Twente, Netherlands Travel Guide

Explore Twente, where the Dutch countryside comes alive with charming villages, rich history, and breathtaking nature, perfect for a peaceful and enriching getaway.

Twente, a picturesque region in the eastern Netherlands, is a treasure trove of natural beauty, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. Known for its rolling landscapes, lush forests, and serene farmlands, Twente offers a perfect escape for those looking to experience the tranquil Dutch countryside. The region is dotted with quaint villages and historic towns, each with its own unique character and attractions. Enschede, the largest city in Twente, is a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment, while smaller towns like Ootmarsum and Delden captivate with their traditional architecture and cozy atmosphere. Visitors can explore local markets, artisan shops, and taste the delightful regional cuisine, which often features farm-fresh ingredients. Twente's natural beauty is best experienced through its extensive network of cycling and walking trails. The region boasts several nature reserves, such as the Lutterzand and the Sallandse Heuvelrug, where visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, spot local wildlife, and take in panoramic views. For those interested in history, Twente is home to several well-preserved castles, museums, and historic estates that offer a glimpse into the region's past. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply looking to unwind in a beautiful setting, Twente has something to offer. Its blend of scenic landscapes, cultural richness, and warm hospitality makes it a must-visit destination in the Netherlands.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Rent a bike to explore the extensive cycling routes and truly experience the scenic beauty of Twente.
Visit local markets to sample and purchase regional specialties like Twente cheeses and honey.
Check out Enschede's cultural calendar for festivals and events during your visit.
Take a guided tour of the historic Twickel Castle and its beautiful gardens.
Don't miss the artist village of Ootmarsum, known for its galleries and art shops.

Destinations in Twente

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

Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Twente

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Attractiepark de Waarbeek

Experience family fun and adventure at Attractiepark de Waarbeek, a thrilling amusement park in Hengelo, Netherlands, perfect for all ages.

4.2

kasteel Warmelo

Discover the charm of Kasteel Warmelo, a historical castle in Diepenheim, surrounded by beautiful gardens and rich cultural heritage.

4.5

Arboretum Poort Bulten

Explore the stunning Arboretum Poort Bulten, an enchanting park in De Lutte with a diverse collection of global flora and serene walking paths.

4.6

Rijksmuseum Twenthe

Explore the artistic heritage of the Netherlands at Rijksmuseum Twenthe, an exceptional museum offering an inspiring journey through centuries of art.

4.4

Best landmarks in Twente

Top-rated picks

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Het Volkspark

Discover the serene beauty of Het Volkspark in Enschede, a perfect blend of nature, family fun, and community events, making it a must-visit destination.

4.5

Rijksmuseum Twenthe

Explore centuries of artistic heritage at Rijksmuseum Twenthe, a cultural treasure trove in Enschede, Netherlands, for art lovers and tourists alike.

4.4

Museum De Museumfabriek

Explore the rich tapestry of art, heritage, and natural history at Museum De Museumfabriek in Enschede, a must-visit destination for all tourists.

4.2

Avontura Twentehallen

Discover endless fun and excitement at Avontura Twentehallen, Enschede's premier indoor playground for children and families.

4.2

Best restaurants in Twente

Top-rated picks

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Pelle's Deurningen

Discover Pelle's Deurningen: A charming diner and event venue serving exquisite local cuisine with a focus on quality steaks and vibrant pub experiences.

4.6

Ribhouse Texas Boekelo

Discover Ribhouse Texas Boekelo - where succulent steaks meet authentic American flavors in an inviting atmosphere.

4.4

Steakhouse El Gaucho

Discover Steakhouse El Gaucho: A premier destination for steak lovers in Enschede offering exquisite flavors and exceptional dining experiences.

4.8

Restaurant Cozy

Discover delectable tapas and crafted cocktails at Restaurant Cozy - your ultimate dining destination in Hengelo.

