Fun Things to Do in Assen | Travel Guide (2024) | Best Places to Visit
Assen Travel Guide
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Welcome to Assen! Located in the northeastern part of the country, Assen is the capital city of the province of Drenthe. Known for its rich history, charming architecture, and beautiful natural landscapes, Assen offers a unique and authentic Dutch experience. The city is famous for hosting the annual TT Assen motorcycle race, which attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. Additionally, Assen is home to the Drents Museum, where you can explore a wide range of art and archaeological exhibits. Whether youre a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking to immerse yourself in Dutch culture, Assen has something for everyone.
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Things To Do In Assen
Assen offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Located in the province of Drenthe, Assen is known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and cultural heritage. Here are some main things to do in Assen:
1. Visit the Drents Museum: This renowned museum showcases a wide range of art and artifacts, including archaeological finds, contemporary art, and historical exhibitions. It offers a fascinating insight into the regions history and culture.
2. Explore the Asserbos: This picturesque forest is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the well-maintained trails, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax amidst the serene surroundings.
3. Attend a race at TT Circuit Assen: Assen is famous for its motorsport heritage, and the TT Circuit Assen is a must-visit for racing enthusiasts. Catch a thrilling motorcycle or car race at this iconic venue, which hosts the annual Dutch TT MotoGP event.
4. Discover the historic city center: Assens city center is home to charming streets, historic buildings, and quaint shops. Take a walk through the citys past as you admire the beautiful architecture, visit local boutiques, and enjoy a meal at one of the cozy cafes or restaurants.
5. Visit the Drentsche Aa National Park: Just a short distance from Assen, this national park offers breathtaking natural beauty. Explore the diverse landscapes, including forests, heathlands, and meandering streams. Hiking, cycling, and horseback riding are popular activities here.
6. Experience the TT Festival: If you happen to visit Assen in late June, dont miss the TT Festival. This lively event takes place alongside the Dutch TT MotoGP race and features live music, street performances, food stalls, and a vibrant atmosphere.
7. Tour the Bartje Statue: The Bartje Statue is a symbol of Drenthe and depicts a young boy with his hands on his hips. It represents the regions independent spirit and is a popular spot for tourists to take photos.
8. Enjoy a boat trip on the Drentsche Hoofdvaart: Take a relaxing boat trip along the Drentsche Hoofdvaart canal, which runs through Assen. Enjoy the scenic views, spot wildlife, and learn about the canals historical significance.
Tours And Activities In Assen
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Best Time To Visit Assen
The best time to visit Assen is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the weather is warm and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F). Additionally, summer is when the city comes alive with various festivals and events, such as the TT Assen motorcycle race and the Drentse Fiets4Daagse cycling event. However, its important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations. If you prefer milder weather and fewer tourists, spring (April and May) and fall (September and October) are also good times to visit Assen. During these seasons, the temperatures range from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), and you can enjoy beautiful blooming flowers in spring or vibrant autumn foliage in fall. Winter (December to February) is the off-peak season in Assen, with cold temperatures averaging around 2°C to 6°C (36°F to 43°F). While it may not be the ideal time for outdoor activities, you can still enjoy indoor attractions like the Drents Museum or De Bonte Wever indoor water park.
Flight Calendar For Assen
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Best Areas To Stay In Assen
Assen offers several great areas for accommodation.
1. City Center: The city center of Assen is a vibrant and bustling area, perfect for those who enjoy being in the heart of the action. Here, you will find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. The city center is also home to many popular attractions, such as the Drents Museum and the historic Assen Cathedral.
2. Kloosterveen: Located just outside the city center, Kloosterveen is a peaceful and residential area that offers a more relaxed atmosphere. This area is known for its beautiful green spaces and parks, making it a great choice for nature lovers. Kloosterveen also has excellent transport links, making it easy to explore the rest of Assen and beyond.
3. Peelo: Peelo is another popular area for accommodation in Assen. This neighborhood is known for its family-friendly environment and excellent amenities. Here, you will find a range of housing options, including spacious apartments and detached houses. Peelo is also home to several schools and recreational facilities, making it a great choice for families with children.
4. Marsdijk: Marsdijk is a modern and well-planned area in Assen, offering a mix of residential and commercial spaces. This neighborhood is known for its excellent infrastructure and amenities, including shopping centers, restaurants, and sports facilities. Marsdijk is also well-connected to the rest of Assen, making it a convenient choice for both locals and tourists.
Overall, Assen offers a variety of areas for accommodation, each with its own unique charm and advantages. Whether you prefer the bustling city center or the peaceful suburbs, you are sure to find the perfect place to stay in Assen.
Hotels Map Of Assen
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Transportation To Assen
There are several transportation options to get to Assen.
1. By Air: The nearest international airport is Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ), which is located about 20 kilometers from Assen. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach Assen.
2. By Train: Assen has a train station that is well-connected to other cities in the Netherlands. You can take a train from major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or Utrecht to reach Assen.
3. By Bus: There are also bus services available to Assen from various cities in the Netherlands. You can check the schedules and book tickets online or at the bus station.
4. By Car: Assen is easily accessible by car as it is located near major highways. You can rent a car and drive to Assen from nearby cities or airports.
Once you are in Assen, you can use public transportation, such as buses or taxis, to get around the city.
Nearby Destination From Assen
1. Groningen: A vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage and lively student population.
2. Emmen: Home to the famous Wildlands Adventure Zoo, offering a unique wildlife experience.
3. Hoogeveen: A charming town with picturesque canals and a bustling market square.
4. Meppel: Known for its beautiful historic center and annual grachtenfestival (canal festival).
5. Zwolle: A historic city with a well-preserved medieval center and a thriving arts and music scene.
6. Leeuwarden: The capital of Friesland, boasting a fascinating blend of old and new architecture.
7. Gieten: Surrounded by stunning nature reserves, perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
8. Winschoten: A lively town with a rich industrial history and a vibrant shopping district.
9. Veendam: Famous for its picturesque waterfront and charming windmills.
10. Stadskanaal: A peaceful town known for its scenic canals and tranquil atmosphere.