Arnhem, a significant city in the Netherlands, lies on the Lower Rhine's right bank and is a prime location for exploring the country. However, before venturing out, it's worth spending time in Arnhem to discover its historical sites and enjoy its green spaces like the beloved Park Sonsbeek.
Arnhem, first recorded around AD 893, was a Roman settlement known as Arenacum. Its strategic position on the Rhine has made it a key trading center since the Middle Ages, a history still evident in its old city center.
The city is not just about history; it offers shopping, dining, museums, and cultural attractions like the Netherlands Open Air Museum. Nearby, the Hoge Veluwe National Park is a significant conservation area perfect for outdoor activities.
Plan your visit with our guide to the top attractions in Arnhem.
See also: Where to Stay in Arnhem
1. Visit the Netherlands Open Air Museum
The Netherlands Open Air Museum, set on 82 acres near Arnhem, showcases traditional Dutch life through farmhouses, windmills, and craft workshops. It also features a heritage tram line and the Canon of Dutch History exhibit.
Address: Hoeferlaan 4, 6816 SG Arnhem, Netherlands
Official site: https://openluchtmuseum.nl/en
2. See the John Frost Bridge: The Bridge to Liberation
The John Frost Bridge, a key site during 1944's Market Garden operation, is named after the British commander who defended it. The bridge hosts the "Bridge to Liberation" event each September.
Address: Nieuwe Kade 23, 6827 AA Arnhem, Netherlands
Official site: https://bridgetoliberation.nl
3. Follow the Liberation Route to the Airborne Museum Hartenstein
The Airborne Museum Hartenstein in Oosterbeek, once headquarters for British paratroopers, now displays WWII memorabilia and offers insights into the Netherlands during the war.
Address: Utrechtseweg 232, 6862 AZ Oosterbeek, Netherlands
Official site: www.airbornemuseum.nl/en/home
4. Hike or Bike in Hoge Veluwe National Park
Hoge Veluwe National Park, a vast nature reserve near Arnhem, offers trails, free white bikes, and a sculpture park. It's also home to the Kröller-Müller Museum, featuring European art.
Address: Koningsweg 17, Schaarsbergen, Netherlands
5. Learn about Dutch Colonialism at Bronbeek Museum
The Bronbeek Museum in Arnhem, housed in a former retirement home for soldiers, exhibits artifacts from Dutch colonies and provides insights into military life overseas.
Address: Velperweg 147, Arnhem, Netherlands
Official site: https://english.defensie.nl/topics/bronbeek/bronbeek-museum
6. Explore Arnhem's Old City Center
Arnhem's Old City Center features the Market Square, St Eusebius' Church, the Old Town Hall, and the Sabelpoort, remnants of the town's medieval walls.
7. Take a Drive to the City of Nijmegen
Nijmegen, near Arnhem, is known for its parks, pedestrian zones, and historical sites like the Valkhof with its ancient chapel and ruins.
8. See the Animals at the Royal Burgers' Zoo
The Royal Burgers' Zoo, close to the Netherlands Open Air Museum, is home to a variety of animals and features an indoor mangrove, a safari, and an adventure playground.
Address: Antoon van Hooffplein 1, 6816 SH Arnhem, Netherlands
Official site: www.burgerszoo.com
9. See the Dutch Artworks at Museum Arnhem
Museum Arnhem, located in a former gentlemen's club, features modern and contemporary art, decorative arts, and temporary exhibitions.
Address: Utrechtseweg 87, 6812AA Arnhem, Netherlands
Official site: www.museumarnhem.nl/english/
10. Take a Side Trip to Doorwerth Castle
Doorwerth Castle, a well-preserved medieval fortress near Arnhem, offers tours, exhibits, and a cafe. It's also known for ghost tours.
Address: Fonteinallee 2b, 6865 ND Doorwerth, Netherlands
Official site: www.glk.nl/english/seven-castles-and-houses/doorwerth-castle/
11. Take an Excursion to Amersfoort
Amersfoort, west of Arnhem, is known for its historic Old Town, churches, and the Koppelpoort, a combined land and water gate.
12. Take a Guided Tour of Middachten
Middachten Castle, east of Arnhem, offers tours of its gardens and interior, showcasing antique collections and hosting events like concerts.
Address: Landgoed Middachten 3, 6994 JC De Steeg, Netherlands
Official site: www.middachten.nl/middachten-castle-and-gardens/
13. Day Trip to Enschede and Rijksmuseum Twenthe
Enschede, east of Arnhem, is home to Rijksmuseum Twenthe, which showcases art from the 15th century to the present.
14. Visit the Town of Deventer
Deventer, near Arnhem, features historic buildings, the Weigh-House, and the Toy Museum, making it a delightful destination for visitors.
Where to Stay in Arnhem for Sightseeing
For convenient accommodations in Arnhem, consider these hotels and guesthouses:
- Landgoed Hotel Groot Warnsborn: A luxury country estate with beautiful gardens.
- Hotel Haarhuis: A 4-star hotel with friendly staff and an on-site restaurant.
- Holiday Inn Express Arnhem: A central 3-star hotel with breakfast included.
- Antonius Bed and Breakfast: A budget-friendly guesthouse with comfortable amenities.
