Historical tea pavilion museum at Frankendael, Middenweg 72, Amsterdam around 1880

Frankendael House

Frankendael House: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Amsterdam’s Historic Buitenplaats

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Frankendael House (Huize Frankendael), nestled in Amsterdam’s Watergraafsmeer district, is the city’s last remaining 17th-century buitenplaats—a country estate built by affluent merchants during the Dutch Golden Age. Established in 1659, the estate offers a rare opportunity to experience authentic Dutch Classicist architecture, elegant period interiors, and beautifully landscaped gardens, all seamlessly integrated within the expansive Park Frankendael. Today, Frankendael House serves as both a monument to Amsterdam’s rich history and a vibrant cultural center, hosting art exhibitions, culinary events, and community gatherings.

This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know to plan your visit, including historical background, architectural highlights, visitor information, accessibility, and practical travel tips. Whether you are passionate about history, fascinated by architecture, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, Frankendael House promises a memorable and enriching experience.

For the most up-to-date details, consult the Frankendael House official website, Iamsterdam, Amsterdam.info, and Amsterdam Local Gems.

Side and rear view of Huize Frankendaal mansion on Middenweg 72 with houses along Middenweg

Front view of Huize Frankendaal on Middenweg 72 in Amsterdam

Historic photograph of Middenweg 76, Roosenburg near Frankendaal by Cornelis Gerardus Leenheer

Pomological Museum at Middenweg 72 in Park Frankendael, Amsterdam, circa 1890

The Gildemeester family near their summer home in Watergraafsmeer by Jan Gerard Waldorp

Snowy landscape of Frankendael at Middenweg 72 in Amsterdam in 1893

Winter view of Frankendael estate at Middenweg 72 with snow-covered grounds and historical buildings

Snow-covered Frankendael estate on Middenweg 72, Amsterdam, photo by Jacob Olie in 1893

Snow-covered Frankendael estate along Middenweg, Amsterdam in 1893

Historical photo of Frankendael at Middenweg 72, Amsterdam from 1895

Historic photograph of Frankendael stadskwekerij on Middenweg 72 in Amsterdam taken by Jacob Olie in 1895

Historical photo of Frankendael at Middenweg 72, Amsterdam, taken by Jacob Olie in 1895

Black and white photograph of Frankendael at Middenweg 72, Amsterdam in 1895

Historic black and white photograph of Frankendael building at Middenweg 72 taken in 1896 by Jacob Olie

Historical photograph of Frankendael mansion on Middenweg street, Amsterdam, taken February 10, 1896 by Jacob Olie

Snow-covered Frankendael estate and city nursery at Middenweg 72 in Amsterdam in 1890

Historic photo of Frankendael estate at Middenweg 72 in Amsterdam, taken by Jacob Olie in 1896

Historic photograph of Frankendael at Middenweg 72, Amsterdam, taken by Jacob Olie in 1897

Snowy landscape at Middenweg 72, Frankendael city nursery

Snow-covered Frankendael Stadskwekerij at Middenweg 72 photographed by Jacob Olie in 1890

Historic photograph of Frankendael estate with a fountain on Middenweg, Amsterdam, circa 1890

Snow-covered Frankendael city nursery at Middenweg 72 in 1890

Snow-covered landscape of Frankendael at Middenweg 72, historic photo by Jacob Olie from 1890

Snow-covered Frankendael estate at Middenweg 72, Amsterdam in 1890

Historic photograph of Landgoed Frankendael at Middenweg 72 in Amsterdam, early 1900s

Historic photograph of Frankendael estate at Middenweg 72 in Amsterdam taken by Jacob Olie

Snow-covered Frankendael estate at Middenweg 72 in Amsterdam during winter, historical photo from 1893

Historic photograph of Frankendael at Middenweg 72 in Amsterdam by Jacob Olie in 1890

Traditional Dutch houses in Oud Frankendaal, Watergraafsmeer, Amsterdam

Rear facade of the former Stadskwekerij Huize Frankendael on Middenweg 72, Amsterdam in 1943

Rear facade of the former Stadskwekerij Huize Frankendael building at Middenweg 72 in 1943

Front and side facades of the former Stadskwekerij Huize Frankendael at Middenweg 72

Historical Overview

Origins and Early Development

Founded in 1659, Frankendael House was initially a summer retreat for wealthy Amsterdam merchants seeking respite from city life. Set in the then-rural Watergraafsmeer polder, the estate was designed to harmonize architecture with its natural surroundings, reflecting the ideals of the Dutch Golden Age (Wikipedia).

Naming and Ownership

The estate was renamed “Frankendael” in 1695 by Izaak Balde, alluding to his family’s roots in Frankenthal, Germany. Over the centuries, Frankendael changed hands multiple times, with each owner contributing to its evolving architecture and landscaping. Notable enhancements, such as the ornate entrance gate by architect Jacob Otten Husly, were added in the 18th century.

Architectural Evolution

Frankendael House’s stately red brick façade, completed by 1733, exemplifies Dutch Classicist architecture with its symmetry and restrained ornamentation. The interiors showcase Louis XIV–style decoration and period furnishings, while the rear gardens reflect the shift from formal Baroque layouts to naturalistic English landscape styles in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Restoration and Modern Use

Following periods of neglect, significant restoration efforts in the 20th and early 21st centuries preserved the estate’s architectural integrity. Today, Frankendael House is a protected Rijksmonument and functions as a restaurant, cultural venue, and wedding location. The adjacent Coach House is home to the renowned Merkelbach restaurant, acclaimed for its seasonal, locally sourced cuisine (Wikipedia).

Architectural and Artistic Highlights

Facade and Interiors

Frankendael’s symmetrical façade, white stone accents, and hipped roof with dormers are hallmarks of Dutch Classicism. Inside, a grand wooden staircase, Delft-tiled fireplaces, and period rooms evoke the lifestyle of Amsterdam’s elite. Trompe-l’oeil ceiling paintings and classical stucco details reflect the artistry of the 18th century (Iamsterdam).

Gardens and Park

The estate features two distinct garden styles: a formal Baroque front garden with geometric parterres, and an English-style landscape garden that blends seamlessly into Park Frankendael. The gardens are open daily and are celebrated for their rich biodiversity, herb garden, orchard, and meandering walking paths (Amsterdam.info).

Art and Sculpture

Frankendael House regularly hosts contemporary art exhibitions and installations. Notably, the forecourt displays two 1714 sculptures by Ignatius van Logteren, representing Bacchus and Ceres, which symbolize the estate’s ties to classical and agricultural themes (huizefrankendael.nl).

Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Frankendael House (Restaurant and Exhibition Spaces): Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM; closed on Mondays.
Park Frankendael: Open daily, year-round, from 8:00 AM until sunset.
Open House Sundays: The house is open to the public every Sunday from 12:00 to 17:00, with guided tours at 12:00 (primarily in Dutch; English tours on request).

Tickets and Admission

Park Frankendael: Free admission.
Frankendael House: Free during open house events; special exhibitions or events may require tickets. Check the official website for current details.
Guided Tours: Available by reservation; check for English-language options (Iamsterdam).

Facilities and Accessibility

Merkelbach Restaurant: Seasonal, locally sourced cuisine served in the Coach House with garden views.
Restrooms: Available at the restaurant and during events.
Accessibility: The park and ground floor of the house are wheelchair accessible. Due to the historic nature of the house, upper floors may have limited accessibility; contact the estate for assistance.

Getting There

Address: Middenweg 72, Amsterdam.
Public Transport: Easily accessible by tram (lines 9, 19), bus (lines 22, 37, 41), and bicycle. The nearest tram stop is Frankendael; the Hogeweg bus stop is also nearby.
Parking: Limited street parking; visitors are encouraged to use public transport or cycle.

Cultural, Environmental, and Community Role

Frankendael House is more than a historical monument—it is an active cultural and community hub. The estate hosts art exhibitions, concerts, culinary events, and children’s workshops. Park Frankendael serves as a beloved green space for locals and visitors, supporting biodiversity and offering educational programs on horticulture and ecology (Amsterdam Local Gems).

The house’s adaptive reuse as a restaurant, event venue, and cultural site ensures its continued relevance and accessibility to diverse audiences. Community gardening projects, environmental workshops, and interpretive signage further promote ecological awareness and historical appreciation.

Events and Activities

Art Exhibitions: Rotating exhibitions of contemporary art within the mansion.
Workshops: Including children’s activities during weekends and holidays.
Private Events: Weddings, corporate functions, and private dining available by reservation.
Seasonal Festivals: Park Frankendael hosts picnics, music performances, and community gatherings; check the events calendar for details.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Visit in spring or summer to enjoy the gardens in full bloom.
Combine your visit with nearby attractions such as Tropenmuseum or Oosterpark.
Reserve a table at Merkelbach Restaurant in advance, especially on weekends.
Photography is encouraged; capture the mansion’s façade, gardens, and sculptures in the late afternoon light.
For English-language tours, check availability or bring a translation app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours of Frankendael House and Park Frankendael?
A: The park is open daily from 8:00 AM until sunset. The house is open Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, and on Sundays from 12:00 to 17:00 for open house events.

Q: Is there an entrance fee?
A: Entry to Park Frankendael is free. Admission to the house is generally free during open house Sundays; special exhibitions or events may require tickets.

Q: Are guided tours available in English?
A: Most tours are in Dutch, but English tours can be arranged—check the official website before your visit.

Q: Is the estate wheelchair accessible?
A: The park and ground floor of the house are accessible; contact the estate for further assistance regarding access to other areas.

Q: Can I dine at Frankendael House?
A: Yes, Merkelbach Restaurant offers fine dining with garden views in the Coach House.

Visuals and Media

Include high-quality images with descriptive alt text, such as:

“Frankendael House Amsterdam historical façade”
“Formal Style Garden in bloom at Frankendael”
“Sculptures of Bacchus and Ceres at Frankendael House”
“People picnicking in Park Frankendael Amsterdam”

Interactive maps and virtual tours are available on the official website.

Internal and External Links

Conclusion

Frankendael House is a jewel in Amsterdam’s cultural landscape, offering an immersive experience that bridges the past and present. As the city’s only surviving 17th-century buitenplaats, it showcases Dutch Classicist design, aristocratic lifestyle, and beautifully restored gardens. Its dynamic role as a cultural venue and community space ensures a vibrant future for this historic estate.

Plan your visit today to discover the rich heritage, art, and natural beauty of Frankendael House. For the latest information on visiting hours, tours, and events, check the official website. Enhance your experience with the Audiala app for personalized audio guides and updates. Follow us on social media for inspiration, tips, and exclusive content on Amsterdam’s most cherished historical sites.