Things To Do
in Appingedam
Appingedam is a charming and historic town located in the province of Groningen in the Netherlands. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval buildings, picturesque canals, and beautiful main square. Visitors can explore the town's rich history by visiting landmarks such as the hanging kitchens and the famous Damsterdiep canal.
Appingedam offers a peaceful and idyllic setting for visitors to relax and enjoy 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): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a walk along the famous hanging kitchens. Enjoy breakfast at a local café with a view of the canals.
Visit the Museum Appingedam to learn about the town's history and culture. Afterward, stroll through the picturesque streets and enjoy some shopping.
Dine at a cozy restaurant offering traditional Dutch cuisine. Take a leisurely evening walk by the canals to unwind.
Immerse yourself in nature by hiking in nearby nature reserves. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst the scenery.
Continue exploring the outdoors by visiting local parks or botanical gardens. Experience the tranquility of nature and take plenty of photos.
Return to Appingedam for dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. End your day by relaxing at your accommodation or enjoying a local pub.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and charming architecture, including the iconic Drawbridge and historic buildings.
- Beautiful canals and picturesque scenery, ideal for leisurely walks and cycling.
- Close-knit community with friendly locals, providing a welcoming atmosphere.
- Access to nearby nature reserves for outdoor activities and exploration.
- Cultural events and festivals that showcase local traditions and arts.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities, which may affect employment prospects.
- Fewer amenities and entertainment options, which might be a drawback for some residents.
- Public transport can be less frequent, making travel to other towns more challenging.
- Small-town feel may not appeal to those seeking a more vibrant city life.
- Potential for limited shopping and dining options compared to urban areas.
Best Activities in Appingedam
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the charming streets of Appingedam and its historic buildings on foot. Enjoy guided tours or create your own route to discover local culture and history.
Rent a bike and ride through the beautiful countryside surrounding Appingedam. There are various cycling routes that showcase the scenic landscapes of the region.
Take a relaxing boat tour through the canals of Appingedam. Learn about the town’s history while enjoying the picturesque views from the water.
The canals and nearby waters offer great opportunities for fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a novice, you can enjoy a peaceful day by the water.
Visit local parks in Appingedam for a relaxing picnic. Enjoy the natural surroundings and perhaps partake in some games or outdoor activities with family and friends.
While indoors, you can explore the Dollhouse Museum where you can appreciate miniature models and gain insight into the local culture and history.
Discover the natural beauty of the region by taking walks in nearby nature reserves and parks, where you can observe local wildlife and plant species.
Tours
Uncover the best of Appingedam with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Appingedam
Visit one of these nice places.
The picturesque town center of Appingedam features charming canals and traditional Dutch architecture, perfect for capturing beautiful photos.
A unique architectural feature of Appingedam, the Hanging Kitchens are an iconic sight that offers a distinctive backdrop for photography.
The Damsterdiep Canal provides lovely views of the town and is ideal for scenic photographs, especially during sunset.
The Old Town Bridge, with its historic charm and great vantage point, allows for stunning views of the canals and surrounding architecture.
This historic church offers beautiful architecture and can be photographed both from afar and up close, providing a good contrast with the surrounding buildings.
The lively Market Square is often bustling with activity and provides a vibrant atmosphere for capturing the essence of the town.
The parks in and around Appingedam offer green spaces and scenic views, great for nature shots and capturing local wildlife.
Food in Appingedam
Appingedam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This quintessential Dutch dish comprises mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables, such as kale or carrot, and often served with a smoked sausage. Visit Eetcafé ZK86 or Restaurant Azzurro for an authentic taste.
Must-Try!
Poffert is a traditional Dutch batter pudding, somewhat similar to a cake, and usually contains currants or raisins. You can savor this delightful treat at Bakkerij Peters.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Appingedam better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The weekly market in Appingedam is a food lover's paradise, with stalls offering an array of local produce, cheese, fish, and baked goods. Don't miss the chance to sample stroopwafels and fresh herring from the market vendors.
Look out for the iconic Haringkar (herring cart) on the streets of Appingedam, where you can relish the traditional Dutch delicacy of raw herring served with onions and pickles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When meeting someone in Appingedam, it's common to greet with a firm handshake and maintain eye contact. Familiarize yourself with the local norms, as people may also greet each other with a kiss on the cheek among friends.
Being on time is highly valued in Dutch culture. In Appingedam, it's respectful to arrive punctually for both social and business gatherings. If you're running late, it's courteous to inform the host or attendee.
The Dutch appreciate straightforwardness and honesty. When conversing, it's best to be clear and direct while remaining polite. Avoiding overly ambiguous compliments or vague statements is seen as respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Appingedam with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Appingedam
Ensure a smooth experience
In Appingedam, as in much of the Netherlands, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small amount, typically around 5-10% in restaurants. Tipping in cafes and bars may involve leaving small coins or rounding up the total when paying. In general, service charges are included in the bill.
Payment practices in Appingedam mostly include the use of debit and credit cards, which are widely accepted. Contactless payments are popular, and many businesses also accept mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. Cash is still used, but it is becoming less common. Visitors are advised to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments or markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Appingedam.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a delightful time to visit Appingedam, as the flowers bloom, and the temperatures rise. Expect mild weather, picturesque landscapes, and local festivals. It's an ideal time for cycling and exploring the scenic countryside.
Summer (June to August) brings warm temperatures and longer days, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Expect vibrant markets, outdoor dining, and numerous events. Enjoy the waterways and take advantage of the pleasant weather to explore the historical sites.
Autumn (September to November) showcases stunning fall foliage and cooler temperatures. Expect a peaceful atmosphere with fewer tourists. Autumn is great for enjoying local harvest festivals and exploring the charming town without the summer crowds.
Winter (December to February) in Appingedam can be cold, with potential snowfall. Expect a cozy and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for enjoying warm beverages by the fireplace. The town may host festive Christmas markets, adding charm to the winter season.
Appingedam at Night
Hiking in Appingedam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic nature area located near Appingedam, perfect for hiking with well-marked trails through woodlands and fields.
A historic star fort with surrounding nature trails. It offers a unique blend of hiking and exploring the historic fortifications.
A beautiful region offering various hiking paths through forests, heathlands, and alongside rivers, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
A large lake with surrounding trails suitable for hiking, cycling, and observing wildlife in a serene setting.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Appingedam through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Appingedam by plane.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 197 km southwest of Appingedam.
An international airport that serves the Groningen region, located about 15 km from Appingedam.
Located in Germany, approximately 150 km from Appingedam, serving mainly low-cost airlines.
International airport located around 185 km from Appingedam in Germany, offering flights to various destinations.
An international airport located about 230 km south of Appingedam, serving various European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, including individuals born in the Netherlands.
Small groups of indigenous minorities, including Frisian and others.
People from various countries who have relocated to Appingedam.
Older adults, a significant demographic due to the aging population.
Children and teenagers, representing the younger demographic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Appingedam, with numerous local clubs and a strong community following.
Field hockey has a significant presence in Appingedam, with youth and adult teams competing in regional leagues.
Tennis is enjoyed by many residents, with several clubs offering facilities for both casual and competitive play.
Volleyball is a popular sport in Appingedam, with community teams participating in local tournaments.
Running clubs and events are common, promoting fitness and community engagement through organized races.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Appingedam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Appingedam cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering creative plant-based dishes. Check out Eetcafé De Brouwerij or De Zeezicht for a variety of enticing vegetarian and vegan options.
Visitors requiring gluten-free options will find accommodating menus at various eateries. Da Sebastiano and Restaurant De Molenaar are known for their gluten-free offerings, ensuring everyone can relish the local flavors.