Appingedam

A picturesque historic town famous for its narrow 'hanged kitchens' (kitchens extending over the water) and charming waterfront lined with traditional Dutch architecture. The town offers a more intimate and authentic experience of northern Dutch culture than larger cities.

Things to do

• Hanged Kitchens Walking Tour — Explore the iconic kitchens projecting over the Drentse Aa river, a unique architectural feature dating back centuries that allowed residents to dispose of waste directly into the water.
• Appingedam Museum — Visit this small but informative museum housed in a historic building that chronicles the town's maritime heritage and displays artifacts related to local shipbuilding and trade.
• Waterfront Promenade Stroll — Walk along the picturesque waterfront lined with traditional Dutch merchant houses and small bridges, ideal for photography and experiencing authentic northern Dutch atmosphere.
• Sint Michaëlskerk — Tour this 15th-century Protestant church featuring original wooden interior details and serving as the spiritual heart of the town's historic center.
• Canal Boat Rental — Rent a small electric boat or kayak to paddle along the Drentse Aa and nearby canals for an intimate perspective of the town's waterside character.
• Local Market Visit — Browse the weekly farmers and craft market typically held in the town center offering fresh local produce, artisan goods, and regional specialties.

Food to try

• Groninger Koekje — A traditional spiced biscuit from the Groningen region with a distinctive aroma of cinnamon and cloves, best enjoyed with strong coffee at a local café.
• Rookworst met Stamppot — Smoked sausage served with mashed vegetables, a hearty northern Dutch comfort food that appears on local menus and in home kitchens throughout the region.
• Fresh Eel from Local Fisheries — Appingedam's riverside location makes smoked or grilled local eel a specialty, often prepared simply to highlight the fish's delicate flavor.
• Paling (Eel) Sandwich — A traditional waterfront snack featuring smoked eel on fresh bread, commonly sold at harbor-side vendors and casual eateries along the Drentse Aa.
• Boterhammen met Oude Kaas — Open-faced sandwiches topped with aged local cheese, a simple but quintessential Dutch lunch reflecting the region's dairy tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace Gezelligheid — The Dutch concept of cozy conviviality is central to Appingedam's culture—linger in cafés, engage in conversation, and slow down to appreciate the intimate scale of the town.
• Respect Historic Properties — Many buildings are privately owned residences; observe from public spaces and streets rather than assuming access, and ask permission before photographing people's homes.
• Learn Basic Dutch Greetings — While English is widely spoken, locals appreciate visitors who attempt Dutch courtesies like 'Goedemorgen' and 'Dank u wel', which opens warmer interactions.
• Visit During Seasonal Festivals — Appingedam hosts charming local events like the Hanged Kitchen Festival and seasonal markets that showcase authentic community life and regional traditions.