Things To Do
in Assen
Assen is the capital of the Dutch province of Drenthe, located just north of Groningen. It combines a compact historic center with modern culture, green parks, and easy access to forest and heathland. The city is renowned for the TT Circuit Assen, which draws international motorsport crowds, and for its museums and markets.
Surrounded by cycling routes and rural scenery, Assen is a convenient base for exploring Drenthe's natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in traditional Dutch pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the beautiful streets of the historic center, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Drents Museum to appreciate its impressive collection of art and artifacts that tell the story of the region.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Assen Cathedral, where you can admire the stunning stained glass windows and intricate interior. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes and enjoying the ambiance of the town square. Spend your afternoon wandering through the nearby park, where you can relax by the lake or enjoy a peaceful walk among the trees.
As evening falls, find a cozy spot at a local eatery for dinner, where you can savor Dutch specialties like stamppot or poffertjes. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, soaking in the night ambiance of Assen. End your day with a nightcap at a local pub, mingling with friendly locals and reflecting on your day's adventures.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, then gear up for a day in nature at Drentsche Aa National Park. Drive to the park and embark on one of the many scenic walking trails that wind through lush landscapes and past picturesque streams. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of the natural surroundings.
After a morning of hiking, enjoy a packed lunch amidst the serene beauty of the park, perhaps by one of its lovely ponds. In the afternoon, explore more trails or visit the nearby historic villages, where you can learn about traditional Drentse life and architecture. Take time to appreciate the peaceful environment and snap some photos of the stunning landscapes.
Return to Assen and treat yourself to a relaxing dinner at a restaurant that offers a view of the park. Enjoy a menu that features seasonal ingredients and local flavors, giving you a taste of the region. Conclude your day with a sunset walk through the park, reflecting on the beauty of nature you've experienced.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee at local cafe | $3-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range cafe | $10-15 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (local, one-way) | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with easy access to nature
- Excellent cycling routes and proximity to heathland parks
- Strong cultural scene and approachable museums
- Safe, friendly, and easy to navigate for travelers
- Nightlife is more low-key compared with larger cities
- Limited direct international flights from the city itself
- Smaller urban scale may feel quiet outside event periods
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goeiemorgen" - Good morning
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don't understand
- "Kunt u mij helpen?" - Can you help me?
- "Tot ziens" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Assen
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled streets, canal views, and colorful facades provide classic Dutch city photography opportunities.
A historic church with a spacious square ideal for architectural shots and candid street photography.
Architecturally distinctive building with strong geometric lines—great for modern architecture and reflection shots.
Capture the speedway atmosphere, grandstands, and paddock areas during events or from surrounding vantage points.
Lush green canopies, winding paths, and birdlife—ideal for nature photography and serene portraits.
Food in Assen
Assen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty winter soup made with split peas, pork, and vegetables; widely served in cafes and homes during colder months.
Must-Try!
Potatoes mashed with kale or sauerkraut and served with smoked sausage; a classic Dutch winter staple that’s widely available in Assen’s eateries.
Regional sweet pastries and breads found in bakeries around the city, perfect with a cup of coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the heart of Assen offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and Dutch snacks.
Seasonal stalls around the center selling fries, croquettes, poffertjes, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch people are usually direct and value punctuality; greet with a friendly 'hoi' or 'goedemorgen' and say thank you when appropriate.
Keep to the right on cycle paths, ring your bell when passing, and pass on the left in narrow spaces.
Maintain quiet in residential areas and places of worship; follow museum and gallery rules when visiting.
Safety
Tipping in Assen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.
Cash is widely accepted, but cards and contactless payments are common. Online payments via iDEAL are frequently used for bookings and purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; great for cycling, outdoor markets, and al fresco dining. Showers are possible, so pack a light rain layer.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic drives, forest walks, and harvest-time markets. Expect more frequent rain.
Cold with potential frost or light snow; many outdoor spots feel quieter. Museums and cozy cafés are perfect for indoors, and holiday events add atmosphere.
Rising temperatures and blooming countryside; perfect for cycling and outdoor strolls as nature comes alive.
Assen at Night
Hiking in Assen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A striking heathland park near Dwingelo with extensive walking and biking trails.
A moorland area with tranquil trails, birds, and open skies—great for serene hikes.
Riverside trails and pastoral scenery just outside the city, ideal for longer day hikes.
Airports
How to reach Assen by plane.
Closest airport serving domestic and limited international flights; easy drive or rail link to Assen.
Major international hub about 2.5–3 hours by train or car from Assen; frequent connections to global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Dutch residents with a growing mix of international visitors and students; a family-friendly, community-oriented population.
Visitors drawn to the Drenthe countryside, Drents Museum, and the TT Circuit, especially during race seasons.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Historic motorcycle racing venue hosting major international events and weekend enthusiasts.
A beloved Dutch pastime, with extensive local routes through Drenthe’s flat landscapes.
Local clubs and recreational leagues reflect the active sports culture in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Assen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Assen restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetables, pasta, risottos, and plant-based protein, and ask for simple substitutions where needed.