Private Royal Tour : Paleis Het Loo and Muiderslot castle

This 8-hour Private Royal Tour offers a fascinating journey through the royal and aristocratic heritage of North Holland. Priced for a private group experience, it includes transport, guide services, bottled water, and WiFi. The tour starts from any hotel or bed and breakfast, making it a flexible choice for travelers seeking a personalized exploration of Dutch history.

You’ll visit Paleis Het Loo, a grand 17th-century palace recently renovated at a cost of 182 million euros. The tour concludes at Muiderslot Castle, built in 1285, offering a glimpse into medieval architecture and history. Along the way, the tour showcases private castles and palaces once owned by wealthy families, with up to 4 stops depending on available time. Keep in mind, entrance fees for Paleis Het Loo and Muiderslot Castle are not included in the tour price.

This experience suits those interested in royal history, architecture, and lesser-known historic sites. It combines famous landmarks with exclusive visits to private estates, providing a well-rounded glimpse into the Netherlands’ aristocratic past. The tour’s private nature allows for a flexible and intimate exploration, ideal for travelers who prefer a tailored itinerary.

Key Points

• Private 8-hour tour exploring North Holland’s castles and palaces
• Includes transport, guide, bottled water, and WiFi
• Visits Paleis Het Loo, a lavish palace with gardens and royal carriages
• Explores private castles owned by historic wealthy families
• Ends at Muiderslot Castle, built in the 13th century and renovated by Pierre Cuypers
• Entrance fees are not included, so budget accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at Paleis Het Loo: The Dutch Royal Palace

The tour kicks off with a visit to Paleis Het Loo, built in 1684. This palace, recently renovated with a 182 million euro investment, features lavish gardens, decorated rooms, and stables housing a notable collection of cars and carriages belonging to the Dutch Royal family. The ‘House of Orange’ exhibit showcases objects that belonged to the royal family, providing insight into their lifestyle.

After touring the palace, visitors enjoy a leisurely walk along the ‘Orange Trial’, a scenic path surrounded by trees, waterways, swans, and ducks. This outdoor experience adds a peaceful touch to the royal visit, allowing time to appreciate the beautifully maintained gardens and waterways.

Exploring Private Castles and Palaces of the Wealthy Elite

Following the palace visit, the tour continues with stops at private castles and palaces known historically to belong to wealthy families. Depending on the time available, the guide may take visitors to 2 to 4 of these private estates. These sites are often not open to the public, adding an exclusive element to the experience.

Each castle has its own story and architectural style, offering a peek into the aristocratic lifestyle of bygone eras. While entrance fees are not included, the architecture and history of these private estates are highlights that enrich the overall trip.

Final Stop at Muiderslot Castle: Medieval Grandeur

The tour ends at Muiderslot Castle, a 13th-century fortress perched above the Vecht River. Built around 1285, this castle is one of the oldest and best-preserved in the Netherlands. Its impressive structure has been fully renovated, notably by Pierre Cuypers, who also designed the Rijksmuseum and Amsterdam Central Station.

Visitors can explore the castle’s medieval architecture, towers, walls, and courtyards, along with exhibits that showcase the castle’s long history. The location offers scenic views over the water, making it a picturesque and historic conclusion to the day.

Logistics and Practical Details

The tour includes private transportation, ensuring a comfortable and stress-free experience. Guests are picked up and dropped off at their hotel or bed and breakfast, with WiFi available in the vehicle and bottled water provided. The live guide speaks English, providing informative commentary throughout the day.

Since the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and standing during visits. The duration is 8 hours, with flexible starting times depending on availability.

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What’s Not Included and Tips for Visitors

Entry to Paleis Het Loo and Muiderslot Castle is not included, so visitors should plan for additional costs. To make the most of the tour, comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around the castles and gardens.

Booking is flexible with a “reserve now & pay later” option, and guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it easy to plan the tour around other activities or changing travel plans.

Why Choose This Private Royal Tour?

This experience offers a personalized journey through some of the Netherlands’ most significant royal and aristocratic sites. The combination of famous palaces, private estates, and historic castles provides a comprehensive look at the country’s noble history.

The private nature of the tour allows for a relaxed pace and tailored schedule, making it ideal for travelers eager to explore hidden gems and learn the stories behind these historic sites from knowledgeable guides. While entrance fees are extra, the overall value lies in the exclusivity, comfort, and depth of insight provided.

Final Thoughts on the Private Royal Tour

For those interested in Dutch royal history and architecture, this 8-hour guided experience offers a balanced mix of famous sights and private estates. It suits travelers who value personalized service and are comfortable with a full day of walking and exploring. The tour’s flexibility and comprehensive itinerary make it an excellent way to see North Holland’s regal side.

While visitors should budget for entrance fees separately, the expert guide, private transport, and access to exclusive sites make this tour a memorable option for history lovers or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of the Netherlands’ noble past.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation is included, with pickup and drop-off at your hotel or bed and breakfast.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with flexible starting times based on availability.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for Paleis Het Loo and Muiderslot Castle are not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there will be walking around castles and gardens.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility impairments?
No, the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to walking and site terrain.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English throughout the tour.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a dress code?
There is no specific dress code, but comfortable shoes are advised.

How many stops are included?
Depending on time, 2 to 4 private castles and palaces are visited after Paleis Het Loo.

What makes this tour different from others?
Its focus on private estates and royal heritage, combined with a personalized experience, sets it apart from typical bus tours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby