bigtravelbuzzAssen, the charming capital of the Drenthe province in the Netherlands, offers a rich blend of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and historical significance. In this guide, we’ll take you on a tour of Assen, sharing the best places to visit, things to do, and essential travel tips to make the most of your visit.
Exploring Assen
Places to Visit in Assen
Drents Museum: This remarkable museum houses an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and archaeological treasures, including the iconic Yde Girl, a bog body dating back to Roman times.
TT Circuit Assen: For motorsports enthusiasts, the TT Circuit Assen hosts thrilling events like the Dutch TT, a round of the MotoGP World Championship.
Kloosterveen: A modern residential area, Kloosterveen is known for its contemporary architecture, shops, and restaurants. It’s a lovely place for a leisurely stroll.
Asserbos: This expansive city park provides a peaceful environment for a picnic, nature walks, or even a game of golf at the Asser Golf Club.
De Bonte Wever: A fantastic leisure center with swimming pools, saunas, and recreational activities, perfect for a relaxing day out.
Best Time To Visit Assen
Assen is welcoming all year round, but your experience can vary:
Spring (April to June): Enjoy the blooming parks and moderate temperatures.
Summer (July to August): Ideal for outdoor activities and events, including motorsport races.
Autumn (September to November): Witness the beautiful fall foliage in Assen’s parks.
Winter (December to February): The city takes on a serene and quiet ambiance, perfect for a peaceful getaway.
Experiencing Assen
Things to Do in Assen
Cultural Exploration: Besides the Drents Museum, visit the Drents Archief, which holds valuable historical archives of Drenthe.
Cycling and Hiking: Assen is surrounded by natural beauty, making it an excellent starting point for cycling trips or hiking expeditions in Drenthe’s countryside.
Shopping: Explore the city’s boutiques and stores, especially in the city center.
Local Festivals: If your visit aligns with local festivals like the TT Festival, be sure to participate in the celebrations.
How to Get Around
Cycling: Assen is a bicycle-friendly city, and you can easily rent a bike for convenient transportation.
Public Transport: Buses and trains are available for traveling to nearby cities or towns.
Where to Eat
Assen offers a variety of dining experiences. Try Dutch specialties like erwtensoep (pea soup) or indulge in international cuisine at one of the city’s restaurants.
Famous Street Stalls
While Assen may not be renowned for street stalls, you can often find food trucks and local vendors at events and fairs in the city.
Finding Your Comfort
Where to Stay
Accommodation options in Assen range from cozy bed and breakfasts to modern hotels. Choose one that suits your preferences and budget.
Travel Tips
Cycling Rentals: Consider renting a bike to explore the city and its surroundings.
Local Dialect: Dutch is widely spoken, but some locals may use the Drents dialect. Learning a few Dutch phrases can be helpful.
Museum Hours: Double-check the opening hours of museums and attractions you plan to visit.
Assen beckons with its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural wonders. Use this guide to make the most of your trip to this captivating city in the heart of Drenthe.