Paleis Soestdijk
A former royal residence offering a glimpse into Dutch monarchy's past, set within stunning gardens.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Paleis Soestdijk
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A former royal residence offering a glimpse into Dutch monarchy's past, set within stunning gardens.
"A lovely glimpse into Dutch royal history and the lives of our beloved queens."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The estate is vast, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the palace and extensive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons. :admission_tickets:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Royal Gardens
Palace Grounds
Immaculately maintained gardens with vibrant blooms, charming buildings, and a serene atmosphere. A highlight for many visitors.
A Leap Back in Time
Inside the Palace
Experience the 1970s ambiance and get a glimpse into the lives of Dutch queens. Offers a fascinating window into royal history.
Wheels at the Palace
Palace Grounds
An annual event featuring classic and modern cars, offering a unique blend of automotive history and royal grandeur.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Royal Insights
Explore Beyond the Palace Walls
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The estate is vast, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the palace and extensive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons. :admission_tickets:
Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least half a day to fully appreciate the palace and its beautiful, sprawling gardens. :clock1:
Check for Events
Special events like 'Spirit of Winter' or 'Wheels at the Palace' offer unique experiences. :sparkles:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The estate is vast, so comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the palace and extensive grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Book Tickets Online
Purchase tickets in advance to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak seasons. :admission_tickets:
Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least half a day to fully appreciate the palace and its beautiful, sprawling gardens. :clock1:
Check for Events
Special events like 'Spirit of Winter' or 'Wheels at the Palace' offer unique experiences. :sparkles:
Garden Focus
Many visitors rave about the gardens; they are a highlight even if the palace interior needs some upkeep. :seedling:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Paleis Soestdijk for its beautiful, well-maintained gardens and the fascinating glimpse into Dutch royal history, particularly the 1970s era. While some note the palace interior could use renovation, the accommodating staff and pleasant cafe facilities enhance the overall experience. The expansive grounds are a significant draw, offering ample space for exploration.
"A lovely glimpse into Dutch royal history and the lives of our beloved queens. Although the palace feels a bit dated and not all signage is in English, it still offers a fascinating window into royal life. The gardens were the highlight for us, especially on such a glorious summer day. Despite my limited mobility, I managed to explore nearly the entire grounds—including the somewhat forlorn pool with its unfortunate frog residents, the charming flower-filled tennis court, and other beautifully maintained buildings surrounded by vibrant blooms. Staff were all warm and accommodating. Great toilet and coffee facilities too!"
Walter van Praag
"Nice former Royal palace. The gardens are nice to walk. Parking is about €2,50 for an hour (max €7,50/day). The palace itself need maintenance inside and outside but inside it a leap back in time (seventies). The give concerts in July (front garden) and all the artists are spectacular from both national and international allure"
Martijn Haaijer
"Located at Amsterdamsestraatweg 1, 3744 AA Baarn, Netherlands 🇳🇱.
The Palace Opening Hours -
Days: Friday – Sunday
Times: 10:30 PM – 17:00 PM
Cost to tour is -
Adult €13.50
Children (4-12 years) €10.00
Children (0-4 years) FREE 🆓
If you only want to visit park on Palace Grounds, it’s €5.00 per person.
Tickets can be purchased at Palace or online.
There’s a nice selection of places you can have something to eat eg The Orangery where you can have lunch. We had a delicious meal, reasonably priced and super tasty 😋. You can also have a Royal High Tea here . There’s also Julia’s Museum Cafe which is located in the basement of the Palace for tea, coffee or biscuits.
The Palace was initially built as a hunting lodge in the 17th century, it later became an official royal residence and summer retreat for Dutch royalty.
We got the train from Amsterdam to Baarn Station and then bus 🚌 to the Palace. You can make it a day trip from Amsterdam but we decided to stay overnight in a local hotel. This way, we could take our time. We had a fantastic time at the palace. The grounds are immaculate, so beautifully maintained. The Palace was beautiful but rather simple inside but still beautiful. Just needs a little renovation. There’s a lot of walking involved so wear comfortable shoes. The whole estate is very large. I had a wonderful time at the palace and would certainly recommend. Thumbs Up!!! 👍👍👍"
Nerine Cummins
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can take a train from Amsterdam to Baarn Station, then catch a bus to the palace. Be mindful of bus schedules as waiting times can be long if you miss one.
