Lakes, forests and flower-filled meadows surround Hilversum. The city is set in the heart of the Gooi region and combines historical charm with a passion for contemporary art. Café hop in the lively town centre, visit a beautiful botanical garden and explore a museum dedicated to Dutch television and broadcasting.
Things to do in Hilversum
Museum Hilversum occupies a handsome, Renaissance-style building in the city centre. Inside you can view engaging exhibits inspired by art, photography and design. Check out touring exhibitions featuring local artists and admire works by some of the most talented photographers in the country.
Kerkstraat cuts through the city and is lined with boutiques, cafes and bistros. From artisan chocolate to handmade jewellery, the bustling thoroughfare is a great place to shop for souvenirs. Sit down at a sidewalk café and enjoy coffee and stroopwafels, a beloved Dutch treat featuring gooey caramel sandwiched between a pair of wafer-thin waffle cookies.
Learn about the history of television and broadcasting at the Netherlands Institute for Sound and Vision. The museum charts the history of the Dutch media and showcases more than 750,000 hours of content. Some of the earliest sound clips date back to the late 1800s.
Stroll around the Botanical Gardens Pinetum Blijdenstein and admire more than 400 different conifer species. It’s tucked away in a residential suburb and boasts one of the largest cone-bearing tree collections in the world. In addition to towering conifers, you’ll see rhododendrons covered with purple flowers. The greenhouses are filled with lush tropical plants from around the world.
Getting around Hilversum
Hilversum is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. Local buses are a fast and affordable way to get around Hilversum, while bicycles are an eco-friendly option and popular with locals. Hilversum is in North Holland, 30 minutes from Amsterdam by car and train. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is a one-hour drive away.