Amsterdam Day Trip: Muiderslot Castle from Amsterdam
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An easy bus ride from Amsterdam takes you to a historic castle.
History of Muiderslot Castle
Muiderslot Castle was built in the late 13th century as a way to collect tolls from ships passing via the Vecht River to the city of Utrecht.
In the 16th century, the castle was home to P.C. Hooft, a Dutch writer. He added the adjacent castle gardens, which stand today.
Later the castle was used as a prison before falling into disrepair. It became one of the Netherlands’ first national museums in 1825. (though it took another 70 years for the castle to be fully restored).
How To Get To Muiderslot Castle From Amsterdam
The easiest and most expensive way to get to the castle is to take a rideshare or taxi. The ride should take about twenty minutes and you will travel about 11 miles (18km). It’s close enough to the city that most hired drivers wouldn’t have a problem making the drive.
We decided to save some money and go via public transportation. From Amsterdam Central, take Subway 53 toward Gaasperplas then exit at the Amsterdam, Amstelstation station. Upon exiting the train follow the signs out of the station to the adjacent bus depot. Board the 327 Bus toward Almere Haven via Muiden P+R. Get off the bus at the Muiden P+R station. From here it is a 30-minute 1.25 mile (2km) walk to the castle.
The walk seems daunting, but after the first 10 minutes, you will follow a lovely canal along virtually car-free streets lined with beautiful moss-covered homes. You will pass over a few historic bridges and into a business district. Trust me when I say that you will love this walk.
Public Transportation Directions To Muiderslot Castle From Amsterdam
Start at Amsterdam Centraal train station.
Take the Subway 53 toward Gaasperplas
Exit at Amsterdam, Amstelstation station
follow the signs to the bus depot
board the 327 Bus toward Almere Haven via Muiden P+R
Exit the bus at Muiden P+R station
Walk 1.25 mile (2km) walk to the castle.
Normal transit tickets work on the train, including the €9 all-day transit pass. The bus costs €5 each way and can be paid with cash, credit card, or preloaded transit card as you board the bus.
What To See at Muiderslot Castle
A wonderful audioguide is included with your admission ticket and is available in multiple languages. Inside the castle, you will learn the history of the castle’s many residents over the last 700 years.
There are spiral staircases to climb, high viewpoints, and even the chance to walk the castle walls. Kids will have lots of fun exploring.
Inside the castle walls is a gift shop and a small cafe offering outside seating in the courtyard.
Outside the castle walls and over the drawbridge are the small but beautiful castle gardens. I recommend taking the short pathway walk around the castle for the full 360-degree tour.
We spent about two hours visiting the castle and castle grounds.
How Much Does it Cost To Visit Muiderslot Castle?
Adult admission to the castle is €17.50 with discounts for kids. Holders of the wonderful Go City Pass are entitled to a free visit with the pass. Learn more about the pass by clicking here. (Affiliate Link)
If you decide against the Go City Pass, regular tickets can be reserved in advance online or at the museum ticket window.
Muiderslot Castle Map
