Assen

The capital of Drenthe province, Assen is known for its tree-lined streets, the famous TT motorcycle race circuit, and the excellent Drents Museum showcasing regional art and archaeology. It's a charming administrative hub with good cycling infrastructure and serves as the cultural heart of the province.

Things to do

• TT Circuit Assen Museum — Explore the history and heritage of the famous MotoGP motorcycle race held annually on the challenging circuit that winds through the city.
• Drents Museum — Visit this acclaimed regional museum housing impressive collections of prehistoric artifacts, contemporary art, and cultural exhibitions reflecting Drenthe's rich heritage.
• Cycling the Drenthe Routes — Take advantage of Assen's excellent cycling infrastructure by following well-marked regional routes through forests, peatlands, and charming villages.
• Asserbos Forest Walk — Stroll through this scenic wooded area with tree-lined paths ideal for peaceful walks and experiencing Assen's distinctive leafy streetscape.
• Assen Town Centre Shopping and Cafés — Browse independent shops and local boutiques along Marktplein and the surrounding pedestrian streets, then relax at outdoor cafés.
• Hunebedden (Megalithic Tombs) — Visit the prehistoric dolmen monuments scattered throughout the Drenthe countryside near Assen, remnants of ancient burial chambers dating back 5,000 years.

Food to try

• Boerenkoolstamppot — A traditional Dutch comfort dish of mashed potatoes and kale, often served with sausage and gravy, deeply rooted in regional farmland cuisine.
• Pepernotensalade — A local Drenthe specialty combining spiced gingerbread with savory ingredients, offering a unique sweet-savory flavor profile.
• Peat Bog Asparagus — Fresh white asparagus grown in the rich peat soil of Drenthe, celebrated locally during spring season and served simply with hollandaise.
• Assen Brown Bread with Local Cheese — Sample hearty whole grain bread paired with regional farmstead cheeses at local bakeries and markets throughout the city.
• Buckwheat Pancakes (Boekweitpannenkoeken) — A savory Drenthe favorite made from buckwheat flour, traditionally served with bacon, cheese, or syrup at local eateries.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace Cycling Culture — Assen is built for cyclists with extensive bike paths and bike parking; expect locals to cycle for daily errands and embrace this as the primary transport mode.
• MotoGP Race Week Atmosphere — During TT race week in late June, the entire city transforms with festivities, road closures, and a vibrant international motorcycle enthusiast presence that dominates local life.
• Gezelligheid and Café Culture — Dutch café culture thrives here with emphasis on gezelligheid (cozy conviviality); locals enjoy lingering over coffee or drinks in social settings, especially on Marktplein.
• Regional Pride in Drenthe Identity — Assen residents take pride in their provincial heritage and prehistoric past; the Drents Museum and local monuments reflect deep cultural roots that differ from typical Dutch urban centers.