Things To Do
in Brummen
Brummen is a small, picturesque municipality in the Dutch province of Gelderland, set along the banks of the river IJssel and close to the Veluwe woodland. The town blends historic estates, quiet village centers and riverside views with an easygoing, rural atmosphere. It is a great base for cycling and walking, with access to nature reserves and nearby historic towns such as Zutphen.
Visitors will find relaxed cafés, traditional Dutch architecture and plenty of outdoor recreation without the crowds of big cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Brummen, admiring the traditional Dutch architecture that dates back centuries. Stop by a local bakery to indulge in freshly baked pastries and a warm cup of coffee while soaking in the quaint atmosphere. Visit the historic St. Willibrordus Church to appreciate its stunning architecture and serene surroundings.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour to delve deeper into Brummen's rich history and cultural heritage. Explore the small yet fascinating museum that showcases the town's past, including artifacts and exhibits related to local traditions. As you wander, be sure to grab lunch at a cozy café that offers traditional Dutch dishes, perfect for recharging your energy.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a local restaurant that specializes in Dutch cuisine, where you can savor dishes like stamppot or poffertjes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the picturesque River IJssel, allowing the peaceful ambiance to wash over you. Conclude your evening with a visit to a nearby pub to enjoy a local beer or a glass of wine under the starry sky.
Start your morning with a refreshing hike in the beautiful Veluwezoom National Park, just a short drive from Brummen. Breathe in the fresh air as you navigate through lush forests, heathland, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the rolling countryside. Be sure to pack a light breakfast to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds.
After your invigorating hike, have a picnic lunch at one of the park’s designated areas, taking in the scenic views while you refuel. Post-lunch, embark on a guided nature tour to learn about the local flora and fauna, including the famous wild horses that roam the park. Capture the breathtaking landscapes and unique wildlife on camera, creating lasting memories of your adventure.
Return to Brummen and unwind with a relaxing dinner at a local bistro that offers farm-to-table dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. As night falls, consider attending a cultural performance or event at a nearby theater, where you can experience local music and arts. Wrap up your evening with a stroll through the beautifully lit town center, enjoying the serene ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $5-7 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (local) | $6-15 |
| 🎟Museum or attraction entry | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, scenic riverside and countryside setting ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities
- Excellent cycling and walking routes with easy access to Veluwe nature areas
- Close to historic towns (Zutphen) and larger cities (Arnhem) while avoiding crowds
- Good local produce and traditional Dutch hospitality
- Limited nightlife and cultural attractions within the town itself
- Public transport is available but services may be less frequent than in big cities
- Fickle weather — rain and wind are common year-round
- Some specialty dining or vegan options may require travel to larger nearby towns
- "Hallo / Hoi" - Hello
- "Dank u wel / Dank je" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het station?" - Where is the station?
Places to Visit in Brummen
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour views, reflections of boats and riverside trees make the IJssel a top spot for landscape and sunset photography.
Historic architecture and landscaped grounds provide elegant compositions and seasonal floral displays.
Forest trails, heathland panoramas and wildlife offer varied nature photography opportunities, especially at dawn and dusk.
Picturesque streets, traditional houses and village squares are ideal for street and architecture shots.
Food in Brummen
Brummen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Dutch mash of potatoes with vegetables (kale, sauerkraut or endive) often served with smoked sausage; you can find good homemade versions in local family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
Fresh North Sea herring (served raw with onion) is a Dutch classic you’ll find at markets and fish counters in nearby towns along the IJssel.
Gouda-style and regional aged cheeses are available from local producers and markets — try slices with mustard and fresh bread at farm shops.
Tiny, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and butter — commonly available at markets, cafés and seasonal stalls.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market (check the town’s website for days) where you can sample cheeses, baked goods and seasonal produce; a good place to try local specialties and buy picnic supplies.
During warmer months or local festivals you may find stalls selling stroopwafels, poffertjes and grilled snacks along the IJssel banks or at village squares.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
The Dutch value punctuality — arrive on time for appointments and reservations.
People tend to be straightforward and honest in conversation; this is normal and not meant to be rude.
Respect bike lanes and signals — cyclists have priority in many areas. Do not walk in designated bike lanes.
A handshake is common when meeting someone formally; say 'goedemorgen' or 'hallo' for casual greetings.
Safety
Tipping in Brummen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory — rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is common in restaurants; small tips for taxi drivers or bar staff are welcome.
Debit/credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; many places prefer chip-and-PIN (Maestro/Visa/Contactless). Cash is still used but less common, and mobile payments are increasingly supported.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming trees and fewer crowds — excellent for cycling and nature walks; pack a light rain jacket and layers.
Warm but rarely hot, with long daylight hours; perfect for river activities, outdoor dining and cycling. Expect occasional showers and busy weekends.
Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage in nearby woodlands make it a beautiful season for hikes and photography; bring waterproof gear for rainy days.
Chilly and damp with short days; snow and ice are possible but not guaranteed. Cozy indoor cafés and seasonal markets are highlights — dress warmly and expect muddy trails.
Brummen at Night
Hiking in Brummen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive from Brummen, this park offers varied trails through forests, heathland and hills with lookout points and abundant wildlife.
Flat, scenic trails along the river ideal for easy walks, birdwatching and photography, with several village stops along the way.
Estate grounds and nearby woodland offer pleasant shorter walks with historic trees, parkland and quiet paths suitable for all fitness levels.
Airports
How to reach Brummen by plane.
The main international airport for the Netherlands, about 1–1.5 hours by train/car depending on connections; regular trains from Schiphol to Zutphen or Arnhem with onward regional buses to Brummen.
A secondary international airport serving low-cost and regional flights, roughly 1.5–2 hours by car/train; good for some European connections.
Another regional airport serving European destinations, approximately 1.5–2 hours by road or rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are local families and long-term inhabitants who commute to nearby cities or work in agriculture and local services.
People working in larger nearby cities (Arnhem, Zutphen) who prefer quieter, rural living.
A noticeable proportion of older residents who enjoy the tranquil environment and local community.
A modest number of internationals and expats live in the area, often tied to regional businesses or international households in nearby cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Recreational and competitive cycling are extremely popular — the flat countryside and dedicated cycling paths make it one of the main pastimes.
Local amateur football clubs are common and draw community involvement across ages.
Horse riding and equestrian events are popular in the Gelderland countryside and on estate grounds.
In winter, when conditions permit, ice skating becomes a popular national pastime and local canals or rinks host skaters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Brummen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafes and restaurants (salads, cheese platters, vegetable stamppot, soups). Mention 'vegetarisch' when ordering and many places will adapt dishes.
Vegan options are less ubiquitous in small towns but increasingly common; ask for plant-based alternatives and check cafes in nearby Zutphen or Arnhem for more choices.
Gluten-free items are available at some bakeries and restaurants, but cross-contamination can occur — specify 'glutenvrij' and confirm ingredients if you have a severe allergy.