Things To Do
in Drachten

Drachten is a vibrant town located in the province of Friesland in the Netherlands. Known for its rich cultural heritage and modern amenities, it seamlessly blends traditional Dutch charm with contemporary living. The town is home to various arts and crafts, making it a hub for creativity and cultural exchange.

Drachten also boasts beautiful parks and recreational areas, making it an ideal destination for both relaxation and exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Drachten
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the De Lawei Theatre, where you can enjoy the local arts scene. Afterward, take a stroll through the nearby Museum Drachten, showcasing the town's history and culture.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the Drachten City Park, perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic. Explore the various sculptures and art installations scattered throughout the park.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurant 't Havenmantsje, known for its seafood dishes, followed by a nightcap at a local pub where you can mingle with locals.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a bike ride to the nearby nature reserve, De Deelen, where you can appreciate the natural beauty and unique wildlife of the region.

afternoon
:

Return to Drachten for lunch at the market square, where you can sample local delicacies. Visit the local shops and boutiques for some unique souvenirs.

evening
:

End your visit with a fine dining experience at Restaurant De Witte Klok, known for its innovative Dutch cuisine, before catching a live music performance at a local venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍔Fast food combo meal$10
🥖Loaf of bread$2
🥛Liter of milk$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and artistic scene
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Weather can be unpredictable
  • May lack some international cuisine options
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Tot ziens" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Drachten

Visit one of these nice places.

De Lawei Theatre

A modern architectural marvel, the theatre offers stunning visuals both inside and out.

Drachten City Park

With its beautiful landscapes and sculptures, this park is a favorite spot for nature photography.

Museum Drachten

Capture the essence of local history with the museum's unique exhibits and architecture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Drachten

Drachten offers a delightful culinary scene that highlights local ingredients and traditional Dutch flavors.

Drachten Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Friesian Sugar Bread

A sweet, dense bread flavored with sugar and spices, perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

Must-Try!

Haring

Raw herring fish, often served with onions and pickles, a true Dutch delicacy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Drachten Market

Held every Saturday, this market features fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food stalls offering quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Drachten experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being August and October. Spring and autumn bring moderate temperatures and beautiful seasonal changes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Dutch culture, so make sure to arrive promptly for appointments or meetings.

Direct Communication

The Dutch are known for their directness; don't take it personally if someone is blunt or straightforward.

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain personal space during conversations and avoid overly physical gestures unless you know the person well.

Safety Guide

Safety

Drachten is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, like any location, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially when out at night or in less crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious with personal items in public spaces.

Tipping in Drachten

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Drachten; however, carrying some cash is advisable for markets and small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather, blooming flowers, and many outdoor events. It's a great time for nature walks.

Summer

Warm temperatures and longer days make summer the perfect season for outdoor activities and festivals.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and harvest festivals, but prepare for cooler temperatures and occasional rain.

Winter

Cold and snowy, winter in Drachten can be charming, especially with Christmas markets and festive decorations.

Nightlife Guide

Drachten at Night

Drachten has a lively nightlife scene with various bars, pubs, and clubs offering entertainment for all tastes. The town features a mix of cozy pubs where you can enjoy a drink and chat with locals, as well as dance clubs that host DJ nights and live music. In addition, cultural events and performances at the De Lawei Theatre often extend into the evening, providing a vibrant atmosphere for night owls.

Hiking in Drachten

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

De Deelen Nature Reserve

Offering various trails, this nature reserve is perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking to explore rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes.

Fochteloërveen National Park

A short drive from Drachten, this park features marked hiking routes through unique peat bogs and wetlands.

Airports

How to reach Drachten by plane.

Groningen Airport Eelde

Located about 30 kilometers from Drachten, this is the nearest airport offering both domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Drachten is quite walkable, with a compact town center that makes it easy to explore on foot. Most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance of each other. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are clearly marked, making navigation straightforward for visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Drachten has a strong family community, with many parks, schools, and activities catering to children.

Students

With several educational institutions nearby, Drachten attracts a youthful demographic, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is very popular in Drachten, with local clubs and a strong community following.

Ice Skating

During winter, ice skating is a favored activity, with many local rinks available for both leisure and competitive skating.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Drachten is generally manageable, with well-maintained roads and bike paths. Public transportation options include buses that connect Drachten to nearby towns and cities. Cycling is a popular mode of transport due to the flat terrain and extensive bike lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Drachten.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Drachten offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are available, they may be limited, so inform your server of your dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Drachten is accessible, with several general practitioners, specialists, and hospitals available. The town has well-equipped medical facilities, and the Dutch healthcare system is known for its high standards. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it is advisable for travelers to have health insurance covering international travel.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide