Things To Do
in Enschede

Enschede is a vibrant city located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, known for its rich textile history and cultural diversity. It offers a blend of modern urban life and historical charm, with numerous museums, parks, and shopping areas. The city is also home to the University of Twente, bringing a youthful energy and innovation to the area.

Known for its friendly locals, Enschede is an inviting destination for travelers seeking a unique Dutch experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Enschede's Culture
morning
:

Start your day at the Rijksmuseum Twenthe, where you can admire Dutch art from the Middle Ages to the present.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic city center, including the Grote Kerk and the picturesque Old Market Square for lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Dutch restaurant and then catch a performance at the Wilminktheater.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Take a relaxing stroll through the Volkspark, a large park with beautiful gardens and walking paths.

afternoon
:

Visit the Enschede's weekly market at the Oude Markt for local produce and crafts.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy eatery in the city center and explore the nightlife options at local bars or clubs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$30
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Beer$5-$7
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel (mid-range per night)$100-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical attractions.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Vibrant nightlife and dining options.
  • Public transport connections can be limited.
  • Less touristy compared to larger Dutch cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don’t speak Dutch
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Enschede

Visit one of these nice places.

Grote Kerk

The iconic church in the city center, with stunning architecture and a beautiful tower, perfect for capturing historical essence.

Rijksmuseum Twenthe

A museum with impressive art collections, its exterior and surrounding gardens provide great photo opportunities.

Volkspark

A picturesque park with lush greenery, ponds, and walking trails, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Enschede

Enschede offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases local Dutch flavors and international cuisines, making it a foodie’s paradise.

Enschede Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bitterballen

A popular Dutch snack made of deep-fried balls filled with a mixture of beef or veal ragout.

Must-Try!

Stroopwafels

Thin waffles filled with caramel syrup, best enjoyed with coffee or tea.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oude Markt

A lively square featuring a weekly market with local produce, flowers, and crafts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Enschede experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by relatively mild winters and cool summers. Average temperatures range from around 2°C (36°F) in January to about 22°C (72°F) in July. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late autumn and winter. Visitors should prepare for occasional rain and chilly winds, especially in the colder months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Dutch culture; lateness can be seen as disrespectful.

Direct Communication

The Dutch value honesty and directness in conversations; they often speak their minds.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a comfortable distance during conversations and avoid physical contact unless familiar.

Safety Guide

Safety

Enschede is considered a safe city with a low crime rate. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night and to stay in well-populated places.

Tipping in Enschede

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not obligatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or at markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers; it's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm weather attracts many visitors to parks and outdoor cafes, making it vibrant and lively.

Autumn

Beautiful fall foliage can be seen; it’s a wonderful time for photography and enjoying seasonal events.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow; holiday markets and festive decorations create a magical atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Enschede at Night

Enschede boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, particularly popular among students and young locals. The city offers a mix of bars, pubs, and clubs, often featuring live music and DJ performances. Areas like the Oude Markt are bustling with activity in the evenings, where you can find a variety of venues to suit different tastes, from cozy pubs to trendy nightclubs. Special events and themed nights are common, ensuring there's always something happening after dark.

Hiking in Enschede

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Buurserzand

A nature reserve with scenic trails, offering a variety of landscapes including heathlands and forests.

De Weerribben

Located a short drive away, this area features extensive hiking paths through wetlands and beautiful nature.

Airports

How to reach Enschede by plane.

Twente Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Enschede, Twente Airport offers limited flights but is a convenient option for regional travel.

Getting Around

Walkability

Enschede is highly walkable, with a compact city center that allows easy exploration on foot. Streets are well-maintained, and pedestrian zones are prevalent, making it safe and enjoyable to navigate. Key attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance, and public transport options are also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Enschede hosts a large student population due to the University of Twente, contributing to a youthful and dynamic culture.

International Community

The city has a growing international community, with expats and migrants adding to its cultural diversity and vibrancy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is immensely popular in Enschede, with FC Twente being the local club that enjoys substantial support from the community.

Field Hockey

Field hockey has a strong following, with several clubs and facilities available for both recreational and competitive play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Enschede is manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. The city is well-connected by public transport, including buses and trains, making it easy to travel within the city and to nearby regions. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes available, encouraging an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Enschede.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Enschede offer vegetarian dishes, and vegan options are increasingly available.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free meals can be found at most restaurants, but it’s advisable to notify staff of dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Enschede is accessible and of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The Medisch Spectrum Twente is the primary hospital, providing emergency services and specialized care. For minor ailments, numerous pharmacies and general practitioners can be found throughout the city. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance for any medical needs.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide