Muiderslot
One of the best-preserved medieval moated castles in the Netherlands, begun in the 13th century and surrounded by a moat, about 20 minutes from Amsterdam.
Muiderslot stands in the town of Muiden, at the mouth of the Vecht river. It was begun in the late 13th century by Count Floris V of Holland. In the 17th century, the poet P.C. Hooft presided over the literary circle known as the Muiderkring (Muiden Circle) here. The castle's four corner towers and moat are well preserved, and its interior is furnished to recreate the Golden Age. Visitors can climb the towers and walk the walls. The castle gardens, orchard and herb garden are worth a stroll, and birds of prey flying displays are often held in summer. Admission is about €18, and museum cards are accepted. Opening hours vary by season, and in winter the castle is often open only at weekends, so check the official website. From Amsterdam Amstel station, take bus 320 for about 20 minutes to Muiden, then walk about 15 minutes. In summer, you can also take a boat from Muiden harbour to Pampus, the fort island.
Opening hours
Mostly daily 10:00–17:00 in April–October; shorter in winter (check official website)
Nearby sights
- Marken
- Wereldmuseum Amsterdam (Tropenmuseum)
- Artis Zoo
- Het Scheepvaartmuseum
- NEMO Science Museum
- Volendam
- Magere Brug
- Rembrandt House Museum