Drenthe Province Travel Guide - Free Web & App

Your ultimate guide to Drenthe Province. Discover top landmarks, proposed trips, and local tips. Free on the web or via the Evendo companion app.

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Drenthe Province
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Discover Drenthe Province: Explore breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and charming villages in the heart of the Netherlands.

Drenthe Province, nestled in the northeastern part of the Netherlands, offers a serene escape into nature and history. Known for its expansive heathlands, ancient dolmens, and charming villages, Drenthe is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The province is dotted with national parks such as Dwingelderveld and Drents-Friese Wold, where you can hike, cycle, or simply relax amidst stunning landscapes.
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Drenthe's history is rich and evident everywhere you look. The iconic hunebedden, or ancient stone burial sites, date back to the Neolithic era and are scattered across the province. These prehistoric monuments provide a fascinating glimpse into early human civilization. Museums like the Drents Museum in Assen offer deeper insights into the region's archaeological treasures and cultural heritage.
Village life in Drenthe is picturesque and tranquil. Towns like Orvelte and Diever are perfect for a leisurely stroll, offering a peek into traditional Dutch life with their thatched-roof houses and cobblestone streets. Local markets and festivals give you a taste of regional cuisine and customs, enhancing your cultural experience. Whether you're exploring nature trails or delving into history, Drenthe Province promises a fulfilling and memorable journey.

When is the best time to visit Drenthe Province?

Best: June–August · 24–25°C
Average daytime high and rainfall by month
MonthHigh (°C)Rainfall (mm)
January570
February660
March1060
April1550
May2060
June (best)2480
July (best)2580
August (best)2580
September2170
October1580
November1080
December770

Getting to and around Drenthe Province

How to get there

Drenthe Province is situated in the northeastern part of the Netherlands. The nearest major international airport is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), which is approximately 170 kilometers away. From Schiphol, you can take a direct train to Assen, the capital of Drenthe, which takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport and drive to Drenthe, which offers flexibility to explore the region at your own pace.

Transportation

Drenthe is well-connected by public transport. The main cities and towns are accessible by train and bus services. Bicycling is highly recommended for exploring the countryside and smaller villages, as the province is known for its extensive network of cycling paths. Car rentals are also available, providing convenience for visiting remote areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available but less common in rural areas.

Best attractions in Drenthe Province

Drenthe Province in Netherlands offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history. From the stunning Hunebedden ancient megalithic tombs scattered throughout the landscape to the picturesque villages and towns with charming architecture, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Explore the expansive forests, heathlands, and wetlands, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. Visit the museums and historic sites to learn about the region's fascinating past, including its connection to the Ice Age and prehistoric civilizations. Don't miss out on the opportunity to experience the local culture and cuisine, with delicious traditional dishes and warm hospitality awaiting you. Drenthe Province truly has something special to offer every visitor.

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Best landmarks in Drenthe Province

Drenthe Province in Netherlands offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the prehistoric megalithic tombs of Hunebedden to the charming villages with traditional Dutch architecture, there is something for everyone to explore. Discover the fascinating museums showcasing the region's rich past, or wander through the stunning national parks and picturesque landscapes. Don't miss the iconic sheep herding tradition at the Dwingelderveld National Park or the impressive fortified town of Coevorden. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a peaceful escape, Drenthe Province has it all.

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Explore Drenthe Province on the map

Plan your trip on one map. See where the top attractions, landmarks, restaurants and hotels are, and book hotels and experiences in a few clicks.

Best restaurants in Drenthe Province

The dining scene in Drenthe Province offers a delightful mix of traditional Dutch cuisine and modern culinary experiences. Visitors can enjoy hearty local dishes like stamppot and poffertjes at charming countryside restaurants, or indulge in gourmet meals at upscale eateries in the cities. From cozy cafes serving freshly baked pastries to trendy food trucks dishing out innovative street food, there is something to satisfy every palate. The province's farm-to-table ethos ensures that ingredients are fresh and locally sourced, adding an authentic touch to every dining experience. With a warm and welcoming atmosphere in every restaurant, visitors can truly immerse themselves in the rich gastronomic culture of Drenthe.

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Best bars in Drenthe Province

The nightlife scene in Drenthe Province offers a unique blend of traditional Dutch pubs and modern nightclubs, catering to a variety of tastes. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, cozy cafes serving local beers, and vibrant dance floors where they can dance the night away. Whether you're looking for a laid-back evening or a lively party atmosphere, Drenthe has something for everyone to enjoy after dark.

