Drenthe, Netherlands Travel Guide

Discover Drenthe: A tranquil province in the Netherlands, known for its breathtaking landscapes, prehistoric dolmens, and extensive cycling and walking paths.

Drenthe, nestled in the northeastern part of the Netherlands, is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Known for its picturesque landscapes, the province is home to vast heathlands, dense forests, and tranquil waterways. Whether you're cycling through the scenic trails or exploring the lush national parks, Drenthe offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. One of Drenthe's most captivating features is its rich cultural heritage. The area boasts numerous prehistoric dolmens, ancient stone burial sites that date back thousands of years. These mysterious structures make for a fascinating visit, offering a glimpse into the region's distant past. The charming villages dotted throughout Drenthe are equally enchanting, with their traditional thatched-roof houses and friendly locals. Drenthe is also renowned for its outdoor activities. The province is crisscrossed by an extensive network of cycling and walking paths, making it easy to explore on foot or by bike. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the serene canals and lakes provide perfect opportunities for boating and fishing. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Drenthe's natural beauty and tranquil ambiance make it an ideal destination.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Drenthe.

Rent a bike to fully experience the extensive network of cycling paths.
Visit the Hunebedcentrum in Borger to learn more about the prehistoric dolmens.
Spend a day exploring the Dwingelderveld National Park, a paradise for nature lovers.
Try local delicacies at one of the charming village cafes.
Consider visiting during spring or autumn for the best weather and fewer crowds.

Top City Travel Guides in Drenthe

The cities of Drenthe, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Groningen

Destinations in Drenthe

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Giethoorn

Drenthe Province

Explore Drenthe: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Drenthe

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Wildlands

Explore the wild wonders of nature at Wildlands, Emmen's premier theme park and zoo, where adventure and wildlife come together in harmony.

4.3

TT Circuit Assen

Discover the adrenaline rush of motorsport at TT Circuit Assen, the Netherlands' premier racing destination with thrilling events and rich history.

4.7

Drouwenerzand Attractiepark B.V.

Experience thrilling rides, family fun, and beautiful nature at Drouwenerzand Attractiepark, the ultimate amusement park adventure in the Netherlands.

4.4

Herinneringscentrum Kamp Westerbork

Explore the profound history of the Holocaust at Herinneringscentrum Kamp Westerbork, a museum and memorial in Hooghalen, Netherlands.

4.5

Best landmarks in Drenthe

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Best Landmarks

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Wildlands

Experience the thrill of Wildlands, where adventure meets wildlife in a breathtaking theme park and zoo in Emmen, Netherlands.

4.3

Drouwenerzand Attractiepark B.V.

Experience the thrill of adventure at Drouwenerzand Attractiepark, a delightful amusement park in Drouwen, perfect for family fun and excitement.

4.4

Drents Museum

Explore the Drents Museum in Assen for a captivating journey through Dutch art, history, and archaeological wonders.

4.5

Hunebedcentrum

Experience the wonders of prehistoric Netherlands at Hunebedcentrum, the country's premier heritage museum showcasing ancient burial mounds and rich history.

4.1

Best restaurants in Drenthe

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De Bospub

Discover De Bospub: A delightful restaurant surrounded by nature's beauty in Dwingeloo, serving exquisite crepes and family-friendly cuisine.

4.4

Robin Hood Ribhouse

Experience delicious ribs and enchanting decor at Robin Hood Ribhouse in Drouwen – perfect for families and food lovers alike.

4.5

Diggels

Discover culinary excellence at Diggels in Westerbork—where local flavors meet exceptional service in a warm and inviting setting.

4.6

Restaurant & Grandcafé Liff

Experience exquisite Dutch and international cuisine at Restaurant & Grandcafé Liff in Assen – where taste meets tradition in every dish.

4.3

Best bars in Drenthe

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Cafe de Brasserie

Discover the culinary delights of Café de Brasserie in Emmen, a perfect blend of local charm and exquisite cuisine for every traveler.

4.3

Restaurant & Grandcafé Liff

Experience the best of Dutch and international cuisine at Restaurant & Grandcafé Liff in the heart of Assen, a culinary gem for every traveler.

4.3

Café-Restaurant Hofsteenge

Discover the perfect blend of cozy ambiance and delicious cuisine at Café-Restaurant Hofsteenge in Grolloo, a true culinary gem for every traveler.

4.5

Pand 17

Discover the excitement of Pand 17 in Assen, where dining, bowling, miniature golf, and a vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Drenthe

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FOX Nightlife

Discover Stadskanaal's energetic nightlife at FOX Nightlife, where every night is a celebration filled with music, dance, and unforgettable moments.

4.0

Club Smithy`s Palace

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Club Smithy's Palace, Eesveen's premier disco club offering an unforgettable experience of music and dance.

4.3

Fox Stadskanaal

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Fox Stadskanaal, where every night is filled with music, dancing, and unforgettable memories in the heart of Stadskanaal.

4.2

Club Limbo Emmen

Unleash your energy at Club Limbo Emmen, the ultimate nightlife destination with electrifying music and an unforgettable party atmosphere.

4.1

Best shops in Drenthe

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Winkelcentrum de Weiert

Explore Winkelcentrum de Weiert in Emmen, a shopping paradise featuring diverse stores, delicious dining, and vibrant local culture.

4.1

Vanderveen's department store

Discover Vanderveen's Department Store in Assen for an exceptional shopping experience with a delightful mix of local and international products.

4.2

Action Assen

Explore Action Assen for an extraordinary shopping experience offering gifts, home goods, DIY supplies, and more in the heart of Assen.

4.1

Winkelcentrum De Triade

Explore Winkelcentrum De Triade, Assen's premier shopping mall, where diverse stores and delightful dining meet in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Explore Drenthe on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Drenthe, mapped for you.

Drenthe Essentials

Drenthe is located in the northeastern part of the Netherlands. The nearest international airports are Groningen Airport Eelde (approximately 30 kilometers from Assen, the provincial capital) and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (approximately 160 kilometers away). From these airports, you can take a train, bus, or rent a car to reach Drenthe. The Dutch railway network is well-connected, and trains frequently run to and from major cities, including those in Drenthe.
Drenthe offers a variety of transportation options. Public buses and trains provide extensive coverage across the province. Cycling is highly recommended, as Drenthe is known for its excellent network of bike paths and scenic routes. Car rentals are available for those who prefer more flexibility. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are also accessible in larger towns.
The official currency in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. ATMs are readily available in all towns and cities. It is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas and local markets.
Drenthe is generally a very safe region for tourists. However, basic precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Drenthe, but it's always best to stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire services, and medical emergencies. There are hospitals and medical facilities available in major towns like Assen and Emmen. Pharmacies (apotheken) are also available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually. The Dutch are known for their practical and unpretentious fashion sense. Avoid overly flashy clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, even though the Netherlands is largely secular. Public Transport: Do be punctual and respectful. Don’t speak loudly or disturb others on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. A casual 'Hallo' or 'Hoi' works well. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like “Drentse bol” and “Asser roggebrood.” Don’t refuse food or drink offerings, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Drenthe like a local, rent a bicycle and explore the beautiful countryside, including the heathlands, forests, and megalithic tombs (hunebedden). Visit local markets to purchase fresh produce and traditional Dutch goods. Engage with locals, as they are generally friendly and willing to share stories about the region’s history and culture. Don’t miss the annual TT Assen motorcycle races if you are visiting in June.

When is the best time to visit Drenthe?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Drenthe

