Doetinchem Travel Guide

Plan a perfect trip to Doetinchem with our comprehensive guide featuring the best things to do, places to stay, and where to eat.


Introduction to Doetinchem

Doetinchem is a charming city located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, in the Gelderland province. The city is beautifully situated on the banks of the Oude IJssel river and is surrounded by gorgeous natural landscapes. It is a perfect destination for those who are looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Doetinchem has a rich cultural heritage, and you can still see many well-preserved historic buildings, such as the castle of De Kelder and the Grote Kerk, dating back to the Middle Ages. The city is also known for its vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of restaurants and bars serving local delicacies. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or a foodie, Doetinchem has something to offer to everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do and see in Doetinchem. We’ll also give you some insider tips on where to eat, stay, and how to get there.

List of Places to Visit in Doetinchem

Doetinchem has a variety of attractions for visitors to explore. From historical sites to outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you’re interested in history and culture, Doetinchem has plenty of museums and historical places that you can visit. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Doetinchem include:

  • Castle De Kelder: This 13th-century castle is one of the best-preserved castles in the region. It has a rich history and features a beautiful moat and splendid gardens.
  • Grote Kerk: The Grote Kerk is the largest church in Doetinchem and is an iconic landmark of the city. It was built in the 15th century and has a stunning Gothic architecture.
  • Stadsmuseum Doetinchem: This museum showcases the history of Doetinchem through various exhibits and artifacts. You can learn about the city’s past and its evolution through the centuries.
  • Het Hofshuus: This museum is housed in an 18th-century farmhouse and offers a glimpse into the lifestyle and traditions of the local people in the area.

Natural Attractions of Doetinchem: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Doetinchem is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Doetinchem:

  • Hovenring: This iconic suspension bridge spans across the Oude IJssel river and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding natural landscapes.
  • Kasteelstad ‘s-Heerenberg: This nearby castle town is a popular destination for tourists who want to explore Dutch history and culture. It is home to Castle ‘s-Heerenberg, a beautiful 17th-century castle.
  • Montferland: This hilly area located just east of Doetinchem is a popular hiking and biking spot. It offers stunning views of forests, heaths, and sand dunes, and is known for its rich biodiversity.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Doetinchem

Doetinchem and the surrounding areas have plenty of hiking and biking trails that allow you to explore the beautiful natural landscapes. Some of the popular trails include:

  • Oude IJssel Route: This 30km route takes you along the banks of the Oude IJssel river, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Montferland Hiking Trail: This 11km-long trail takes you through the Montferland forest, offering breathtaking views of the hills and valleys.
  • Cycle Route Doetinchem: This 22km-long cycle route takes you through the beautiful countryside and small towns surrounding Doetinchem.

Best Things to Do in Doetinchem: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, Doetinchem has plenty of other activities and tours that you can enjoy. Some of the best things to do in Doetinchem include:

  • City Walking Tour: Take a walking tour of the city and explore its historic streets, buildings, and landmarks.
  • Lunch or Dinner at a Local Restaurant: Doetinchem is known for its food and drink scene, so make sure to try some of the local delicacies at a restaurant.
  • Canoeing on the Oude IJssel River: Rent a canoe and explore the city’s waterways, offering a unique perspective of the city and its surrounds.

Week-Long Itinerary for Doetinchem

If you’re planning to spend a week in Doetinchem, here’s a sample itinerary to help you plan your trip:

Day 1: Arrival and City Tour

  • Arrive in Doetinchem and check-in at your hotel
  • Take a walking tour of the city and explore its historic streets and landmarks.

Day 2: Castle and Museum Tour

  • Visit Castle De Kelder and explore its gardens and moat
  • Visit the Stadsmuseum Doetinchem and learn about the city’s history and culture

Day 3: Montferland Hiking Trail

  • Hike the Montferland Hiking Trail and enjoy the scenic views

Day 4: ‘s-Heerenberg Tour

  • Visit the nearby castle town of ‘s-Heerenberg and explore its castle and historic streets

Day 5: Canoeing on the Oude IJssel

  • Rent a canoe and explore the city’s waterways

Day 6: Food and Drink Scene

  • Explore the local food and drink scene, trying out different restaurants and cafes

Day 7: Departure

  • Check out of your hotel and depart Doetinchem

Food and Drink Scene of Doetinchem

Doetinchem has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars offering local delicacies and international cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages when in Doetinchem:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stamppot: This is a traditional Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes, vegetables, and meat. It is a hearty and delicious meal that is perfect for cold winter days.
  • Poffertjes: These are traditional Dutch mini-pancakes that are served with butter and powdered sugar. They make a great snack or dessert.
  • Schnitzel: This is a popular German dish that is widely available in Doetinchem. It is a thin, breaded cutlet of meat that is usually served with potatoes and vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Grolsch Beer: Grolsch is a local beer that is brewed in the nearby town of Enschede. It is a popular beer in the Netherlands and is widely available in Doetinchem.
  • Jenever: This is a traditional Dutch liquor that is made from juniper berries. It is a strong drink with a distinctive flavor and is usually served chilled.

Where to Stay in Doetinchem: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Doetinchem offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best places to stay in Doetinchem:

  • Stadsboerderij De IJsbreeker: This guesthouse is located in the center of Doetinchem and offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful garden.
  • Hotel Villa Ruimzicht: This historic hotel is located in a 19th-century villa and offers luxurious rooms and excellent dining options.
  • Stayokay Doetinchem: This budget-friendly hostel is perfect for backpackers and offers comfortable dormitory rooms and private rooms.

What to Buy in Doetinchem: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Doetinchem offers plenty of souvenirs and local products that you can bring home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some unique souvenirs that you can buy in Doetinchem:

  • Cheese: The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, and Doetinchem has plenty of local cheese shops where you can buy Gouda, Edam, and other local cheeses.
  • Clogs: These traditional Dutch wooden shoes are a popular souvenir and make a unique decoration item.
  • Delftware: This blue and white ceramic pottery is a popular souvenir that you can find in most souvenir shops in Doetinchem.

Local Culture and Customs of Doetinchem

Doetinchem has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many local customs and traditions that you can experience during your visit. Here are some interesting local customs and traditions to look out for:

  • Carnival: This is a popular festival in the Netherlands, and Doetinchem celebrates it with parades, music, and dancing in the streets.
  • Koningsdag: This is the Dutch King’s Day and is celebrated every year on April 27th. It is a national holiday, and Doetinchem has various celebrations and events on this day.

Best Time to Visit Doetinchem

The best time to visit Doetinchem is during the spring and summer months, from April to September. The weather is pleasant, and the city is bustling with tourists and local events. If you’re interested in hiking and biking, the fall season, from October to November, offers stunning views of the fall colors in the surrounding natural landscapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Doetinchem

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink
  • Respect the local customs and traditions
  • Take a walking tour of the city and explore its historic streets

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places
  • Use drugs

Safety and Health

Doetinchem is a safe city for tourists, and there are no major health concerns. However, it’s always advisable to carry travel insurance and take basic precautions to stay safe.

Safety in Doetinchem

Doetinchem is a safe city, but it’s always advisable to take basic safety precautions, such as:

  • Keep your valuables in a safe place
  • Be careful in crowded areas

Health in Doetinchem

There are no major health concerns in Doetinchem, and tap water is safe to drink. However, it’s always advisable to carry travel insurance and a basic medical kit when traveling.

Getting to Doetinchem: Transportation Options and Logistics

Doetinchem is well connected to other parts of the Netherlands and Europe, and there are several transportation options available.

Airports Near Doetinchem

The nearest airport to Doetinchem is the Weeze Airport in Germany, which is about 90 km away. The Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the closest international airport, and it’s about 120 km away.

Bus Stations Near Doetinchem

Doetinchem has a bus station that is well connected to other parts of the country.

Other Options

For those who prefer driving, Doetinchem is accessible via several highways that connect it to other cities in the Netherlands.

How to Get Around in Doetinchem

Doetinchem is a small city that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. There is also a local bus service that connects different parts of the city.

Where to Go Next from Doetinchem: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Doetinchem is well located to explore other parts of the Netherlands and Germany. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you can consider:

  • Arnhem: This nearby city is known for its museums, parks, and history. It’s about 25 km away from Doetinchem.
  • Enschede: This vibrant city is located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, close to the German border. It’s about 45 km away from Doetinchem.
  • Kleve: This small German town is located just across the border from Doetinchem and offers beautiful parks, museums, and shopping.

Conclusion

Doetinchem is a charming city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or food, there are plenty of things to see and do in this beautiful city. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has helped you plan your trip to Doetinchem and make the most of your time there.

The Oude IJsselbrug in Doetinchem The Oude IJsselbrug in Doetinchem The last month of the Second World War in Doetinchem saw its fair share of destruction. The last month of the Second World War in Doetinchem saw its fair share of destruction. The D-Tower by night. The sculpture its colour reflects how the citizens of Doetinchem feel. The D-Tower by night. The sculpture its colour reflects how the citizens of Doetinchem feel. The Oude IJssel during summer The Oude IJssel during summer The Walmolen The Walmolen The Slangenburg Castle The Slangenburg Castle