Things To Do
in Dordrecht

Dordrecht, Netherlands, is a historic city located at the confluence of the rivers Merwede, Oude Maas, and Dordtsche Kil. Known for its rich maritime history, it features impressive architecture, beautiful canals, and a vibrant cultural scene. The city is often referred to as the oldest city in Holland and is home to numerous museums and historical landmarks.

Dordrecht's picturesque streets and lively atmosphere make it a delightful destination for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Dordrecht
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Dordrechts Museum, which houses a collection of Dutch masterpieces. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the old harbor to soak in the scenic views.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café, then head to the historic Grote Kerk (Great Church) for a tour of this stunning Gothic structure. Explore the charming streets of the old town, stopping by shops and galleries.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant, followed by a stroll along the canals as the sun sets. End your night at a cozy bar enjoying some local brews.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby National Park De Biesbosch for a guided boat tour or hiking to explore its unique wetlands and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Return to Dordrecht and enjoy lunch at a food market. Spend the afternoon visiting the Museum 1940-1945, which provides insight into the city's role during World War II.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a highly-rated restaurant, followed by a visit to the local theater for a performance or a live music event.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-$30
Cappuccino$3-$5
🍕Pizza$10-$15
🚍Public Transport Ticket$3
🥖Loaf of Bread$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich history and culture
  • Beautiful canals and architecture
  • Friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Some attractions may require advance booking
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de badkamer?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Dordrecht

Visit one of these nice places.

Dordrecht Old Town

The historic architecture and canals create stunning backdrops for photography.

Grote Kerk

Capture the magnificent Gothic structure of the Great Church from various angles.

The Merwede River

The riverfront offers beautiful sunset views, perfect for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Dordrecht

Dordrecht offers a delightful array of culinary experiences, from traditional Dutch dishes to modern gastronomy. Visitors can enjoy local specialties, fresh seafood, and cozy cafés throughout the city.

Dordrecht Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Haring

Raw herring fish, typically served with onions and pickles, is a Dutch delicacy that is a must-try.

Must-Try!

Stroopwafels

A sweet treat made of two thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Dordrecht Market

A lively market held every Thursday and Saturday, featuring fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Dordrecht experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures in summer range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rain is common throughout the year, with the wettest months being late summer and autumn. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Dutch culture; lateness may be viewed as disrespectful.

Direct Communication

The Dutch are known for their directness; it is common to be straightforward in conversations.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintaining personal space is important; avoid standing too close in conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Dordrecht is generally considered a safe city for tourists. As in any city, it is advisable to take precautions like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and there are local hospitals available for healthcare needs.

Tipping in Dordrecht

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory, typically rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted. It's advisable to have some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with many outdoor events and activities along the canals.

Autumn

Autumn offers stunning foliage, and the city's cafes provide a cozy atmosphere to enjoy warm drinks.

Winter

Winter can be cold and wet, but the city lights up with festive decorations, creating a charming holiday atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Dordrecht at Night

Dordrecht has a vibrant nightlife scene with a variety of bars, pubs, and clubs. The city offers live music venues, cozy pubs with local beers, and dance clubs that cater to different tastes. The nightlife is generally relaxed, with many locals enjoying casual evenings out with friends. Expect a friendly atmosphere where people of all ages come together to socialize.

Hiking in Dordrecht

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dordtse Biesbosch

A beautiful nature reserve with trails that wind through wetlands, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.

De Biesbosch National Park

Offers a variety of hiking paths through picturesque landscapes, providing opportunities to explore diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Dordrecht by plane.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport

Located about 25 km from Dordrecht, this airport offers both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Dordrecht is highly walkable, with pedestrian-friendly streets in the city center. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance, making it easy to explore without a vehicle. The city’s layout encourages leisurely strolls along canals and parks, providing a pleasant walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch Nationals

The majority of the population consists of Dutch nationals, who are known for their openness and friendliness.

Expat Community

Dordrecht has a growing expat community, including individuals from various countries who contribute to the city's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Dordrecht, with local teams and clubs actively participating in regional leagues.

Field Hockey

Field hockey has a strong following in the area, with several clubs offering training and competitions for all ages.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Dordrecht is manageable, with a good network of roads and public transportation options. Biking is a popular mode of transport, and the city is well-equipped with bike lanes. Public transport includes buses and trains that connect Dordrecht to nearby cities, making it easy to explore the region.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Dordrecht.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it is advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but it's best to inquire directly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Dordrecht is accessible, with several hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies available throughout the city. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and many healthcare professionals speak English. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide