Things To Do
in Hoogeveen

Hoogeveen is a charming town in the province of Drenthe in the Netherlands known for its picturesque canals and green spaces. With a population of around 55,000 residents, Hoogeveen offers a peaceful atmosphere with a mix of modern amenities and historical architecture. The town is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it a great destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Hoogeveen also has a rich cultural scene, with museums, art galleries, and events showcasing local talents and traditions.

  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Tot ziens" - See you later

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
  • Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Hoogeveen
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to savor fresh produce and local delicacies. Stroll through the charming streets and admire the historical architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the Museum Hoogeveen to learn about the region's history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café, followed by a leisurely walk in the park.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Dutch restaurant and try some regional dishes. End your day with a relaxing evening walk by the canals.

day 2
Nature Day
morning
:

Head out to the nearby Dwingelderveld National Park for a morning hike. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful landscapes.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or taking photographs of the stunning scenery.

evening
:

Return to Hoogeveen and unwind with a peaceful dinner at a local eatery. Reflect on your day while taking a stroll under the stars.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere with a strong sense of community
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger Dutch cities
  • Access to beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and canals
  • Good transportation links to nearby cities like Zwolle and Assen
  • Rich local history and culture, with various festivals and events
  • Limited job opportunities in specialized fields
  • Fewer entertainment and dining options compared to larger urban areas
  • Public transport may not be as frequent as in bigger cities
  • Potentially less diverse cultural scene
  • Not as many educational institutions or facilities for higher education

Best Activities in Hoogeveen

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Parks and Recreation Areas

Enjoy outdoor activities in various parks and recreation areas around Hoogeveen, such as a visit to De Zuiderpark, Bentinckspark, and Het Riegmeer.

Cycling and Walking Tours

Explore the picturesque surroundings of Hoogeveen with cycling and walking tours along the scenic trails and paths.

Boating and Canoeing

Experience the tranquil waterways by engaging in boating and canoeing activities in the surrounding lakes and canals.

Tours

Uncover the best of Hoogeveen with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Hoogeveen

Visit one of these nice places.

De 500Loods

A popular spot for photography, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Stork Nest

A beautiful location for bird-watching and capturing scenic views of nature.

De Zwaaikom

Provides picturesque views of the water and boats, perfect for photography enthusiasts.

Food in Hoogeveen

Hoogeveen, Netherlands offers a rich culinary experience with its blend of traditional Dutch cuisine and international influences. From hearty stews to delectable pastries, this town has something to delight every palate.

Hoogeveen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Snert

A thick pea soup typically made with split peas, pork, and a variety of vegetables. It's a beloved winter dish in the Netherlands and can be found at local eateries like Eetcafé Secret

Must-Try!

Stroopwafel

A delightful treat consisting of two thin waffles with a caramel-like syrup filling. Visit the Hoogeveen market on Saturdays to sample freshly made stroopwafels from vendors like Stroopwafelkraam.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Hoogeveen better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hoogeveen Market

The Hoogeveen market is a vibrant hub of local flavors and international delights. Here, you can savor a variety of street food, including herring sandwiches, Dutch fries, and delectable cheeses from the stalls.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a temperate maritime climate, which is typical for much of Northwestern Europe. This entails mild summers and relatively cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from around 18 to 22 degrees Celsius (64 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit), while winter temperatures generally hover between -1 and 5 degrees Celsius (30 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit). Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with rainfall occurring frequently throughout all seasons. The wettest months usually fall in late summer and autumn. The area also experiences significant cloud cover, particularly in the autumn and winter months, leading to less sunshine during those times. Wind patterns are typically influenced by the North Sea, which brings moist air to the region. In summary, the climate features a mix of moderate temperatures, consistent rainfall, and variable cloudiness, making for a generally mild and wet environment.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respecting Personal Space

In Hoogeveen, it's important to respect personal space and maintain a polite distance when interacting with others. It's a cultural norm to avoid standing too close and to be mindful of individual privacy.

Punctuality

Punctuality is highly valued in Hoogeveen, so it's respectful to arrive on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings. Tardiness is generally viewed as a sign of disrespect.

Tolerance and Open-mindedness

Hoogeveen is known for its cultural diversity, and showing tolerance and open-mindedness towards different beliefs, customs, and lifestyles is considered respectful. It's important to engage in discussions with an open and respectful attitude.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Hoogeveen with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in this Dutch town is generally regarded as good, with low crime rates compared to larger urban areas. The community benefits from effective local policing and a strong emphasis on community safety initiatives. Residents often feel secure in their neighborhoods, and instances of serious crime are relatively rare. Public transportation is well-maintained, and traffic regulations are followed diligently, contributing to road safety. The town is also equipped with facilities and resources for emergency services, ensuring quick responses in emergencies. Community engagement plays an important role, with various programs encouraging residents to be active participants in maintaining safety and looking out for one another. Overall, the environment fosters a sense of security and well-being for both locals and visitors.

Tipping in Hoogeveen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Hoogeveen, tipping is not mandatory but it is appreciated in restaurants, cafes, and for good service. A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is customary.

Payment

Payment in Hoogeveen is predominantly done through electronic means such as debit or credit cards. However, cash is also widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are popular in many establishments.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hoogeveen.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Hoogeveen, as the surrounding tulip fields come into full bloom, creating a beautiful and colorful landscape. The weather is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C.

Summer

Summer is a popular time to visit Hoogeveen due to warm weather and long daylight hours. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking around the picturesque countryside. Average temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C.

Autumn

Autumn in Hoogeveen offers stunning foliage as the leaves change color, creating a scenic backdrop for nature walks and photography. The weather starts to cool down with temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C.

