Things To Do
in Meppel

Meppel is a charming city nestled in the northern part of the Netherlands, known for its picturesque canals and vibrant culture. It boasts a rich history that dates back to the 17th century, when it became an important trade center. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

With its friendly atmosphere and local events, Meppel offers a delightful experience for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Canals and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll along the scenic canals and take in the historic architecture. Visit the Meppel Museum to learn about the city's history and heritage.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café before heading to the nearby De Weerribben-Wieden National Park for some nature trails and bird watching.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Dutch restaurant and then take a leisurely walk through the city center to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Begin with a bike ride through the surrounding countryside, exploring the picturesque landscapes and quaint villages.

afternoon
:

Visit a local market to sample regional delicacies, followed by a relaxing afternoon at a lakeside park.

evening
:

Experience Meppel's nightlife by visiting a local bar or pub for live music and socializing with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍕Fast food meal$8
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🥐Bakery item$1.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming canals and historical architecture
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere
  • Beautiful natural surroundings for outdoor activities
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Some attractions may have restricted hours
  • Language barrier for non-Dutch speakers in some areas
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch
  • "Wat kost dit?" - How much does this cost?

Places to Visit in Meppel

Visit one of these nice places.

Meppel Canals

The picturesque canals of Meppel provide stunning reflections of the historic buildings, making it a perfect spot for photography.

Old Town Center

The charming streets of the old town are lined with beautiful architecture, ideal for capturing the essence of Meppel.

De Weerribben-Wieden National Park

This national park features unique landscapes and wildlife, offering opportunities for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Meppel

Meppel offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases local flavors and Dutch cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a variety of traditional dishes and modern culinary twists in its many eateries.

Meppel Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stamppot

A traditional Dutch dish made of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables and served with sausage.

Must-Try!

Haring

Raw herring fish typically served with onions and pickles, a popular street food snack.

Poffertjes

Small, fluffy pancakes that are often served with powdered sugar and butter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Meppel Market

A weekly market where visitors can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Meppel has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures hover around 20°C (68°F), while winters can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with slightly wetter months in late summer and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Dutch culture.

Respect for Privacy

Dutch people value their privacy; it's important to be respectful and not too intrusive.

Safety Guide

Safety

Meppel is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and when using public transport. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Meppel

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Meppel is beautiful, with blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer brings warm weather and vibrant local festivals, making it a lively time to visit.

Autumn

Autumn showcases colorful foliage, and the weather is still pleasant for exploring the countryside.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the city is cozy with holiday decorations and offers winter activities such as ice skating.

Nightlife Guide

Meppel at Night

Meppel's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, featuring a mix of bars, pubs, and small clubs where locals and visitors gather. The city often hosts live music events and cultural performances, particularly in the summer months. The atmosphere is friendly, making it easy to socialize and meet new people.

Hiking in Meppel

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

De Weerribben-Wieden National Park

This park offers several hiking trails through wetlands and forests, ideal for nature lovers.

Dwingelderveld National Park

Known for its heathlands and diverse wildlife, this park provides beautiful hiking opportunities for all skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Meppel by plane.

Groningen Airport Eelde

Located approximately 60 km from Meppel, this airport offers limited domestic flights and connections to larger European cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Meppel is a highly walkable city with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly streets. The city center is compact, making it easy to explore on foot. Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within a short walking distance of each other.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Meppel has a significant number of young families, attracted by its family-friendly environment and good schools.

Retirees

The city is also home to a growing population of retirees seeking a quiet and scenic place to live.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and community events.

Field Hockey

Field hockey has a strong following, with several clubs promoting the sport among youth and adults.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Meppel is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation is also available, with regular bus services connecting the city to surrounding areas. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, supported by extensive bike paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Meppel.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Meppel offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free meals, but it's best to inquire beforehand.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Meppel has adequate healthcare facilities, including general practitioners and hospitals. Emergency services are available, and most healthcare providers speak English. It’s advisable for visitors to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide