Hi,
I have 1 day for a stop between Amsterdam and Maastricht in July. I'm traveling with my mother in her 70s. I'm wondering about making a stop in Dusseldorf, Brussels or another place within 1-2 hrs of Maastricht. What place would you recommend? What would be easier, rent a car or take the train (pros/cons)?
I'd appreciate your thoughts.
Thanks.
Rent a car and make it a relaxed trip along those small historical gems in the eastern parts of the Netherlands, loved by the Dutch, but almost totally overlooked by foreign tourists.
Coming from Amsterdam you can have your coffee, lunch and afternoon drink in Weesp, Naarden, Amersfoort, Harderwijk, Elburg and Hattem or the palace and gardens in Apeldoorn, to mention a few possible stops. Base yourself in Zutphen or Deventer.
The next day you have time to have a look in Zwolle, Kampen and Hasselt (all former Hansa cities, the last one not to be confused with the Belgian one) to the north, or - on the way to Maastricht - to visit Ruurlo and Vorden with their castles (a few kilometres from Zutphen), historical Doesburg and maybe for a last stop in attractive Roermond.
Wow. Thank you tonfromleiden! Many places to consider. My mother loves gardens so Apeldoorn sounds like a must. I will look into the logistics of these spots. Given that these places are less known to tourists, what would be your recommendation for lodging? Hotel vs. B&B, Airbnb?
Again, thank you for any and all feedback. This would be my first time in the Netherlands and I'm very much looking forward to it.
Dank je.
I always hesitate to advise hotels and restaurants, but you'll love staying in peaceful Zutphen, which has a more than adequate Hampshire hotel. In a historical building, right in the centre, looking out on the 13th century main church. Around EUR 120 with breakfast. I don't know about parking facilities.
Added:
A mere 15 km (10 mi) north of Zutphen you'll find Deventer. Try to fit it in. A lovely city.
More added:
Another castle plus garden on your route: Middachten, 20 km south of Zutphen and 10 km west of historical Doesburg.
Aachen, about 35 minutes drive north of Maastricht, was known as Aix-la-Chappelle when Charlemagne established his headquarters of the Holy Roman Empire. No surprise that it has an imposing city square with a major cathedral and associated museum.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aachen
Thank you Southam. Looking at the map and the suggestions of this forum, there is so much to choose from. Any thoughts on the castle in Arcen?
