Things To Do
in Veendam
Veendam is a small town in the Dutch province of Groningen. It sits in the northeast Netherlands along connected canals and green landscapes. The town blends a quiet residential character with accessible nature and Dutch hospitality.
Visitors can enjoy easy day trips to Groningen's city center and the surrounding lowlands while experiencing authentic regional life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic center of Veendam, where you can admire the charming architecture of 19th-century buildings. Stroll along the picturesque streets and stop by the Museum of the History of the Veendam, where you can learn about the town's rich past. Make sure to grab a typical Dutch breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh bread, cheese, and coffee.
After lunch, take a leisurely walk to the Veenkoloniaal Museum, which showcases the region's peat industry and its historical significance. Immerse yourself in the exhibits, including artifacts and photographs that depict life in Veendam over the centuries. Later, relax in the nearby park, where you can enjoy the serene surroundings and perhaps even spot some local wildlife.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Dutch restaurant for dinner, where you can savor local dishes such as 'haring' or 'stamppot'. After your meal, take a scenic stroll along the waterway, enjoying the twinkling lights reflected in the canal. End your evening with a visit to a local pub, where you can sample some Dutch beers and engage in conversations with friendly locals.
Rent a bicycle and set off early to explore the beautiful landscapes surrounding Veendam. The flat terrain makes it easy to navigate, and you can enjoy the fresh air as you pedal past lush fields and quaint villages. Stop at a local market to pick up some fresh produce for a picnic later in the day.
Cycle to the nearby village of Muntendam and explore its charming streets, admiring the traditional Dutch homes and gardens. Find a peaceful spot in the countryside to enjoy your picnic, surrounded by the natural beauty of the region. After lunch, continue your ride towards the scenic nature reserve, where you can take in the sights and sounds of local flora and fauna.
Return to Veendam as the day winds down, and treat yourself to dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring local cuisine. After dining, visit a nearby theater to catch a performance or live music, experiencing the cultural side of Veendam. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk back to your accommodation, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥪Lunch or sandwich | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer in a bar | $5-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet base for a Groningen region visit
- Friendly locals and easy transport to Groningen
- Limited nightlife within Veendam itself
- Smaller town feel may require short trips for major attractions
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde supermarkt?" - Where is the nearest supermarket?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Veendam
Visit one of these nice places.
Early morning light on the facades of the market square with reflections in surrounding canals.
Quiet water reflections along Veendam's canals and edge-of-town paths.
Open flat farmland and open skies provide expansive horizon shots and seasonal wildlife.
Food in Veendam
Veendam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Dutch comfort dish of mashed potatoes with kale or endive and rookworst sausage; widely available in family-run eateries around Veendam.
Must-Try!
A spiced, buttery cake native to Groningen, perfect with coffee at local bakeries.
Fresh raw herring sold at fish stalls; best enjoyed with onions and pickles, often on a quick street-side bite.
Dutch pancakes served with a variety of toppings; a popular weekend treat in local cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly stalls offering local cheese, vegetables, baked goods and flowers; great for tasting regional produce.
Small stalls offering fresh herring and fried fish snacks; perfect for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
The Dutch are direct but polite; say please and thank you; punctuality matters.
Queue in order; yield to pedestrians and cyclists on shared paths; use bike bells politely.
Safety
Tipping in Veendam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory; round up or leave 5-10% for good service.
Cards widely accepted; contactless payments and cash are common; ATMs available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Fields bloom; mild weather; best for cycling and outdoor markets.
Long days with intermittent showers; ideal for canal life, outdoor dining and walks.
Harvest season brings rich colors; it can be windy; cozy cafes and fireside conversations.
Cool temperatures with possible frost or snow; festive markets and a quieter town pace.
Veendam at Night
Hiking in Veendam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal wetlands and birdwatching routes near the Lauwersmeer area; reachable in about 1-1.5 hours by car.
Open valleys and historic lanes with scenic footpaths in Drenthe; a pleasant day trip.
Ridge routes with rolling grassy landscapes and woodland near Groningen and Assen; good for moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Veendam by plane.
Nearest regional airport offering domestic and some international flights; about 35-50 minutes by car from Veendam depending on traffic.
Major international hub with many flights; accessible via train or flight connections from Groningen.
Larger international connections, located in Germany; about 2-3 hours by car or train from Veendam.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant demographic group, with families and aging population typical of small towns.
A small mix of international residents, including seasonal workers and students from nearby Groningen.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and a common weekend pastime for residents.
The flat landscape makes cycling one of the most popular ways to get around.
When temperatures drop, outdoor rinks and natural ice attract skaters.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Veendam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for 'vegetarisch' on menus and ask staff for meat-free options.
Vegan dishes exist in many places or can be prepared by request; look for plant-based starters and mains.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests with prior notice; ask about sauces and cross-contamination.