Things To Do
in Westervoort
Westervoort is a small town in Gelderland, Netherlands, nestled along the IJssel River just east of Arnhem. It offers a peaceful, village-like atmosphere with green spaces, riverside walks, and easy access to the wider Gelderland region. The town is well-connected by rail and road, making it a convenient base for exploring eastern Netherlands.
Visitors can enjoy relaxing waterfront scenery, local cafes, and quick trips to nearby cultural hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your morning by strolling through the picturesque streets of Westervoort, admiring the charming architecture and historic buildings. Stop by a local bakery to savor a traditional Dutch breakfast with freshly baked pastries and coffee. As you wander, take in the serene atmosphere and perhaps visit the local market to experience the vibrant community.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Arnhem, just a short drive away, to explore the rich history of the area at the Airborne Museum. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside café, soaking in the views of the Rhine River. Spend some time walking through the beautiful Sonsbeek Park, where you can relax and appreciate the lush landscapes.
As the sun sets, return to Westervoort for a cozy dinner at a traditional Dutch restaurant, where you can try local specialties like stamppot or poffertjes. After your meal, take a relaxing evening walk along the riverfront, enjoying the peaceful ambiance as the stars begin to twinkle. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a nearby pub, mingling with locals and sharing stories.
Kick off your day with a refreshing bike ride through the scenic countryside surrounding Westervoort. Enjoy the tranquility of the natural landscapes, dotted with windmills and traditional farms, as you pedal along designated bike paths. Stop for a moment at a viewpoint to take stunning photos of the lush greenery.
After a morning filled with cycling, take a break at one of the picnic areas to enjoy a packed lunch featuring local delicacies. Following lunch, hike through the nearby Veluwezoom National Park, where you can discover diverse wildlife and breathtaking viewpoints. Make sure to visit the iconic Posbank hill for panoramic views of the region.
As dusk approaches, return to Westervoort and unwind at a local café with a warm drink. Engage in a friendly conversation with residents about their favorite spots in town and get insider tips for your next adventures. For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach, showcasing the best of seasonal ingredients.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee or small drink | $2-4 |
| 🚌Public transit monthly pass | $60-90 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment rent (city center) | $1200-1800 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly basket) | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, safe, and family-friendly atmosphere
- Close proximity to Arnhem’s culture and nature
- Limited nightlife within Westervoort itself
- Small-town feel may be quieter for travelers seeking big-city activity
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde bushalte?" - Where is the nearest bus stop?
- "Ik ben vegetarier" - I am a vegetarian
Places to Visit in Westervoort
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views, calm mornings, and golden hour reflections along the quayside; ideal for landscape and cityscape photography.
Architectural lines against the water with viewpoints across the IJssel; great for sunset shots and long exposure images.
Historic squares and churches offer architectural photography opportunities within a short ride from Westervoort.
Food in Westervoort
Westervoort Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw herring served with onions and pickles; commonly eaten on a bun or by hand, especially in warmer months.
Must-Try!
Crispy fried croquettes filled with a savory meat ragout, a staple Dutch pub snack.
Thin waffle cookies with caramel syrup, best enjoyed with coffee or tea.
A selection of local cheeses served on bread or as part of a cheese board, reflecting classic Dutch flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, pastries, and ready-to-eat snacks; great for sampling local bites.
Seasonal fruit, vegetables, honey, and artisanal products from nearby villages.
A mix of frites, croquettes, Indonesian-inspired snacks, and other quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'hallo' or 'goedemorgen' and use 'u' for formal situations; maintain a helpful, relaxed attitude in queues and public spaces.
Pass on bike paths with care and follow traffic signals; keep to the right and yield to pedestrians where indicated.
Table manners are similar to other Western European cultures; wait to be seated in some venues and say 'alstublieft' when offering something.
Safety
Tipping in Westervoort
Ensure a smooth experience
Municipal service charges are uncommon; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) at casual eateries is typical if service is not included.
Card payments (PIN/contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still accepted but less common in some venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery and blooming trees; ideal for outdoor strolls and river views. Bring layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons.
Long daylight hours and pleasant temperatures; perfect for riverside picnics, outdoor cafes, and cycling along the IJssel.
Colorful foliage and cooler air; great for scenic walks and photography of changing landscapes along the river.
Cool to cold with possible rain; short days but cozy cafés and indoor cultural activities provide warmth and local charm.
Westervoort at Night
Hiking in Westervoort
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and heathland trails just a short drive from Westervoort, offering scenic viewpoints and wildlife spotting.
River-adjacent walking paths and meadow trails along the IJssel, ideal for leisurely hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Westervoort by plane.
Major international hub with frequent connections; direct rail and fast link to Arnhem and Westervoort.
Mid-sized European hub with many domestic and international flights; accessible by high-speed train connections to Arnhem region.
Large international airport in Germany, about a two-hour journey by train/car with onward public transport to Westervoort.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Dutch families and professionals; growing presence of international residents from nearby Arnhem.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local clubs and amateur leagues are common in the area.
A cornerstone of Dutch life; excellent bike paths along the IJssel and surrounding countryside.
Popular team sport with local clubs available in the region.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Westervoort.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Dutch menus offer vegetarian options; look for roomier vegetable plates, dairy-based dishes, and plant-based pastries. Say 'Vegetarisch alstublieft' and check for gelatin or meat-based stocks in soups.