The Hanging Kitchens of Appingedam are one of the most fascinating architectural sights in the
Netherlands. Located in the historic town of Appingedam in the province of Groningen, these
unique kitchens extend directly above the town’s peaceful canals, creating a postcard-perfect view
unlike anywhere else in the country.
Dating back to the Middle Ages, these kitchens were built to save space in narrow canal houses,
ingeniously suspended over the water on wooden beams. Today, they stand as a symbol of Dutch
creativity and are one of the region’s most photographed attractions.
A walk along the canals reveals a beautiful combination of history, architecture, and charm —
making this site a must-visit for travelers exploring northern Holland.
- 🛶 Glide along the peaceful water on a guided boat tour to see the architecture from a unique perspective 🌊
- 📸 Position your camera to capture the stunning reflections of the iconic wooden structures in the canal 🖼️
- 🏘️ Wander through the medieval streets to discover the timeless charm of the historic old town 🏛️
- ☕ Pause at the Hanging Kitchen Café to enjoy a delicious local snack while watching the world go by 🥨
- 🚶 Take a leisurely stroll along the banks to admire the famous suspended kitchens hanging over the ripples 🏠
- 🚆 Board a frequent train from Groningen City for a quick thirty minute journey to Appingedam Station 🚉
- 🚗 Drive approximately twenty-five kilometers from Groningen and find convenient parking near the central Raadhuisplein 🅿️
- 🚲 Pedal through the scenic Dutch countryside by following the well-marked local cycling paths to the village 🗺️
- 🌅 Arrive during the early morning hours to take advantage of the soft photography lighting for your shots 📷
- 🧥 Pack a light jacket because the open canal areas can often become quite breezy during the day 🌬️
- ⛪ Pair your visit with a stop at the impressive Nicolaï Church located right in the heart of town 🔔
- 🤫 Maintain a quiet demeanor to respect the local residents who still live in these historic homes 🚪
- 🌅 9:00 AM – Arrive in Appingedam and begin your morning by exploring the breathtaking Hanging Kitchens area 🌤️
- 🥐 10:00 AM – Enjoy a relaxing coffee or a fresh breakfast at a cozy café overlooking the quiet canal ☕
- ⛪ 11:00 AM – Take a short walk to visit the historic Nicolaï Church and the nearby Raadhuisplein square 👣
- 🛥️ 1:00 PM – Join a scenic canal boat tour to view the famous kitchens from the vantage of the water 💧
- 📜 2:00 PM – Visit Museum Stad Appingedam to learn about the rich history of this fascinating maritime town 🏺