Things To Do
in Breda

Breda is a charming city located in the southern Netherlands, known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. It features historic architecture, beautiful parks, and a lively atmosphere, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists. The city is also famous for its annual events, including festivals and markets that showcase local talent and cuisine.

With its blend of modern amenities and historical charm, Breda offers a unique experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Grote Kerk (Great Church), an iconic landmark with stunning architecture and a panoramic view from its tower.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, followed by a stroll through the Valkenberg Park, a picturesque green space ideal for relaxing and taking photos.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Dutch restaurant and explore the lively nightlife in the city center, with bars and live music venues.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and History
morning
:

Visit the Breda Castle, a historic site that now houses a museum showcasing the city's history and heritage.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the Museum of the Image to learn about the art of visual communication and design.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a trendy restaurant in the trendy Ginneken area, followed by a nightcap at one of the local pubs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍻Local beer$5
🏨Hotel night$100
🚌Public transport ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Lively atmosphere with many events and activities
  • Bicycle-friendly city with beautiful parks
  • Limited options for certain dietary restrictions
  • Can be crowded during major events
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Tot ziens" - Goodbye
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Breda

Visit one of these nice places.

Grote Kerk

The stunning facade and towering structure make it a perfect subject for architectural photography.

Breda Castle

Set in a picturesque park, the castle provides a beautiful backdrop for photos, especially at sunset.

Valkenberg Park

With its lush greenery and serene ponds, this park offers countless opportunities for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Breda

Breda offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects both traditional Dutch cuisine and international flavors. Visitors will find an array of local dishes and vibrant food markets that cater to various tastes.

Breda Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Breda's Speculaas

A spiced cookie traditionally made in the region, perfect with coffee or tea.

Must-Try!

Stamppot

A hearty dish made from mashed potatoes combined with various vegetables, often served with sausage.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Markt van Breda

A bustling market held on Saturdays where local vendors sell fresh produce, cheeses, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Breda experiences a temperate maritime climate with cool winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in winter range from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), while summer temperatures can reach up to 25°C (77°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, making it essential to carry an umbrella. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers or colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Dutch culture, so always aim to arrive at your appointments or meetings promptly.

Personal Space

Respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others when speaking.

Politeness

Using polite language and greetings, such as 'alstublieft' (please) and 'dank u' (thank you) is customary.

Safety Guide

Safety

Breda is generally a safe city for visitors, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure, particularly in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are well-equipped to handle medical issues. It's also wise to have travel insurance that covers theft and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Breda

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, perfect for enjoying parks, outdoor dining, and local events.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage, making the city especially picturesque for walks and photography.

Winter

Winter can be chilly, but festive decorations and holiday markets create a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Breda at Night

Breda boasts a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city center comes alive in the evenings, offering options from cozy pubs with local brews to trendy clubs playing the latest hits. Many establishments host events such as karaoke nights, live performances, and themed parties, appealing to a diverse crowd. Whether you prefer a relaxed atmosphere or a lively dance floor, Breda has something to offer for every night owl.

Hiking in Breda

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Breda's Mastbos

A beautiful forest area on the outskirts of the city, offering numerous trails for hiking and nature walks.

Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park

Located about 20 km from Breda, this national park features unique sand dunes and trails suitable for hiking and exploring.

Airports

How to reach Breda by plane.

Eindhoven Airport

Approximately 50 km from Breda, Eindhoven Airport is the closest major airport, offering numerous international flights and connections to various European cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Breda is a highly walkable city with pedestrian-friendly streets, especially in the city center. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot. The city is well-planned, with clear signage and ample benches for resting, making it suitable for visitors of all ages.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Breda is home to several educational institutions, attracting a diverse student population who contribute to the city's vibrant culture.

Young Professionals

The city attracts many young professionals due to its job opportunities and appealing lifestyle, particularly in creative industries.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Breda, with local clubs like NAC Breda enjoying dedicated fan support and a rich history.

Field Hockey

Field hockey is widely played in the region, with several teams and clubs promoting youth participation and community engagement.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Breda is generally moderate, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. The city has a reliable public transportation network, including buses and trains, connecting to neighboring cities and towns. Cycling is a popular alternative, with dedicated bike lanes making it safe and efficient to navigate.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Breda.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Breda offer vegetarian and vegan options, but it's advisable to check menus or ask staff.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries cater to gluten-free diets, but options may be limited, so communication with staff is key.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Breda is accessible and of high quality. There are several hospitals and clinics throughout the city, providing a range of services from general practice to emergency care. Visitors should carry their health insurance card, and it’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide