Things To Do
in Aalten
Aalten is a charming municipality located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, known for its beautiful countryside and historical sites. The town is surrounded by picturesque farmland and forests, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Aalten is also rich in history, with well-preserved architecture dating back to medieval times, including the striking village church and traditional Dutch windmills.
The town has a peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape in the Dutch countryside.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $120
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk in the beautiful Aaltense Beek nature reserve. Enjoy the fresh air and take in the serene landscapes.
Visit the local museum, Museum Aalten, to learn about the region's history and culture. Don't forget to grab lunch at a nearby café.
Relax at a local pub and try traditional Dutch snacks. End your day with a peaceful stroll through the town center.
Rent a bicycle and explore the scenic cycling routes around Aalten. Take in the picturesque farms and countryside views.
Stop for lunch at a charming village café along the way. Continue your cycling adventure towards the nearby village of Bredevoort.
Return to Aalten and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Unwind by visiting a bar that features live music.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful rural landscape and nature for outdoor activities.
- Strong sense of community and friendly locals.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
- Low cost of living compared to larger cities in the Netherlands.
- Access to various recreational facilities and parks.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Less vibrant nightlife and entertainment options.
- Public transport may not be as frequent or extensive.
- Fewer amenities compared to larger urban areas.
- Potential for isolation due to its rural setting.
Best Activities in Aalten
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful countryside and scenic routes around Aalten on a bike.
Enjoy peaceful walks and discover the natural beauty of Aalten and its surroundings.
Take advantage of the many fishing opportunities in Aalten, including the Aaltense Goor nature reserve and the Slinge River.
Paddle along the tranquil waterways and rivers surrounding Aalten for a unique outdoor experience.
Discover the diverse bird species that inhabit the natural areas around Aalten through bird watching tours and walks.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aalten with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aalten
Visit one of these nice places.
A small hamlet with beautiful countryside views and picturesque spots for photos.
A man-made lake surrounded by nature, offering scenic views and great photo opportunities.
A historic castle with stunning grounds and gardens, perfect for capturing memorable shots.
Food in Aalten
Aalten Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thin, Dutch-style pancakes often served with sweet toppings like powdered sugar, stroop (syrup), or fresh fruits. Visit De Topsy to savor authentic Pannekoeken.
Must-Try!
A sweet bread filled with plump raisins, a specialty of the region and can be found at local bakeries like Bakkerij Oude Wesselink.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aalten better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Experience the vibrant Aaltense Markten where you can indulge in delicious street food such as freshly made stroopwafels, herring sandwiches, and local cheeses.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aalten, it's common to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting for the first time. It's also polite to address people using their title and last name unless given permission to use their first name.
Respecting personal space is important in Aalten. It's customary to maintain an appropriate distance while conversing, and touching is generally reserved for close friends and family.
Punctuality is highly valued in Aalten, so it's respectful to arrive on time for social and business engagements. Tardiness is generally seen as disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aalten with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aalten
Ensure a smooth experience
In the Netherlands, including Aalten, tipping is not compulsory as a service charge may be included in the bill. However, it is common to round up the total amount or leave a small tip of 5-10% for good service at restaurants or for exceptional service in other industries.
In Aalten, as in the rest of the Netherlands, electronic payments are widely accepted and preferred. Credit and debit cards are commonly used, and contactless payments are also popular. Cash is still accepted but is used less frequently, especially for larger purchases.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aalten.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Aalten as you will experience blooming flowers, moderate temperatures, and fewer tourists. It's the perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the countryside.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Aalten with warm temperatures and long daylight hours. It's an ideal time for outdoor festivals, cycling, and enjoying the local cuisine.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures. It's a great time for scenic drives, visiting local markets, and enjoying the harvest season in the surrounding farms.
Winter in Aalten is cold and often snowy, creating a picturesque landscape. The holiday season brings festive markets and events, making it a charming time to visit for a cozy and traditional experience.
Aalten at Night
Hiking in Aalten
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park featuring diverse landscapes, including forests, heathlands, and sand dunes, ideal for hiking and spotting wildlife.
A scenic area known for its hills and woodlands, offering various hiking trails with beautiful views and rich history.
A national park characterized by hilly terrain and heathland, perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for a mix of nature and adventure.
A forest area near the Germany border, offering peaceful hiking trails through lush woodlands and scenic paths.
A hiking area around an ancient castle ruin, providing trails that combine historical exploration with natural beauty.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Aalten through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Aalten by plane.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 150 km from Aalten. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
Located about 200 km from Aalten, Brussels Airport is the largest airport in Belgium and a key international flight hub.
Approximately 130 km from Aalten, Düsseldorf Airport is one of the major airports in Germany, offering numerous international connections.
Located about 120 km from Aalten, Eindhoven Airport is a prominent airport in the Netherlands, focusing on low-cost carriers.
About 150 km from Aalten, Cologne Bonn Airport serves as a key airport for both domestic and international flights in Germany.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Aalten, comprising local residents who identify as ethnically Dutch.
A neighboring demographic group, particularly noticeable due to Aalten's proximity to the German border and historical ties.
A minority community in Aalten, reflecting broader migration trends in the Netherlands.
Another minority demographic that has established a presence in Aalten over the years.
Includes various groups such as Surinamese, Antillean, and others who reside in Aalten.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular sport in Aalten, with several local clubs and teams participating in regional leagues.
Field hockey has a significant following in Aalten, with clubs offering training for all ages.
Volleyball is played recreationally and competitively, with community teams representing the town in various tournaments.
Tennis is enjoyed by many in Aalten, with local courts available for both casual play and organized competitions.
Cycling is a popular activity in and around Aalten, with numerous cycling paths and events promoting the sport.
Athletics, including running and track events, is actively pursued by residents, supported by local athletic clubs.
Swimming is a popular sport in Aalten, with facilities available for both training and leisure activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aalten.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Aalten offer diverse vegetarian and vegan options, making it easy for those with plant-based diets to enjoy the local cuisine. Check out Eetcafe Florijn and Keuken van Hackfort for excellent vegetarian and vegan choices.
For those following a gluten-free diet, restaurants like Brasserie De Hofnar and Gulle Waard provide a range of gluten-free dishes and are attentive to dietary restrictions.