What is Arnhem Famous For?

Arnhem is a city in Gelderland in the Netherlands. It is an important historical and cultural city, and today it is the largest city in the Eastern part of the country. It is known for its many interesting monuments, impressive historical parks and nature reserves, as well as its rich cultural heritage.

Historical Arnhem City Centre

At the heart of Arnhem is its old town centre, which dates back to the 13th century. Here you will find narrow cobblestone streets lined with charming old buildings and picturesque townhouses. This area is home to numerous museums and galleries, churches, monuments and other attractions. The most prominent of these landmarks is the Airborne Church which was built in honor of the dozens of Dutch soldiers who died during World War II in the Battle of Arnhem. There are also several parks in Arnhem’s city centre, including the Arnhem Oosterpark, which is a popular spot for locals and visitors to enjoy picnics and leisurely walks.

Museums and Galleries

The open-air ‘Beelden aan de Rijn’ museum along the banks of the Rhine river is one of Arnhem’s most popular attractions. Here visitors will find artwork created by Dutch, international and local artists. Other museums in the city include the ‘Gelredome’ indoor stadium, which is home to a large ice rink and aquarium, as well as the ‘Openluchtmuseum’, which showcases centuries-old artifacts from Arnhem’s past. There are also several art galleries located in Arnhem’s city centre where you can find works from renowned local and international artists.

Nature and Wildlife Reserves

Arnhem is home to a large number of nature and wildlife reserves that are located within easy reach of the city centre. These conservation areas provide a wonderful place for visitors to explore the natural beauty of this region. The Veluwe National Park is one of the largest reserves in the Netherlands and is home to a variety of different species including wild boar, deer and foxes. Other popular nature reserves include Hoge Veluwe National Park, ‘Natura 2000’ Nature Reserve and ‘De Hoge Beerze’ Nature Reserve.

Cultural Festivals

Every year, Arnhem plays host to a number of cultural festivals throughout the year. One of the most popular events is ‘Arnhem Cultuurnacht’ (Arnhem Culture Night), which takes place in August. During this event local cultural institutions open their doors until late into the night featuring concerts, theatre performances, art exhibitions and food stalls. Other important festivals include ‘Kinderboekenweek’ (Children’s Book Week) in October, ‘Winterland’ in December and the annual ‘Arnhem Modebiennale’ (Arnhem Fashion Biennale) in April.

In conclusion, Arnhem is an exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking to explore its historical city centre, visit its numerous museums and galleries or take part in some of its many festivals and events, Arnhem has plenty to offer. For more information on your visit to Arnhem we recommend reading our guide to Arnhem for tourists.

An Insider’s Guide to Arnhem: What to See, Eat, and Do in the Dutch City

Located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, Arnhem is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of nature, history, and culture. This insider’s guide will take you through some of the most interesting and authentic experiences that Arnhem has to offer.

Top Attractions

Arnhem is full of unique attractions for tourists of all ages and interests. Here are some must-visit places when you’re in the city:

– Burgers’ Zoo: A world-famous zoo that offers a range of exhibits, including a safari park, a tropical rainforest, and a desert area.
– Open-air Museum: This museum offers a unique opportunity to experience Dutch culture and history through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
– Sonsbeek Park: A beautiful 67-hectare park with a lake, waterfalls, and a variety of gardens that is perfect for picnics, hiking, and biking.
– John Frost Bridge and Airborne Museum: These two sites are dedicated to commemorating the WWII Battle of Arnhem and are a must-see for history buffs.
– Walterboscomplex: This forested park offers stunning pathways and architecture that mixes nature and humanity.

Where to Eat and Drink

Arnhem is renowned for its local cuisine and provides travelers with some of the best food experiences in the Netherlands. Here are a few dishes and restaurants that you won’t want to miss:

– Stoofpot: A traditional Dutch beef stew flavored with spices and served with boiled potatoes. Try this dish at ‘t Vat in the center of the city.
– Bitterballen: Deep-fried meatballs filled with a mix of beef broth and butter and a savory snack that is best enjoyed in a Dutch pub. ‘t Taphuys is a local favorite for drinks and bitterballen.
– Pannekoeken: The Dutch version of pancakes, these are traditionally served as a savory meal with bacon and cheese or sweetened with fruits and whipped cream. Try Pancakes at Stroom for an excellent pancake meal.
– Café Brasserie Dudok: Known for its extensive wine and craft beer selection, the restaurant has a cosmopolitan atmosphere that makes it a perfect spot for lunch, brunch, or dinner.

Local Culture and History

Arnhem is known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. To immerse yourself in the local culture and history, check out the following:

– Nederlands Watermuseum: This interactive museum offers guests an inside look into the complexities of Dutch water management.
– Rozet: A cultural center that houses a public library and exhibition space for contemporary art, literature, and history.
– Bakery Museum: This unique museum provides enthusiasts a glimpse of a working 19th-century bakery. It’s a perfect place to discover the history of bread-making and admire the antique baking techniques.
– Korenmarkt: This lively square in central Arnhem is home to excellent restaurants, pubs, and cafes and is an ideal spot to soak in some of the local culture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Want to explore some lesser-known gems in Arnhem? Here are some hidden gems that are worth discovering:

– Sint-Jansbeek: A stream that runs through the city center and is a peaceful spot to relax and observe local life.
– Velperweg: This street is fabulous for shopping and is lined with boutique stores and antique shops.
– Sonsbeek Market: This fun and cozy market is held every first Sunday of the month and is an ideal place to discover vintage and unique goods.
– The Sonsbeek 1.0 exhibition: A public art exhibit on the park that mixes contemporary art with nature and architecture.

Arnhem is a city that offers something for everyone. With this guide, you can now embark on a beautiful journey of exploration in this Dutch gem.