Things To Do
in Coevorden
Coevorden is one of the Netherlands' oldest towns, set in the green Drenthe region with a rich medieval heritage. Its star attraction is the well-preserved castle and surrounding moat, giving the town a fairy-tale atmosphere. The compact historic center is ideal for leisurely walks, cafés, and canal-side views.
Surrounded by rolling farmland, Coevorden is a calm base for exploring Dutch countryside by bike or on foot.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your morning with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Coevorden, taking in the historic architecture and quaint shops. Visit the Coevorden Castle, where you can learn about the city's rich history and enjoy the serene gardens surrounding it. Grab a coffee and a traditional Dutch pastry at a local café to fuel up for the day ahead.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour to discover the hidden gems of the city, including beautiful murals and historical landmarks. Stop by the local market to interact with friendly vendors and sample some regional delicacies. As you explore, keep an eye out for unique souvenirs that reflect the culture of Coevorden.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to enjoy a traditional Dutch dinner, savoring dishes like stamppot or fresh herring. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque canals, watching the reflections of the city lights dance on the water. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local bar, where you can chat with locals and soak in the atmosphere.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading to the nearby Velen National Park, known for its lush landscapes and diverse wildlife. Take a guided nature walk where you’ll have the chance to spot various bird species and learn about the park’s ecosystem. The fresh air and natural beauty will invigorate your spirit as you immerse yourself in the tranquility of the surroundings.
After a refreshing morning hike, enjoy a picnic lunch in one of the park’s designated areas, surrounded by the sounds of nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the well-marked trails, perhaps even renting a bike to cover more ground. Keep your camera ready, as the scenic views and wildlife encounters are sure to be memorable.
Return to Coevorden and unwind with a leisurely dinner at a local bistro, where you can try seasonal dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, visit a nearby park for a relaxed evening stroll, where you can enjoy the peaceful ambiance and watch the stars come out. If you're up for it, check out a local event or live music performance to cap off your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍷Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $70-150 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and castle views
- Compact, walkable town center
- Biking-friendly countryside nearby
- Calm and safe environment
- Limited nightlife options
- Some areas may have limited English outside tourist spots
- Weather can be changeable; pack layers
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik ben vegetarier" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Coevorden
Visit one of these nice places.
Medieval castle with a protective moat and towers; dramatic especially at dawn or dusk.
Historic square framed by gabled houses and the grand Town Hall; ideal for architectural shots and street scenes.
Remnants of historic walls and gates along narrow, cobbled lanes—great for atmospheric urban photography.
Quiet canals and bridges offering reflections and tranquil cityscape compositions.
Food in Coevorden
Coevorden Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Dutch winter dish: mashed potatoes with kale and smoked sausage, often served with gravy.
Must-Try!
Thick pea soup traditionally enjoyed in the colder months, rich with herbs and sometimes bacon or sausage.
A regional spiced cookie from Drenthe, perfect with coffee after a day of exploring.
Seasonal stamppot with diverse vegetables (carrot, onion, cabbage) and choices of meat or vegetarian toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on the Markt square offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and local specialties.
Stands and pop-up vendors offering Dutch street-friendly bites like kroketten, fries, and stroopwafels.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is standard; address people by Mr./Ms unless invited to use first names.
Dutch people form orderly queues; wait your turn patiently and avoid cutting in.
Stay in designated bike lanes, signal turns, and yield to pedestrians and slower riders.
Keep voices moderate in public transport and cafés; respect local customs when entering homes or places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Coevorden
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice.
Cash is less common in urban settings; cards and contactless payments (PIN, tap) are widely accepted; iDEAL is popular for online/payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild weather and blooming gardens; great for outdoor strolls and early cycling.
Long daylight hours and outdoor events; enjoy canal-side seating and market scenes, but expect crowds on weekends.
Colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures; ideal for scenic rides and forest walks.
Cool-to-cold with possible frost; festive lights and cozy cafés create a quaint, intimate atmosphere.
Coevorden at Night
Hiking in Coevorden
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hiking along the Reestdal river with forests and farmland nearby.
Gentle trails through river valley and farmland; connects towns in Drenthe.
Short trails through woodland near Drouwen and Drenthe heathlands.
Airports
How to reach Coevorden by plane.
Small international airport about 50-70 minutes by car/train from Coevorden; flights to national and international destinations.
Major international hub about 2.5-3 hours away by train or car; frequent connections.
Mid-sized airport about 1.5-2.5 hours by car; serves several European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in and around Coevorden, enjoying green spaces and safety.
A substantial retiree community benefits from quiet, walkable streets and community programs.
Some students and commuters travel to nearby cities; a small international presence exists.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular sport in the Netherlands; local clubs and grass fields nearby.
Widely used for daily transport and recreation; flat terrain around Coevorden is ideal for rides.
In winter, ice skating is common on frozen canals and rinks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Coevorden.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable-forward mains or sides, and inform staff about dietary needs.
Ask about gluten-free bread or pasta options; many venues can accommodate with careful preparation and utensils.