Huis Van Gijn

Step back in time at Huis Van Gijn, the meticulously preserved 18th-century home of Dordrecht banker and passionate collector Simon van Gijn. This house museum offers a unique glimpse into the opulent daily life of a wealthy Dutch family and their staff around 1900, with interiors showcasing 17th, 18th, and 19th-century styles. Wander through grand reception rooms, the extensive library, and even the servants' quarters, from cellar to attic, to discover Van Gijn's diverse collections, including an impressive array of prints, artifacts, and one of the oldest toy collections in the Netherlands on the attic floor. The museum also features changing seasonal presentations, reflecting how life was lived a century ago.

Plan your visit Wednesday through Sunday, between 11:00 and 17:00. While the museum maintains regular hours on many public holidays, it closes on Mondays, Tuesdays, King's Day (April 27th), Christmas Day, and New Year's Day, with an early closure at 16:00 on New Year's Eve. Admission is free for visitors aged 18 and under, and students aged 19 and over can enjoy a discounted rate. The Dutch Museumkaart is also valid for entry and can be purchased on-site. Consider a combination ticket to explore more of Dordrecht's cultural gems, such as Huis Van Gijn + Hof van Nederland for €20, or Huis Van Gijn + Dordrechts Museum for €22.

Enhance your experience with a special tour, like the sensory-focused "Huis van Gijn op gevoel" for €15, which includes entrance and refreshments. Seasonal guided tours are also available for €7.50, with free access for Museumkaart and other discount pass holders. The museum is conveniently located about a 15-minute walk from Dordrecht NS railway station. If you prefer public transport, a city bus stop (Visbrug) is just a 5-minute walk away; use 9292.nl for easy journey planning. For those arriving by car, limited paid parking is available directly at Nieuwe Haven, including Sundays, with several parking garages like Visstraat, Spuihaven, and P1 Parking Drievriendenhof/Dordrecht Centrum (200m away) within a 10-minute walk. You might find cheaper rates by reserving a spot via the Q-Park website.