Assen
Assen, the capital of Drenthe, offers a mix of culture, nature and activities. Visit the Drents Museum for impressive art and archaeology, such as the famous bog bodies. For motorsports fans, the TT Assen is a must-see. You can also enjoy nature with beautiful cycling routes through the Drentse heath and forests. Assen also has pleasant shopping streets, restaurants and events, giving it something for everyone.
History Assen
Assen, the capital of the province of Drenthe, arose in the Middle Ages around the monastery Maria in Campis, which was moved from Coevorden to Assen in 1259. The monastery formed the basis for the growth of the settlement. After the monastery was dismantled in the 17th century, Assen became a small rural village. The city received city rights from King Louis Napoleon in 1809 and subsequently grew into an administrative and cultural center of Drenthe. Important in Assen's development were the construction of the North Willems Canal and the arrival of the railroad, which increased trade and industry. Today, Assen is known for the TT Circuit and the rich Drenthe history reflected in the Drents Museum.
Bartje is an iconic character in Dutch literature, best known from the book “Bartje” (1935) by author Anne de Vries. Set in the province of Drenthe, specifically in and around the town of Assen, the story offers a glimpse into the life of a poor peasant family in the early 20th century. Bartje is a rebellious and dreamy little boy who symbolizes the desire for freedom and a better future.
Tourist activities
City Farm Asserbos: Petting zoo with a playground and a dining facility. A visit to the adjacent deer park is also worthwhile. The website lists fun daytime activities to do at the city farm. Address: Bosrand 1, Assen (Parking at the Bonte Wever).
State monument Overcingel Estate is a quiet oasis in the busy center of Assen, where time seems to stand still. The last resident, Henk van Lier Lels, dedicated his life to the preservation of this special estate. At 50, he began to see it as his life's work and was already talking to Het Drentse Landschap about its future. After his death in 2019, his daughter and grandsons handed over the management to Het Drentse Landschap, so that the estate is preserved for Assen. The house archive has been funded to the Drenthe Archives. The estate is definitely worth a visit during the flowering of the many crocuses that can be seen there. Address: Oostersingel 27, Assen
An evening at the theater or watching a movie at the cinema, visit the Nieuwe Kolk. Address: Weierstraat 1, Assen
cycling routes
Cycle junction route: Fochloerveen/Oosterwolde 58, 57.9 km
Starting point: Van der Valk, Balkenweg 1, Assen
Start point: Van der Valk, 18, 19, 21, 22, 23, 63, 78, 76, 91, 56, 54, 50, 52, 79, 77, 58, 62, 64, 63, 23, 61, 97, 14, 30, 06 End point: Van der Valk.
Stores
Assen has a vibrant center with the Koopmansplein as its centerpiece with cozy shopping streets. Here you will find a diversity of stores, cafes and restaurants. Also the shopping alley Mercurius which is an extension of it is definitely worth shopping and having lunch. Bad weather? Then shopping center De Triade at Ceresplein is definitely a good option.
eat out or takeaway
Lunch and drinks?
Plein 10 at Koopmansplein
Cafe Gold (formerly Granny's and Prananza) Address: Ceresplein 118
City Hotel de Jonge Address: Brinkstraat 85
Dine at the Markt (opposite the Nieuwe Kolk) in Assen. This cozy square is home to several dining options including:
Lodewijk Napoleon
Isola Bella Ristorante Pizzeria
De Bengeltjes
La Sorella Di Isolabella
Autentieq Tasting room
Bodega Manolitos
Bella Italia
In addition, on the Brink 14, you will find Restaurant and GrandCafe Liff. In addition to fine dining, a cocktail bar is located on the top floor.
