Dordrecht, a vibrant and charming city located in South Holland, is a hidden gem that you won't want to miss. With a population of 118,000, this city is full of surprises. Did you know that it was in Dordrecht that the first Dutch railway was opened back in 1839? And how about the fact that the city was once a major port with international trading links, and played a key role in the history of Holland? Founded on June 16, 1220, Dordrecht boasts a rich past, with many historical buildings and landmarks still standing to this day. Whether you're in the mood for a leisurely stroll along the canals, a visit to one of the city's many museums, or simply want to soak up the charming atmosphere, Dordrecht is the perfect destination for those seeking a true taste of Dutch culture.

What to see in Dordrecht

One of the most popular attractions in Dordrecht is the historical center, which is home to a wide range of beautiful buildings, charming canals, and picturesque alleyways. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by bike, taking in the stunning architecture and learning about the city's rich history as they go. Some of the must-see sights in the historic center include the Grote Kerk (Great Church), which dates back to the 14th century and boasts a beautiful Gothic design, and the Het Hof (The Court) complex, which was once home to the city's rulers and now houses a museum showcasing Dutch art and history. For those who love shopping, the historic center is also home to many unique boutiques and specialty shops, as well as a bustling market that offers everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. No matter what your interests, the historic center of Dordrecht is sure to be a highlight of your visit to the city.

The second most popular attraction of Dordrecht is undoubtedly the Museum Huis van Gijn. This historic house museum was once the home of the 19th-century banker and collector, Simon van Gijn. Today, visitors can explore the beautifully-preserved rooms, which have been decorated to reflect the way of life in the Netherlands during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The museum displays an extensive collection of furniture, ceramics, silver, glassware, and paintings, as well as interesting personal items belonging to Simon van Gijn himself. The interior of the house is stunningly beautiful, with ornate plasterwork, antique carpets and tapestries, and intricate marquetry. Overall, the Museum Huis van Gijn is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in history and Dutch culture.

One of the lesser-known but still fascinating attractions in Dordrecht is the Dordrechts Museum. This museum boasts a unique collection of Dutch art from the 16th century up to the present day. Visitors can marvel at pieces by artists such as Jan Toorop, Ary Scheffer, and Ferdinand Bol. Of particular interest is the collection of paintings by the renowned Dutch painter, Aelbert Cuyp. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, making it a must-see for art lovers visiting Dordrecht.

How to get to Dordrecht

Dordrecht can be easily reached by different means of transportation. The most common mode of transportation for visitors is by train. The city has a train station, which is located in the center of town and is served by the national train company, NS. Trains run frequently to and from Rotterdam and Amsterdam, making connections to other cities in the Netherlands and Europe. If you prefer to drive, Dordrecht is well-connected by highways from Rotterdam and Breda. It takes about 20 minutes to get to Dordrecht from Rotterdam and approximately 40 minutes from Breda. There is also a regular bus service that connects Dordrecht to surrounding areas.

What to taste in Dordrecht

Dordrecht is a great place to explore Dutch cuisine. One of the must-try dishes is the famous Dutch cheese, Gouda. You can find it in various forms, including aged, smoked, and flavored. Another local favorite is the bitterballen, a deep-fried snack filled with a thick ragout sauce. It is commonly served in bars as an appetizer.

If you are a seafood lover, you can try kibbeling. Traditional kibbeling is made from cod and served with Dutch tartar sauce. If you are looking for a traditional Dutch meal, you can try stamppot, which is a hearty dish made of mashed potatoes and vegetables such as kale or sauerkraut. It is usually served with a smoked sausage.

For those with a sweet tooth, Dordrecht has lots to offer, including stroopwafels, a thin wafer cookie with a caramel syrup filling. Another popular sweet treat is poffertjes, small, fluffy pancakes that are typically served with powdered sugar and butter.

To taste all the delicious local cuisine, be sure to visit the city's many cafes and restaurants and experience the culinary culture of Dordrecht.

What is the nature around Dordrecht

Dordrecht is not only a beautiful historical city, but it is also surrounded by magnificent nature. The Biesbosch National Park is a must-visit for anyone who loves the great outdoors. This stunning tidal freshwater wetland has an extensive network of waterways, creeks, and swamp forests, which are home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.

The park offers several activities such as boating, kayaking, cycling, and hiking. Visitors can rent a boat or kayak and explore the waterways, take a guided tour, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The Biesboschmuseum is also worth a visit, providing visitors with information about the park's history and nature.

In addition to the natural beauty of the Biesbosch, Dordrecht's city center also offers plenty of green areas to explore. Stadspark Merwestein is a serene park with a lake, picnic spots, and a playground, providing a perfect escape from the busy streets.

Furthermore, the Wantijpark is another green oasis in the heart of the city, featuring a botanical garden, an animal park, and a pond inhabited by ducks, swans, and other ducks.

Overall, Dordrecht offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy nature, whether you prefer an adventurous outdoor experience or a calm walk in a beautiful park.

Summary

Dordrecht is a quaint and charming city that is perfect for a weekend getaway. It offers a rich history, beautiful architecture, and plenty of outdoor activities. If you want to visit this lovely city, here are some tips that may come in handy:

• Plan ahead: Dordrecht is a popular city for tourists, so it's important that you plan your trip in advance. Book your accommodation, transportation, and tours ahead of time to avoid any last-minute stress.

• Explore the city on foot or by bike: Dordrecht is a relatively small city, so it's best to explore it on foot or by bike. There are plenty of bike rentals available, and the city is bike-friendly with dedicated bike lanes and paths.

• Visit the historic buildings: Dordrecht is known for its beautiful historic buildings, such as the Groothoofdspoort and the Grote Kerk. Make sure to visit them, and don't forget to take a camera to capture their beauty.

• Take a boat tour: One of the best ways to explore Dordrecht is by taking a boat tour. You'll get to see the city from a different perspective, and you'll learn about its waterways and history.

• Try the local food: Dordrecht has a rich culinary scene, and there are plenty of local delicacies that you should try. Don't miss out on the oliebollen (a type of Dutch donut), stroopwafels (a type of waffle cookie), and Dutch cheese.

Overall, Dordrecht is a city that should be on every traveler's bucket list. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and outdoor activities, it's the perfect destination for a weekend getaway.