Things To Do
in Staphorst

Staphorst is a picturesque village in the Netherlands known for its traditional Dutch culture and stunning natural landscapes. The village is characterized by its beautiful wooden houses and vibrant flower gardens, reflecting the rich heritage of the area. Staphorst is also famous for its unique costumes worn during local festivals, which offer a glimpse into the past.

Visitors can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere while exploring the scenic countryside and engaging with its friendly residents.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Village
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Staphorst Museum to learn about the local history and culture. Then, take a leisurely stroll around the village to admire the traditional wooden houses.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby nature reserve, Het Reestdal, offering beautiful views and a chance to observe local wildlife. After lunch, rent a bike and explore the cycling paths around the area.

evening
:

Dine at Restaurant de Zwarte Boer, known for its authentic Dutch cuisine. After dinner, take a relaxing walk through the village under the stars.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café before heading to the nearby Giethoorn, often referred to as the 'Venice of the North,' to explore its beautiful canals.

afternoon
:

Take a boat tour in Giethoorn and enjoy the serene waterways. Afterward, visit a local farm to experience traditional Dutch farming.

evening
:

Return to Staphorst for dinner at Eetcafé 't Hoes, where you can indulge in hearty local dishes. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local pub for a taste of Dutch beer.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local beer$4-$6
🏨Hotel per night$75-$150
🚌Public transport ticket$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options for party-goers.
  • Fewer attractions compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Waar is de badkamer?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Staphorst

Visit one of these nice places.

Staphorst Museum

Capture the essence of local culture and history with beautiful exhibits and traditional costumes.

Nature Reserve Het Reestdal

A picturesque setting with stunning landscapes, perfect for landscape photography and wildlife.

Traditional Farms

Photograph the charming traditional farms and their well-kept gardens that reflect the local heritage.

Culinary Guide

Food in Staphorst

Staphorst offers a delightful culinary experience with its traditional Dutch dishes and local produce.

Staphorst Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stamppot

A classic Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with various vegetables, often served with smoked sausage.

Must-Try!

Haring

Raw herring fish typically served with onions and pickles, often eaten by holding the fish by the tail.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Weekly Market

Every Thursday, Staphorst hosts a local market where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and artisanal products.

Street Food Stalls

Various food stalls in the village offer traditional Dutch snacks like poffertjes (small fluffy pancakes) and stroopwafels (syrup waffles).

Climate Guide

Weather

Staphorst experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -5°C to 5°C (23°F to 41°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella, especially in the fall and spring.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Dutch culture; it reflects respect for others' time.

Politeness

Using 'please' (alstublieft) and 'thank you' (dank u) is essential in interactions.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Staphorst is generally a safe place for visitors, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as securing personal belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Staphorst

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring offers blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer is warm and vibrant, perfect for enjoying local festivals and outdoor dining.

Autumn

With the foliage changing colors, autumn is great for hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

Winter

Winters are cold, often with snow, offering a different charm to the village, perfect for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Staphorst at Night

Staphorst has a laid-back nightlife scene, primarily focused on cozy pubs and local cafes. While not a party destination, visitors can enjoy a night out at traditional Dutch pubs, where they can sample local beers and socialize with locals. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Staphorst

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Trail in Het Reestdal

This trail offers a scenic route through the nature reserve, ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Januari Trail

A moderate hiking trail that takes you through forests and fields, providing beautiful views of the landscape.

Airports

How to reach Staphorst by plane.

Groningen Airport Eelde

Approximately 50 km from Staphorst, this airport serves as a regional hub with connections to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Staphorst is a walkable village, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other. The flat terrain and well-maintained sidewalks make it easy for visitors to explore on foot, enjoying the charm of the village and its surroundings at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Traditional Communities

The village is home to traditional Dutch communities that maintain their customs and practices.

Young Families

An increasing number of young families are moving to Staphorst for its peaceful environment and community-oriented lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Staphorst, with local clubs and community leagues encouraging participation.

Cycling

Given the flat terrain, cycling is a favored pastime, both for recreation and sport, with numerous cycling events held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Staphorst is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect the village to nearby towns; however, services may be limited outside peak hours. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike paths available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Staphorst.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, particularly in salads and pasta.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are available, it is advisable to inform the staff about dietary restrictions to ensure safe dining.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Staphorst is generally good, with local clinics and pharmacies available. For more serious medical needs, hospitals in nearby cities like Meppel and Zwolle are accessible. It's advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers healthcare needs during their visit.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide