Willemstad

Willemstad is a unique star-shaped fortified town built in the 17th century by William of Orange, featuring a museum-like historic center with perfect street grids and water-bound defenses. The town exemplifies Dutch military architecture and offers a step back in time with minimal modern intrusions.

Things to do

• Explore the Star Fort — Walk the complete perimeter of the perfectly preserved seven-pointed star fortification with its original ramparts and water-filled moats.
• Visit the Mauritshuis Museum — Tour the 17th-century governor's house displaying artifacts from the town's Golden Age and military heritage.
• Cycle the Waterfront Loop — Rent a bike and ride along the canals and defensive waterways that completely encircle the town.
• Photo the Grid Streets — Document the mathematically precise right-angle street layout from the 1600s, one of Europe's most intact examples.
• Climb Coevorden Tower — Ascend the restored gatehouse tower for panoramic views of the entire star-shaped town and surrounding landscape.
• Walk the Historic Cemetery — Stroll through the 17th-century graveyard with weathered headstones and family tombs reflecting the town's long history.

Food to try

• Brabant Asparagus — Sample fresh white asparagus in springtime, a regional specialty often served with melted butter and ham.
• Waterzooi — Try this creamy vegetable and meat stew typical of the Brabant region, often made with chicken or fish.
• Dutch Pancakes at Local Cafés — Enjoy thin savory or sweet pancakes served in the town's traditional brown cafés with local jenever drinks.
• Bitterballen — Order these fried ragout croquettes as a local bar snack, traditionally served with mustard.
• Local Cheese Plate — Purchase aged Gouda and other Dutch cheeses from the market or local shops to enjoy with fresh bread.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive by Car Early — Park outside the gates before 10 am as the pedestrian-only town center has very limited vehicle access and fills quickly with day-trippers.
• Respect the Historic Layout — The town remains a living residential community, not a museum—residents appreciate visitors who stay on public paths and avoid peering into private homes.
• Learn the Dutch Greetings — Locals appreciate visitors who say 'goedemorgen' (good morning) or 'dank u wel' (thank you) when entering shops and cafés.
• Visit on Weekdays — Experience the town's authentic atmosphere on weekdays when tour groups are fewer and locals go about their daily lives more visibly.