The Other Holland: Arnhem, Nijmegen & Veluwe

Are you excited about a short trip to our neighboring country? Just behind the German border lies a region that definitely doesn't need to hide: The Other Holland!

So close yet so different: Just behind the German border lies the province of Gelderland, which, in addition to its popular cities Arnhem and Nijmegen, also has plenty to discover. Whether for a shopping trip, a little sightseeing, or a day full of adventurous experiences in nature - this Dutch region shows you our neighbor country at its best. You will also find yourself in the Veluwe region here. Just a stone's throw away, super green, and the perfect destination for walks and bike rides. What there is to experience and discover around Arnhem, Nijmegen, and Veluwe, where you can find the most beautiful castles, and what makes each place special, we will show you in this article.

The Gelderland region is ideal for anyone looking to escape the stressful everyday life at home for a while while seeking relaxation and diverse experiences in nature or in a culturally diverse city.

The area around Arnhem, Nijmegen, and the Veluwe offers an impressive backdrop for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. There are numerous well-developed paths winding through dense forests, gentle hills, and vast heathlands, inviting you to relaxed tours or sporting challenges. Along the routes, picturesque villages, historical sights, and breathtaking views await you.

While the Veluwe, one of the largest nature reserves in the Netherlands, impresses with its diversity of flora and fauna, Nijmegen, the oldest city in the country, shines with notable and historical buildings. Lastly, Arnhem tempts with picturesque castles, unique architecture, and a variety of culinary options.

If you're torn between which region to visit, the following gives you an overview of all three cities and their impressive surroundings.

Arnhem:

Nijmegen:

Where is Arnhem in Holland? Just 20 kilometers behind the German border lies the major city of Arnhem, known to the Dutch as Arnhem. A trip to this charming city is worthwhile for many reasons: the city is not only a true shopping paradise, but its small galleries, popular restaurants, and grand castles are also worth a visit.

Whether you want to shop at well-known fashion brands and designers or prefer to explore unique stores - Arnhem offers both international chains like Bershka, Levi's, or Zara in the Rijnstraat and individual shops in the surrounding side streets. The entire city center is adorned with shops, galleries, and studios. But it's not only here: Klarendal is known as a popular fashion district, occasionally interrupted by small eateries that satisfy your hunger while you browse. Speaking of hunger: we definitely don't want to withhold our culinary tips from you.

A highlight of the city is its castles and parks, some of which can even be visited from the inside. A visit is also worthwhile even if you can only view the estates from the outside, as their pompous appearance amidst beautifully maintained gardens is breathtaking. Some feature museums inside that allow you to better understand their history, while others are used as hotel establishments.

Castles around Arnhem

Especially worth seeing is Rosendael Castle. Both the magnificent castle and the park with flower gardens, water features, and many green spaces enchant visitors. Here you can participate in tours and learn about the former official residence of Gelderland's dukes. Another impressive medieval castle in Arnhem is Doornenburg Castle, taking you on a journey back to the 13th century. With its magnificent castle complex and idyllic courtyard, it is not only a highlight for history fans but also provides a beautiful backdrop for unforgettable outings.

That's not all; many more castles and other sights are waiting for you near Arnhem. In the Openluchtmuseum, the Dutch Open Air Museum in Arnhem, you can gain insight into the history of the last 350 years and see how people lived during that time. The Airborne Museum is a war museum about World War II with many collections from that era. Sad yet exciting insights allow you to better understand the culture and past of Arnhem, and with interactive exhibitions and historical sites, the events around the famous battle at Arnhem are brought closer to you.

If you're planning a trip to Arnhem, you can easily combine it with a trip to Nijmegen. The Dutch city has particularly captured our hearts. It's super green, has a unique laid-back vibe, and is already quite sustainable in many respects, located less than 30 minutes' drive south of Arnhem. With the country's oldest shopping street, Hezelstraat, many local eateries, and buildings dating back to Roman times, the city possesses its own charm. Its proximity to Germany also makes the journey very straightforward.

Vacation Guru Tip: Did you know that you can quickly and easily reach both cities by train? Both from Germany and between Arnhem and Nijmegen, you can be in the next city in no time on the Intercity.

If you haven't emptied your entire bank account shopping in Arnhem yet, it's worth a trip to Lange Hezelstraat in Nijmegen, the oldest shopping street in the Netherlands. However, what makes shopping special is not just the shopping itself but the entire experience. In the shopping street, you are surrounded by countless cafés and right by the Waal River, which invites you for relaxing walks with views of the Waal Bridge along the beautiful façades.

If hunger strikes and you're unsure where to go, we'll send you our recommendations ahead. One note: Nijmegen is a paradise when it comes to vegetarian and vegan restaurants.

Breakfast: Treat yourself to delicious bread with avocado spread and fresh fruit, an orange juice, and coffee at Down Town Café on Kannenmarkt. Here, you can slowly wake up and observe the morning hustle.

Lunch: If your stomach growls at noon, Blonde Pater is recommended for a sandwich with mozzarella, juicy vegetables, or shrimp, a fresh salad, or a plate full of snacks. Light meals are also served at Bairro Alto, and a tasty dessert is waiting for you in the cake display. Coffee in the afternoon tastes best at First Things First, especially thanks to the relaxed atmosphere on the terrace by the Waal.

Dinner: After a day full of shopping and other attractions, you are sure to be hungry again. For that, you should visit Restaurant Wally, as they serve the best burgers in town!

As you stroll east along the Waal, you will reach Valkhofpark. The facility offers you a wonderful backdrop with views of the river and the Waal Bridge. The Valkhof was once a royal stronghold from the Middle Ages, but the site even dates back to Roman times. Today, it hosts music events that are particularly popular among the many students in the city. The Museum Het Valkhof is also located here, providing insight into Roman history through important historical collections as well as striking works from the art world.

In the center, you will find the Stevenskerk, a church from the 13th century. After suffering significant damage in World War II, it was rebuilt by the end of the 1970s and now shines in new splendor inside and out. The highlight: from April to October, you can climb the tower. During this time, you will learn a lot about the history of the centuries-old tower, and once you reach the top, you will be treated to a breathtaking view of Nijmegen.

If you need a break between shopping and sightseeing, you're in the right place at Kronenburgerpark west of the city center. Here you can settle on the large meadow for a picnic or stroll along the medieval city walls. If you get thirsty in between, just visit the Brouwerij de Hemel brewery museum, where you can not only learn all about the brewing art but also taste the cold beverages.

The Veluwe region is a highlight in the Netherlands, offering you a unique mix of untouched nature, cultural highlights, and exciting activities. Whether you want to wander through dense forests and vast heathlands, explore picturesque cities like Apeldoorn, or relax on idyllic beaches - you will find something for every taste here. The city of Apeldoorn is a perfect starting point for your exploration of the Veluwe. Find more tips and highlights about Apeldoorn in our separate article!

De Hoge Veluwe National Park is surely the highlight of the region - and for good reason! With its vast sand dunes, endless forests, and a unique heath landscape, you will feel as if you are in another world. The best part? You can use the famous white bicycles for free and explore the park on two wheels. Along the way, it's worth stopping at the Kröller-Müller Museum, which features impressive art - including works by Van Gogh. Whether hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the tranquility: everything is possible here!

However, the Veluwe is not just the national park - even the surrounding areas are worth seeing and offer the perfect conditions for every preference.

Who needs the sea when there is De Zandenplas? This lake in the midst of the Veluwe forests has everything we need for a relaxing day: fine sandy beaches to chill, clear water to cool off, and plenty of space for picnics. Perfect for families, groups of friends, or just to unwind. And for those who don't want to just laze around, you can explore the hiking trails around the lake. Pure nature and beach bliss in one - what more could you want?

The Veluwe not only has forests but also the most beautiful lakes ready! Whether Veluwemeer or other smaller bodies of water - it's never boring here. Grab a SUP board, paddle a canoe across the water, or just enjoy the view from the shore. Cafés and restaurants with lake views ensure you also enjoy culinary delights. And then that sunset over the water - simply a dream!

In the mood for history with style? Then check out the Hanseatic cities! In Hattem, you'll find narrow alleys, cool museums, and plenty of charm. Elburg feels like a leap into the Middle Ages - but with good coffee! And Harderwijk? A mix of historical backdrop, modern promenade, and even a dolphinarium. Whether you prefer Instagram-worthy spots or authentic city flair - the Hanseatic cities in the Veluwe will enchant you.

The Veluwe is simply a jack-of-all-trades: from forest adventures and water sports to cultural highlights. Get ready to experience the variety! If you're looking for more excursion destinations, check out this page from 'the other Holland'.

Convinced? Then grab the next train or your car, and in no time you will be in Arnhem, Nijmegen, or another beautiful area in the Netherlands. Here you can wonderfully spend a few days or a weekend. Enjoy shopping, indulging, and discovering!

Featured Image: © Photography Jurjen Drenth