Discover the Charming City of Dordrecht: a Hidden Gem in the Netherlands

Do you like to travel and dream of where you might head to next? I’ve yet to visit Europe but I hope to get there some day soon. I’ve been exploring various countries and the Netherlands is definitely on my list. I recently came across Dordrecht, which is an historic, charming city located in South Holland in the Netherlands. I think you’ll fall in love with its picturesque canals and historic architecture. Who wouldn’t want to walk the streets and be in awe of the history?

Charming city of Dordrecht, Netherlands

 

Dordrecht was established back in 1220 and is Holland’s oldest city, which is revealed through its amazing homes, buildings, monuments, and museums. The preservation of the historic areas make the town a sight to behold. I love old architecture and marvel at how well some of the buildings and churches are constructed. I’m always looking for old things whenever I travel. See for yourself just how charming Dordrecht is:

historic streets of Dordrecht in South Holland

 

Dutch building

 

This is the Great Church, or Grote Kerk, in the old town center. The other end of the church features a large tower. It was originally a Catholic church but became a protestant church in the 1500s.

church in Dordrecht, Netherlands

 

city street in Holland

 

Even City Hall wears an impressive appearance.

City Hall in the Holland town of Dordrecht

 

Several buildings feature large clocks. I wish more of the buildings here in the U.S. had clocks on them. Then you wouldn’t have to dig in your purse for your phone to see what time it is – unless you wear a watch.

City Hall in the Holland town of Dordrecht

 

Take a stroll along the piccturesque canals, which are lined with colorful houses and boats.

Fiery sunset reflecting in a canal lined with houses in the medieval town centre of Dordrecht, the Netherlands

 

Canal and boat in the Netherlands

 

Here’s a view of the Great Church from the canal with its tall tower sporting a clock.

Pelserbrug bridge and historic canal houses along the Voorstraathaven with the church Grote Kerk in the background in Dordrecht

 

There are many scenic areas for strolling on foot. Or you can choose to explore the charming city of Dordrecht by bike or boat through the canals.

Lane in the Dutch city of Dordrecht. Netherlands

 

Lane in the Dutch city of Dordrecht. Netherlands

 

Many of the old buildings have been converted into stores or restaurants. An especially charming one is Bluebirds in the Backyard.

Bluebirds in the Backyard, charming city of Dordrecht

 

You can enjoy indoors or outdoor dining.

Bluebirds in the Backyard, charming city of Dordrecht

 

Bluebirds in the Backyard, charming city of Dordrecht

 

It also has a shop where you can find some great treasures.

pink and green Dutch dinnerware

 

Dordrecht is beautiful at night, too.

street in the night - charming city of Dordrecht

 

If you have a travel bucket list, you might want to add the charming city of Dordrecht if you’re heading to the Netherlands.

Panoramic cityscape of the city of Dordrecht from the Grote Kerk tower

Do you enjoy seeing places of interest like this? There’s so many areas of the world to explore.

 

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7 Comments

  1. Hi Jennifer,
    We really enjoy traveling and exploring different countries and cultures! Check out Untours if you’re interested in exploring Holland or other European countries. I really enjoy your blog!
    Michele

  2. Beautiful!! I just went to Amsterdam in November for first time and loved it!! Definitely requires another trip back. ❤️
    Take a River Cruise- thoroughly enjoyed it and good way to see alot in short time.

  3. Jennifer, I enjoyed touring Dordrecht! Several years ago my husband and I toured Amsterdam and loved that city, its people, and its buildings. Hope you get to go someday….just watch out for the bicyclists and don’t walk in their designated lane.

  4. Ok, I’m going to step right out there and say, Nope. I have no desire to visit far away cities or continents. Those really, really old buildings can look a bit romantic but then I think about the actual cold, dampness of living in them and the electrical systems OUTSIDE the walls, and the lack of luxuries that we take for granted, etc. etc. I’ll stick to looking at the romantic pictures and try to gain wisdom from their war torn histories. To me, every desirable thing and adventure is right here in the good ol’ USA! 😉❤️

  5. Beautiful old buildings and I agree, wish we would start trying to restore old buildings. That was a wonderful tour, thanks.