Enschede

Introduction

You will find Enschede situated in the province of Overijssel within the Twente region of the eastern Netherlands. The eastern edge of the urban area reaches the border of the German city of Gronau.

Before you go

Before you arrive, it is helpful to understand the history that shaped the modern landscape of Enschede. The city underwent a significant reconstruction following a major fireworks disaster that destroyed an entire neighborhood. While this means the city offers fewer historical attractions, you can instead explore contemporary Dutch architecture in areas like Roombeek and near the University of Twente. You will find a vibrant atmosphere with developed shopping options, cultural activities, and a lively nightlife.

While the official language is Dutch, almost everyone speaks English. Because of its proximity to Germany, you may find more tourist information materials available in German than in English.

Getting there

You can reach Enschede by train from all major Dutch cities, with journeys from smaller locations requiring only one or two transfers. Direct trains arrive at the railway station from several German cities, including Gronau, Dortmund, and Münster. If you are traveling from Berlin, you can reach the city via a stopover in Hengelo. For those arriving via air, a bus transfer is available from Amsterdam Schiphol airport.

Bus services connect Enschede to major cities across both the Netherlands and Germany, with stops located at the train station and the University of Twente. If you choose to travel by car, you can park in a large lot beneath the market square in the city center. Alternatively, you can utilize a park-and-ride location situated just off the highway exit, where frequent buses provide a quick connection to the heart of the city.

Getting around

You can explore the city on foot, by bicycle, or via public transportation. If you choose to travel by bus, ensure you have a debit or credit card ready, as these vehicles do not accept cash payments.

Navigating the area by car can be challenging due to frequent traffic jams and limited parking availability. Additionally, motorized vehicles are prohibited from entering the city center.

Where to stay

You can choose from a variety of accommodations depending on your preferred location within the city. Options include staying near the railway station, where you can find convenient lodging just a short walk from the station exit.

Other choices include staying in the area surrounding the University of Twente campus or selecting a hotel located further out toward the outskirts of the city center.

Food & drink

You can find a variety of dining options throughout the city, ranging from vegetarian dishes to French and Mediterranean cuisine. For those seeking international flavors, you can enjoy traditional Southeast Asian dishes or an Asian fusion experience featuring Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Korean, and Vietnamese influences. If you prefer a more casual meal, local pubs offer hot food, fish stew, and burgers.

The Oude Markt is home to numerous bars and bistros with large terraces where you can enjoy a drink on a warm summer night. You might choose from the following spots based on your preference:

• Het Bolwerk, the oldest pub in Enschede, offering a wide variety of beers and spirits.
• Brewskovitch Stadsbrouwerij, a pub featuring its own microbrewery.
• Paddy's, an intimate pub located on the Oude Markt.
• De Beiaard, a local pub with both indoor and outdoor seating.
• Atak, where you can experience the alternative scene.

What to see and do

Explore the historical heart of the city where you can visit the Grote Kerk, a medieval structure featuring a 19th-century sundial, and the Elderinkshuis, which survived many local disasters. For those interested in art and history, the Rijksmuseum Twenthe houses a collection of 18th-century and contemporary works, while De Museumfabriek tells the story of mankind in the Twentse region. You can also visit the Synagogue Enschede, regarded as one of the most beautiful in the country, or admire the unique architecture of the University of Twente buildings.

Experience the modern atmosphere of Roombeek, a neighborhood rebuilt after a major disaster and now featuring architect-designed buildings and green spaces. Here you can see the Stadshaard Enschede, a heating and power station decorated with Delft-blue tiles depicting local icons. For outdoor activities, visit the Volkspark for cultural events or head to Het Rutbeek in the south to enjoy beaches, forests, and diving. If you prefer active entertainment, explore the Go Planet Parc near the Grolsch Veste stadium, which features a cinema, ice skating, and a kart track, or visit the Aquadrome for its wave pool and slides.

• Grote Kerk
• Elderinkshuis
• Rijksmuseum Twenthe
• De Museumfabriek
• Synagogue Enschede
• Stadshaard Enschede
• Roombeek
• University of Twente
• Volkspark
• Het Rutbeek
• Go Planet Parc
• Aquadrome

Three days in Enschede

Day one, you can begin your stay in the heart of Twente by exploring the local atmosphere of the Roombeek neighborhood. You can then wander through the city center to experience the local culture and sights.

Day two, you can spend your time discovering the unique character of Enschede. You might choose to visit The Oude Markt to take in the surroundings while experiencing the local area.

Day three, you can enjoy a final day exploring more of the region before preparing for your next journey through Overijssel or beyond.