4.5

Best bars in Twente

Top-rated picks

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Grand-Café De Twee Wezen

Experience culinary excellence at Grand-Café De Twee Wezen, where diverse flavors and a warm atmosphere await every visitor.

4.0

Pelle's Deurningen

Discover Pelle's Deurningen: A delightful diner, event venue, and pub in the heart of Deurningen, offering exquisite local cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.6

Moeke Enschede

Discover the heart of Enschede at Moeke Enschede, a lively pub offering delightful Dutch cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.

4.3

Stanislaus Brewskovitch Stadsbrouwerij Menistenkerk Enschede

Discover Enschede's finest brews at Stanislaus Brewskovitch, where craft beer meets a cozy atmosphere in the heart of the city.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Twente

Top-rated picks

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Dieka

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Markelo at Dieka, the premier disco club and event venue for unforgettable celebrations and dance.

4.3

Dancing Bruins

Discover the exhilarating nightlife at Dancing Bruins, a premier disco club in Saasveld with a vibrant atmosphere and diverse crowd.

4.4

Lucky The Feel Good Provider

Discover Lucky The Feel Good Provider, Rijssen's premier club and event venue, where joy and vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

Aspen Valley Enschede

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Aspen Valley Enschede, a premier disco club that combines dancing, drinks, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of the city.

3.1

Best shops in Twente

Top-rated picks

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Primark

Discover affordable fashion and trendy styles at Primark in Enschede, a top destination for budget-conscious shoppers seeking variety.

3.9

Miro Center

Explore the Miro Center in Enschede, a premier shopping mall featuring diverse shops, delightful dining, and exciting entertainment for all ages.

4.4

Winkelcentrum De Klanderij

Explore Winkelcentrum De Klanderij: Enschede's premier shopping mall with diverse shops, dining, and a vibrant atmosphere.

4.2

Gameshop Twente

Explore Gameshop Twente, Enschede's premier video game store, offering a vast selection of games, consoles, and collectibles for every gamer.

4.4

Explore Twente on the Map

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

Twente Essentials

Twente is located in the eastern part of the Netherlands. The closest major airport is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), around 150 kilometers away. From Schiphol, you can take a direct train to cities like Enschede or Hengelo in Twente, which takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive or take a bus from major cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, or Rotterdam.
Twente is well-connected with an efficient public transportation system. The region has a robust network of trains, buses, and taxis. The OV-chipkaart is the public transport card you can use on trains and buses. Biking is also a popular mode of transportation, with many dedicated bike paths. Car rentals are available for more flexibility, especially if you plan to explore the rural areas. Walking is convenient in the smaller towns and cities.
The official currency in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas. ATMs are plentiful in cities like Enschede, Hengelo, and Almelo, but may be less available in smaller villages.
Twente is generally a safe region for tourists. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, especially in crowded places. Walking alone at night is usually safe, but as always, stay aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire services, and medical emergencies. Hospitals and clinics are well-equipped, especially in larger cities like Enschede. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many staff speak English.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and weather-appropriate. Casual attire is generally acceptable. Don’t wear overly revealing clothes, especially in religious settings. Religion: Do respect all religious sites and traditions. Don’t be loud or disruptive in places of worship. Public Transport: Do use the OV-chipkaart for convenience. Don’t forget to check in and out with your card when using public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Hallo' or 'Goedemorgen' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like 'krentenwegge' (currant bread) and 'Oer Twentse' beer. Don’t forget to make reservations for dining at popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
To experience Twente like a local, visit the weekly markets in cities like Enschede and Hengelo for fresh produce and local goods. Try cycling through the scenic countryside and explore charming villages like Ootmarsum. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share insights about the region's rich history and culture. Don't miss the annual events such as the Military Boekelo (an international equestrian event) and the Twentse Lente Spring Festival.

When is the best time to visit Twente?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Twente

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 Twente. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [Hah-loh]
- GoodbyeTot ziens
  [Toht zeens]
- YesJa
  [Yah]
- NoNee
  [Nay]
- Please/You're welcomeAlsjeblieft
  [Al-she-bleeft]
- Thank youDank je
  [Dahnk yuh]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [So-ree]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [Hoo khaht het]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En jij?
  [Ghoot. En yay?]
- Do you speak English?Spreek je Engels?
  [Sprayk yuh En-guls]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [Ik buh-graif het neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag de menukaart willen zien, alsjeblieft
  [Ik zoh graahg de meh-nu-kaart vil-len zeen, al-she-bleeft]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [Ik eet ghen vlaise]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [Prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alsjeblieft
  [Ik vil graahg be-ta-len, al-she-bleeft]
- Help!Help!
  [Help]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [Gah vehkh]
- 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 zoh graahg ... vil-len koh-pen]
- I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
  [Ik kike al-lay mahr]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [Hoo-vayl kost het]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [Daht is tuh dur]
- Can you lower the price?Kun je de prijs verlagen?
  [Kun yuh de prays ver-lah-ghen]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [Hoo laat is het]
- It's one o'clockHet is één uur
  [Het is ayn ur]
- Half past (10)Half tien
  [Half teen]
- MorningOchtend
  [Okh-tend]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [Mid-dahg]
- EveningAvond
  [Ah-vond]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [Ghis-ter-en]
- TodayVandaag
  [Van-dahg]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [Mor-ghen]
- 11
  [Eyn]
- 22
  [Twee]
- 33
  [Drie]
- 44
  [Vier]
- 55
  [Vijf]
- 66
  [Zes]
- 77
  [Zeven]
- 88
  [Acht]
- 99
  [Negen]
- 1010
  [Tien]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?
  [Vahr is eyn/de...?]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [Vaht is het ah-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kun je me (op de kaart) laten zien?
  [Kun yuh muh (op de kart) lah-ten zeen?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer komt de volgende (bus)?
  [Vahn-eer komt de vol-ghen-de (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Een kaartje (naar ....)
  [Eyn kart-ye (nahr ....)]

History of Twente

The history of Twente dates back to prehistoric times, evidenced by the numerous archaeological finds in the region. Flint tools and burial mounds indicate that the area was inhabited by early humans. The large number of ‘hunebeds’ or dolmens, ancient megalithic tombs, provide further proof of prehistoric settlements.
Although Twente was on the periphery of the Roman Empire, it did not escape Roman influence. Roman coins and artifacts have been discovered, suggesting trade and interaction with Roman settlers. The presence of the Roman road 'Limes' nearby facilitated these exchanges, leaving an indelible mark on the region.
During the medieval period, Twente was part of the Bishopric of Utrecht. The local economy thrived on agriculture, and the region was known for its production of wool and textiles. Castles such as Ootmarsum and the fortified city of Oldenzaal were established, underscoring the area's strategic importance.
Twente played a significant role in the Eighty Years' War (1568-1648) between the Dutch and the Spanish. The region saw several battles and skirmishes, leading to periods of occupation by both sides. The conflict impacted the local population and economy, but also paved the way for the eventual establishment of the Dutch Republic.
The 19th century brought significant change to Twente with the advent of the Industrial Revolution. The region became a hub for the textile industry, with cities like Enschede, Almelo, and Hengelo developing rapidly. Factories, railroads, and canals transformed the landscape, making Twente one of the most industrialized areas in the Netherlands.
Twente was heavily affected during World War II. The region was occupied by Nazi forces, and many of its inhabitants were involved in resistance activities. Cities like Enschede and Hengelo were targeted in Allied bombings due to their industrial significance. Post-war, Twente faced the challenge of rebuilding and recovering from the devastation.
Today, Twente is a vibrant region known for its mix of historical charm and modern innovation. The area is home to several universities and research institutions, driving advancements in technology and sustainability. Twente's rich cultural heritage is preserved in its museums, traditional festivals, and well-maintained historical sites, offering a unique blend of past and present.