland history museum offers visitors a unique and interactive experience, highlighting recent and ancient Dutch history. Or visit the Zaans Museum, which is dedicated to the traditional crafts of Zaandam and its surrounding area. There’s also the Nederlands Openluchtmuseum, a massive outdoor museum dedicated to preserving 19th-century life in the Netherlands, complete with traditional Dutch houses, shops and farms. Other interesting museums include the Arnhem War Museum,the Grote Kerk Museum, and the Henry Berghuis Museum.
Parks, Gardens & Lakes
Nowhere is Arnhem’s natural beauty more evident than in its parks and gardens. The Park Meinweg is one of the best, featuring lush green lawns, tall trees, and bridges that cross over meandering canals. Or visit Sonsbeekpark, located directly on the banks of the Rhine River and famed for its internationally acclaimed sculptures. The Hoge Veluwe National Park is also nearby and offers some of the Netherlands’ best wildlife spotting opportunities.
For those looking for a more tranquil experience, check out one of Arnhem’s many lakes. The city is packed with lakes that act as a natural break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some rare water birds or local wildlife while you’re there.
Shopping
Arnhem has plenty of shopping opportunities to explore. From upscale boutiques to large department stores, there are shops to suit all tastes and budgets. Be sure to check out Leeuwenstraat, one of Arnhem’s oldest shopping streets, as well as Hobbemaplein mall, which has stores ranging from high-end designer shoes to vintage clothes. For something a bit more unique, visit the market at Kerensplein, where you can find locally produced crafts and traditional Dutch items.
Restaurants & Nightlife
Arnhem is full of dining options ranging from Michelin starred restaurants to classic Dutch fast food eateries. For an upscale experience, head to Cafe No 4 for some fine Italian cuisine or head over to Restaurant Het Koetshuis for some amazing French dishes. Or visit IJssalon Peilen for some amazing ice cream treats. There are also lots of traditional pubs as well as international style bars in Arnhem, such as Café Bolbracht near the city center. Or for a unique nightclub experience, visit Eurohal where you can groove until dawn in a modern space with top-notch DJs.
Conclusion
The city of Arnhem offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy a fun and entertaining time in the Netherlands. With its beautiful parks, galleries and museums, shopping districts and numerous dining and nightlife experiences, there’s something for everyone in Arnhem. So plan your visit and have a look at my insider’s guide to Arnhem, to make sure you get the most out of your stay!
An Insider’s Guide to Arnhem: The Unexpected Dutch City You Must Visit
Arnhem is a hidden gem located in the eastern Netherlands. The city may not make it onto the typical itinerary of travelers to the Netherlands, but it certainly deserves a spot. Arnhem has a rich cultural history and a unique character. From its museums to its nature reserves, from its trendy restaurants to its lively city center, Arnhem has something for everyone. In this insider’s guide, we’ll explore all the must-see sights, sounds, and experiences Arnhem has to offer.
Attractions and Sights
Arnhem has a long association with war, having been one of the major battlegrounds during WWII. A visit to the Airborne Museum in the south of Arnhem, near the famous John Frost Bridge, is a must-do for anyone interested in WWII history. The museum is full of artifacts and exhibitions that tell the story of the infamous Battle of Arnhem.
For something more peaceful, explore Sonsbeek Park, a beautiful park that offers a more relaxed pace. Here you can stroll through the gardens, forests, and fields while enjoying the beautiful views of the Rhine River. The park also features a scenic waterfall, an aviary, and a popular café.
Another iconic Arnhem attraction is the Eusebius Church tower, which stands high above the skyline of the city. Visitors can climb to the top for breathtaking views of Arnhem and the surrounding area. Also, there is an elevator available making it easily accessible for everyone.
Food and Drink
Arnhem has an excellent culinary scene that mixes traditional Dutch dishes with international cuisine. It is also home to several artisanal breweries. Have a romantic dinner at Het Eetatelier, a trendy restaurant that offers seasonal cuisine, with a modern European twist. Enjoy the hearty flavors of Dutch cuisine at Jans’ Senefelderstraat or De Steenen Tafel, both of which use local produce to create deliciously cooked dishes.
If you love coffee, you must visit the Café Caspar. It’s centrally located, with an excellent patio with cozy chairs for people watching while sipping on your coffee. If you’re a beer lover, the local brewery ‘t Goedhart should be on your must-visit list, where you can sample their flagship beer, ‘Het Bier van Hier.’
Cultural Experiences
Arnhem has a thriving cultural scene. Take an afternoon to visit the Museum of Modern Art, which features a diverse collection of contemporary art. Similarly, you could visit Valkhof Museum, located in the heart of the city, packed with historical and artistic exhibits. In the summer, the city hosts the annual “World Living Statues Festival,” where street artists from around the world flock to showcase their talents.
If you want to experience Dutch heritage, visit the Open Air Museum, which offers insights into the evolution of Dutch life from the 16th to the 20th century. Here you can walk through the historic streets and even participate in traditional Dutch crafts like clog-making.
Off the Beaten Path
For a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience, take a walk through the Graafseweg neighborhood. Here you’ll find more significant homes, shady avenues, and cobbled streets that reflect the architecture of the 19th century while providing an excellent backdrop for pictures.
Another great option is Sonsbeek Cemetery, a gorgeous 19th-century cemetery with winding paths and beautiful sculptures, the resting place of famous Dutch people such as Dutch actor Louis Bouwmeester and Dutch poet Jan Jacob Slauerhoff.
Conclusion
Arnhem may not be the typical tourist destination of the Netherlands, but that’s precisely what makes it worth a visit. From its rich cultural history, culinary scene, and vast nature reserves, Arnhem has something for every traveler. Visit Arnhem to step off the beaten path and experience the soul of an unexpected Dutch city.
