Pin
31 Best Stops Between Giethoorn and Enschede
When is your trip?
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Giethoorn to Enschede?
The direct drive from Giethoorn to Enschede is 70.2 mi (113 km), and should have a drive time of 1 hr 33 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Giethoorn to Enschede, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Apeldoorn, as well as top places to visit like Museum Belvédère and Museum Schokland, or the ever-popular Pantropica (voorheen de Orchideeën Hoeve).
Visiting Giethoorn or Enschede? See our Giethoorn Trip Planner and our Enschede Trip Planner.
70.2 mi
Total Distance
1 hr 33 mins
Drive Time
31 stops
Cities / Attractions
Top city between Giethoorn and Enschede
The top city between Giethoorn and Enschede is Apeldoorn. It's 1 hour from Giethoorn and less than an hour from Enschede.
1
Apeldoorn
Apeldoorn, a municipality and city in the province of Gelderland in the Netherlands, offers a mix of modern and historical attractions. The city is surrounded by villages like Beekbergen, Loenen, Ugchelen, and Hoenderloo. It's known for its family-friendly attractions such as the Julianatoren amusement park and Apenheul animal park. Nature lovers can explore the nearby Hoge Veluwe National Park.
Most popular city on this route
11 minutes off the main route, 53% of way to Enschede
Best stops along Giethoorn to Enschede drive
The top stops along the way from Giethoorn to Enschede (with short detours) are Wildlands, Paleis Het Loo, and Walibi Holland. Other popular stops include Museum de Fundatie, Apenheul, and Slagharen.
1I B — Google reviewChristiaan L — Google reviewJoost S — Google reviewRay R — Google reviewRatna N — Google reviewSaif K — Google reviewBev — Google review•
Pantropica (voorheen de Orchideeën Hoeve)
Nature & Parks
Botanical garden
Colorful plant nurseries, exotic birds, lemurs & guided tours through landscapes of jungle flora.
A nice place to visit with the whole family. They have beautiful hanging plants. Nice butterfly garden. Lots of different kinds of orchids. And at the Hanami flower park there's a restaurant where you can eat your lunch and sit among the flowers. They also have a mini zoo. And don't skip the bird feeding it's one of the highlights.
Yolanda — Google review
Very pleasant place, with lots of people. When we were there it was very crowded. The whole complex is impressive. There are several opportunities to rest while walking, sit on a bench. I think the flower park is the most beautiful part, full of flowers, mirrors, various garden furniture and nice cafe. We had a great day. Recommended for children and adults.
Awesome and huge indoor tropical experience. Even the entrance with the many lush tropical plants, huge bananas and palm trees already impresses us and we had something to eat before going in. We bought tickets online to get the discount. The rainbow lorikeets were amazing, our 5 year old found it quite exciting, they flew at us as soon as we came in through the door, and sat on our arms, hands and even on our heads. The tropical rainforest areas have many paths and little houses to explore for kids, some are inaccessible though. We saw many additions to Pantropica since our last visit which must have been at least 5 years ago. Great to visit again.
Just when you think you have seen it all, there is another hall. And another. And another. :D Chock full with the most bizarre beautiful plants. And a big aquarium, and a GIANT aquarium with pretty large fish. And an enormous butterfly garden. Everywhere there's birds to spot moving freely around - we even spotted a little chick chirruping for its parents. And fish, and tortoises. The whole setup is very accessible for wheelchairs, but there is also a lot of climb-through paths for people not bound to one. The restaurant with the hanging garden and the mirror walls defies description... well, just go see it for yourself. There is a bar about halfway, a restaurant I already described, and outside the paid venue there is an even bigger restaurant that is a nice place to rest (we took well over 3 hours so we were a bit peckish). At the end, there is also quite a large shop with pretty plants and plant related stuff, we managed to restrain ourselves to buying only 2 orchids, which took quite some self control ;)
Well worth the trip, especially if you are interested in plants in general, but there is also lots to see and do for kids. I *loved* the butterfly nursery - we have been looking for 15 minutes how a giant blue morpho caterpillar methodically and precisely stripped down a leaf.
Be advised: it's much bigger than it initially seems, there is lots to read and learn, and lots to see. Take your time to stand still and look around.
We’ve visited this beautiful place on a Saturday (escaping the rain) with family and friends. Tickets were bought online so there was no wait, it was actually bigger as expected and there is enough to see from different kinds of plants and of course the animals. Everything well taken care off even the toilets and the restaurant part. We are definitely coming back in the future.
Beautiful place, very well designed and maintained. We love the playground for kids next to cafe area. They have handwash station after every section too, very well thought.
I have never enjoyed any park more than this place. It's HUGE and enough activities available for children. They have their own parking place, which is FREE. This place is wheelchair-friendly. Staff are really helpful and willing to help you and guide. Place is well maintained daily. It has enough sanitation facilities. The route is described well and clear with boards all over the park. You can have your private party as well here by renting a small room. I would recommend everyone to buy their tickets in advance. The place gets fully booked really quickly.
Fabulous day out! This tropical nature park is a real hidden gem, and so well designed that you are really in the nature- beautiful butterflies flit past your head, as you walk along by a stream and you can feed the fish. Everywhere you have multiple options- if you want to stroll, or you're in a wheelchair take the smooth path, or clamber along the rocks under the bridge. There's plenty of benches dotted about so there's no need to rush through.
The whole atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. And the more time you spend there, the more there is to see. Was that a toucan, hopping around the bush? Over there, turtles! A whole flock of flamingos! A gecko on the branch over your head. Orchids, and weird tropical plants everywhere.
Plan to spend at least 4-5 hours there and remember it's a a collection of tropical nature areas, with a TROPICAL atmosphere- my tip is to dress in layers, because it's pleasantly warm in there. The day we went was 6 degrees outside, but we were quickly down to t-shirts. The staff were extremely nice in a relaxed and welcoming way, but once you're inside, it really is a tropical paradise, just you and nature.
There's go-carts for the kids and a kid's water adventure area, so bring your kids swimsuit!
Two good restaurants, for snacks and very nice cakes.
But if you're an adult, don't think it's a kid's park. It's not at all 'dumbed down' .It's intelligently set out and there's lots of fun to be had for everyone. Bring your camera! Google only allows photos, and I didn't take many. You can see more on their website.
I plan on going back again in a couple of months!
4.6
(19031)
4.5
(272)
Oosterringweg 34, 8315 PV Luttelgeest, Netherlands
2Kateryna M — Google reviewRa M — Google reviewDan C — Google reviewSatty V — Google reviewSergey S — Google reviewNelis S — Google reviewBill M — Google review•
Museum Belvédère
Modern art museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
This is a lovely art gem in the middle of Friesland. The building consists of two wings coupled by a see through restaurant over a canal. Because of this intelligent architecture the museum blends into the landscape. One wing of the museum holds the permanent collection of contemporary (1980 - onwards) art. In the other wing you will find temporary exhibitions. If the art is not your thing you will certainly enjoy a walk around the acres and acres of land surrounding the museum.
Ronald H — Google review
30-40 % of the whole exhibition was interesting to see, other part was very boring & not impressive at all.
Staff very friendly.
Beautiful windows & view in cafe inside.
Park behind is beautiful ♥️
It seems to be a great area to also do a hike. There was a festival going on so parking was a bit harder and walking a bit further. But in one of the rooms there was some live art being recorded.
The museum is rather small, they ask 7,50 entrance fee and were assisted by a few volunteers. I guess the volunteers were gathered for the (classic) festival that was going on. One of the volunteers created a strange situation at the door asking all sort of questions (kept going).
Beautiful location and very well maintained exhibition space. But the museum should a bit more aware and inclusive for families with babies and small children, as there's no changing table or any facility for taking care of the little ones. (there's enough space to do it inside the bathroom for disabled persons)
A bit chaotic with the entrance area and cafe......but worth visiting. Wonderful surroundings.
Fantastic
Very beautiful surroundings. The 'Oranjewoud' is a lovely place to go for a stroll in Frys nature. Inside the staff was very friendly and helpful, highly recommend the 'Bieterballen', vegetarian bitterballen!!!
The exhibitions change regularly.
4.3
(1102)
4.0
(90)
Oranje Nassaulaan 12, 8448 MT Oranjewoud, Netherlands
Need a place to stay?
Where
When
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
When
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
When
Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.
Travelers
2
Travelers
2
3Viji M — Google reviewAlan A — Google reviewYohann F — Google reviewDavid E — Google reviewMpumelelo N — Google reviewCaspar D — Google reviewMatthew S — Google review•
Museum Schokland
Museum
Archaeological museum
Art museum
History museum
Specialty Museums
The museum tells the story of the former island. The old church is still there and can be visited. Outside the museum there is a walking path around the island and several historical spots can be visited. Outside the museum and completely free. Certainly worthwhile to visit at least the old harbour of the original Emmeloord (don't confuse it with the new town that got the same name), which has been reconstructed, but with some original buildings. Many more to be seen during the full walk around the contours of the former island. The rock garden is really interesting for people who like geology, but I heard it will be closed permanently later this year.
Guus L — Google review
Beautiful place to visit. If your are visiting Netherlands you must see this plane as a memory. Do you know that this was once sea and they reclaimed this land?
Very simple museum. Easily 15-45mins to finish the visit. Most information can be found on Internet. Only blessing is that I arrived on the same day of Viking exhibition which adds on 2 more stars
Very interesting museum to know more about the creation and the disparition of the island when they decided to close the sea and dry the land
Very good little museum on the history of this former island. Great exhibition on how the island formed, from the Late Saalien to the formation of the Zuiderzee, and of how very hard life was on the island until the population was displaced.
Only thing missing was a little bit more information on how the Zuiderzee came to be.
Great information about the resilience of the Dutch over the years. Friendly stuff and great food in the restaurant
Excellent, seemingly quite new museum. It makes the best of the difficult history of this place. The museum rents out bikes with which you can circle around the “island”. Very friendly staff.
This is a fascinating little museum of a coastal community now on a little hill in the middle of a field. For anyone who is amazed at the ability of the Dutch to reclaim land from the sea, this place is a must see as living evidence of what has been achieved. The great food and service at the restaurant is a reason to come here even if you are not interested in the museum!
4.4
(1616)
4.0
(93)
Middelbuurt 3, 8319 AB Schokland, Netherlands
4Mireia C — Google reviewKs T — Google reviewCaroline B — Google reviewRaffaele P — Google reviewLaura M — Google reviewTrotseMomMa V — Google reviewJade S — Google review•
Walibi Holland
Mentioned on
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Amusement park
Walibi Holland is an exhilarating theme park nestled in Biddinghuizen, offering a delightful mix of family-friendly attractions and adrenaline-pumping thrill rides. This vibrant destination is perfect for visitors of all ages, with safety being a top priority to ensure everyone has a memorable experience. The park features lush green spaces alongside exciting water attractions that add to the fun. During special events like Halloween Fright Night, Walibi Holland transforms into a spooky wonderland filled with haunting decorations and captivating performances.
Having been a theme park fan for nearly two decades, I've been lucky enough to visit Walibi Holland several times over the last five years and have always had an enjoyable experience. Since my last trip, the park has really stepped up its game, adding the roller coasters Untamed and YOY, among other general improvements.
I'll start with the highlights. Untamed, the RMC conversion of their old roller coaster, is absolutely sensational. It flies through the track for a truly exhilarating ride. YOY, their new duelling single-rail roller coaster, was also great fun and is definitely a fantastic addition to the park. Another favourite of mine was Goliath, a massive coaster that glides through huge sweeping hills and turns—a great ride. There are also plenty of rides that aren't roller coasters, including an awesome three-drop log flume and a river rapids ride.
The park itself felt clean, safe, and well-maintained. The new additions, including the roller coasters and rides themselves, and even entire areas, felt fresh and vibrant. As with any theme park, there were a few older rides I wasn't too fond of, but even the park's older collection of roller coasters and rides were running well and were good fun.
My only criticisms of the park were the frequent breakdowns on various rides throughout the day. I understand that ride safety is the number one priority, but this was a continuous issue, and we ended up being evacuated from multiple ride queues. The other issue that hampered our day was that on a sunny and busy August Sunday, they were operating some of the park's biggest rides with only one train, making the queues unnecessarily long. I don't know whether this was intentional or due to maintenance issues, but the painfully slow queues did spoil aspects of the day.
Overall, Walibi Holland is a great park with a unique roller coaster lineup and a solid collection of other rides, making it a fantastic day out. The park's presentation is nice, it's clean and feels well looked after, and the food options are decent too. I look forward to seeing what they're planning for the future, as all of their latest investments have been huge successes!
Joel P — Google review
Great park for adults too. Came on a Saturday in August and was crowded but not crazy.
We bought the gold pass at the entrance and probably could have done it with the silver one. Queues were okay and with the fast lane app it’s very easy to book a slot and wait outside until time goes to zero (maximum we waited was 3 minutes in the timer), then you go in. We enjoyed a lot, there are 5-6 big attractions and a lot for kids too. Food offer is a bit unhealthy and expensive but as usual in theme parks. Parking was 12€.
We visited this place in Khalovin. We had a lot of fun and a bit of fear. The kids enjoyed the ride. It takes almost a day to fully enjoy it. We arrived in the evening, and four hours wasn't enough; the lines were long, with wait times of 40 minutes or more.
We came here for the Halloween stuff and for the rides. First negative we found was the parking situation. Literally the worst parking we have ever seen!! Making cars park 3 in a line so you have towns of three cars which means if the person behind you hasn’t gone you’re stuck!! It was muddy and horrible. The bridge across the road is a dumb idea. Fairly easy to get in. The place was quiet at the beginning of the day. I did buy fast lanes so that we didn’t have to queue so long. I did buy fast recommend that. The place gets packed later and it’s awful. They oversell tickets and you cannot move. I bought RIP passes for the fright night experiences and I recommend you do the same if you want to see them all. The walkthroughs and haunted houses are ruined by security guards everywhere. The place is poorly signposted, the maps are all but useless. It’s dirty. The foods expensive but we expect that at these places. The rides are really good though, cannot fault them. Staff were friendly. Would I come back…yes but not at Halloween. Wear old shoes because the place is caked in mud this time of year.
Walibi Holland is a great park for thrill seekers; it has some seriously strong roller coasters that deliver real intensity and smooth rides. The park is clean and well run, though wait times can be long and food is pricey. Still, it’s definitely worth a visit.
I'm only giving this many stars because my family had fun on the rides. I've developed some phobias in my middle age years and I just go for the vibes, the slushies, etc. But let me paint a picture. Thursday was the only day we could go this vacation. I had to work late and only got 3 hrs sleep. I rolled from my bed with some string cheese and a croissant to start my long day knowing I'd get lunch at the park. So many food options it seemed, pasta.. How nice! Yet... Everything was closed except for donuts, toasties, fries, fried snacks... Even the slushy machines were off most places and when I finally found a place with slushy, the cup with lid and plastic straw were sold out. False advertising, no? Honestly, I'd like a refund for just my ticket.. Ridiculous to not have more open especially during a school holiday. We left early because we were hungry.
We a family of 4 really enjoyed staying our 3 days 2 nights in Walibi. The bungalow areas are Quiet, relaxing, lots of trees(pine) clean.
Bungalow is big enough, kitchen facilities is complete though we spent more in restaurant for breakfast and dinner.. Whats less point and annoying is there's only 1 toilet paper, floor is sticky, dust everywhere, bed can be better but i, we slept good. Well we're all day outside so. ..
We did a promo, 2nd day in park is free wich we enjoyed and pure fun for my kids. Though they only had 1 pool, its smaller than I thought my kids enjoyed swimming/playing. They offer really good menu in the restaurant, good quality food. The burger and salad, kip shoutout to the cook, 5star. Helpful, friendly staff (reception and resto.
We're surely coming back.
Went to Walibi fright nights and had a blast! I loved the thematic decorations. I have been the past 6 years every year to fright nights and this was the first time that the cues for the attractions were below 30 min waiting time. On top of this it was also the first time I could enter a haunted house with just the 4 of us. (The years prior there was always a stream of people walking through them causing you to miss all the scares)
One minor point though, I would like Walibi to have one night where the scares actors aren’t confined to their zones but are allowed to roam the whole park. I just think fright nights would really be scary this way.
4.3
(32882)
4.2
(2014)
Spijkweg 30, 8256 RJ Biddinghuizen, Netherlands
5Look A — Google reviewMichel W — Google reviewRichard C — Google reviewAlvaro L — Google reviewMichael D — Google reviewTom G — Google reviewPeter R — Google review•
Veluwe Sand Sculpture Festival
Museums
Art Museums
Site of an annual sand sculpture festival lasting several months, with a new theme every year.
Amazing sculptures, and really nicely done through story telling showing the history of 750 years Amsterdam.
There really is a lot to see and the added bonus of the playground and wooden sculptures (accessible for free) make this a place worth visiting.
Mitchel M — Google review
You don't have to pay the ticket as soon as you enter the garden. You can still enjoy the atmosphere of the place until you get to the ticket office, enjoying a lot of statues that invite you to play and relax. We paid for the parking at the kassa, at the same time as the entrance ticket to the sand statues.
There is a small playground for children. We satisfied our hunger with a burger. From the restaurant we followed the arrow, but in this way we missed some of the statues and had to turn back when closing time was approaching. But we didn't want to miss them.
The quiet atmosphere makes everything suitable for 0-90 years old and even more :)) Even when it gets crowded, with a little patience you can find the moment again when you can read all the information without rushing.
We thought there would be much fewer statues and that we would have enough time to visit. But the history of Amsterdam alone includes 90 sand statues, each of which speaks of a certain moment. For each one there is a description of that moment. Everything is very captivating. When you look at the expressions on the faces of the statues you feel like in the movie “Night at the Museum” and you expect them to come to life at any moment.
So our advice is to allocate more time because the whole complex is worth it and the atmosphere is so warm and relaxed, why not prolong the moment before returning to everyday life?
Nice exhibition all about Amsterdam and its history. If you want to read the signs with information at each sculpture you can easily spend half a day here. Nice shops and two restaurants complete this place.
Don't judge a book by its cover and don't judge this attraction by what it looks like from the road. Well worth a visit. Extremely friendly staff and amazing workmanship in sand and wood. Food was great to.
An interesting place to spend the day with your family and friends. The place was full with tourists and groups, still there is enough place to walk around. The sculptures are huge and I was surprised by the level of detail of some of them, specially the ones depicting WWII. Worth to visit (at least once). Inside the park there are restaurants and small cafes. You can easily spend around 4 hours.
I visited it during the exhibition 750 years of Amsterdam. It was a nice way to learn more about the history of Amsterdam while looking at the works of art.
Beautiful sand sculptures with great in detail explanations. In a very nice location. I was surprised how close you could get to the sand! They really trust the audience.
Not ideal for young children, unless you want to play close attention at all times, but a very enjoyable hour.
We visited the Amsterdam-themed exhibition. It was elaborated in beautiful created sand sculptures.
A tip; Groups often come, if there is a groep in front of you, wait a bit before going in and first have a drink in the restaurant, then you can enjoy the exhibition a few minutes later without shuffling.
4.6
(8956)
4.0
(191)
Oude Barnevelderweg 5, 3886 PT Garderen, Netherlands
I'll never travel to Enschede without this trip planner again
6Wolf F — Google reviewA A — Google reviewZann L — Google reviewPenny K — Google reviewHemanth S — Google reviewRoba G — Google reviewNick — Google review•
Zwaantje Giethoorn Botenverhuur Rondvaartbedrijf Restaurant
Mentioned on
affordable
Boat rental service
Located in a charming village, 't Zwaantje Botenverhuur Rondvaart bedrijf Restaurant offers an authentic Italian dining experience. The boat tour lasts about an hour and provides a mix of canal and lake views. While the windy lake portion may require some warm clothing, the nearby café offers a cozy spot to enjoy drinks and food. Renting a boat allows for leisurely exploration of the well-maintained village and picturesque canal-side houses.
If you’re visiting the charming village of Giethoorn in the Netherlands, don’t miss the chance to experience Zwaantje Giethoorn Botenverhuur. This beautiful spot is famous for its peaceful canals, traditional thatched-roof houses, and lush green surroundings. One of the best ways to explore the area is by renting a boat or taking a relaxing trip along the water.
During my visit, I also tried renting a bicycle, and it was truly a memorable experience. The cycling paths around Giethoorn are well-maintained, offering stunning views of the countryside, picturesque bridges, and serene lakes. What makes it even better is that you don’t need to book your bike in advance — it’s easy to find available bikes on the spot.
The prices for both boat and bike rentals are very reasonable, making it a perfect activity for families, couples, or solo travelers. I highly recommend adding this destination to your travel list if you’re looking for a quiet and beautiful place to relax in the heart of nature.
Hamad Z — Google review
Restaurant ist ok, but untrained staff are breathtakingly slow. A simple drink order can take half an hour.
The boat rental is not cheap, but everything works and the guides where friendly and helpful. Parking was free and toilets are free to enter from inside the restaurant
Boat rental worked well! Very minimal instructions but we already knew how to drive a boat. Others clearly did not but that seems to be the norm here (lots of crashing in the canals).
Visiting Giethoorn was like stepping into a fairy tale! 🌿✨ Just a couple of hours from Amsterdam, this charming village is filled with peaceful canals, quaint wooden bridges, and beautiful thatched-roof cottages. We had our brunch at ’t Zwaantje Restaurant before starting our stroll around the village — the views were absolutely stunning and incredibly relaxing.
There are also plenty of cozy cafés and canal-side restaurants, perfect for enjoying a coffee or some Dutch pancakes with a view.
If you’re visiting Amsterdam, I highly recommend taking a day trip to Giethoorn — it’s calm, picturesque, and truly a hidden gem! 🚤🌸
Parking is 7.50E but you get a credit in your boat or tour price. I took the tour 10E per person. I went early so there weren’t very many people on the canals. Such beauty scenery. A must do!
We hired a boat for ourselves here, and it was easy to ride the boat. Price was 50€ for 2 hours ride. We went around the place in blue line and it took around 2 hours to complete the ride.
We took so many photos while going. Village is maintained beautifully and house along the canal are a sight to watch.
Plan to book a boat early else you might to wait for a while line to get a boat during peak times and weekends.
Worst experience! 👎🏼👎🏼👎🏼👎🏼👎🏼
The old blonde tall lady working is very rude.
First of all, We paid for a boat with a table in the middle and were given one without and we said nothing.
We were so excited to try the boat tour with this company but unfortunately we were given a broken boat which went extremely slow. At the beginning the water was so crowded we didn’t notice the problem with the boat but once it was less crowded we noticed it but didn’t realize the problem until later.
We then got lost in the route and called them for help regarding the speed of the boat they didn’t even bother sending someone to help us. They said we had to clean the engine which is definitely not our job (the hand has to be put into the dirty water and trash be taken out of the engine). Anyways, when we got back, 1:30 hours late, we tried explaining to them the problem but the woman in the ticketing office was so rude she didn’t even want to listen to us. All she did was blame us for getting lost (which we take responsibility for), but she was not willing to take responsibility for the broken engine and slow boat which were broken from the very beginning.
We paid 58€ (4 adults + 1 child) for a tour guide and there was no one talking. The captain was only speaking Dutch, quietly. The 2nd star goes for the view and only the view.
4.1
(1871)
4.0
(169)
Dominee T.O. Hylkemaweg 1, 8355 CD Giethoorn, Netherlands
7Juntos R — Google reviewShirin S — Google reviewRenee W — Google reviewCatherine O — Google reviewRamana's — Google reviewRené T — Google reviewCzaju S — Google review•
Smit Giethoorn
Mentioned on
Boat rental service
Tours
Boat Tours
Smit Giethoorn is a charming car-free hamlet in the Dutch province of Overijssel, known for its picturesque canals, bike paths, and traditional thatched-roof cottages. It borders the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, offering a glimpse into the region's history at the Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus. The boat trips are particularly popular during spring and summer, providing an excellent way to explore the area.
They have good quality boats including long boats with mouthpiece to guide a big group of. The people there were young, energetic, knowledgeable and smiling. They are just next to parking 3. They have their own private parking space. Since this is outside of the central part, less congested. There is a nice restaurant from where you can take food inside the boat and enjoy while riding through the canal. Washroom is free and clean, can accommodate big groups without any trouble.
Shubhrangshu M — Google review
We are a Brazilian family 🇧🇷 We travel the world by motorhome @JuntosEmRota If you're coming to see the city by motorhome, this is the right place! They have a huge parking lot, we slept without any problems and were able to enjoy everything before the tour buses arrived!! Beautiful and peaceful place. We rented the boat and had lunch at the restaurant. Delicious food! The ribs are the best we've ever had!! You have to try them! They have a vast menu. The boat costs €20 per hour. the kayak tour is also very cool! Bart Smit and the whole staff were very friendly and attentive 🇧🇷 Brasileiros não deixem de provar a costela muito melhor do que a do Outback!!
We rented a boat from here and had a wonderful experience 🚤🌞
Although we arrived about 10 minutes late for the return ⏰, the staff was very kind and professional 🤝. They gave us great instructions on how to safely operate the boat 🧭💡.
It was a fun and memorable experience 🎉 I’d definitely love to be their customer again 🙌.
Also, we booked through their website 💻, so we didn’t have to wait in line ⛔🕐.
Highly recommended! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
It was a beautiful day. The boot was lovely and I loved Giethoorn. I'm very glad that it's still nice and "gezellig".
Was excellent. Very accommodating. Pls take note during the peak season it has long queue but was tolerable. Stuffs is so helpful & they're trying their best to help everyone.
very nice experience enjoy entertainment so nice
Super good food and great service! Absolutely a place to go to and a surprise if you thought it is just a daytime restaurant.
Smit Giethoorn was a great choice! Nice boats, lovely staff and even though we got lost and arrived too late - there was no issue about it :) thank you very much for such a nice adventure! Fully recommended!
4.5
(1464)
4.5
(299)
Zuiderpad 58, 8355 CC Giethoorn, Netherlands
8Jean-Charles F — Google reviewAlex K — Google reviewHoda A — Google reviewMarcel V — Google reviewWytzia R — Google reviewSteve S — Google reviewR — Google review•
National Prison Museum
Mentioned on
History museum
Museums
The National Prison Museum is an interactive museum located in a former penal institution, offering insights into the history of Dutch crime and prisons. It provides an overview of Dutch prisons and punishments throughout history, showcasing the evolution of treatment for prisoners and staff. Visitors can also opt for additional tours around the village, including a visit to an abandoned prison that adds to the experience.
Great place to visit (incl with kids), intriguing story that forms part of modern Dutch history
Leonard B — Google review
Interesting history of the town and prison. As well as torture instrument. Lits to learn and discover. Also for kids, nice and cool stuff to do, explore and see.
It is interesting to see the history of this prison and prisons in general in Holland. Also, the story about the punishments for Nazi collaborators and the dynamic about that was interating
Very interesting to learn how people used to treat prisoners and staff. Their clothes, punishments, circumstances. A lot has changed since the old days.
My son is sworn in as a civil servant. We received a tour of the museum as part of the festivities.
Very nice museum. More interesting than i suspected. More interesting, specially knowing the NPO documentary "The Dictator" was recorded in " De Rode Pannen"
While the old museum was focussed on the history of this prison colony (when I visited 30 years ago) the current museum gives an overview of the history of Dutch prisons and punishments in general. We opted for the extra tour around the village and that was very interesting even for my father who lives in a nearby village and has been in Veenhuizen often as the guide tells interesting stories.
Absolutely worth visiting, definitely take the audio tour, learnt a lot about elements of the Dutch history that I was unaware of
nice museum that tells the tale of prison life through the ages. You can book an additional must-do tour to an abandoned prison, in my opinion the star of the show! The whole village has been preserved in the 18/19th century style. Superb.day out!
4.4
(5854)
4.5
(237)
Oude Gracht 1, 9341 AA Veenhuizen, Netherlands
9Patricia B — Google reviewMatt G — Google reviewAndrii P — Google reviewCristian P — Google reviewViktoria M — Google reviewCameron W — Google reviewLucas K — Google review•
Museum de Fundatie
Mentioned on
Museum
Art museum
Specialty Museums
Museum de Fundatie is a visual arts museum located in Zwolle, housed in a neoclassical palace with a modern rooftop extension. The museum features an international art collection and offers panoramic views from its rooftop terrace. Visitors can also explore the historic city center of Zwolle, climb the Sassenpoort for stunning views, and visit Kasteel Het Nijenhuis with its beautiful gardens and sculptures.
Building is special, but inside just normal museum. Nice special exhibition during our visit.
H — Google review
During a recent visit to Zwolle, we had the chance to explore Museum de Fundatie, and I can confidently say it was an unforgettable experience. The first thing that struck us was the building itself—it’s truly a work of art. The combination of the historic neoclassical base with the ultra-modern “cloud” structure on top is fascinating. It’s not just a museum; it’s an architectural masterpiece that demands your attention even before you step inside.
Once inside, the museum didn’t disappoint. The collection is diverse, featuring everything from classic to contemporary art, and every piece seemed to tell a story. We were particularly drawn to some of the modern installations, which felt both thought-provoking and playful. The way the exhibits were curated made it easy to move between different styles and eras while still feeling cohesive.
One of our favorite moments was enjoying the view from the “cloud” section at the top. The large windows offer stunning panoramic views of Zwolle, adding an extra layer of magic to the visit. It’s the kind of place where you could easily spend hours just soaking it all in.
Museum de Fundatie is not just about the art—it’s the entire experience. The combination of innovative design, compelling exhibitions, and the serene ambiance makes it a must-visit destination. We left feeling inspired and eager to return one day. If you’re in Zwolle, this is a place you simply cannot miss.
Very nice local museum situated in the center of the inner city/ring. Excellent permanent collection and rotating collections. A museum card makes this and many other museums very affordable.
Lovely museum with great collection of portraits and landscapes from the Dutch Golden Age till modern days. They host regular temporary exhibitions of modern art that nicely compliment permanent collection. The museum is friendly to people with disabilities. The staff is doing fantastic job for arranging expositions and highlighting info about artists. Reserve 1.5 -2 hours for visiting. Do not forget to climb at the top floor. There is nice view over Zwolle and cosy cafe.
So I had a very nice time first time in Zwolle and I visited also Museum de Fundatie.
What I liked the most was the expo at the top and the audio-video projection inside the Dome, very relaxing and recharging.
Very nice museum with lovely staff. I love that you don't need a euro for the lockers because i so rarely carry cash and don't have to worry about where to put my winter coat! bathrooms on every floor is also great (and the soap smells good). Just wish the museum shop carried more items based on the exhibition :) thanks!
What an awesome experience. I can definitely recommend this Art Museum. There is a lot to see and if you keep walking up the stairs there is a little cafe where you can grab a coffee and relax. The town of Zwolle is also really nice so definitely a nice day trip no matter where in the Netherlands you are from
Really nice museum for a quick and inspiring visit. I’d strongly recommend that you start from the 4th floor taking the elevator at the lobby and then make your way down from the “Leiko Ikemura” expositions to the “ex- change proto” and finally to “Guillaume”.
I spent about an hour here and read almost all room descriptions. There are also guided tours, I believe those should be booked in advanced. The day that I went it was not crowded, but that was a bit unusual.
If you have the Museumkaart you can access for free.
Unfortunately the day that I was there the cafe was closed.
4.1
(4134)
4.0
(837)
Blijmarkt 20, 8011 NE Zwolle, Netherlands
10乇Ⱡ Ꭾ — Google reviewJ H — Google reviewMaarten K — Google reviewJiyan I — Google reviewYurii Y — Google reviewCraig B — Google reviewRichard — Google review•
Zwolle
Mentioned on
Transit station
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Zwolle is home to a beautiful and well-maintained railway station, serving as a hub for the northern provinces. The station features classical architecture and offers ample space for large crowds. While there are ongoing store developments, the station boasts a decent amount of shops and facilities. Visitors can easily access buses from the entrance. The city itself is described as clean, beautiful, and new, with easy accessibility by bus or bicycle due to limited taxi availability.
Beautiful, quiet little city with a well preserved historical center
Thomas I — Google review
Decent railway station, this is basically a hub for the northern provinces, all trains come by here which then gives you the opportunity to go to basically everywhere in the Netherlands. Can be a littel daunting at first but after a few visits you'll find your way around it easy.
Great railway station with a decent amount of shops. Always cleaning staff close by to keep things neat. Lots of facilities and busses next to the entrance. Personally recommend this railway station.
Zwolle! Beautiful medieval city with a cozy city centre with plenty of restaurants, bars and parks. I am one of the lucky ones who lived there in my 20's during the 90's. Good times!
6 and 7 are in the same Station platforms
5 ,4, 3 in the same station platforms you don't have to change the station platforms
12 ,13 also in the same platform
nice city
Beautiful city ❤️ lots to do and so much to see
Delightful railway station. Oh come on, it's a railway station for goodness sake! But this one is pretty nice.
4.2
(469)
3.7
(178)
8011 CW Zwolle, Netherlands
I'll never travel to Enschede without this trip planner again
11Anli N — Google reviewAllison T — Google reviewMatteo M — Google reviewSikandar K — Google reviewJane P — Google reviewJoseph H — Google reviewSteve — Google review
Sassenpoort
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Sassenpoort, a 15th-century gatehouse in Zwolle, is a must-see landmark offering historic exhibits on all floors and panoramic views from its rooftop terrace. The city center of Zwolle boasts narrow streets, charming buildings, and picturesque canals to explore. Additionally, visitors can marvel at the Grote Kerk, a large church dating back to the 15th century.
