A Day Trip from Amsterdam: Muiderslot Castle

Most tourists coming to Holland have Amsterdam at the top of their list. Many have Amsterdam as the only thing on their list. While there is much to see in Amsterdam, there is also much to see just outside of the city. These hidden gems are often no more than an hour away and can easily be seen and enjoyed in a day. Once such sight is Muiderslot castle in Muiden. The castle can be reached by car or by bus from from various locations in Amsterdam, Almere, Weesp, and Naarden. Follow the Knight’s Route to the Western tower, the highest point of Muider Castle. Discover Muiderslot’s seven centuries worth of history on the Historical Floor. Take the Tower Route for a tour of the Eastern, Gate, and Southern towers. Join a guided tour of the furnished section of the castle. Stroll through the Dutch Renaissance gardens. Watch the soaring owls, falcons, and other birds of prey during live demonstrations at the Falconry. Muiderslot was founded by Count Floris V in 1285 after he took hold of the land around Muiden. Since then, the castle has been rebuilt and extended to become the 32×35 meter fortress that it is today. With its numerous towers, thick walls, impressive drawbridge, and surrounding moat, Muiderslot is an astounding presence.

There is far too much to do and see to include it all in this article. However, here are a few highlights to whet your appetite:

• The work space of Muiderslot’s most famous resident, poet PC Hooft (after whom the famous Amsterdam shopping street PC Hooftstraat is named).
• The Floris Chamber brings the history of Floris V and Muiderslot to life.
• Formerly used as a ladies room, visitors can now try on period dress-up clothes or pose behind any of the medieval costumes on display in the Kemenade.
• The Chapel which is now used as a theater showing films of Muiderslot’s history.
• An armory where the more daring can try their hand at sparring, test out heavy armor and marvel at the weapons and armor collection.
• The Dungeon.
• Guided tours – these include the PC Hooft Room decorated in typical 17th century living room fashion, the Dining Room, the Castle Kitchen, the Knight’s Hall, and the Prince Chamber in honor of the stays of Prince Maurits in 1618 and the count Johan Maurits van Nassau-Siegen in 1672.

Muiderslot castle is located at Herengracht 1 in Muiden. Tickets can be purchased at the front gate. Prices are as follows: Adults – €11; children ages 4 to 11 – €6.25. Muiderslot is open 1 April through 31 October from 10am-5pm Monday-Friday and 12pm-6pm on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. From 1 November till 31 March, the castle is only open on weekends from 12pm to 5pm. Need more information? Visit the Muiderslot website.