When I planned my trip to Amersfoort, I knew I wanted the freedom to explore the city and its surroundings at my own pace. While Amersfoort is known for its bike-friendly streets and reliable public transport, having a car offered me the flexibility to visit remote attractions, venture into the countryside, and discover hidden gems that public transportation doesn’t always cover. In this guide, I’ll share my experience of renting a car in Amersfoort, the best routes to explore, and tips for making the most of your driving adventures.

Renting a Car in Amersfoort: My Experience

Choosing a Rental Service

Amersfoort is home to several reliable car rental services, both local and international. After some research, I decided to rent a car from Hertz, located conveniently near Amersfoort Centraal Station. Other popular options included Europcar, Sixt, and Greenwheels, which cater to various budgets and preferences.

Booking my car was simple. I used their online platform to reserve a compact sedan for three days. The website was easy to navigate, and I was able to customize my rental with extras like GPS and additional insurance. I chose the compact car because it’s easier to park in city centers and more fuel-efficient for longer drives.

Picking Up the Car

Hertz’s office was just a 10-minute walk from the station, making it very accessible. The staff were friendly and efficient, explaining all the details of the rental agreement. I was also provided with a handy map of the city and advice on the best routes to take. After a quick inspection of the car—a spotless Volkswagen Polo—I was ready to hit the road.

Costs and Considerations

  • Rental Price: My rental cost approximately €45 per day, excluding fuel. Adding GPS cost €10 extra per day, and the optional full insurance coverage was €15 per day. While it added to the overall cost, I recommend full insurance for peace of mind.
  • Fuel: Gasoline in the Netherlands isn’t cheap, but my compact car was fuel-efficient. I spent about €40 on fuel for my entire trip.
  • Parking: Paid parking is common in Amersfoort’s city center. I used the Koestraat Parking Garage, which cost €2.50 per hour, and found it to be safe and convenient.

Best Routes to Explore in and Around Amersfoort

Driving in and around Amersfoort is a pleasure, thanks to well-maintained roads and picturesque scenery. Here are some of the routes I took during my trip, each offering unique experiences.

1. City Highlights Drive

Amersfoort is compact, but driving through its historic streets is a great way to soak in the city’s charm. Starting from the city center, I followed this route:

  • Koppelpoort: My first stop was the iconic medieval gate, located on Kleine Spui. Parking nearby was easy at the Eemplein Garage. I spent time admiring the gate and walking along the canal.
  • Muurhuizen: A short drive from Koppelpoort, Muurhuizen is a circular street lined with historic houses built along the city’s original defensive wall. The narrow streets here are best admired by walking, but driving through gives a sense of the city’s medieval layout.
  • Onze Lieve Vrouwe Tower (The Tower of Our Lady): I parked near the tower and climbed its 98 meters for panoramic views of the city.

Driving Tip: Keep an eye out for cyclists, as Amersfoort’s streets are shared between cars and bikes. The speed limits are strictly enforced, especially in residential areas.

2. Amersfoort to Soestduinen

One of my favorite drives was the route from Amersfoort to Soestduinen, a serene area known for its expansive sand dunes and forests. The drive was only about 20 minutes, but the transition from city to countryside was stunning.

  • Route: From Amersfoort, I took the N221 road towards Soest. The road winds through charming villages and wooded areas.
  • Highlights: The Soestduinen area offers walking trails, picnic spots, and plenty of photo opportunities. I parked at the designated lot near the dunes and spent a few hours hiking.

3. The Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park

This was a longer drive but well worth the effort. The Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park is about 30 kilometers from Amersfoort and features lush forests, rolling hills, and historic estates.

  • Route: I drove along the A28 highway, then took the N225 to reach the park. The roads are well-marked, and the journey took about 40 minutes.
  • Activities: I explored the park by car, stopping at Slot Zeist, a beautiful 17th-century castle. There are also cycling and hiking trails for those who want to spend more time outdoors.

Driving Tip: Make sure to pack snacks and water if you’re planning to explore the park, as facilities are limited in some areas.

4. Day Trip to Giethoorn

Known as the “Dutch Venice,” Giethoorn is a must-visit destination and can be reached in just under two hours from Amersfoort. The village is famous for its canals, where boats replace cars as the primary mode of transport.

  • Route: I took the A28 highway north, passing through scenic countryside. The journey was smooth, and I arrived in Giethoorn by late morning.
  • Parking: Giethoorn has several public parking lots at the edge of the village, as cars aren’t allowed inside. From there, I rented a small boat to explore the canals.

5. Castles of the Utrecht Region

The Netherlands is dotted with castles, and Amersfoort is the perfect starting point for a castle-hopping adventure. I visited two stunning castles:

  • Kasteel de Haar: Located about 45 minutes from Amersfoort, this is the largest castle in the Netherlands. The drive along the A27 was scenic and peaceful.
  • Kasteel Renswoude: A smaller but equally charming castle located just 30 minutes east of Amersfoort. It’s surrounded by lush gardens and is perfect for a quick stop.

Driving Tips for Amersfoort and Beyond

  1. Understand Dutch Traffic Rules: The Netherlands has strict traffic laws. Always wear a seatbelt, and note that cyclists have the right of way in most situations.
  2. Use a GPS: Even though the roads are well-marked, a GPS ensures you don’t miss any turns, especially when navigating rural areas.
  3. Plan Parking in Advance: Amersfoort’s city center has limited parking, so it’s wise to research garages like Koestraat Parking or Eemplein.
  4. Avoid Rush Hours: Traffic can be heavier during morning and evening rush hours, so plan your drives outside these times.
  5. Carry Cash for Tolls: Some highways in the Netherlands have tolls, though most around Amersfoort are free.

Driving in Amersfoort added a new layer of adventure to my trip, allowing me to explore not just the city but also the beautiful countryside and nearby attractions. Renting a car was straightforward, and the routes were scenic, making every drive a memorable experience. Whether you’re planning to visit nearby national parks, discover charming villages, or embark on a castle tour, having a car in Amersfoort provides the freedom to explore at your own pace.