A very interesting place. An interesting brief history of the city in pictures, the decoration of the rooms. You can even shoot a bow there! Also listen to the bell. Unfortunately there is no way out. But at the top there is a window with a beautiful view of the city. If you put your phone away, you can take beautiful pictures. The ticket is only about 5 euros.
Алексей Н — Google review
What a beautiful place. It feels like being in a fairytale while walking through the old city center.
Beautiful building with a ton of history. The guide, Dick, was wonderful and was able to answer all questions about the building, the town, and its history with passion and enthusiasm. There were great activities for kids to learn about the town history. The views were amazing. This is well worth the 5€ and you will not be disappointed!
I absolutely recommend visiting the Sassenpoort — no hesitation.
You’ll learn not only about Zwolle, but also hidden stories and fascinating Dutch history that only the passionate staff can tell you.
The guides are former caretakers of the place, and their storytelling is full of life, humor, and detail you won’t find anywhere else.
Our visit lasted about 2.5 hours — we ended up talking a lot, and it was truly worth it.
I won’t spoil anything… I’ll leave the mystery for you to discover.
Highly recommended if you want a real, human experience of Dutch history.
Beautiful location, everything is wonderful about. It is a peaceful place. Enjoy the walk around the beautiful streets . Nothing is more wonderful than having beautiful than having amazing people around u
You can visit multiple floors of this gate, views of the city, and lots of history. Very helpful and friendly staff.
Sassenpoort was worth a visit. I also learnt about the history of this gate and Zwolle.
It was a steep climb to the inside reception but very interesting throughout. It's a very well maintained historic building.
12Ashlee C — Google reviewS L — Google reviewMeryem G — Google reviewChiara C — Google reviewLaura F — Google reviewJenika C — Google reviewSharif M — Google review•
Apenheul
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Apenheul is a seasonal park located in Apeldoorn, the 12th largest city in the Netherlands. The city has modern residential areas and business districts, with its history and attractions concentrated in the original core. A visit to Apenheul offers an opportunity to see over 200 free-roaming primates, explore a treetop trail, and experience a nocturnal monkey house.
Very cute monkeys, beautiful and demanding place. The tour is about 3-4 hours, the parking ticket is 1,07 €/ 20 minutes. There are restaurants and toilets inside. And you can walk amoung the monkeys. Just watch out, some of them are thieves. 😄😄
Zsófia F — Google review
Amazing experience. If you have a stroller, they will get on the stroller. They provide free anti-primate bags to put your stuff in. You get to be so close to the animals! There are activities throughout the park to keep kids entertained and engaged. As well as fun facts and other educational things along the way.
Apenheul is a beautiful park with great visibility of the monkeys and superb, friendly staff. The landscaping is lovely, and the whole place feels clean and well-kept. The only downside: the paper maps often end up soggy in the water, which makes things messy — a digital app or clearer route signs would be a big improvement.
Avoid going in the summer break — it’s just too crowded and very loud. For children who get easily overstimulated, a weekday in low season is a much better choice. The food is below average, even though there are plenty of food squares to choose from.
The park also has several playgrounds that are both challenging and fun for younger kids, which is a real plus for families. The walk through the park is long but very scenic if you enjoy nature. Parking looks like it could be chaotic on busy days, but thanks to the staff’s excellent handling and clear protocols, there’s really no room for chaos — they keep everything moving smoothly.
One tip: don’t bring small items in your pockets (sunglasses, phones, etc.). Consider adding a small travel lock to your bag, otherwise you’ll be required to carry one of the free Apenheul monkey-proof bags. They’re big enough, but when packed too heavy, they can become a real strain on your shoulders.
All in all, a beautifully maintained park with wonderful staff and a unique experience — best enjoyed outside peak season.
Apenheul is an absolutely amazing place — it’s worth visiting Apeldoorn just for this park! The entire experience was fantastic. Even on a very hot day, the park feels pleasant and refreshing thanks to the tall trees and natural shade everywhere.
You can walk among various monkey species freely, and it’s incredible how close you can get to them while still respecting their space. The animals seem very well cared for, which really adds to the experience.
One small downside: the video shown during the gorilla feeding session was only in Dutch with German subtitles. It would have been more inclusive if English subtitles were also available. The live presentation was also in Dutch, but considering that most visitors are from the Netherlands and many are children, it’s understandable.
If you’re anywhere nearby, I highly recommend visiting. A truly unique and enjoyable experience!
We visited Apenheul and absolutely loved it. The monkeys are adorable 😍🐒 and you can see many of them up close as they move freely around the park. There are also other animals, like capybaras. The whole park is very well equipped, with plenty of rest areas and even sunscreen dispensers available throughout. Everything is clean, well maintained, and organized. The staff is friendly, very attentive to both visitors and the animals, always ready to help. The gorilla presentation was a real highlight. It’s definitely a great place for families with children, but we’re a couple in our twenties and we had a fantastic time too 😊😊
Apenheul – Where the Monkeys Are Better Behaved Than Some Visitors
Apenheul was pure magic. The park (and the nearby public park) is spotless, beautifully kept, and just a short walk from a spacious parking area. The real highlight? Dozens of monkey species roaming free, completely at ease – it’s like stepping into their world instead of peering at them from behind glass.
At the entrance, you get a free monkey-proof bag to protect your belongings from curious little hands. You can skip it if you’ve already made your own “thief-proof” setup (think carabiners locking your zippers) – but trust me, the monkeys will test your security system.
Friendly staff are everywhere, making sure both monkeys and humans stay safe – a small miracle considering there are still the occasional unsupervised kids and the inevitable wheeled trailers people insist on dragging along.
The feeding sessions are a must. Check the website or park guide for times – you’ll learn a lot and it’s a joy to watch. Huge applause for the staff, who clearly care deeply for the animals and create an experience that feels respectful, educational, and unforgettable.
Amazing experience. It was a bit crowded, but there wasnt a long wait to get in. Friendly and knowledgeable staff. The habitats were spacious, clean, and well-maintained. Very educational and unlike any "zoo" experience I've had in the past.
One of the coolest most immersive and beautiful zoos with apes and monkeys that have plenty of space and safe interactions with visitors.
4.5
(20726)
4.3
(1307)
J.C. Wilslaan 21, 7313 HK Apeldoorn, Netherlands
13Sibel C — Google reviewDr S — Google reviewRick B — Google reviewDaryna H — Google reviewMohammed S — Google reviewYas A — Google reviewOlga M — Google review•
Paleis Het Loo
Mentioned on
Museum
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Paleis Het Loo is a 17th-century palace and garden that offers guided tours of the royal apartments and houses a notable art collection. It's a massive complex that provides insight into the Dutch Royal Family, featuring an excellent cafe and a fun kids playground. The surrounding area also includes Apenheul, an ape zoo, as well as beautiful parks with stately villa neighborhoods and access to the Veluwe forest.
We visited this palace over the weekend, what a pleasant surprise! A beautiful palace, it tells a lot about the history of the kings of Holland, about the architecture. A very well preserved palace, the view from the top of the garden is a sight to behold. We loved everything, one of the best palaces we have ever visited.
S.M.M.L — Google review
Amazing palace, a must visit when you are around.
The garden is precious and highly recommended to spend some time outside.
The sculptures as well as the plants and flowers are beautiful. The design of the landscape is so cool.
Plus, the restaurant is also very good with a scenic view.
Arguably the most magnificent palace in the Netherlands and it is easily reachable by public transport. It's massive so you really need a full day to explore the palace AND the fabulous gardens. Everything is breathtaking!
Its a great place to visit. The tours inside the palace are nice. You can do a tour with a book so you can read from a folder you can get at the start or do an audio tour. Then the gardens are amazing especially when the weather is in your favor. Parking is close and not expensive (€8 for the day day)
Nice to see inside what furniture and style is in every room. Gardens are nice. But comparing to some other palaces and castles this one is not my top. But it is nice. What I loved is a restaurant inside where they have high tea, really nice design. And nice terrace outdoor. Plus they have some activities like archery or some other games that make you feel like you travel back in time.
The graden at the Palace is super cool. There are different types of plants, labelled. A lot of mini activities for kids for example archery.
Coming to palace itself, it was pretty awesome. A lot of rooms to explore, though some of the floors are not meant for visitors. The roof is accessible as well via a lift - and there can be queues at the lift.
Outside the palace, at the initial entrance, there are some historical artifacts to explore as well like the cars driven by the Royals and other stuff.
Would like to complement the staff, who are really nice and approachable.
Second time visiting after more than 5 years. A great destination to visit with family or friends. A great day out to visit not only the palace but also the garden, the antique cars & carriages collection and the exhibitions. Good facility for visitors such as the toilets, lockers, parking, etc.
We didn’t go inside the palace, but with such beautiful weather we didn’t mind at all. The terrace was a lovely spot to sit, and the gardens are truly worth the visit : peaceful, well kept, and full of charm.
4.5
(8424)
4.3
(1310)
Koninklijk Park 16, 7315 JA Apeldoorn, Netherlands
14M. B — Google reviewDragos A — Google reviewAleksandra P — Google reviewNathalie B — Google reviewFrederik B — Google reviewGertrude H — Google reviewDavid W — Google review
Veluwse Bron
Mentioned on
Spa
Spas & Wellness
Veluwse Bron is a popular wellness destination with a variety of saunas and good food. While some visitors recommend bringing your own sandals and robe to save on costs, others have had negative experiences with the massage service. However, many guests have enjoyed their time at Veluwse Bron, praising the well-maintained facilities, friendly staff, and serene atmosphere. Despite occasional disappointments with the food offerings, the overall experience is often described as tranquil and rejuvenating.
Favourite wellness for more than 8 years already. Lovely place where your body and soul can relax and fully recharge. Great facilities and kitchen.
Veronika V — Google review
A lot of different saunas and pools, plus activities and massage options. Clean and spacious. Great outdoor section: excellent on warm days with a large terrace for food and drinks, outdoor sunbeds with great nature views and even a small beach. Aside from the regular dining there is also an Italian restaurant. Free to use soap and shampoo/conditioner. Only downside is the food and drinks are quite expensive, as well as the items for rent. Food Quality is good though.
Honestly I find hard to believe all those 1* and 2* reviews...
We visited on a Sunday, and everything was absolutely as expected. The place was clean, plenty of staff around to clean and maintain during the day.
The complex is really big and even during a busy day like today, there was plenty of room in most of the saunas and even a few with no one inside , except us.
Food and portion sizes were great ( had the Poke Bowl ) and the reviews complaining about prices have obviously never been to a sauna in the Netherlands. The prices are absolutely normal for a sauna complex in the Netherlands. ( Not cheap but definitely not over the top expensive 52 euro for 2 mains , 3 drinks and portion of fries)
A few restaurants to choose from (so not just 1 ) with variety in the menus.
Beautiful and large garden, with access to swim in the lake. Couldn't ask for more!
We had a wonderful day, felt relaxed at the end, and we will definitely come again!
Absolutely wonderful and charming place to relax. I have been to several places like that in Europe, but this is is by far my favorite. Treatments are top notch, customer service is attentive, friendly and helpful. The rooms are facilities are designed in such a way you can totally relax and switch your brain off. The location at the lake is charming and makes you want to grab a book by the lake to read, or just peacefully take a refreshing nap. One small improvement point is the service at the restaurant - it can be tad bit slow sometimes, even if it's not very busy. Waiting 15 minutes for a cup of coffee is not desirable. But that is the only point, th rest is absolutely amazing!
