Things To Do
in Meppel
Meppel is a picturesque town located in the province of Drenthe in the Netherlands. The town is known for its beautiful canals and historic buildings, which create a charming atmosphere for visitors to enjoy. Meppel also hosts an annual street fair called the Meppel Fair, which attracts people from all over the region.
With its quaint streets, friendly locals, and rich history, Meppel is a delightful destination for those looking to experience Dutch culture.
- "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 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely bike ride around the scenic Meppel canals. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and take in the morning light reflecting off the water.
Visit the Meppel Museum to learn about the rich history of the town and its surroundings. Grab lunch at a cozy café nearby to refuel for the rest of the day.
Stroll through the historic town center and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Don’t forget to sample some Dutch delicacies and experience the evening ambiance.
Rent a bike and explore the beautiful countryside around Meppel. The fresh air and lush landscapes will invigorate you for the day ahead.
Take a break in one of the quaint villages, savoring a picnic lunch. Engage with locals and experience their way of life as you pedal through charming roads.
Return to Meppel and unwind at a local brewery. Enjoy a craft beer while mingling with fellow travelers and locals alike.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful canals and natural scenery
- Rich cultural heritage and historical architecture
- Vibrant local markets and community events
- Good public transportation connections to other cities
- Quaint small-town atmosphere with friendly locals
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Possibly fewer job opportunities in specialized fields
- Harsh winters may not appeal to everyone
- Limited shopping options compared to larger urban areas
- Potential for flooding in low-lying areas
Best Activities in Meppel
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural surroundings of Meppel by walking the scenic walking route.
Enjoy a cycling adventure along this picturesque route that takes you through the countryside and historic sights of Meppel.
Paddle along the serene waters of the Meppeler Diep for a relaxing and scenic outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Meppel with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Meppel
Visit one of these nice places.
Beautiful spot for capturing photos of the historic lock and the surrounding canal in Meppel.
A picturesque park where you can take photos of the greenery, water features, and historic buildings.
Quaint streets and historic architecture provide great photo opportunities in the heart of Meppel.
Food in Meppel
Meppel Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Dutch dish of slow-cooked beef stewed in rich gravy, often served with fries or bread. Locals recommend trying it at 'De Brasserie.'
Must-Try!
Small, fluffy pancakes typically topped with powdered sugar and butter. Visit the weekend market in Meppel to savor freshly made poffertjes.
A smoked sausage, often enjoyed with stamppot (mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables). Look for this dish at 'De Lekkernij.'
Unique Experiences
Get to know Meppel better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this vibrant market to discover local delicacies, street food, and fresh produce. Don't miss the opportunity to relish Dutch street food specialties such as herring and stroopwafels.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Meppel, it's common to greet others with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Addressing people with their titles (Mr., Mrs., etc.) and using formal language is expected in initial interactions.
Being on time is highly valued in Meppel. Arriving a few minutes early for meetings and appointments is considered respectful, as it shows that you value the other person's time.
When dining in Meppel, it's customary to wait until the host gives the signal to start eating. It's also polite to keep your hands visible on the table and to say 'eet smakelijk' (enjoy your meal) before beginning your meal.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Meppel with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Meppel
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Meppel, Netherlands, but it is appreciated for good service. It is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 5-10% in restaurants and for other services.
In Meppel, Netherlands, most businesses accept major credit and debit cards such as Visa and Mastercard. Cash is also widely used, especially for small purchases at local shops and markets. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular as well.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Meppel.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Meppel, with blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures. You can expect to see tulip fields in full bloom and enjoy outdoor activities.
Summer brings warm weather and longer days, making it an ideal time to explore the canals, attend outdoor festivals, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Autumn in Meppel offers beautiful foliage, picturesque scenery, and the chance to experience local harvest festivals and cultural events.
Winter in Meppel can be cold, but the festive atmosphere, holiday markets, and opportunities for ice skating and winter sports make it a unique and charming time to visit.
Meppel at Night
Hiking in Meppel
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park characterized by heathlands, wetlands, and forests, offering numerous hiking trails through diverse landscapes.
A unique wetlands area with beautiful hiking paths through swamps and nature reserves, showcasing rich flora and fauna.
A local park with a variety of trails, perfect for walking and enjoying the natural surroundings close to the city.
A tranquil forest area with well-marked hiking trails, ideal for a peaceful walk amidst nature.
Known as the 'Venice of the North,' Giethoorn offers scenic walking routes along its famous canals and through picturesque villages.
Aiports
How to reach Meppel by plane.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 120 kilometers southwest of Meppel, serving as a major European hub.
An international airport located about 50 kilometers northeast of Meppel, primarily serving regional flights and some international routes.
An international airport located approximately 150 kilometers south of Meppel, providing a variety of low-cost and charter flights to European destinations.
Located around 170 kilometers southwest of Meppel, this international airport offers flights mainly to European locations and serves the Rotterdam and The Hague regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Meppel, making up a significant portion of the population with cultural and historical ties to the region.
Includes various groups from countries such as Turkey, Morocco, and Suriname, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
A smaller demographic consisting of individuals from various countries who reside in Meppel for work or study.
A significant demographic group in Meppel due to the aging population trend in many parts of the Netherlands.
Includes children and teenagers, representing the future of the city with a focus on education and social development.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Meppel, with several local clubs and a strong community support.
Field hockey is widely played in Meppel, with dedicated teams and facilities for practice and matches.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Meppel, offering many courts and clubs for players of all ages.
Volleyball has a vibrant presence in the community with various leagues and recreational opportunities.
Cycling is a favored activity in Meppel, supported by extensive bike paths and a scenic environment.
Running is a popular sport in Meppel, with numerous running clubs and events organized throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meppel.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Meppel cater to vegetarians and vegans, offering a range of innovative plant-based dishes. 'Koks & Keukenmeiden' and 'Kaatje bij de Sluis' are known for their vegetarian and vegan-friendly menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can comfortably dine at establishments like 'Koks & Keukenmeiden,' which provides gluten-free alternatives alongside their regular menu items.