For the next installation in our mini-series, it’s time for a Dordrecht day trip.
Located about 1.5 hours from Amsterdam by train, many Dutch people we know would say this is too far for a day trip. However, if you’re from a bit further afield like we are, 1.5 hours doesn’t seem so bad! For us, visiting Dordrecht was a delightful way to explore the rich history and charming atmosphere of what is thought to be the oldest city in the Netherlands, and we definitely recommend it for a change of pace. By the way, if you’re staying in Rotterdam, it’s much closer, only about 20 minutes.
The city is packed with quaint streets, cool museums, a lovely waterfront, and cozy cafés, beautifully complementing the much more chaotic energy of Amsterdam.
Dordrecht, AKA “Dordt” to locals, is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands (in fact, many people say it’s the oldest!), with a history that stretches back over a thousand years.
The city’s strategic location at the confluence of several rivers made it an important trade hub during the Middle Ages. It received city rights in 1220, which allowed it to flourish as a center of commerce and governance. In 1572, it served as the site of the very first assembly of the States-General (the predecessor of the Dutch parliament!) during the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule.
Throughout the centuries, Dordrecht has played a pivotal role in the political and economic landscape of the Netherlands. The city’s historic prosperity is easy to see in its well-preserved architecture, including the iconic Grote Kerk (Great Church), which dates back to the 13th century and is a must-see while you’re here.
Despite its historical significance, Dordrecht has managed to retain a charming, small-town atmosphere. Its picturesque canals, lined with beautiful houses and lush greenery, are a really nice break from other Dutch cities you may be visiting, like The Hague.
There are loads of NS “sprinter” and “intercity” trains departing from Amsterdam Centraal or Amsterdam Sloterdijk that stop in Dordrecht. The journey takes about 1.5 hours, and the trains are super regular, once every 15-20 minutes or so. Once you arrive at Dordrecht’s central train station, it’s a quick walk to the city center.
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Top Things to Do in Dordrecht
Check out the city's wide variety of amazing museums.
For such a small city, you could easily spend the whole day checking out museums in Dordrecht!
- Dordrechts Museum: This renowned museum houses an impressive collection of Dutch and Flemish art from the 17th to the 20th centuries. It is particularly famous for its works by the Dutch Masters and provides a comprehensive overview of the city’s artistic heritage. When we visited, the museum had a temporary exhibit on Ary Scheffer, a Dutch painter who spent much of his career in France. He and his contemporaries, like Eugène Delacroix, painted many stunning French Revolution pieces, which were on display in an absolutely fantastic special exhibition. Be sure to check what the museum has on offer when you visit!
- Huis Van Gijn: This historic house museum offers a unique glimpse into the life of a wealthy 19th-century family. The beautifully preserved interior and extensive collection of art and artifacts are a really cool insight into the city’s past. There’s also an attic full of period dolls and toys, some of which rotate on their own… we found this both fascinating and a bit creepy!
- Hof van Nederland: This museum is dedicated to the history of the Netherlands and its royal family. It provides a comprehensive look at the country’s political and cultural development, with a particular focus on the role of Dordrecht.
Explore the city center
The city center of Dordrecht is an eminently walkable treasure trove of cool things to see. Here are some must-sees:
Grote Kerk (Great Church): Probably the city’s most iconic landmark, the Grote Kerk is a great example of the Gothic architecture of the time. The towering spire offers panoramic views of the city, and the interior has lovely stained-glass windows and historic artifacts.
Groothoofdspoort (Groothoofd Gate): This historic gate is one of the most recognizable symbols of Dordrecht. Built in the 17th century, it’s a great photo op!
Stadhuis (City Hall): Located in the heart of the city, the Stadhuis is a beautiful example of Dutch Renaissance architecture.
Voorstraat: This lively street is lined with charming shops, cozy cafes, and historic buildings. It’s the perfect place to stroll, shop, and take a break from any sudden rainstorms in a cozy café.
Local Market: If you visit on a weekend and certain weekdays (namely Fridays), don’t miss the market in the city center. This is the best place to get a fresh stroopwafel, a must-try on any trip to the Netherlands. As we’ve said many times before, these should be hot and filled with caramel on the spot, and should never cost more than 3€ or so!
Historic Harbors: Dordrecht’s harbors are a lovely place for a leisurely walk and a cool reminder of its maritime history.
Dordrecht is a great little city to visit when you’re in the Netherlands, particularly if you’re staying near Rotterdam or planning to visit Kinderdijk, but also as a day trip from Amsterdam if you have a few more days to explore the region.
Keep an eye out for the next few Amsterdam day trips coming your way soon– we’ve got Delft, Gouda, Utrecht, and more queued up! In the meantime, you can pin this guide for later on Pinterest here or by clicking on the photos below.
Don’t miss our other day trip guides to cute-as-a-button Zaanse Schans and sophisticated Den Haag (the Hague.) Speaking of tulips… our guide to Keukenhof will give you all the best tips for a stress-free visit to the world capital of tulips.