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Best nightclubs in Drenthe Province

The nightlife scene in Drenthe Province offers a unique blend of traditional Dutch pubs and modern nightclubs, catering to a variety of tastes. Visitors can enjoy live music performances, cozy cafes serving local beers, and vibrant dance floors where they can dance the night away. Whether you're looking for a laid-back evening or a lively party atmosphere, Drenthe has something for everyone to enjoy after dark.

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Best shops in Drenthe Province

Drenthe Province in Netherlands offers a unique shopping experience for visitors, with a mix of modern shopping centers and charming local markets. Explore the picturesque streets lined with boutique shops, where you can find handmade pottery, traditional Drenthe textiles, and delicious local delicacies. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the bustling farmers' markets, where you can sample fresh produce and mingle with friendly locals. Whether you're looking for souvenirs or one-of-a-kind treasures, Drenthe Province has something for every shopper to enjoy.

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Drenthe Province essentials

Currency and Payment
The official currency of the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, shops, and hotels. It is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors, local markets, and rural areas where card payments might not be accepted. ATMs are readily available in major towns and cities.
Safety
Drenthe is generally a very safe destination for tourists. Violent crime is rare, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid leaving bags and personal items unattended and be cautious in crowded places to prevent pickpocketing. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always advisable.
Emergency Situations
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the general emergency number in the Netherlands. Major towns in Drenthe have hospitals and medical facilities. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Do's and Don'ts
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual wear is generally acceptable, but avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting churches or religious sites. Public Transport: Do use public transport etiquette; offer your seat to elderly passengers and avoid loud conversations. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Goedendag.' A handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and be polite when offered food. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.
Local Tips
To experience Drenthe like a local, rent a bicycle and explore the numerous cycling paths that cover the scenic landscapes. Visit local markets to buy fresh produce and traditional Dutch goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the prehistoric dolmens (hunebedden) that are scattered across the province, as they offer a glimpse into ancient history. For a unique experience, attend one of the local festivals or events to immerse yourself in the regional culture.
Eve, your Evendo local guide

From Eve

Local phrases worth knowing

You don't need to get them perfect. A few words go a long way, and locals appreciate the effort.

6 phrase groups · English, local and pronunciation

Basics
EnglishLocalSay it
HelloHallo[ha-lo]
GoodbyeDag[dahg]
YesJa[ya]
NoNee[nee]
Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft[ahl-stu-bleeft]
Thank youDank je wel[dank ye vel]
Excuse me/SorrySorry[sor-ry]
How are you?Hoe gaat het met je?[hu guht het met ye]
Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?[ghoot. en met yow]
Do you speak English?Spreek je Engels?[spreek ye eng-elss]
I don't understandIk begrijp het niet[ik buh-greyp het neet]
Eating & Drinking
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk wil graag de menukaart zien, alstublieft[ik vil khraag deh meh-nu-kart seen ahl-stu-bleeft]
I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees[ik eet khayn vleys]
Cheers!Proost![prohst]
I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alstublieft[ik vil khraag buh-tah-len ahl-stu-bleeft]
Emergencies
EnglishLocalSay it
Help!Help![help]
Go away!Ga weg![ga veg]
Call the Police!Bel de politie![bel deh poh-lee-see]
Call a doctor!Bel een dokter![bel ayn dok-ter]
I'm lostIk ben verdwaald[ik ben ver-dwahld]
I'm illIk ben ziek[ik ben zik]
Shopping
EnglishLocalSay it
I'd like to buy...Ik wil graag kopen...[ik vil khraag koh-pen]
I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar[ik khayk a-layn mahr]
How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?[hoo-vale kost het]
That's too expensiveDat is te duur[dat is tay doo-r]
Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?[kunt u deh prays fayr-lah-khen]
Time & Numbers
EnglishLocalSay it
What time is it?Hoe laat is het?[hu laht is het]
It's one o'clockHet is een uur[het is ayn ur]
Half past (10)Half elf[hahlf elf]
MorningOchtend[okhtend]
AfternoonMiddag[mid-dahg]
EveningAvond[ah-vohnd]
YesterdayGisteren[gis-teh-ren]
TodayVandaag[van-dahkh]
TomorrowMorgen[mohr-khen]
1Een[ayn]
2Twee[tway]
3Drie[dree]
4Vier[veer]
5Vijf[vayf]
6Zes[zehs]
7Zeven[zeh-ven]
8Acht[ahkht]
9Negen[nay-ghen]
10Tien[teen]
Transport & Directions
EnglishLocalSay it
Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?[var is ayn/deh]
What's the address?Wat is het adres?[vat is het ah-dres]
Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u mij laten zien (op de kaart)?[kunt u may la-ten zeen (op deh kart)]
When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?[ven-nar is deh vol-gen-deh (bus)]
A ticket (to ....)Een kaartje (naar ....)[ayn kart-ye (nar)]

History of Drenthe Province

Ancient Beginnings: The Hunebedden

Drenthe Province is renowned for its prehistoric dolmens, known locally as 'hunebedden'. These ancient megalithic tombs date back to the Neolithic era, around 3400-2850 BCE. Constructed by the Funnel Beaker Culture, these stone structures served as burial sites and are among the oldest monuments in the Netherlands. The largest hunebed, D27, located near Borger, is a must-visit, showcasing the impressive engineering skills of prehistoric societies.

The Saxon Era

By the early Middle Ages, Drenthe was predominantly inhabited by the Saxons. This period saw the establishment of various small, agrarian communities. The Saxons left a lasting cultural imprint on the region, influencing local dialects and traditions. Some of the oldest churches in Drenthe, such as the St. Magnus Church in Anloo, have roots that trace back to this era.

Medieval Feudalism and Nobility

During the medieval period, Drenthe was largely governed by local nobility under the feudal system. The province was part of the Bishopric of Utrecht, which held significant ecclesiastical and temporal power. The remnants of medieval castles and estates, such as the ruins of Kasteel Coevorden, offer a glimpse into the region's feudal past.

The Drenthe Peat Colonies

In the 16th and 17th centuries, the vast peat bogs of Drenthe attracted settlers who began extracting peat for fuel. This led to the development of the 'veenhuizen' or peat colonies. The village of Veenhuizen, originally a peat colony, later became a notable site for its 19th-century penal colonies, now a UNESCO World Heritage site. The area provides insightful tours into its unique social history.

World War II and the Westerbork Transit Camp

Drenthe played a significant role during World War II due to the Westerbork Transit Camp, originally established in 1939 for Jewish refugees escaping Nazi persecution. During the German occupation, it became a transit camp from which over 100,000 Jews, including Anne Frank, were deported to concentration camps. The Camp Westerbork Memorial Center now stands as a poignant reminder of this dark chapter in history.

Post-War Development and Modern Drenthe

Post-World War II, Drenthe saw considerable development in agriculture, industry, and tourism. The region's natural beauty, characterized by heathlands, forests, and national parks like Dwingelderveld and Drents-Friese Wold, attract numerous visitors. Modern Drenthe maintains a balance between preserving its rich historical heritage and embracing contemporary advancements.

Drenthe Province in Photos

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Cities in Drenthe Province

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

Neighbouring destination travel guides

The closest destinations to Drenthe Province, if you have time for more than one.

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Evendo: Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Drenthe Province

Discover the best attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences in Drenthe Province with our 100% free app-based travel guide.

  • Detailed information on all major attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences in Drenthe Province.
  • Rich set of information for each location, including images, descriptions, local tips, maps, and contact details.
  • Easy booking for hotels, tours, tickets, and unique experiences directly from the app.
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More about the Evendo app

Evendo is your essential travel companion for exploring Drenthe Province, Netherlands. Discover top attractions, book experiences, and navigate the region like a local—all for free!

  • History and travel essentials for Drenthe Province.
  • Curated local tips to help you experience Drenthe like a local.
  • User-friendly navigation and 'Near Me' feature to discover nearby attractions and amenities.
  • 100% free to use with no in-app purchases or hidden costs.
  • Global coverage, including over 7,000 destinations worldwide.

Planning a trip to Drenthe Province? Look no further than Evendo, your comprehensive travel guide app designed to make your visit unforgettable. With detailed information on attractions, landmarks, shops, bars, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels, tours, and experiences, Evendo takes the guesswork out of your travel itinerary. Imagine strolling through the picturesque streets of Assen, visiting the historic Hunebedden (Dolmens), or exploring the Drents Museum—all seamlessly planned with our app.

Fancy a meal at one of the top-rated restaurants like De Loohoeve or enjoying a night out at local bars? Evendo has got you covered. Each location includes rich details, images, local tips, maps, and contact information, making it easier than ever to navigate Drenthe Province.

But that's not all! Our app allows you to easily book hotels, tours, tickets, and unique experiences directly from your phone. No more searching for what to see, do, or eat and then figuring out how to get there. Evendo consolidates everything in one place, ensuring you make the most out of your trip to Drenthe Province.

Whether you're interested in the history of Drenthe Province, need travel essentials, or want to experience the region like a local with curated tips, Evendo provides it all. The app is also equipped with a 'Near Me' feature to help you discover nearby attractions and amenities no matter where you are.

Best of all, Evendo is 100% free with no in-app purchases or hidden costs. Plus, it covers over 7,000 other destinations worldwide, so once you've downloaded the app, you have the world in your pocket.

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