While there are a bevy of things to do in the Netherlands, a fairly new attraction is Palace Soestdijk as far as tourist attractions go. The Palace, which is located in between two villages, Soest and Baarn at the Amsterdamsestraatweg 1, 3744AA Baarn address, has been open to the public only since 2011. That’s largely because it served as home to members of the Dutch Royal Family until their passing in the mid-2000s. Being that Palace Soestdijk is no longer a residence of members of the Royal Family, the Government Buildings Agency has re-purposed the grounds as a tourist attraction for the public. The Palace and its grounds remain authentic and well-maintained to give visitors a true feel for what it was like to live there.
Palace Soestdijk was built in the 17th Century, hosting several notable historical figures. These include King Willem II in the 1800s to Queen Juliana and Prince Bernhard until their passing in 2004. At certain periods in the Palace’s history, it also served host to army officers.
The Palace itself consists of a central block and two wings, in addition to its vast grounds. It is three stories high, has 170 rooms and 2 elevators.
Touring Palace Soestdijk
As we noted, Palace Soestdijk has been re-purposed as a tourist destination now that members of the Dutch Royal Family no longer occupy it. However, if this is on your list of “things to do in Holland,” please be advised that the Palace is only open on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. While visitors can take a guided tour (it’s recommended to make a reservation for groups of 15 or more), visitors can also peruse the grounds and Palace at their own leisure during open hours. The Palace also offers location rentals and can serve as a host to weddings.Â
Hours, tickets and one important catch
The palace grounds and the exhibitions are open Friday to Sunday from 11:00 to 19:00, closing at 17:00 from 1 October. Entry to the garden is 2.50 euro, and that is waived when you book an activity or an exhibition ticket. Parking costs 2.50 euro per hour with a maximum of 10 euro.
A guided tour of the palace itself costs 24.50 euro for adults, 16 euro for ages 12 to 17 and 9.50 euro for ages 5 to 11, with under fours free. Tours run on Friday at 11:15 and on Saturday and Sunday at 11:15 and 14:00, and they last 60 to 75 minutes. Allow ten minutes to walk from the ticket building to the palace itself.
The catch for international visitors: the guided tours are given in Dutch only. There is no English language tour. If you do not speak Dutch, book the garden and the current exhibition instead, which are both self guided and just as much of a reason to come.
Prices and opening hours were checked in September 2026.
Hidden Corners, Garden Cafés, and Royal Stories at Soestdijk Palace
When most visitors think of Soestdijk Palace, they picture grand halls and royal portraits. And yes, those are worth seeing. But the true charm of this place comes alive when you explore the smaller, quieter details. Step beyond the formal entrance and you’ll start to notice a different kind of magic. This is a place where personal stories, peaceful paths, and simple beauty come together in unforgettable ways.
Walk the Woodland Trails Like a Royal
One of the best things to do after touring the palace is to explore the surrounding estate on foot. The grounds are open and inviting, with trails that wind through old forests, past lily-covered ponds, and across stone bridges. These paths once served as quiet retreats for the royal family. Today, they offer visitors a relaxing space for a scenic walk, a moment of reflection, or even a quiet picnic on the grass. Keep your eyes open for birds, deer, and other wildlife that still call this part of the forest home.
Tucked deeper into the estate, you’ll find small buildings that once served as staff houses and royal guest chalets. While some are closed to the public, others are being restored or used for events and exhibitions. These spaces add depth to the story of Soestdijk, reminding you that it was not only a royal residence but also a working estate, filled with gardeners, cooks, and caretakers.
Treat Yourself at a Local Café
After a long stroll or museum visit, there’s nothing better than a cozy spot for coffee or lunch. Just a few minutes from the palace gates, you’ll find a handful of local cafés that offer outdoor seating, peaceful views, and delicious Dutch treats. Some are tucked along bike routes through Soest and Baarn, while others are close to the train station or palace entrance.
Look for menus featuring apple pie with whipped cream, fresh sandwiches, and warm drinks. Some spots even serve afternoon tea with tiered trays of finger foods. In warm weather, shaded patios let you enjoy your meal while soaking in the green surroundings. Everything feels unhurried, and the service is friendly and relaxed.
Little Moments That Tell Big Stories
Inside the palace, you’ll find items that speak volumes about the people who once lived there. There are hand-written notes from Queen Juliana, black-and-white photos of family picnics, and gifts from foreign leaders. These small objects help paint a more complete picture of royal life. You might also come across stories of Princess Wilhelmina, King Willem III, or even Queen Anna Pavlovna, whose ties to Russian and French royalty added international flavor to the Dutch court.
The best part is that Soestdijk Palace is still evolving. Exhibitions rotate, new parts of the estate open over time, and public events bring fresh energy to the historic space. If you enjoy places where past and present meet in a meaningful way, this is one stop you’ll want to explore with a curious mind and a bit of extra time.
