Welcome to Drenthe, Netherlands

Drenthe, a province in the northeastern Netherlands, is a hidden gem known for its picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. With its vast heathlands, ancient dolmens, and extensive network of cycling and hiking trails, Drenthe offers a perfect blend of nature and history. The region is also home to vibrant towns like Assen and Emmen, where you can experience local Dutch culture and enjoy lively nightlife.

Drenthe's history dates back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement from the prehistoric era. The province is famous for its "hunebedden" (dolmens), ancient megalithic tombs that are scattered across the landscape. These historical sites, along with the region's natural beauty, make Drenthe a fascinating destination for travelers seeking adventure and cultural immersion.

Travelers to Drenthe can enjoy a variety of activities, from exploring the Drentsche Aa National Park to visiting the Drents Museum in Assen. The province is also known for its friendly locals and delicious Dutch cuisine, making it an ideal place to live like a local and savor authentic experiences.

Before you embark on your journey, consider booking your accommodations through VRBO or Hotels.com for the best options.

Days 1-5: Assen

Day 1: Arrival in Assen

Arrive in Assen, the capital of Drenthe, and settle into your accommodation. Spend the afternoon exploring the city center, where you can visit the Drents Museum, known for its impressive collection of art and archaeology. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant such as De Gulle Gans, which offers traditional Dutch cuisine.

Day 2: Exploring Assen

Start your day with a visit to the TT Circuit Assen, a famous motorcycle racing track. In the afternoon, rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside, taking in the beautiful landscapes and charming villages. For dinner, head to Bij Jaap, a cozy eatery known for its delicious dishes and friendly atmosphere.

Day 3: Hiking in Drentsche Aa National Park

Spend the day hiking in the Drentsche Aa National Park, a stunning area known for its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity. Follow one of the many trails and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, return to Assen and unwind at a local bar like Café de Witte Bal, where you can enjoy a drink and mingle with locals.

Day 4: Living Like a Local

Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the weekly market in Assen, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the city's parks and gardens. For dinner, try the local specialty, "Drentse turf," at a traditional restaurant.

Day 5: Nightlife in Assen

Spend the day relaxing and exploring any remaining sights in Assen. In the evening, experience the city's vibrant nightlife by visiting popular spots like De Bonte Wever, a lively entertainment complex with bars, bowling, and live music.

Days 6-10: Emmen

Day 6: Travel to Emmen

Travel to Emmen, a charming town known for its zoo and beautiful parks. The journey takes about an hour by train, and you can book your tickets through Omio. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring the town center.

Day 7: Wildlands Adventure Zoo

Visit the Wildlands Adventure Zoo, a popular attraction in Emmen that offers a unique experience with its themed areas and interactive exhibits. Spend the day exploring the zoo and learning about the animals. In the evening, enjoy dinner at De Drommedaar, a restaurant known for its international cuisine.

Day 8: Biking in Emmen

Rent a bike and explore the scenic trails around Emmen, taking in the beautiful landscapes and charming villages. Stop for lunch at a local café and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, visit a local pub like Café Groothuis for a drink and live music.

Day 9: Cultural Experiences

Spend the day visiting cultural attractions in Emmen, such as the Veenpark, an open-air museum that showcases the region's history and heritage. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Dutch meal at a local restaurant.

Day 10: Nightlife in Emmen

Relax and explore any remaining sights in Emmen during the day. In the evening, experience the town's nightlife by visiting popular spots like Club Limbo, where you can dance the night away.

Days 11-15: Hoogeveen

Day 11: Travel to Hoogeveen

Travel to Hoogeveen, a picturesque town known for its beautiful parks and vibrant cultural scene. The journey takes about 30 minutes by train, and you can book your tickets through Omio. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring the town center.

Day 12: Hiking in Dwingelderveld National Park

Spend the day hiking in Dwingelderveld National Park, a stunning area known for its heathlands and diverse wildlife. Follow one of the many trails and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, return to Hoogeveen and unwind at a local bar.

Day 13: Living Like a Local

Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the weekly market in Hoogeveen, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll through the town's parks and gardens. For dinner, try the local specialty, "Drentse turf," at a traditional restaurant.

Day 14: Biking in Hoogeveen

Rent a bike and explore the scenic trails around Hoogeveen, taking in the beautiful landscapes and charming villages. Stop for lunch at a local café and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, visit a local pub for a drink and live music.

Day 15: Nightlife in Hoogeveen

Relax and explore any remaining sights in Hoogeveen during the day. In the evening, experience the town's nightlife by visiting popular spots like De Tamboer, a cultural center with live performances and events.

Days 16-21: Meppel

Day 16: Travel to Meppel

Travel to Meppel, a charming town known for its canals and historic buildings. The journey takes about 20 minutes by train, and you can book your tickets through Omio. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation and spend the afternoon exploring the town center.

Day 17: Exploring Meppel

Spend the day exploring Meppel's historic center, with its beautiful canals and charming streets. Visit the Meppel Museum to learn about the town's history and culture. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant like De Beurs, known for its delicious Dutch cuisine.

Day 18: Biking in Meppel

Rent a bike and explore the scenic trails around Meppel, taking in the beautiful landscapes and charming villages. Stop for lunch at a local café and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. In the evening, visit a local pub for a drink and live music.

Day 19: Cultural Experiences

Spend the day visiting cultural attractions in Meppel, such as the Drukkerijmuseum, a museum dedicated to the history of printing. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Dutch meal at a local restaurant.

Day 20: Nightlife in Meppel

Relax and explore any remaining sights in Meppel during the day. In the evening, experience the town's nightlife by visiting popular spots like Café de Kansel, where you can enjoy a drink and live music.

Day 21: Departure

Spend your final morning in Meppel, enjoying a leisurely breakfast and taking a last stroll through the town. In the afternoon, head to the airport for your departure, reflecting on the incredible adventures and experiences you've had in Drenthe.

This 21-day itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Drenthe, Netherlands. From hiking and biking to living like a local and enjoying vibrant nightlife, this trip promises unforgettable memories and experiences.