Things To Do
in Hengelo

Hengelo is a charming city in the eastern Netherlands, known for its rich industrial heritage and vibrant community. Nestled in the Twente region, it boasts a blend of modern amenities and historical architecture, making it a delightful destination for visitors. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including parks and nature reserves, perfect for outdoor activities.

Hengelo also offers a variety of cultural experiences, from local galleries to music festivals, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Hengelo
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll around the city center, visiting the historical buildings such as the St. John's Church and the old Post Office. Grab a coffee at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the TwentseWelle museum to learn about the region's industrial history and culture. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring local cuisine.

evening
:

Dine at a popular Twente restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk in the city park, enjoying the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day with a bike ride in the nearby nature reserves, exploring the beautiful landscapes and wildlife.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a food market, sampling local street food. Spend the afternoon at an outdoor café or visit a local shop for souvenirs.

evening
:

Experience Hengelo's nightlife by visiting a local bar or pub, enjoying live music or a quiet drink with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍕Street food snack$5
🚌Public transport ticket$3
🏨Hotel night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor activities
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Occasional rainy weather
  • Fewer international dining options
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Hengelo

Visit one of these nice places.

St. John's Church

An iconic landmark of Hengelo, this church features beautiful architecture and is a great spot for capturing historical charm.

Hengelo City Park

A picturesque park with lush greenery, ponds, and walking paths, perfect for nature photography.

TwentseWelle Museum

The museum's modern design contrasts with its historical exhibits, providing unique photography opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Hengelo

Hengelo offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing local flavors and traditional Dutch cuisine. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to sample regional specialties and enjoy the vibrant food scene.

Hengelo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Haring

Raw herring fish, typically served with onions and pickles, is a Dutch delicacy best enjoyed in summer.

Must-Try!

Kroket

A popular Dutch snack made from a meat ragout, coated and fried until crispy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hengelo Market

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Hengelo experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0-5°C (32-41°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late summer and autumn. Visitors should pack accordingly, as the weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Dutch culture, whether for social events or business meetings.

Direct Communication

The Dutch are known for their straightforward communication style; it's common to speak openly and honestly.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintaining personal space is valued; avoid standing too close during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Hengelo is generally considered a safe city, with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it's advisable to stay alert in crowded places and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals provide quality healthcare. It's wise to familiarize yourself with local safety norms and emergency procedures.

Tipping in Hengelo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Service charges are usually included in restaurant bills, but rounding up or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and lively, with outdoor festivals and events, making it a great time to enjoy local cuisine and street markets.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall colors in the parks and nature reserves, perfect for photography and hiking.

Winter

Winter can be cold and wet, but the city has a cozy atmosphere with holiday markets and festive decorations.

Nightlife Guide

Hengelo at Night

Hengelo's nightlife is laid-back yet vibrant, with a variety of bars, pubs, and music venues. The city hosts live music events, especially during weekends, featuring local bands and DJs. You can find cozy pubs for a quiet drink or lively bars for dancing, catering to different preferences. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to mingle with locals.

Hiking in Hengelo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park

A beautiful national park located about 30 minutes from Hengelo, offering diverse landscapes and well-marked hiking trails.

Rijssensche Bos

A local forest area with several hiking paths, perfect for leisurely walks amidst nature.

Airports

How to reach Hengelo by plane.

Twente Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Hengelo, Twente Airport offers limited domestic flights and is a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Hengelo is a very walkable city, with its compact size allowing visitors to easily navigate on foot. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are located within walking distance of each other. The city has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian pathways, making it safe and comfortable for pedestrians. Additionally, the presence of parks and green spaces enhances the walking experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Hengelo hosts a significant student population, with several educational institutions attracting young individuals from various regions.

Retirees

The city is home to many retirees who enjoy the peaceful environment and community activities, contributing to a vibrant social scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Hengelo, with local clubs and a strong community support for the sport.

Field Hockey

Field hockey has a significant following in the region, with several clubs and teams participating in local and national competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Hengelo is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses and trains that connect to nearby cities. Biking is also a popular mode of transportation, with dedicated cycling lanes throughout the city. The compact layout of Hengelo makes it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hengelo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Hengelo offer vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that dietary preferences are accommodated.

Gluten-Free Options

Some cafes and restaurants provide gluten-free dishes; it's advisable to check menus or ask staff for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Hengelo is accessible and of high quality. The city has several general practitioners, specialized clinics, and hospitals. Emergency services are prompt and efficient. Visitors should have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, and it's advisable to carry any necessary medications while traveling.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide