Last Updated on March 10, 2026

If you love history, fairytales, or just love the idea of wandering through moats and majestic gardens, the Netherlands is packed with castles! From medieval fortresses to grand palaces, there are so many castles in the Netherlands worth visiting. I’ve rounded up 20 incredible Netherlands castles, plus insider tips so you can plan your ultimate castle-hopping adventure! Enjoy!

1. De Haar Castle, Utrecht

Let’s kick things off with a showstopper: De Haar Castle in Haarzuilens, Utrecht (official website). This is hands-down the largest and most luxurious castle in the Netherlands. Think grand halls, turrets, and a beautiful park. Many of the gardens were restored after WWII, and today you’ll find charming bridges, serene lakes, and endless photo ops.

Tip: this guide tells you everything you need to know about visiting De Haar Castle in Utrecht.

2. Doornenburg Castle, Doornenburg

If you love a well-preserved medieval fortress, Doornenburg Castle is your dream (official website). Located near Arnhem, this castle features a main castle and a smaller one connected by a wooden bridge. Walking across it feels like stepping back in time.

Tip: explore my city guide to Arnhem.

3. Muiderslot Castle, Muiden

This one’s a gem for a day trip from Amsterdam! Muiderslot Castle Netherlands sits on the Vecht River and dates back to the Middle Ages (official website). The Vecht river was the trade route to Utrecht, one of the most important market towns of that age. It’s UNESCO-listed and has a picturesque moat with a drawbridge. Inside, it’s a national museum with medieval artifacts. Make sure to visit Muiden too. It’s a beautiful local town known for it’s canals and cozy cafés.

4. Slot Loevestein, Zaltbommel

“Loef’s stone house” is exactly what Slot Loevestein means (official website). Built by knight Dirc Loef van Horne, this fortress once controlled river trade. Today, it’s a fascinating museum covering three eras: the Middle Ages, its time as a state prison, and its role in the Dutch Waterline.

5. Paleis het Loo, Apeldoorn

A palace with baroque gardens, stables, and elegant interiors? Yes, please! Paleis het Loo was home to William III and Mary II of England. Today, it’s a museum where you can explore the House of Orange-Nassau’s treasures (official website).

6. Kasteel Huis Bergh, ‘s-Heerenberg

Dating back to the 13th century, Kasteel Huis Bergh is one of the largest Netherlands castles. Surrounded by a moat, it’s perfect for fairytale vibes. Inside, you’ll find medieval artifacts and Renaissance paintings, plus it hosts weddings for that ultimate royal feel.

7. Nijenrode Castle, Utrecht

Nestled on the Vecht River near Amsterdam and Utrecht, Nijenrode Castle combines history and modern use. Today it’s part of Nyenrode Business University, but visitors can enjoy the stunning rose gardens and hotel facilities.

8. Doorwerth Castle, Arnhem

Doorwerth Castle sits along the Rhine and is rumored to be haunted! This medieval castle was first built in 1260 and rebuilt in stone after fires. Today, it houses museums, a hotel, and a restaurant, with forests nearby for hikes.

Fun fact: Doorwerth Castle is rumored to be haunted! It was investigated by the TV show Most Haunted in 2004 in an attempt to find paranormal activity. So if you’re looking for a bit of a thrill and want to see a ghost, this is your chance!

9. Duurstede Castle, Wijk bij Duurstede

With a striking tower and a moat-accessed drawbridge, Duurstede Castle is ideal for photos. Although the interior isn’t open to the public, its exterior is a must-see for castle enthusiasts.

Fun fact for the Dutch: it was a filming location for ‘De Diamant’ from Bassie & Adriaan.

10. Radboud Castle, Medemblik

Dating back to the 13th century, Radboud Castle in North Holland was built for defense against Frisian invasions. Its location on the harbour makes it a picturesque stop for anyone exploring Dutch castles.

11. Amerongen Castle, Amerongen

One of the Netherland’s most beautiful castles is Amerongen Castle, which was built in the 17th century (official website). The castle boasts a proud and wows visitors from the very beginning. For me, it’s one of the most beautiful residences in the Netherlands I really love the gardens and 300-year-old oak trees. The castle itself has a vast collection of artefacts, such as porcelain, musical instruments, family portraits and marvelous interiors.

Tip: Amerongen village is nice to visit for a walk and local food.

12. Ammersoyen Castle, Ammerzoden

One of the Netherlands’ most famous moated castles, Ammersoyen Castle was built along the Maas River. Its defensive design is fascinating, and the surrounding area is perfect for a scenic walk.

13. Bouvigne Castle, Breda

Bouvigne Castle is a beautiful and small castle in the city of Breda, in the Netherlands. There are several buildings on the Bouvigne estate. The oldest and most famous is the castle of the same name. The estate also has a chapel, a coach house, a headquarter of the Brabantse Delta water board and some beautiful gardens. The castle is closed to the public, but you can visit the beautiful gardens around the castle.

14. Valkenburg Castle, Valkenburg aan de Geul

Only ruins remain, but Valkenburg Castle is unique as the Netherlands’ only hilltop castle. Over the years, it was destroyed on multiple occasions during sieges. Today the remains of the castle are open for tours, allowing visitors to walk through the remains of what used to be a prod fortress in the Geul Valley.

Tip: Valkenburg is a perfect place for a day trip!

15. Hoensbroek Castle, Hoensbroek

Dubbed “the largest stronghold between the Rhine and Meuse Rivers,” Hoensbroek Castle is a watercastle in Limburg that leaves you in awe (official website). Don’t miss the mix of moats, towers, and impressive interiors. It’s a beautiful castle and worth a visit!

16. Biljoen Castle, Velp

Originally a farm, Biljoen Castle evolved into a majestic castle with corner towers. While it’s privately owned and not open to the public, it’s worth passing by for a photo of its exterior.

17. Heeswijk Castle, Heeswijk-Dinther

Heeswijk Castle, locally known as Kasteel Heeswijk, lies west of the village of Heeswijk-Dinther, in the North Brabant province in the Netherlands. The former moated castle was originally built in the 11th century and has played a crucial role in the history of the Netherlands. The castle is now used for all kinds of cultural activities and is more like a little fairy castle. When I visited the castle a wedding was going on, so I couldn’t visit the interior. Oh well, that gives me a nice reason to visit it again!

18. Fort Bourtange, Bourtange

Technically a fort, not a castle, Fort Bourtange is a star-shaped defensive marvel from the Eighty Years’ War. Today it’s an open-air museum with walking tours and panoramic views.

19. Duivenvoorde Castle, Voorschoten

One of South Holland’s oldest castles, Duivenvoorde Castle dates back to 1226 and has never been sold. The museum inside is open from June to October, and the park is open all year.

20. Stelling van Amsterdam

Not a single castle, but a ring of 46 forts, dikes, and sluices surrounding Amsterdam (official website). The Defence Line of Amsterdam is UNESCO-listed and makes for an extraordinary day trip exploring Dutch military history. A video below explains in more depth De Stelling van Amsterdam (in Dutch).

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Tips for visiting castles in the Netherlands

• Timing matters: many castles have seasonal opening hours, so check their websites before planning a visit.
• Get There Early: Castles like Muiderslot Castle and De Haar Castle get busy. Early morning visits let you enjoy the gardens and interiors without the crowds.
• Guided tours: many castles offer guided tours, which give amazing insights into Dutch history.
• Transport tips: most castles are accessible by car, but some, like Muiderslot Castle Netherlands, are perfect for a day trip from Amsterdam by public transport.
• Photography tips: moats and bridges look magical at sunrise or sunset, overcast days can add a moody medieval feel to your photos and drones aren’t allowed in most castle grounds. Check rules first. 😉
• Pack smart: wear comfy shoes for walking through gardens, cobblestones, and sometimes uneven castle floors. A light raincoat is hand. The Netherlands is famous for sudden showers!
• Food and drink: many castles have cafés or restaurants inside or nearby. De Haar Castle and Paleis het Loo have cafés where you can rest after exploring.
• Family-friendly castles: castles like Muiderslot or Slot Loevestein have interactive exhibits perfect for kids. Some even host treasure hunts or medieval-themed workshops.
• Seasonal Highlights:
  • Spring: tulips and gardens in bloom.
  • Summer: long days, perfect for exploring multiple castles.
  • Autumn: colorful leaves make moat reflections stunning.
  • Winter: some castles have Christmas markets or festive events.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or just love fairytales, exploring castles in The Netherlands is an unforgettable experience. From Muiderslot Castle near Amsterdam to the grandeur of De Haar Castle, each castle has its own story waiting to be discovered. If you have any questions about the above mentioned information, feel free to leave a comment in the comment section below. Safe travels!

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