I have visited most of the big saunas in The Netherlands and Veluwse Brons experience exceeding my expectations. The nature is wonderful, the staff very pleasant and helpful but this is the first spa in years where I can enjoy the peace and quiet. Guests are respectful and do not speak loudly. Yes, there is room for improvement on the renovation side, here and there but this place is one of the best sauna I have been to. Also, the 'opgieting' from sauna master Harold was the cherry on a delicious cake. What an experience! He was funny and skilled, the mint crystals on the sauna heater and the way he made everyone participate and enjoy the session was incredible. By far, the best of over 500 opgieting I have had in my life. It was so worth it that I had to ask for his name as I want you all to be aware that if you ever get the chance to have Harold as your saunamaster, you will never forget the experience. Enjoy! Such moments are rare!
A nice environment, a great diversity of sauna’s and a very friendly staff.
What more can you want.
We enjoyed the foods as well.
Good value for money.
Very relaxing day, great variety of sauna’s, we liked the option to swim in the lake. Would be nice to sit outside and eat despite the weather, it’s rather dark inside.
Superb place. Best in class and understandably popular! Restaurant pretty good as well. I’ll be back!
15Pedro P — Google reviewKenny D — Google reviewMary M — Google reviewLotte — Google reviewVikas K — Google reviewOkey I — Google reviewEric S — Google review•
Dwingelderveld National Park
Mentioned on
National reserve
Nature & Parks
Dwingelderveld National Park is a vast and picturesque moorland reserve in the Dutch province of Drenthe. It offers an array of walking and cycling trails that wind through marsh flats, wooded areas, and rare bird habitats. The park is adjacent to the Blue Lake and close to an Alpaca farm, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore ancient forests, heathlands, and dolmens while also enjoying the charm of local villages.
I recently visited the Dutch province Drenthe, known for its history and unspoilt nature. You can hike in ancient forests, through heathlands, enjoy sunrises, learn about dolmens (hunebedden), visit local villages, spend the night in nature, enjoy great restaurants and visit the typical sheepfolds. 💜
If you are looking for a beautiful place in The Netherlands to relax and get away from the daily hustle. Then you definitely want to consider visiting Drenthe province. Enjoy the pictures
Noureddine H — Google review
Very beautiful nature area. Great for walking and cycling.
A real nice national park.if you are there it feels like you are not in Holland. Discovering this place is best by bicycle. The bicycle path that crosses the field through the middle of dwingelderveld is just amazing to do. On the far right of the field there is a bird watch station. The bicycle trail that runs there is very beautiful. It was named most beautiful bicycle path in 2017. You can definitely cover the whole area by bike in day. This park is definitely worth a visit when you are around.
If you love nature then this one of the best nationaal parks in the Netherlands. I got alot of energy after walking there it's soo amazing to be there. It was nice and quiet so I saw alot of animals by for example butterfly I can even explain the feeling when you hear sounds of the birds singing.
Beautiful park to take a long or short walk. The woods are really quiet and amazing in summer time, and the heather with nothing but sky above makes for a most impressive view.
Lovely place to walk around and enjoy nature. There are different trails for all kind of activities like biking, walking or horse riding. There are lots of benches around to have a picnic with family or friends on a nice sunny day.
A serene place where one can walk 7.5km non-stop in a beautiful and natural environment.
Nice forest with walking paths ranging from hardened and short (accessible for all) and soft and longer. A lodge has info about the area and offers some drinks and such.
4.6
(4280)
4.5
(55)
Benderse 22, 7963 RA Ruinen, Netherlands
I'll never travel to Enschede without this trip planner again
16Bavantha U — Google reviewRick R — Google reviewElizabeth D — Google reviewYecheng S — Google reviewBernhard H — Google reviewMatthew — Google reviewEskeatnaf M — Google review•
Nationaal Park Veluwezoom
Mentioned on
National park
Outdoor Activities
Nationaal Park Veluwezoom is a forested parkland that offers activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and wildlife spotting. The park features steep inclines and descents, making it a challenging yet rewarding destination for cyclists. Visitors can encounter freely roaming horses and Highland cattle during their explorations. The park's picturesque scenery includes blooming heather flowers along the purple/magenta route, with a cozy café conveniently located halfway for a refreshing break.
One hike is guided by the purple sign. It starts at the tourist information (parking and food service) and meanders up and down through the heath to Posbank (parking and food service) and back in a loop. Another hike is perfectly guided by the red sign. It starts at Posbank and leads you mainly through forest and fern to a very nice place to rest, eat, and drink (De Carolinahoeve). The hike takes you back in a loop, and there are also great views of the heath landscape. All the trails are perfectly marked by posts along the way. There is a post that shows the direction before you even start to think where to go. Unfortunately, dogs are allowed and even with leash they come too close.
Frank P — Google review
The heather fields were beautiful, even though by the end of August they were starting to fade. For the best vibrant purple views, I’d recommend visiting in mid-August. The cycling paths through the area make it a great way to enjoy the scenery.
We rented bikes online once we arrive there (highly recommended during peak season). Our route was 53 → 66 → 69 → 25 → back to 53. The regular bikes were smooth, while the tandem bike was fun but a bit challenging at times since the gear setup wasn’t very efficient. Still, it was a great experience overall.
Beautiful Nature. Perfect for walking. Multiple trails inside. Beautiful in August with the purple blooms. Some parts may get very slippery and muddy when wet.
Great place to enjoy nature. They have a lot of different walking routes. You can easily spend the whole day or just a couple of hours.
You'll see a variety of animals, cows, deers and squirrels.
Very lovely place to go if you want to get out of the city!
My visit to Nationaal Park Veluwezoom yesterday was fantastic. The weather was perfect, which made the stunning purple flowers even more vibrant and beautiful. The scenery is truly breathtaking and a great escape into nature.
The only challenge we encountered was the hiking trails themselves. The markings aren't always very clear, so you might find yourself needing to find your own path at times. However, this also adds a sense of adventure to the experience!
Overall, it's a wonderful park for anyone who wants to enjoy some natural beauty and doesn't mind a little bit of off-the-beaten-path exploration.
One of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands. Great National Park. Beautiful to hike, bike or to walk. Hilly slopes, forests and heathlands. Parking downside in the village of Rheden.
Nice park, very beautifull nature, stunning colors, parking near by is very nice and is free, park has many good routes and have lot of benches with good views that i would reccomend spending hours sitting there.
A highly recommended place!
If you are in the vicinity, don't miss it. Or if you can, plan and visit this national park.
You can spend an afternoon, or even a full day here. I have visited this place in all four seasons, and it is always beautiful. You can choose different routes and walk 5, 10, or 15 kilometres. It is also a great place for biking, with plenty of climbing opportunities, which is unusual for the Netherlands. This is one of the places in the Netherlands that is unique in its landscape. Sometimes, it can be quite crowded, but not to the point where you will be annoyed. There is a parking spot at the beginning of your route, as well as a small museum (mainly for kids) and a restaurant where you can eat. There are several restaurants in the surrounding area. Additionally, there are several playgrounds for kids of all ages.
4.7
(7027)
4.5
(213)
Heuvenseweg 5A, 6991 JE Rheden, Netherlands
17Janun B — Google reviewAna Q — Google reviewPedro P — Google reviewNabila A — Google reviewWilliam H — Google reviewFabien H — Google reviewCarol S — Google review•
Herinneringscentrum Kamp Westerbork
Mentioned on
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Herinneringscentrum Kamp Westerbork is a memorial center and museum situated on the site of a former Nazi transit camp in the Netherlands. The museum provides an in-depth look at the persecution of Jews during World War II, with exhibits and memorial plaques honoring the victims. Visitors can explore the grounds, including features like the punishment building and workshops where internees worked. The Westerbork trail offers a poignant journey through the woods to reach the camp, providing insight into its history.
This is definitely worth a visit, lest we forget. Lovley museum with a great treasure hunt for the kids to do and learn about the camp. There is a bus that takes you from the centre down to the actual camp. It is friendly enough to visit with kids and gives enough information to understand the tragedy of WW11
Tarryn O — Google review
Dutch only, there's not too much to see. Low value for the entrance fee.
For the kids it was hard to follow, especially from abroad with German or English language which was not available.
There's a shuttle bus that takes people from the museum to the camp, you'll have to count around 1hr for the shuttle/waiting time. Clean and well organized.
There was some info and a suitcase from Anne Frank, who also lived there for a few days.
Dutch-only museum, small and outdated, disappointing experience
Considering the dark and important history this museum represents, it's truly disappointing how limited and outdated the experience is.
Main issues:
Almost all descriptions and videos are only in Dutch. There are very few translations in English or German, making it hard for international visitors to understand the exhibits.
The audio headphones provided are in poor condition, many are worn out or broken.
A map of the site costs an extra €2, which feels unnecessary after already paying €13.50 for entry.
The museum is quite small, and most of the information can easily be found online.
Unfortunately, there was little to no supervision from parents, and children were running around and being loud, which felt very inappropriate in such a solemn place. Some guidance from the museum staff would be appreciated.
On the positive side: The memorial grounds and the camp area are well maintained and historically informative. However, again, most of the descriptions are only in Dutch, so if you don’t speak the language, you’ll need to rely on your phone for translations.
Overall:
For the price, it was a disappointing experience. A museum with such a significant history should make more effort to be accessible and respectful for all visitors, regardless of language.
Together with the camp site 2km to the east (shuttle bus, bike, or walk) this makes for a very memorable visit and reflection about freedom and prejudice. The museum has many personal items together with their stories, making much impact. On the camp site itself there are relatively few original camp buildings, but impressive nonetheless.
I was here with my husband at 5 mei. Its really interessant tp see. I can also see the camp for the maluku people after they came to the netherland
The heavy hand of history here but finally made my pilgrimage. A small museum of artefacts, history and a book stall and cafe. Then bus to see the larger site including a train car, the astounding Commandants House and the famous railway remnant.
I was very grateful for the 3 English booklets I found, but astounded that there was no proper history available in English, very disappointed.
Westerbork was a transit camp through which about 100,000 people passed. The audio guide is available in several languages. I was amazed at how they managed to preserve the commander’s house under glass. Toilets are available on-site
Highly recommend. I only gave it 4 stars though as most of the narrative was in Dutch. On the signage I had to use Google Translate - which at times was awkward. The English pamphlet I was given only gave a brief explanation of some of the exhibits. Considering English is widely spoken outside of the NL I thought it was an oversight easily remedied. On the plus side, the audio guide was very good.
4.5
(7377)
4.5
(427)
Oosthalen 8, 9414 TG Hooghalen, Netherlands
18Joanne H — Google reviewTijs — Google reviewMark H — Google reviewMatthew A — Google reviewFloris N — Google reviewAndrii P — Google reviewAndrei P — Google review•
MORE Museum
Mentioned on
Museum
Art museum
MORE Museum, located in Gorssel, Netherlands, is a specialized museum showcasing modern realist paintings primarily by Dutch artists. The museum offers a captivating display of paintings and exhibits that evoke a range of emotions with their unbelievable realism. While the location may not be very convenient for some, visitors find the experience to be entirely worth it. The museum also accommodates families with young children, providing a quiet and elegant atmosphere that allows for an enjoyable visit even with infants.
Great place, lots of spaces exhibition rooms. Perfect restaurant with pleasant staff. Accessible for all. Located interesting area.
John K — Google review
Museum MORE has become one of my family’s favorite museums in the region, and this was our second visit within a year!
Even though the scale of the museum is relatively small, but it has a very tasteful permanent collection, accompanied by interesting, thought-provoking exhibitions all year round.
Since we have a 6-year-old, we always pay particular attention to how a museum caters to children and try to get them involved in the art world. Museum MORE has a dedicated, beautiful space just for children visitors to be artsy and creative. They also provide guides, fun activities, ample coloring pencils and clipboards, encouraging and guiding the children to explore the museum space at their own pace and according to their own interest.
Besides its exquisite art collection, the beautiful architecture itself, both exterior and interior, also deserves to be mentioned. There’s something magical about the way light floods in through those huge glass windows and ceiling, making the whole space feel open, bright, and full of life.
The museum shop near the entrance also has a very good selection of books and all kinds of items for audience of all ages.
If you are a modern/contemporary art lover and happens to be in or around Gorssel, it’s definitely worth your while to check this place out!
Always something interesting to see here. We all enjoyed the exhibit from Erik Mattijssen a lot especially. Not too big either which I like.
Great museum in the small town of Gorssel. The permanent collection didn't inspire me too much. Some interesting works were on display. However, the exposition by Cornelis Völker is excellent, very inspiring and comprehensive collection of paintings with relevant themes. Very seldom to see a modern artist portrait the world so simply, yet so accurate.
Beautiful museum, set in a very pretty little village.
The permanent artwork and the guest exhibition were both amazing
Will visit again for sure
A must. Worth a detour. Try those delicious cakes in the restaurant. Immaculate.
Excellent collection of modern realism painting and sculpture by Dutch artists. I loved some paintings, but a few sculptures look scurry as from horror movies. Permanent collection is big, and there is an exhibition. Parking is big and free. Stuff is very friendly and supportive. The museum has access for wheel chairs.
Museum MORE is a Dutch museum in Gorssel, Netherlands. The display of the paintings and exhibits it is totally worth it, even though the location of the museum is not very convenient and takes some time to travel. The paintings guide you through a diversity of emotions and the realism of the exhibits is unbelievable. Museumkaart is valid for a discount on the entrance ticket. I enjoyed my visit here and do recommend to add the museum on to visit list in Netherlands.
4.5
(3537)
4.5
(296)
Hoofdstraat 28, 7213 CW Gorssel, Netherlands
19Marc K — Google reviewFLORERA, K — Google reviewAna-Maria O — Google reviewStefan W — Google reviewJoost H — Google reviewEric H — Google reviewLoic B — Google review•
Société Musée Lalique Pays Bas
Museum
Art museum
Specialty Museums
What a lovely museum! Situated in 3 very beautiful buildings, this Lalique collection is very much worth the visit! You can even buy very rare Lalique pieces there for great prices, too.. also you can have lunch in the garden of one of the museum buildings. This museum is a real gem!
Hannah B — Google review
René Lalique, Jan Toorop, Kees van Dongen. Interesting house, stairs are steep and uneven. Too bad that all text is in Dutch.
A very beautiful location. A truly extensive and magnificent collection to admire and purchase. In addition to this magnificent collection, the life of R. Lalique is vividly depicted through images and texts. In the Lalique café, you can enjoy the flower-filled courtyard in the summer and the beautiful rooms inside in the winter. A must-see museum for art enthusiasts.
Really special collection of Lalique vases and perfume bottles. The house itself is precious and very nicely maintained. The museum spans 2 more rooms in the building across the street. There are two coffee places: Petit Cafe (indoors) and Jardin Lalique (indoors and outdoors).
Great museum to visit if you like lalique.
Great collection of Lalique glass, really great. Could use cleaning more often though, lots of dust everywhere. Side collection of Chagall was not very impressive.
Great place to visit. The museum itself is in several beautiful buildings.
A great collection if you like glass art.
Beautiful museum, excellent and very friendly guide!
4.2
(1129)
4.0
(77)
Gasthuisstraat 1, 6981 CP Doesburg, Netherlands
20
Slagharen
Mentioned on
Water & Amusement Parks
Theme Parks
Slagharen, located in the province of Overijssel, Netherlands, is a charming village with a rich history rooted in peat excavation. One of its main attractions is Attractiepark Slagharen, an amusement park that offers fun for the whole family and is conveniently situated just 20 kilometers from a nearby campsite.
3.5
(464)
Netherlands
I'll never travel to Enschede without this trip planner again
21J. C — Google reviewAlwi S — Google reviewThomas H — Google reviewDavid B — Google reviewManivannan K — Google reviewJofelle T — Google reviewBridget B — Google review•
AdventurePark Hellendoorn
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Amusement park
More than 30 rides, attractions & shows, including roller coasters & an aqua park with slides.
Great place to go to if your gonna go with either a class or a group of friends, I went here last year for summer vacation with my Dutch buddy and someone from another country that I met online, safe to say it’s been the best holiday I’ve had because of that! I also overcame my fear of the huge swing that spins because of my friends, the food here is also very delicious! I recommend this place to people who really wanna go to a theme park in the Netherlands but can’t find anything good!
Liam B — Google review
As long as your child is over 90cm, then you will have many things to play in the park. Both adults and kids will enjoy it. And you don’t need to line up as hell most of time. Definitely a big +
An excellent place to spend time with the family. Probably one of the best because the attractions are so close to each other. In some parks you have to walk quite a bit from one section of rides to another. I also liked the fact that on many rides my kids were allowed on and that the height limitations were not as strict as other places. Most of the workers are kids and did not seem very motivated. However, when you thanked them and showed them your appreciation they lightened up and became very friendly. There was one girl however who was responsible for one of the rides who was very unfriendly and took her job too seriously. People like that should work in prisons and not at an amusement park. Perhaps Avonturenpark Hellendoorn can give some training to their staff.
Parking: Great
Food: OK
Rides:Great
Staff: Average
All in all it was a good experience and I would recommend it for everyone. If you want to make the best out of your trip make sure you have booked a cottage somewhere close in the area because there quite a few places to visit in and around the area which are perfect for a fun day out with the family.
Cozy little adventurepark with rides for all ages. The entrance fee is quite fair and you have the possibility to bring your own food and drinks, or buy some at the many stores.
There is a quite large waterpark inside as well, so bring your swimwear!
Best enjoyed with nice and sunny weather!
Good selection of rides with minimal wait times during a weekday visit in early June - enjoyed the orange roller coaster and the log flume the best!
Sadly didn't open most of the smallest rides suitable for little guests under 90 cm which we were expecting to be open...
We like this theme park because it's not too big like other theme parks in the Netherlands which you can't cover in one day, and pros and cons of this park. But there is a quite nice rides for the small kids below height 120 cm. and the best part is that it has a water slide park where you can have unlimited fun in the water for a penny price, which the kids love and worth it, and I like it after Tikibad (Duinrell). It's a bit out of of center , but it's still worth a visit, especially in the summer, and we never miss visiting this park during the summer. They always provide a good ticket deal in their website itself and this time also they didn't miss it and we too :)
There is enough rides for everyone, for all ages. I love how this park is not so mega. And the hourly open theater presentations are so nice for the kids. It is very Dutch and unique. I will come here again with my kid. And with the Corona rules, the park is well prepared.
Nice park. Went weekday with a 11yr, 9 and 1yr old. Bigger kids enjoyed almost every ride. Went at least twice on their favourite ride. Not much else for the baby as he was just inches smaller for most of the rides but we loved the monorail and the elephant ride. The water park wasn't open during our visit.
4.3
(8892)
4.0
(188)
Luttenbergerweg 22, 7447 PB Hellendoorn, Netherlands
22Nok W — Google reviewMichael S — Google reviewΒαγγελης Γ — Google reviewSandra E — Google reviewJuan G — Google reviewTestphi H — Google reviewRaymond B — Google review•
Plopsa Indoor Coevorden
Mentioned on
Theme park
Water & Amusement Parks
Plopsa Indoor Coevorden is a delightful indoor and outdoor theme park designed especially for young children, making it an ideal destination for families. Nestled in the vibrant world of Studio 100, this enchanting amusement park features over 25 attractions that are sure to captivate little adventurers aged between 2 and 8. Whether it's a rainy day or sunny weather, Plopsa Indoor Coevorden offers plenty of fun activities to keep kids entertained.
Because of the free entry price we had to take a look. It was a lot of fun. Not to big but fun rides! We spend 30 euro on food and drinks plus 20 euro on a rides card. (15 credits)
Ron S — Google review
Today was not too busy, and there was no waiting time. The toilet was exceptionally clean. However, I believe the one in Antwerp is even better.
The staff members were friendly. Considering the cost, I recommend bringing your drinks because it can be quite expensive. We paid nearly €5 for just a can of Minute Maid Jus’d Orange! As for food prices, they typically range from €13 to €14.
Anyway, the park outside is closed without any notifications on the website, so be careful if you expect this.
I don’t even know where to start. This indoor playground is a total disappointment. For the price, I expected my kids to have at least half a day’s worth of fun – but after an hour or two, they were completely bored. And not because they ran out of energy, but because there’s simply nothing to do. The play area is ridiculously small, and for that kind of money, I could have just thrown some pillows on the living room floor and let the kids jump over them. It would have been cheaper and probably just as entertaining.
But fine, you think, “Maybe the staff makes up for it with some friendliness.” Wrong! The employees were not only unfriendly but also constantly missing. If you want to use one of the attractions, you first have to hunt someone down – and even when you do, it takes forever for them to actually come back. 30 minutes of waiting with an impatient child? An absolute dream!
My verdict: If you enjoy throwing your money out the window, this is the place for you. Everyone else should save themselves the frustration and spend their hard-earned cash somewhere else.
A good place to visit with your family especially if you have young children . It was a little bit expensive the tickets but I can understand that because it is a closed protected space from rain and bad weather the prices are little higher than the normal.
Great place to go with small kids. Good to go on rain days because it has a lot of indoor intertainment. But on sunny days also has nice activities outdoor.
The ticketing system needs reconsideration, checking people’s ticket on each ride doesn’t scale well and makes everything take longer than it should and it’s hard to guess how many tickets to get in advance if you haven’t been here before.
There’s also mixed signals on whether you are allowed to picnic inside: the website says yes, so we brought some things and inside it’s zero tolerance policy? Super unfriendly and confusing. The prices for food and drinks are too high. The place is also kind of loud.
The place is only ok, not great, in all aspects, the negatives many others already mentioned. One thing in particular that it seems unnecessary for a family oriented place: you cannot exchange the wrist ticket between parents which is ridiculous imo, meaning one parent is designated for all activities to assist your child, which is just shameful imo.
Really great indoor themepark specialized in younger kids. Many 'thrillrides'for kids and fun activities.
The park has plenty of parkingspace, and many special offers for tickets. Can recommend on rainy days
3.7
(4389)
3.5
(133)
Reindersdijk 57, 7751 SH Dalen, Netherlands
23Mark H — Google reviewMargaretha K — Google reviewJeison D — Google reviewМария Б — Google reviewCynthia L — Google reviewArne B — Google reviewDnl D — Google review•
Ruurlo Castle
Mentioned on
Castle
Museums
Ruurlo Castle is a restored 14th-century island castle located on a lake within picturesque gardens. The castle showcases the art of renowned artist Karel Willink across multiple floors and boasts beautifully maintained grounds with lush green fields, trees, and bushes that offer privacy. Visitors can enjoy a quaint cafe near the entrance and explore the small yet impressive art collection dedicated to realism from More museum, which was added during the 2017 restoration.
Castle was restored at 2017 and now hosts part of art collection devoted to realism from More museum. The collection is small but nice. Reserve up to 1 hour for the museum. The interiors of the castle are nicely renovated with the wood paneling and tapestry. The pattern of hardwood floors repeats the pattern on the ceiling. The parking is free, but the place is popular, so parking is full on the weekends. The restaurant in the Orangery is nice and staff is very helpful.
Andrii P — Google review
Excellent and memorable exhibition. You can see the development of the artist, Carel Willink. He goes through phases of his life like the whole world did last century. This narrative becomes all the more personal for him, clearly shown through his works.
Very refined and beautifully restored castle standing in delightful, park-like gardens. The castle is dedicated to an art gallery with changing exhibitions, and is definitely worth a visit.
Beautiful gardens! And there was an exhibition about cats 🐈🐱🐈⬛. I used my museum card to enter. I went there by tren and it’s accessible on foot from the train station.
Ruurlo Castle is a place where history meets art and nature. As you approach, you are greeted by a picturesque view: well-kept alleys, ponds with water lilies, and a historic park that’s perfect for a stroll before or after visiting the museum. The grounds are meticulously maintained – colorful flower beds, neatly trimmed lawns, and quiet spots where you can sit on a bench and soak in the atmosphere.
The castle itself is impressive with its elegant towers, symmetrical facades, and large windows reflecting in the surrounding water. Inside, you’ll find a museum dedicated to the works of Carel Willink – showcasing paintings, drawings, sculptures, and even some personal belongings of the artist. The exhibition is thoughtfully arranged, blending seamlessly with the historic interiors and creating an intriguing contrast between the old and the contemporary.
In addition to the main collection, the castle often hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events. The on-site café offers coffee with a beautiful view of the park, and the gift shop sells books, postcards, and souvenirs related to art and the castle’s history.
This is an ideal place for a peaceful day filled with beauty and inspiration. Even if you’re not an avid art lover, the walk around the grounds and the chance to admire the castle’s architecture will leave you with lasting memories.
Beautifully restored little castle with modern amenities. The new wooden, inlaid floors mirror the patterns in the ceiling. Very nice grounds for strolling around. Nice collection of Carel Willink paintings. The orangerie offers great food for a very reasonable price
Awesome castle with meat with a high quality museum inside. Great time.
A nice castle, beautiful collection of Willinks work. But you're done in about an hour or so. You can have a small cup of coffee for a large price at the orangerie. The garden is lovely and well tended, but also seen in half an hour or less when it isn't too busy.
The place is nice and beautiful to visit, but I expected a bit more. Maybe I should have taken the tour..
4.4
(3816)
4.5
(149)
Vordenseweg 2, 7261 LZ Ruurlo, Netherlands
24Agnieszka C — Google reviewS R — Google reviewStefan V — Google reviewPaul B — Google reviewJiansong W — Google reviewIryna K — Google reviewMaria C — Google review•
Wildlands
Mentioned on
Zoo
Outdoor Activities
Theme park
Wildlands Adventure Zoo in Emmen is a fun and interactive zoo perfect for kids. The zoo features walk-through animal habitats, playgrounds, and food stands. Visitors can explore the lively animal exhibitions and enjoy great food, clean facilities, and good stores. Additionally, the location offers easy access to other attractions such as climbing parks, amusement parks, and national parks in the surrounding area.
Absolutely amazing experience!
The park is easy to explore with a map, and the animals have huge, beautiful spaces. You can get incredibly close to them — sometimes only a small lake or nothing at all separates you!
The boat ride is a must, and the safari exceeded all our expectations, even with some waiting.
It’s almost impossible to find such an experience in Europe in such a safe environment.
The creative audio guides and the magical scenery made everything unforgettable.
The park is extremely well organized, with clean restrooms, lots of seating, and plenty of restaurants.
Truly a perfect day — we loved every minute of it! Thank you to everyone who made it possible! ❤️🤍💙😇❤️🤍💚😙
Tags: family-friendly, nature lovers’ paradise, very clean, unique experience, perfect day trip
Renata K — Google review
Great time! The zoo in Emmen is truly amazing! It’s very clean and well-maintained, and the indoor jungle is absolutely stunning – a real highlight. The animals live in environments that feel almost completely natural, which makes the whole experience even more special. There are plenty of places to sit and relax, the restrooms are spotless, and the staff is incredibly friendly and helpful. A wonderful place to visit – highly recommended!
Absolutely lovely place, so much to see and so very lovely done. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful. Great for everyone all ages. Indoor outdoor different things to see. Will be back.
Wildlands ZOO in Emmen is a truly wonderful destination for families with kids and toddlers. It’s not too small, but also not too large—absolutely suitable for a two-year-old energy vampire! The park also features a roller coaster and a 6D simulator for some extra fun.
There are plenty of snack stands for when you—or your little tornadoes—get hungry. It’s great that there are some opportunities to interact with or touch certain animals. Another way to get closer to the wild side is by hopping on the safari truck or taking the boat ride. The curious giraffes are especially fun when they come right up to the viewing platforms.
We spent around five hours there during the “summer days” when the park stays open until 21:00. Honestly, six hours would probably be the sweet spot if you have a toddler along with you.
Wow
This is the best zoo I have ever visited.
The ethos is to enable interaction with the animals wherever possible and in many areas there are no fences which enables this.
Boat and safari type truck rides enable even closer interaction and the whole layout and design of the place couldn't be better.
We visited on a weekday out of season and it wasn't that busy. I would imagine that weekend or at peak season the experience wouldn't be as good due to the potential about of people so would recommend a quieter time to enjoy it most.
Food and drink prices are a bit high but the overall value for money is excellent.
We came from Utrecht by 2 hours driving, totally worth it! Good facility, new zoo from 2016, fairly modern facilities, gigantic tripical park is the highlight, feels like being in southeast Asia!
I was a little bit frustrated because I couldn't understand why the price was so high for such a small park. However, it costs them money. One thing we didn't like was the huge queue you had to wait in for getting a ride, especially when I was along with three children and there was a hidden queue by the trees (I wouldn't take it if I saw it) without a stroller (because you can't take it in a queue) for the 1-year-old... we were waiting for 1 hour, and the ride was only 5-7 minutes. Katastrophe! It spoiled all good feelings. However, the park is good. You feel really in touch with nature. There are a lot of cool animals. Butterflies and hippos were our top picks. Great workers are in the butterfly area. I would only not recommend you take the boat or safari; otherwise, everything was ok.
P.S. And also, there is no info on the website that there is only central parking, so make sure that you park your car on Qpark, or you will have to take turns and wait longer.
super enjoy , very beautiful zoo..
different style or design , well organized every area. animals are like in their own habitat. did like the boat and bus/train ride.
4.4
(31746)
4.0
(2073)
Raadhuisplein 99, 7811 AP Emmen, Netherlands
25Guilherme K — Google reviewKlara D — Google reviewMo A — Google reviewStephen C — Google reviewDirk H — Google reviewGytis — Google reviewPatrick V — Google review•
Twickel Castle
Mentioned on
Castle
Nature & Parks
Gardens
Twickel Castle, first mentioned in 1347, features the oldest parts from the 16th century and is set on a vast estate of fields, meadows, forests, lakes, and more. The formal garden is stunning and visitors praise the delicious tea and cake. The orangery boasts healthy fruit-bearing trees despite challenging weather conditions. The adjacent vegetable garden is considered one of the best in the Netherlands. A commercial plant nursery with diverse species is also nearby.
Beautiful, well-kept gardens. The lady at the front desk was really nice and willing to explain anything. You are provided a map at the start which allows you to plan your own route. I especially liked the 'temple' on top of 'het bergje'.
Benjamin — Google review
A small castle in the country side of Netherlands. You can have a good view of the castle but unfortunately not visit inside. The garden next to the castle is open for visits per EUR 5.
The architecture of this castle is beautiful, same as the gardens and spacious surroundings. Just a little pity you cannot visit the castle inside.
Beautiful historic stately home with extensive gardens and open spaces for walking & cycling. 25 mins free parking, €3 daily charge thereafter. Formal gardens are separately accessible, with a fee
Out of season, the castle itself was closed but you get good views and access to the parkland/estate with its beautiful walks to old mills and other historic sites. A great day of walking in the autumn light.
Fantastic site and scenery. We were lucky because of the weather. Nice garden
Beautiful place for sunday walk, ticket price for garden is 5€ after walk you can buy vine, cheese...
Very beautiful site, superb garden, castle not open to the public. However, it is shameful to ask €1.016/kwh for charging electric cars, especially slow charging!
4.5
(511)
4.5
(135)
Twickelerlaan 1A, 7495 VG Ambt Delden, Netherlands
I'll never travel to Enschede without this trip planner again
26Sunny M — Google reviewAnnette V — Google reviewJesus A — Google reviewFrancois V — Google reviewDavid — Google reviewBrian N — Google reviewSam B — Google review•
Grolsch
Mentioned on
Brewery
Food & Drink
Grolsch Brewery offers a 2.5-hour tour where visitors can explore the brewery, learn about the brand's history, and witness the beer-making process. The guided tour provides insights into Grolsch's craftsmanship and concludes with a tasting session. While some feedback mentioned language barriers during the tour, others praised the informative English explanations provided by accommodating guides. Overall, it's an opportunity to delve into Grolsch beer, its production, and its significance in Holland's brewing industry.
Simone was an absolute pleasure on our tour! She ran the tour in English and Dutch and accommodated every member present. You could tell by the way she spoke and interacted with us that she loves her job and is passionate about the intricacies involved in mass product production, and the Grolsch brand. Grolsch is very lucky to have her as a part of their company!
Zed D — Google review
Amazing experience. To be able to learn about the Grolsh beer, the history, the process, the people of Grolsh, it was incredible indeed. I only gave 4 stars as the tour was strictly in Dutch and our tour guide didn't make the slightest effort to tell us anything. We felt left out as she ignored us the whole time. The factory has an audio guide and you will get minimal info from there. We used Google translate to be able to understand what was posted there. Maybe the factory can add explanations in other languages as well. Even the survey was only in Dutch.
We booked the tour in English in the website. Facilities and personnel are great, but the tour is *not* designed for non-dutch speaking people. There were some information boards that had English text, but I would say it is only about 20% of them, the rest are only in Dutch. It was an overall very boring 1.5 hours for me, except of course for the tour of the beer line, which was neat. They gave us a link to an English tour, but it was just a website and it would be hard to follow the tour and sights if there are no references. Overall we felt like second grade citizens. Very hard to reach unless you have a car.
Absolutely brilliant! One of the best beer around the world. Fantastic tour, was really kind the guide give all the explanations in English for myself. After the tour as many beers as you want and a surprise glass at the end. 100 % recommended!!!
Fantastic tour. You get to view the whole brewery from mash in to loading the trucks. The guides are very knowledgeable, friendly and answer all questions they are able to. If you like beer or brew at home in any way, you must go on a tour.
Great factory and lots to see and taste. Language is an issue though. I booked 6 months in advance for our group of 6 (specifying that we speak German and English) but we ended up in a fully Dutch tour together with quite a few other non-Dutch speakers. Still interesting and the audio guide helps a bit but you’d expect at least English to be available.
Amazing Experience. Tour Guide was very understanding that we could not understand dutch and took the time to ensure us english speaking guests were also informed along the way.
Absolutely brilliant. Great value for money, any English tourists it's a must as they do the whole in Dutch and English. Great staff and gracious hosts.
4.5
(368)
4.9
(420)
De Groote Plooij, Brouwerslaan 1, 7548 XA Enschede, Netherlands
27Johanna — Google reviewWitold K — Google reviewLia R — Google reviewIlya R — Google reviewGerald B — Google reviewStella B — Google reviewHugo V — Google review•
Villa Mondriaan
Mentioned on
Art museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
Nestled in the charming town of Winterswijk, Villa Mondriaan is a delightful museum that celebrates the early life and artistic journey of the iconic painter Piet Mondrian. This villa, where he spent his formative years from 1880 to 1892, showcases an impressive collection of his youthful masterpieces alongside works by both established and contemporary artists. Visitors can explore not only Mondrian's early paintings but also enjoy engaging films and temporary exhibitions that highlight various art forms.
A superb museum about Piet Mondriaan, who spent his early years in Winterswijk, in the villa he lived in. Small, but packed with his early paintings, films, but none of the later cubist style. There is a café and shop, also temporary exhibitions. Helpful staff, and right in the centre of this busy but still quaint town.
Leonard G — Google review
A very nice and informative Museum of Piet Mondriaan. Also with interesting art of other artists. The coffee /cake in the cafe is good too. Definitely worth a visit.
Piet Mondriaan, nowadays a worldwide renowned and admired artist 👩🎨 spent his youth (1880 to 1892) in his parental home on Zonnebrink 4 in Winterswijk. His father had acquired a position as the Director of the School of Christian National Instruction and lived with his family in the villa directly next to the school building. Piet’s father and uncle Frits Mondriaan taught Piet basic knowledge on drawing and painting.
Whether you're an art lover or simply curious about Mondriaan’s journey, this museum offers a personal and intimate experience that’s well worth the visit. Highly recommended !
The exhibitions are thoughtfully curated, and the staff are welcoming and knowledgeable, adding depth to the visit with their insights.
The museum café was a delightful surprise—don’t miss the Mondriaan-themed cupcakes and complimentary coffee!
I had the honour to document Michelle Son's installation here. It is a small scale museum, that part of it is dedicated to the life of young Mondriaan that used to come to this family house and draw from nature. The program is diverse and interesting! For documentation of Art inquires you can contact me .
Lovely history of his teen years growing up. Not so much of his later art. But a great feel for what it's like to live in this the small town
cute exhibitions but quite expensive considering the size of the museum. we payed 12€ for about 30 mins we spent inside looking at the whole exhibition. the artworks were nicely presented and described well.
Very nice little museum, focusing on the early work of Piet Mondriaan. Also work of his uncle and father and the Maris family.
Doesn't take too long to visit, but still a nice experience. Especially since it's not too costly either.
4.2
(570)
4.0
(56)
Zonnebrink 4, 7101 NC Winterswijk, Netherlands
28Dion W — Google reviewViktoriia A — Google reviewNinena G — Google reviewAnna H — Google reviewAkshay A — Google reviewEric K — Google reviewCynthia L — Google review•
Rijksmuseum Twenthe
Mentioned on
Art museum
Museums
Specialty Museums
Rijksmuseum Twenthe is an art museum located in the east of the Netherlands, boasting a vast collection that spans from the Middle Ages to modern times. Founded by textile baron Bernard Van Heek in 1927, this museum features a beautiful design and houses an impressive array of art, with a particular focus on 18th-century works.
I absolutely loved the museum. I dodnt think that I would. The exhibits were so well portrayed laid out displayed it was a feast for all the senses highly highly recommended five⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Greg E — Google review
Really nice museum, I like the thematic setup where art is next to eachother related by theme, not timeline, so art from different era's are right next to eachother.
No so big museum. The Rijksmuseum Twenthe in Enschede, the Netherlands, was founded by textile industry Baron Jan Bernard Van Heek. He donated his own private collection and the museum building to the government. So thus making it a national museum. I am so happy to see hear 3 paintings of Peter Briegell. There are some contemporary exhibitions. I love the exhibition of contemporary artist Weidmuller.
Wonderful museum! Several cool exhibitions (and absolutely different in terms of info/energy/visual content). Beautiful cafe (with a very good coffee and a very appealing cakes). Just one little thing that I didn’t like (but museum can’t do anything about it, of course) - quite an expensive parking fee nearby.
I visited the Rijksmuseum Twenthe with a friend on a Saturday afternoon. It wasn’t full at all.
The entry is free for Students which is great!
There are a lot if beautiful paintings and different kinds of modern art. We really enjoyed our visit and especially liked the 10 meters of sound, lavender carpet and most of the paintings.
It's a unique experience to visit this place. Was not aware of such rich and fine collection of art, history and culture. The museum has assistive gadget guide to follow items and information. A wonderful courtyard with a cafe and a souvenir shop to spend a nice afternoon, surrounded by open corridors. Also includes exhibits of modern art and stylistic dutch overtones of de stijl and art deco movements. What a visual treat !!
Wonderful museum, great international as well as local repertoire, beautiful expositions. Friendly staff. All in all a great experience!
Lovely museum with a small collection of works from all over the world. Ranging from the 15th century to very recent. The Royal wall tapestry display is a must see. Temporary exhibition in May of 2024 was by Kees Stoop.
4.4
(1825)
4.2
(230)
Lasondersingel 129 - 131, 7514 BP Enschede, Netherlands
29Ben — Google reviewStefanie Z — Google reviewMike — Google reviewHenrik P — Google reviewNikita B — Google reviewSara D — Google reviewGeorge — Google review•
Nordhorn Zoo
Zoo
Zoos & Aquariums
Park
Child-friendly zoo with more than 100 animal species & a show farm displaying rare domestic breeds.
Not the typical "see an animal from 20meters away in an enclosed small space" type of zoo. You can tell that a lot of effort and emphasis was placed into making it a fun and interactive experience for both children and adults. The enclosures felt very well integrated into the park (giving it a very open feeling). A lot of opportunities for kids to pet and feed the animals. Definitely a good spot for a day trip with the family. Food is good too 👍
Aaron T — Google review
Nice zoo with different animals, not the typical animals you see at other zoos. A lot of upgrades coming to the park in 2027 also. But it was still a good half day of fun!
Very cute zoo where animals live outside and have lots of space. It doesn’t feel like your typical zoo and the animals are well cared for. A few more benches along the walking route would be nice.
Lots to see, bound to entertain the entire family as you stroll through a very cozy zoo. It wasn't too busy, there was plenty of shade to escape from the sun, sufficient places to sit down and enjoy a coffee or get some ice cream. Near the end of the park there is a children's playground with a large restaurant, great place to wind down as you've seen most of the park, have some lunch before finishing up the sights.
A Truly Wonderful Zoo Experience – One of the Best We've Visited!
As a Danish family who has visited many zoos over the years, Tierpark Nordhorn really stood out as one of the best experiences we've had.
The atmosphere was incredibly friendly, and the staff were welcoming, helpful, and always ready to assist. It made us feel comfortable from the start.
Both the entrance fee and prices inside the park were very reasonable. The entire zoo has a cozy and well-thought-out layout that made it a pleasure to walk around. Despite some areas being under renovation, the experience was still smooth and very enjoyable.
In the center of the zoo, there’s a large playground and a lovely café area – a perfect spot for parents to relax while the kids play.
If we were to wish for one thing, it would be to have signs and information in English as well, for those who don’t speak German or Dutch – it would make the experience even better for international visitors.
Tierpark Nordhorn is a charming and well-maintained zoo that impressed us in every way. We highly recommend it to other families looking for a fun, relaxing, and affordable day out.
Nice, cheap little zoo. You can see everything in around 2 hours. 4 stars because some of the animal enclosures are really outdated and small and should be upgraded to something that actually fits the animals. Other than that: nice way to spend your Saturday! Even in the weekends it isn’t too crowded.
I expected the park to be more variety. What you can see there you can see in your daily life if you like discovering nature and visiting forests and mountains. We couldn't even see some animals because they were hidden somewhere.
A smaller and a bit older zoo with lots of different species, and a large playground. Fun for children but also adults. Two of us spend about 2 hours walking around. There was pretty much no one else, except for (the mostly unfriendly) staff.
The entrance had several signs stating that three entrances were open but we couldn't find one entrance that actually was, until someone exited through an entrance.
All around a decent zoo for a cheap price.
4.6
(12904)
4.5
(189)
Heseper Weg 110, 48531 Nordhorn, Germany
30Diane H — Google reviewMary M — Google reviewRoger B — Google reviewAlex K — Google reviewBen — Google reviewGeoff S — Google reviewAmmar H — Google review•
Bentheim Castle
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Dating to 1050, this hilltop castle now serves as a historical museum with a cafe & events.
A small very nice Christmas market inside the castle. Very well done with food and drinks. Our family had a really nice time (although the weather was not cooperating). The castle itself is very well maintained (you can visit inside and see the history of the castle) and on top of the hill, which gives you a nice view of the surroundings. Tip: you can park outside the castle for two hours (with the blue time card).
Alvaro L — Google review
We decided late in the day that we wanted to tour the castle. There were only 2 other people touring at the time and a school group just leaving. The castle was well worth the trip. The stairs to the battlements were a challenge in that they are crooked and uneven but the views from the top were well worth it. The dining chamber, office and bedroom were also worth seeing. The wood work and floors were fantastic. Stone carvings and stained glass windows were beautiful. Always wanted to see the spiral staircase to the alchemist and down to the prison. Well worth the trip.
Looking for something to do when visiting Bentheim? Then this castle is a must visit it’s amazing to see how they kept a lot of things into the original status even after soo many years. I will definitely recommend visiting this castle located in Germany.
Beautiful castle with museum. Has its own quaint chapel and walkable rampart and great views of the town from the tower. One can see both Germany and The Netherlands from its ramparts.
Beautiful setting for a castle near the German-Netherlands border. Has some great views and interesting interior
Very cool old castle where you can actually see a lot. Great for a few hours, and if you are into history.
Interesting and probably worth the entry price. Too many wedding parties on the day we were there so some areas were closed.
Amazing experience. Not a huge place and can be enjoyed within a few hours. However, if you want to take your time no worries. You can leave and have your lunch outside, there is a very good restaurant before the entrance, and re-enter the castle with your ticket valid for the day.
4.5
(10436)
4.5
(343)
Schloßstraße, 48455 Bad Bentheim, Germany
Planning a trip to Enschede?
Save all the best places to visit with WanderlogDownload the travel planning app everyone's been raving about
- Itinerary + map in one view
- Live collaboration
- Auto-import hotels and reservations
- Optimize your route
- Offline access on mobile
- Optimize your route
- See time and distance between all your places