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Drenthe. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [Ha-lo]
- GoodbyeTot ziens
  [Tot zeens]
- YesJa
  [Ya]
- NoNee
  [Nay]
- Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft
  [Al-stu-bleeft]
- Thank youDank u
  [Dahnk oo]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [Sor-ree]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [Hoo gaat het]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En jij?
  [Hoot. En yay]
- Do you speak English?Spreekt u Engels?
  [Spraykt oo En-gels]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [Ik be-graip het neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag de menukaart willen zien, alstublieft
  [Ik zow grach de me-nu-kaart wil-len zeen, al-stu-bleeft]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [Ik eet ghen vlay-s]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [Prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk zou graag willen betalen, alstublieft
  [Ik zow grach wil-len be-ta-len, al-stu-bleeft]
- Help!Help!
  [Help]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [Gah vek]
- Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [Bel de po-li-tsee]
- Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [Bel een dok-ter]
- I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [Ik ben fer-dwaald]
- I'm illIk ben ziek
  [Ik ben zeek]
- I'd like to buy...Ik zou graag ... willen kopen
  [Ik zow grach ... wil-len ko-pen]
- I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
  [Ik kike a-lay-en mar]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [Hoo-vayl kost het]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [Dat is te dur]
- Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [Kunt oo de prays ver-lah-gen]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [Hoo laat is het]
- It's one o'clockHet is één uur
  [Het is eyn oor]
- Half past (10)Half elf
  [Half elf]
- MorningOchtend
  [Okh-tend]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [Mid-dahg]
- EveningAvond
  [A-vond]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [Gis-te-ren]
- TodayVandaag
  [Van-dahg]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [Mor-ghen]
- 1Eén
  [Eyn]
- 2Twee
  [Tway]
- 3Drie
  [Dree]
- 4Vier
  [Veer]
- 5Vijf
  [Vayf]
- 6Zes
  [Zes]
- 7Zeven
  [Zay-ven]
- 8Acht
  [Aht]
- 9Negen
  [Nay-ghen]
- 10Tien
  [Teen]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is een ...?
  [Vaar is een ...?]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [Wat is het a-dres?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u het me laten zien (op de kaart)?
  [Kunt oo het me la-ten zeen (op de kaart)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer komt de volgende (bus)?
  [Van-der komt de vol-gen-de (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Een kaartje (naar ...)
  [Een kaart-ye (naer ...)]

History of Drenthe

Drenthe is renowned for its prehistoric dolmens, known locally as 'hunebedden'. These ancient megalithic tombs date back to the Neolithic era, around 3400 to 2850 BCE. Built by the Funnelbeaker culture, the dolmens are constructed from massive boulders and serve as burial sites. There are 54 dolmens in the Netherlands, and 52 of them are located in Drenthe, making it a significant archaeological treasure trove. The largest dolmen, D27, can be found near the village of Borger, where the Hunebed Centre offers detailed insights into these enigmatic structures.
During the early medieval period, Drenthe was part of the Bishopric of Utrecht. The region was relatively isolated but played a crucial role in the ecclesiastical and political landscape of the Low Countries. The bishops exerted significant control over Drenthe, managing its lands and resources. The influence of the church is evident in the numerous medieval churches and monasteries scattered throughout the region, which stand as testaments to Drenthe's historical importance in the Middle Ages.
In 1227, Drenthe became the focal point of a significant historical event known as the Battle of Ane. The local population, led by Rudolph van Coevorden, rebelled against the oppressive rule of the Bishop of Utrecht. The conflict culminated in a battle near the village of Ane, where the Drenthers achieved a surprising victory. This event marked an important chapter in the region's struggle for autonomy and is commemorated for its impact on the power dynamics within the bishopric.
The Eighty Years' War (1568–1648) between the Dutch provinces and the Spanish Empire left its mark on Drenthe. Although the region saw less direct conflict compared to other parts of the Netherlands, it played a strategic role in the broader resistance against Spanish rule. The war ultimately led to the recognition of Dutch independence, and Drenthe's integration into the newly formed Dutch Republic. The legacy of the Eighty Years' War is reflected in the region's fortifications and historical sites.
The 19th century brought significant changes to Drenthe with the advent of the Industrial Revolution. The region's vast peat bogs became valuable resources for fuel, leading to the establishment of peat colonies. These settlements were created for the purpose of extracting peat, which was a major industry during this period. Villages such as Klazienaveen and Emmer-Compascuum emerged as centers of peat production. The history of these colonies is preserved in local museums, showcasing the hard lives of the workers and the transformation of the landscape.
One of the most poignant historical sites in Drenthe is the Westerbork Transit Camp. Originally established as a refugee camp in 1939, it was later used by the Nazis during World War II as a transit camp for Jews, Roma, and Sinti before they were deported to extermination camps in Eastern Europe. Over 100,000 people passed through Westerbork, including Anne Frank. Today, the site serves as a memorial and museum, offering a solemn reminder of the horrors of the Holocaust and the importance of remembrance.
After World War II, Drenthe underwent a period of reconstruction and modernization. The region's economy diversified, with growth in agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism. Drenthe's natural beauty, characterized by heathlands, forests, and wetlands, has made it a popular destination for outdoor activities and cultural tourism. Modern Drenthe is a blend of historical heritage and contemporary living, offering visitors a rich tapestry of experiences.