Located in northern Netherlands, this calm city draws racing fans to its legendary TT Circuit. Its 10th-century origins, surrounding forests, and Van Gogh's birthplace add depth to its character.
Assen, the capital of Drenthe province in northeastern Netherlands, is home to the world-famous TT Circuit where MotoGP races thunder past 110,000 spectators each June. You can explore the 13th-century Asserbos park, view ancient artifacts at the Drents Museum, or join thousands of spectators at the November Dance Festival. With dedicated cycling paths covering the city and connecting to the countryside, 41% of all journeys in Assen happen by bicycle.
Museums and Culture
The Drents Museum sits in the former provincial government building on the site of a medieval convent. You'll find archaeological artifacts from the region's prehistoric periods in the permanent collection, while the exhibition halls display international art throughout the year.
Parks and Green Spaces
Walk through the Asserbos, the Netherlands' oldest city park from the 13th century, where paths weave through centuries-old trees and past small ponds. The Gouverneurstuin in the city center has flower gardens and benches under old chestnut trees. At the Baggelhuizerplas lake on the western edge of town, you can swim at the sandy beaches or relax on the grassy shores.
Cycling Through the City
Since the 1960s, Assen has built an extensive network of dedicated cycle paths. The car-free city center lets cyclists move freely through the streets. You can rent bikes at several locations near the train station to explore the paths connecting residential areas, shopping districts, and parks.
Racing at TT Circuit Assen
The TT Circuit has been part of MotoGP racing since 1949. The track, updated in 2006, fits 110,000 spectators with 60,000 seated spots. Every last Sunday of June, the Dutch TT fills the city with racing fans from across Europe as motorcycles race on the 4.5-kilometer circuit.
Getting Around Assen
Direct trains run from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Assen in about two hours. The city's bus network requires an OV-chipkaart for payment. You can walk between most attractions in the compact city center within 15-20 minutes.
Annual Dance Festival
In November, dancers from around the world come to Assen for the Dutch Open Championships. The festival includes multiple days of Ballroom and Latin American dance competitions, with both professional and amateur categories performing across several venues in the city.
Day Trips from Assen
Walk or cycle through the stream valleys and heathlands of Drentsche Aa National Park, which starts at the edge of Assen. Throughout the region, you can visit prehistoric hunebedden (dolmens) that are over 5,000 years old. A 30-minute train ride takes you to Groningen, where you'll find the Groninger Museum, university buildings, and the historic Grote Markt square.