Yes, parking is available on-site for a fee, typically around €2.50 per hour with a daily maximum.
Absolutely! It's a feasible day trip from Amsterdam, though staying overnight allows for a more relaxed pace.
The address is Amsterdamsestraatweg 1, 3744 AA Baarn, Netherlands.
While the grounds are extensive, many visitors with limited mobility have managed to explore a significant portion of the estate.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The palace is open from Friday to Sunday, 10:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
Adult tickets are €13.50, children aged 4-12 are €10.00, and children under 4 are free. Visiting only the park costs €5.00 per person.
Yes, tickets can be purchased at the palace or conveniently online in advance.
Yes, you can purchase a ticket specifically for the park grounds if you don't wish to tour the palace interior.
Yes, there are discounted ticket prices for children aged 4-12.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary, but generally, personal photography without flash is often permitted in certain areas. It's best to check on-site signage or ask staff.
The manicured gardens, the palace facade, and any special exhibitions often provide excellent photo opportunities.
Drone usage is typically restricted at royal residences and historical sites. Always check local regulations and on-site rules before flying a drone.
Photography is usually encouraged during events, especially for personal use, but commercial use might require permission.
A versatile camera, whether a smartphone or a DSLR, will work well. Consider a wide-angle lens for the gardens and a telephoto for details on the palace exterior.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Orangery offers lunch and Royal High Tea, while Julia's Museum Cafe in the basement serves coffee and biscuits.
The Orangery is described as reasonably priced with delicious meals.
Yes, The Orangery provides lunch options.
Julia's Museum Cafe is available for coffee, tea, or biscuits.
The Orangery offers a Royal High Tea, providing a regal dining experience within the palace grounds.
🎫 👑 Onsite Experience
Originally a 17th-century hunting lodge, it later served as an official royal residence and summer retreat for Dutch royalty.
Visitors can see rooms that offer a glimpse into royal life, particularly evoking the 1970s era.
While not explicitly mentioned, the palace offers a historical experience. Knowledgeable hosts are sometimes present.
The palace offers good toilet facilities and a pleasant cafe/restaurant area.
Yes, the entire estate is very large, so be prepared for a significant amount of walking.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a day with good weather to make the most of the outdoor spaces. Pack snacks and drinks, or plan to visit the on-site cafes for refreshments. The 'Wheels at the Palace' event could also be a hit with children who love cars.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers
Beyond the palace, the meticulously maintained gardens and surrounding buildings add layers to the historical narrative. Engaging with the knowledgeable staff or hosts can further enrich your understanding of the site's past.
🚗 Car Enthusiasts
This event provides a unique opportunity to see impressive cars against the backdrop of a historic royal palace, creating a memorable experience that blends automotive history with regal grandeur. Keep an eye on the palace's event calendar for dates and details.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Royal Residence Through Time
While the palace's exterior holds historical gravitas, the interior offers a distinct journey, particularly evoking the ambiance of the 1970s. This period is highlighted through its decor and furnishings, providing a specific snapshot of royal living during that era. It's a fascinating contrast to the older architecture, giving visitors a multi-layered historical experience.
Beyond the main palace, the estate encompasses beautifully maintained gardens and various buildings. These grounds have witnessed countless royal events and daily life, making them as historically significant as the palace itself. Exploring these areas provides a broader understanding of the royal family's connection to this picturesque location.
The Enchanting Gardens and Estate
Within the estate, you'll discover charming features like a flower-filled tennis court and other beautifully maintained buildings, all surrounded by lush greenery. Even the somewhat forlorn pool, with its unique frog residents, adds a touch of character to the landscape. The sheer size of the estate means there's plenty to explore, making it ideal for a full day out.
For those who appreciate nature and history intertwined, the gardens offer a tranquil escape. They provide a wonderful backdrop for photography and a peaceful setting to reflect on the palace's royal past.
Events and Special Occasions
Another popular attraction is 'Spirit of Winter & Instavillage,' a magical winter fair that transforms the palace estate into a festive wonderland. This event features over 150 stands offering winter-themed goods, creating a cozy and celebratory atmosphere.
+1These events offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience Paleis Soestdijk beyond its historical context, blending automotive passion, festive cheer, and the grandeur of the royal setting. It's advisable to check the palace's official schedule for upcoming events to plan your visit accordingly.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit