Drachten Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, accommodations, food, and activities in Drachten with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Drachten

Drachten is a charming city located in the province of Friesland in the northern region of the Netherlands. It is renowned for its vibrant culture, historical significance, and natural beauty. The city is a perfect destination for visitors who are seeking a laid-back atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and numerous outdoor adventures.

In this ultimate Drachten travel guide, we will explore everything you need to know about this beautiful city, including its top attractions, accommodation options, food and drink scene, local culture, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Drachten

Drachten has numerous attractions that will leave you captivated. Here is a list of the top places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Drachten has a rich cultural heritage that visitors can explore through its museums and historical landmarks.

Museum Drachten

Museum Drachten is a famous art museum that focuses on modern and contemporary art. Visitors can explore an extensive collection of works by Dutch artists, including paintings, sculptures, and drawings.

Het Friese Museumdorp

Het Friese Museumdorp is an open-air museum that showcases the traditional way of life in Friesland. Visitors can explore numerous houses, farms, and sheds, all reconstructed to their historical condition.

De Schierstins

De Schierstins is a castle that dates back to the 13th century. It serves as a cultural center for the arts, and visitors can explore its exhibitions, concerts, and other events throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Drachten: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Drachten is surrounded by beautiful natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen

Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen is a nature reserve that spans over 2,300 hectares and features numerous walking trails, bike routes, canoe tours, and birdwatching spots. Visitors can explore the area on their own or take a guided tour.

De Veenhoop

De Veenhoop is a charming village that is located on the edge of the nature reserve, Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride, go fishing, or explore the village on foot or by bike.

De Walden

De Walden is a forest that is perfect for hiking and cycling. The area features numerous walking trails and bike paths that offer scenic views of the surrounding woodlands and countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Drachten

Drachten is a paradise for hikers and cyclists. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the city:

De Alde Feanen Route

De Alde Feanen Route is a scenic bike route that takes visitors through Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen. The route is approximately 30 kilometers long and takes about two hours to complete. It offers stunning views of the nature reserve and its wildlife.

De Walden Route

De Walden Route is a bike route that takes visitors through the beautiful forest of De Walden. The route is approximately 25 kilometers long and takes about two hours to complete. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the forest and its surroundings.

De Skarren Route

De Skarren Route is a fantastic hiking and bike route that takes visitors through the picturesque countryside of the Frisian lakes. The route is approximately 55 kilometers long and takes about four hours to complete.

Best Things to Do in Drachten: Activities and Tours

Drachten offers numerous activities and tours that visitors can enjoy, including:

Boat Tours

Boat tours are a great way to explore the beautiful waterways and countryside of Drachten. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour or rent a boat and explore the area on their own.

Food and Drink Tours

Visitors can enjoy a food and drink tour that explores the traditional cuisine of Drachten and its surroundings. The tour includes stops at local restaurants, cafes, and breweries.

Week-Long Itinerary for Drachten

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Drachten, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1: Explore the City

On the first day, take a walking tour of the city to explore its historical landmarks and cultural attractions.

Day 2: Visit Museum Drachten

Take a trip to Museum Drachten to explore its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art.

Day 3: Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen

Spend the day exploring Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen. Visitors can enjoy walking trails, canoe tours, and birdwatching.

Day 4: De Skarren Route

Take a bike tour through the picturesque countryside of the Frisian lakes on the De Skarren Route.

Day 5: Food and Drink Tour

Enjoy a food and drink tour that explores the traditional cuisine of Drachten and its surroundings.

Day 6: Het Friese Museumdorp

Take a trip to Het Friese Museumdorp to explore the traditional way of life in Friesland in the 19th century.

Day 7: De Walden

Explore the beautiful forest of De Walden on the De Walden Route

Food and Drink Scene of Drachten

Drachten’s food and drink scene offers visitors a taste of traditional Friesian cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Fryske Dúmkes

Fryske Dúmkes are a traditional Frisian biscuit made with butter, sugar, and spices.

Friese Suikerbrood

Friese Suikerbrood is a traditional sweet bread that is baked with sugar and raisins.

Local Beverages

Beerenburg

Beerenburg is a traditional Dutch liquor made with herbs and spices. It is a popular drink in Friesland.

Jenever

Jenever is a distilled Dutch liquor that is similar to gin. It is a popular drink in Friesland and the Netherlands.

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

Drachten offers numerous accommodation options that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

Hotel De Drachtster

Hotel De Drachtster is a spacious and modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms and suites. It is located in the city center, making it an ideal base for exploring Drachten.

Bed & Breakfast Lytshuis Zilver

Bed & Breakfast Lytshuis Zilver is a cozy guesthouse that offers comfortable rooms and an excellent breakfast. It is located in the scenic countryside of Drachten.

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

Drachten offers visitors numerous souvenirs and local products that they can bring home as a memento. Here are some of the best items to buy in the city:

Friesian Carpets

Friesian Carpets are a popular souvenir that visitors can buy in Drachten. They are handwoven and made with wool.

Het Friese Museumdorp Souvenirs

Het Friese Museumdorp Souvenirs are a great way to bring home a piece of traditional Friesian culture. Visitors can buy handmade crafts, clothing, and other items.

Local Culture and Customs of Drachten

Drachten’s local culture and customs are steeped in Friesian tradition. Visitors can experience the unique Friesian way of life through its festivals, music, and food.

Best Time to Visit Drachten

The best time to visit Drachten is from May to September when the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the city’s many attractions, outdoor adventures, and cultural events during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Drachten

Do:

  • Do try the traditional Friesian cuisine, such as Friese Suikerbrood and Fryske Dúmkes.
  • Do explore the city’s natural attractions, such as Nationaal Park De Alde Feanen and De Walden.
  • Do take a boat tour of the city’s waterways.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural attractions of Drachten.
  • Don’t be rude or disrespectful to the local culture and customs of Drachten.

Safety and Health

Safety in Drachten

Drachten is a safe city for visitors. However, visitors should take standard precautions, such as keeping their belongings safe and following basic safety rules.

Health in Drachten

Drachten has excellent healthcare facilities that cater to all types of medical emergencies. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage before traveling.

Getting to Drachten: Transportation Options and Logistics

Drachten is well-connected to major cities in the Netherlands by road and public transport. Here are some of the transportation options to get to Drachten:

Airports Near Drachten

The nearest international airport to Drachten is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Visitors can take a train or bus from the airport to Drachten.

Bus Stations Near Drachten

Drachten has a central bus station that connects the city to nearby towns and cities in the Netherlands.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Drachten from nearby cities or take a train to Leeuwarden and then take a bus to Drachten.

How to Get Around in Drachten

Drachten is a small city that visitors can easily explore on foot, by bike, or by car. Visitors can also take a bus or taxi to travel within the city.

Where to Go Next from Drachten: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Drachten is a perfect base to explore other nearby cities in the Netherlands. Here are some of the popular destinations and excursions from Drachten:

Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden is the capital of Friesland and located just 20 minutes away from Drachten. Visitors can explore the city’s rich history, cultural attractions, and food scene.

Sneek

Sneek is a charming city located about 40 minutes away from Drachten. Visitors can explore its numerous attractions, such as its famous water fountain, churches, and museums.

Conclusion

Drachten is a hidden gem in the north of the Netherlands that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, culture, and history. This travel guide has explored everything you need to know about the city, from its top attractions to its food and drink scene, accommodation options, and transportation logistics. Plan your visit to Drachten today and begin exploring this beautiful city.