Enschede is the beating heart of the Twente region, boasting an array of leafy parks. The city is a great mix of old and new, where you can stroll around its characterful Old Town one minute and admire modern architecture the next.

Things to do

Roombeek is one of Enschede’s most beautiful neighbourhoods. It has been lovingly transformed into a popular gathering place with leafy parks and post-modern buildings designed by renowned Dutch architects.

The Twentse Welle Museum is housed in a restored Jannink textile factory and is packed full of interactive exhibits spotlighting the city’s history and culture. The Rijksmuseum is another highlight, showcasing a fantastic collection of art celebrating 18th-century painters and contemporary masters.

The Grote Kerk church is Enschede’s oldest building and dates back to the Middle Ages, with its ornate sundial on the righthand of its facade being a highlight feature. Van Heekplein square is lined with a string of high-street stores, while nearby De Oude Markt is a historic square with open-air cafes and restaurants.

Volkspark was originally built as an urban oasis for Enschede’s textile workers with a focus on leafy trees and shaded walking parks. It’s still a popular spot for inner-city tranquillity today, thanks to sun-drenched grassy areas for picnics.

Getting around

Enschede is serviced by a network of local buses, but you can also explore by cycling around the city. If you’re travelling further afield, Enschede Central Station offers train connections to Amsterdam, Schiphol Airport, Rotterdam and Den Haag.