Things To Do
in Eerbeek

Eerbeek sits in Gelderland's green heart, surrounded by woodlands and open farmland. The town blends industrial heritage with easy access to forests by bike or on foot. Its small-town charm shines in quiet streets, locally produced foods, and friendly hospitality.

It's a convenient base for day trips to the Veluwe and the Achterhoek region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Eerbeek
morning
:

Start your journey with a hearty breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Dutch pastries and coffee. After fueling up, set out to explore the quaint streets of Eerbeek, filled with charming shops and historical architecture. Don’t forget to visit the local market, where you can interact with friendly vendors and pick up fresh produce.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, take a leisurely bike ride through the stunning landscapes surrounding Eerbeek. Take breaks to appreciate the serene nature along the Achterhoek region, dotted with forests and rivers. Wrap up your bike tour with a picnic in one of the many scenic parks, enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings.

evening
:

As evening approaches, treat yourself to a delightful dinner at a restaurant known for its Dutch and international cuisine. After your meal, take a stroll along the picturesque canals, absorbing the peaceful ambiance of the town. End the night with a cozy visit to a local pub, sampling regional beers and mingling with locals.

day 2
Venture to the Veluwe
morning
:

Begin your second day with a trip to the Veluwe National Park, just a short drive from Eerbeek. Spend the morning hiking through the diverse landscapes, where you can encounter deer and other wildlife. The fresh morning air and beautiful scenery provide a perfect backdrop for some great photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

Continue your adventure with a visit to the Kröller-Müller Museum, housing an impressive collection of Van Gogh paintings. Enjoy lunch at the museum’s café, and take some time to explore the surrounding sculpture garden as well. Your afternoon will be filled with art, culture, and natural beauty.

evening
:

For dinner, return to Eerbeek and choose a restaurant that serves traditional Dutch dishes. After dinner, partake in an evening walk to admire the sunset over the fields and nearby forests. This peaceful end to your day allows for personal reflection and relaxation.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or tea$3-5
🚌1-day public transport pass$6-12
🥗Lunch in mid-range restaurant$12-22
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$90-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Access to forest and Veluwe nature from a quiet base
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed pace of life
  • Good cycling routes and easy day trips to larger towns
  • Strong regional cuisine and cozy, traditional pubs
  • Limited nightlife and few large-scale entertainment options
  • Some services and shops speak limited English in rural areas
  • Public transport options can be less frequent than in bigger cities
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde halte?" - Where is the nearest bus stop?
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much is this?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Eerbeek

Visit one of these nice places.

Eerbeekse Bos forest edge at dawn

Soft morning light along pine and mixed forest edges; ideal for tranquil landscapes and misty woodland photos.

Town center and green spaces

Charmful streets with historic façades, squares, and small canals or water features—great for street photography and architectural shots.

Veluwe landscape viewpoints

Open fields, woodlands, and hedgerows typical of the Veluwe area; broad horizons and golden-hour skies.

Oude IJssel riverbank (nearby routes)

Riverside trails with reflections and seasonal wildlife; a classic Dutch riverscape at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Eerbeek

Eerbeek’s cuisine reflects Gelderland’s rural roots and classic Dutch flavors. Expect hearty dishes built on seasonal produce, comfortable taverns, and welcoming locals.

Eerbeek Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stamppot with rookworst

A hearty mashed-potato dish served with kale or sauerkraut and smoked sausage; a staple in local pubs and family restaurants.

Must-Try!

Hachee with potatoes

Slow-cooked beef or venison stew served with boiled or mashed potatoes; common on colder days in traditional eateries.

Gelderse kaas plank

A selection of regional cheeses with bread, fruit, and chutneys—perfect for a light bite in cafés.

Pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes)

Large, thin pancakes served with sweet or savory toppings—great for a relaxed meal with family.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Brummen Saturday Farmers Market

Weekly market nearby with fresh cheese, vegetables, bread, and local produce dotted with seasonal treats.

Local farmers stalls in the town center

Occasional stalls offering eggs, honey, fruit, and baked goods during market days.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Expect rain throughout the year, with the wettest months typically in autumn and winter. Average highs range from around 6-7°C in winter to 20-22°C in summer, with moderate humidity and changeable conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet with a polite hello (hallo) and a handshake in formal settings; use 'u' (polite) with strangers and elders.

Queueing and personal space

Respect queues and maintain personal space in shops and on public transport.

Biking etiquette

Give priority to pedestrians in shared spaces and signal when turning; ride predictably and use bike lanes where available.

Safety Guide

Safety

Eerbeek is generally safe with low crime rates. Standard precautions apply: protect bicycles from theft, lock doors, and stay aware of weather changes. In case of an emergency, dial 112; for non-emergency healthcare, contact local GP clinics or nearby hospitals in Apeldoorn or Zutphen.

Tipping in Eerbeek

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is not obligatory in the Netherlands, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service in restaurants and cafés is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cards (debit/credit) and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still used in older venues, but many places are cashless.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Blooms begin to appear; mild days with fresh air. Good for hiking and daylight photography; keep an eye on occasional showers.

Summer

Warm, pleasant days with long evenings. Ideal for outdoor cycling, forest walks, and enjoying outdoor terraces. Occasional rain is common.

Autumn

Vibrant foliage and cooler temps. Great for forest photography and scenic drives; prepare for wind and rain.

Winter

Cold but sunny days are possible; landscapes dusted with frost or light snow. Warm interiors and cozy eateries are appealing after outdoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Eerbeek at Night

Eerbeek offers a quiet, local nightlife scene centered on small pubs and cafés. There are occasional live music nights or community events, but the town does not have a large club scene. Nearby larger towns provide more choices for late-night venues, while weekends in the countryside often feature intimate performances and seasonal gatherings.

Hiking in Eerbeek

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Eerbeekse Bossen trails

Extensive forest trails offering shaded paths and scenic viewpoints, suitable for day hikes and longer treks.

Veluwe landscapes

Open heathlands, woodlands, and rolling fields within a short drive, ideal for longer hikes and photography.

IJssel river valley trails

Riverside routes with reflections and birdlife, perfect for tranquil hikes and sunset photography.

Airports

How to reach Eerbeek by plane.

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)

Major international hub about a 1.5–2 hour drive or train journey from Eerbeek; convenient for international arrivals and connections.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

Regional international airport with several European connections; accessible by road or rail via nearby hubs.

Dusseldorf International (DUS)

German gateway within a couple of hours by car or rail; useful for additional European flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most amenities within short strolls. For nature access and day trips, cycling or short drives are more practical. A car or bike is convenient for exploring surrounding forests and nearby towns.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many households are built around schools and community activities; family-friendly events are common.

Retirees

A stable senior population that enjoys quiet neighborhoods, green spaces, and local clubs.

Young professionals

Some residents commute to larger towns for work, drawn by the balance of nature and accessibility.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A ubiquitous Dutch pastime; many residents cycle as everyday transport and for recreation.

Football (Soccer)

Widely followed and played across town clubs and schools.

Tennis

Local courts and clubs offer seasonal play and social leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is typically light to moderate, with a strong emphasis on bicycle lanes and pedestrian-friendly routes. Public transport is reliable but less frequent than in bigger cities; cars and bikes are the main ways to move around and to reach nearby towns and nature areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Eerbeek.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many Dutch eateries offer vegetarian options. Look for plates with seasonal vegetables, cheese, or legumes; inform staff of preferences, and you’ll usually find good meat-free choices.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Eerbeek is supported by local general practitioners (huisarts) and nearby hospitals in larger nearby towns. For specialized care or emergencies, residents typically visit hospitals in Apeldoorn, Zutphen, or Arnhem, within a reasonable driving distance.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide