Things To Do
in Veendam
Veendam is a town located in the province of Groningen in the Netherlands. It is known for its history as a peat mining area, with many canals and waterways still visible throughout the town. Veendam has a charming town center with historic buildings, shops, and cafes to explore.
The town also offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and boating in the surrounding 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 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Museum of the History of Science, where you can explore fascinating exhibits. A stroll through the local market will give you a taste of Dutch culture and delicious snacks.
In the afternoon, head to the scenic park at Eesergat to enjoy a picnic by the water. Don't miss a boat tour to discover the beauty of the surrounding waterways.
For dinner, try a local restaurant showcasing traditional Dutch cuisine. End your day by taking a relaxing evening walk along the canal to soak in the picturesque views.
Rent a bike and start your morning cycling through the beautiful countryside of Groningen. This is a perfect way to see the lush landscapes and charming farms.
Stop by local farms to sample fresh produce and learn about the agricultural practices in the area. Spend the afternoon riding along scenic routes and enjoying the fresh air.
After a fulfilling day, settle down at a cozy café for some hot chocolate and pastry. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere as you reflect on your day of adventure.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with numerous historic buildings and local museums.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and waterways perfect for outdoor activities.
- Strong sense of community and friendly atmosphere among residents.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Dutch cities.
- Good access to public transportation, making it easy to travel to nearby cities.
- Limited job opportunities, especially in specialized fields.
- Smaller selection of entertainment and dining options compared to bigger cities.
- Potential for isolation due to its size, which might not suit everyone.
- Weather can be quite rainy and cloudy, which may affect overall mood.
- Limited access to high-level educational institutions within the town itself.
Best Activities in Veendam
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Borgerswold is a popular outdoor recreation area in Veendam, offering opportunities for walking, cycling, and picnicking. It features a beautiful lake and scenic paths for enjoying nature.
Golf enthusiasts can enjoy a round of golf at Golf Club Veendam, which offers a picturesque course surrounded by natural beauty.
The Veendammer Lake provides a great setting for sailing, with its tranquil waters and picturesque surroundings offering a relaxing outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Veendam with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Veendam
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful park with lakes, walking trails, and open spaces offering stunning views for photography in Veendam.
This restaurant has a rooftop terrace that provides an excellent vantage point for capturing the town's picturesque landscapes.
The museum is located in a historic canal house, and from certain vantage points, it offers great views of the surrounding area in Veendam.
Food in Veendam
Veendam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh herring served with onions and pickles, a classic Dutch delicacy. Look for them at local fishmongers or street stalls.
Must-Try!
A thick and hearty pea soup with smoked sausage and pork, a winter favorite. Can be savored at traditional Dutch restaurants in Veendam.
Mini Dutch pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter, a sweet treat often found at local food markets and cafes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Veendam better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore this vibrant market to discover local produce, cheeses, and prepared foods. Look out for stalls offering freshly made stroopwafels and artisanal cheeses.
Enjoy a variety of Dutch street foods such as Bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), Frikandel (a deep-fried skinless sausage), and Dutch fries with a wide range of toppings at local snack bars and food trucks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Veendam, it is important to respect people's personal space and avoid standing too close when interacting with others.
Punctuality is valued in Veendam, so it is important to be on time for appointments and meetings.
Politeness is highly regarded in Veendam, so it is essential to use polite language and show respect to others in social interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Veendam with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Veendam
Ensure a smooth experience
In Veendam, it is customary to leave a tip of 5-10% in restaurants, cafes, and for other services such as taxi rides, hairdressing, and hotel staff.
Payment in Veendam is commonly made using cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Contactless payment methods are also widely accepted in many establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Veendam.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Veendam, with mild temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. You can expect the town to come to life with outdoor markets and events.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Veendam, with warm weather perfect for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy festivals, boating on the canals, and exploring the surrounding nature.
Autumn brings beautiful foliage and a cozy atmosphere to Veendam. The town's parks and gardens are stunning as the leaves change color, and it's a great time for scenic walks.
Winter in Veendam is cold but charming, with the possibility of snow adding to the town's picturesque setting. The holiday season brings festive markets and cultural events.
Veendam at Night
Hiking in Veendam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful forested area with various trails suitable for hiking, located approximately 20 km from Veendam.
A unique area characterized by its ridges and valleys, offering several marked hiking trails and scenic views, located about 25 km away.
A nature reserve with numerous hiking paths around lakes and forests, perfect for a peaceful day of hiking, around 15 km from Veendam.
An area with diverse landscapes including heathlands and woods, providing excellent hiking opportunities, approximately 30 km from Veendam.
A special nature reserve with numerous trails and rich flora and fauna, located around 35 km from Veendam.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Veendam through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Veendam by plane.
The closest international airport to Veendam, located approximately 20 km away.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located about 200 km southwest of Veendam.
An international airport located approximately 150 km northeast of Veendam across the border in Germany.
Located around 150 km west of Veendam, this airport also offers international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Veendam, with Dutch-speaking residents and a strong cultural heritage.
A significant minority group, largely due to historical ties between the Netherlands and Indonesia.
A notable demographic group, reflecting migration trends in the late 20th century.
Another key minority within the community, contributing to the cultural diversity of Veendam.
Individuals of Surinamese descent, adding to the multicultural fabric of the town.
Residents from various other European countries, including German, Polish, and Romanian communities.
Includes small populations from different countries, contributing to the overall diversity of Veendam.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Veendam, with local clubs participating in various leagues and tournaments.
Ice hockey has a dedicated following in Veendam, with facilities available for both training and matches.
Field hockey is also quite popular, featuring several youth and adult teams that compete regionally.
Volleyball is played both indoors and on the beach, with local teams actively participating in competitions.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Veendam, with clubs offering programs for players of all ages and skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Veendam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Veendam offer a selection of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including Dutch vegetable stews, hearty salads, and plant-based sandwiches.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find gluten-free bread, cakes, and pastries at various cafes and bakeries in Veendam. Many restaurants also provide gluten-free alternatives for their main dishes.