Things to do in Drenthe
Discover the best attractions and experiences Drenthe has to offer
Historic Monuments
Drenthe’s ancient past comes to life through its stone tombs and historic sites scattered across the countryside.
Hunebedden in Drenthe
Impressive ancient megalithic tombs built by the Funnel Beaker culture, found throughout the province.
Kamp Westerbork Memorial
A WWII transit camp turned memorial and museum honoring the victims and history.
Havelte Dolmen Field
A cluster of prehistoric dolmens set among woodlands near Havelte.
Museums
Dive into Drenthe’s art, archaeology, and rural heritage at its best-curated museums.
Drents Museum (Assen)
A modern museum presenting natural history, archaeology, and Dutch art in a striking building.
Hunebedcentrum (Borger)
Museum and visitor center dedicated to the dolmens and the region’s prehistory.
Orvelte Open-Air Museum
A living village museum with historic farmhouses and crafts on display.
Religious Monuments
Sacred spaces dotted around towns and villages offer quiet corners and architectural charm.
Grote Kerk (Assen)
Historic church located in the heart of Assen with a notable tower and interior.
Hervormde Kerk Diever
Charming parish church in the village of Diever with a scenic rural setting.
National & Theme Parks
Vast heathlands, peat bogs, and forested parks define Drenthe’s wild side.
Drents-Friese Wold National Park
A diverse park spanning Drenthe and Friesland with forests, heathland, and sand drifts.
Dwingelderveld National Park
The Netherlands’ largest wetland, famous for peat bogs and boardwalks.
Nationaal Park Drentsche Aa
Picturesque river valley with traditional field patterns and tranquil farmland.
Neighborhoods
Explore the heart of towns and picturesque villages where local life unfolds.
Assen city center
Bustling core with shops, cafés, and historic streets in the provincial capital.
Orvelte Village
Picturesque heritage village with crafts, shops, and traditional farmhouses.
Borger town center
Gateway to prehistoric heritage and local cafés and shops.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Drenthe’s natural and historic sights without an entry fee.
Walk the Drentsche Aa trails
Hike or bike along the scenic river valley and countryside paths.
Visit Hunebedden sites
View ancient dolmen fields and burial mounds in open countryside.
Cycle through Drenthe’s countryside
Cycle along quiet lanes past farms, forests, and heath.
Gastronomy
Taste traditional Drenthe flavors at markets and local producers.
Drentse koek
Traditional spiced cookie distinctive to Drenthe.
Drentse rookworst
Locally smoked sausage with a characteristic, hearty flavor.
Local Drenthe cheeses
Cheeses and dairy products often featured at markets and farm shops.
Nightlife
Evenings come alive with culture, music, and community venues.
Theater De Nieuwe Kolk (Assen)
Cultural venue offering performances, film screenings, and concerts.
MotoGP ambiance at TT Circuit Assen
Vibrant race weekends bring lively crowds and entertainment.
Entertainment
Open-air stages and cultural venues showcase Drenthe’s creative side.
Openluchttheater Diever
Seasonal open-air theatre set in a verdant, forested landscape.
Theater and cinema programs in Assen
Regular shows and screenings at local venues.
Sports
Racing adrenaline and outdoor activity options abound.
TT Circuit Assen
Iconic race track hosting international motorcycle events.
Drenthe cycling routes
Extensive network of scenic cycle routes through the province.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the main sights for unique experiences.
Peat bog walk in Dwingelderveld
Boardwalks through pristine peatland and wild landscapes.
Orvelte heritage demonstrations
Live crafts and farm-life demonstrations in the village.