Winter

Winter in Hoogeveen can be cold with average temperatures between 0°C to 5°C. While it may not be the most popular time to visit, it offers a unique charm with cozy indoor activities and the possibility of skating on frozen canals.

Hoogeveen at Night

The nightlife scene in Hoogeveen offers a cozy and friendly atmosphere suited for people looking to enjoy a quieter, more laid-back evening. Local bars and pubs are popular spots where residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of drinks, engage in friendly conversation, and sometimes enjoy live music or a DJ set. Among the places to visit, you'll find a range of options from traditional Dutch pubs ("bruin cafés") to more modern bars. Whether you're looking for a place to have a relaxed drink or somewhere to dance into the early hours, you'll find a suitable venue. Restaurants in Hoogeveen also contribute to the nightlife by staying open late and often providing a warm, inviting ambiance where people can enjoy dinner and drinks. Some establishments even host themed nights or special events to attract more patrons. While it may not be as bustling as nightlife in larger Dutch cities, Hoogeveen’s smaller size imbues it with a sense of community and intimacy. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the nightlife here offers a charming, engaging experience.

Hiking in Hoogeveen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dwingelderveld National Park

A beautiful national park featuring heathlands, peat bogs, and forests with various hiking trails ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes.

Drentsche Aa National Landscape

A stunning natural area with a network of hiking paths along the Drentsche Aa river, showcasing picturesque landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.

Ballooërveld

A scenic heathland area close to Hoogeveen, offering peaceful hiking trails through open landscapes and viewpoints over the heath.

Oldeholtpade Forest

A small, serene forest area with winding trails, ideal for leisurely hikes amid the trees and wildlife.

Schoonhoven

A local natural area with diverse trails through woods and surrounding fields, perfect for a quick nature escape.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Hoogeveen through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Hoogeveen by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 130 km from Hoogeveen.

Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ)

A smaller international airport located around 30 km from Hoogeveen, serving both domestic and limited international flights.

Munster Osnabruck International Airport (FMO)

Located roughly 140 km from Hoogeveen in Germany, this airport offers various international flights.

Bremen Airport (BRE)

Located about 200 km from Hoogeveen, this airport serves both international and domestic destinations.

Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)

Approximately 200 km from Hoogeveen, Düsseldorf Airport is one of Germany's major international airports.

Walkability

Walkability in a town involves factors such as pedestrian infrastructure, accessibility, safety, and the availability of amenities within a comfortable walking distance. In Hoogeveen, the layout is generally pedestrian-friendly, with various walkways, parks, and public spaces that encourage walking. The town center features a mix of shops, cafes, and services that are easily accessible on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are pedestrian zones that enhance safety and comfort for walkers. Additionally, urban planning promotes mixed-use development, allowing residents to access daily necessities without relying entirely on motor vehicles. Green spaces and parks scattered throughout the area contribute to a pleasant walking experience, providing opportunities for leisurely strolls and recreation. Overall, Hoogeveen supports a walkable environment, making it convenient for residents and visitors to explore the town on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch

The predominant ethnic group, comprising the majority of the population in Hoogeveen.

Turkish

A significant minority group in Hoogeveen, with a historical presence in the region.

Moroccan

Another notable minority group, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.

Eastern European

Includes individuals from countries such as Poland and Romania, participating in local labor markets.

Indonesian

Reflecting the colonial history of the Netherlands, this group has a smaller, yet established presence in Hoogeveen.

Others

Includes various smaller communities from different backgrounds and nationalities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Hoogeveen, with several local clubs and a passionate fan base.

Hockey

Field hockey enjoys significant popularity in Hoogeveen, with local clubs fostering young talent and competitiveness.

Volleyball

Volleyball is a well-followed sport in Hoogeveen, featuring both recreational and competitive leagues for various age groups.

Basketball

Basketball has a growing interest in Hoogeveen, with local teams and community events promoting the sport.

Handball

Handball is an emerging sport in Hoogeveen, gaining traction through schools and recreational leagues.

Traffic

Traffic in this town is generally characterized by a mix of local and through traffic. The road infrastructure includes several main routes that connect to larger highways, facilitating travel to nearby cities and regions. The town has a well-organized road network, but like many places, it can experience congestion during peak hours, particularly near commercial areas and schools. Public transportation options are available, including buses that serve the surrounding areas and neighboring towns. Cycling is popular, with dedicated bike lanes encouraging residents to opt for this eco-friendly mode of transport. Parking is typically available, although finding a spot in busy areas may be challenging during certain times. Pedestrian-friendly areas contribute to a more relaxed atmosphere in certain parts of the town, promoting walking as a viable option for many residents. Overall, traffic is manageable, with a community-oriented approach to transportation that supports both motorized and non-motorized transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hoogeveen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Hoogeveen has a growing range of eateries offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. Places like De Tostibar and Eetcafé Secret provide delicious options for plant-based diners.

Gluten-free Options

Several establishments in Hoogeveen cater to gluten-free diets, including De Herberg van Veda and De Lekkerbek, offering a selection of gluten-free meals and treats.

Healthcare

Located in the province of Drenthe, this town features a range of healthcare services to cater to its population. The healthcare system in this area includes general practitioners, specialists, and various medical facilities. Primary care is accessible through several general practitioner (GP) clinics, where residents can receive routine check-ups, vaccinations, and treatment for common illnesses. Specialized medical services can be found in local hospitals and clinics, providing care in various areas such as surgery, cardiology, and obstetrics. In addition to conventional medical services, residents have access to mental health services and community health initiatives designed to promote well-being. The town often collaborates with regional healthcare organizations to ensure comprehensive support for both physical and mental health. Pharmacies are also available to provide medication and health advice, complementing the broader healthcare system. Overall, the healthcare infrastructure in the area emphasizes accessibility and quality, aiming to meet the needs of the local population.

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