Discovering Enschede: A Parent’s Journey

I had never heard of Enschede until my son decided to attend the University of Twente last year. Initially, we had planned for him to study in Germany, lured by the promise of free tuition in German state universities. To prepare, he began learning German in middle school. The Netherlands was always our backup plan in case he didn’t obtain his German language certification in time after completing his IB Diploma. Ironically, while he did achieve his certification, he found himself more drawn to the University of Twente, and thus began our family’s relationship with the charming city of Enschede.

Located in the eastern Netherlands, near the German border, Enschede is a vibrant, small city in the province of Overijssel. It offers a unique mix of history, culture, and innovation—a perfect setting for students and visitors alike. Fun fact: you can cycle to the German border, and Münster is only an hour away by train!

Things to Do in Enschede

Whether you’re dropping off a student or simply exploring the area, there’s plenty to see and do in Enschede. When I first visited to help my son settle in, I stayed for over a week and took the opportunity to explore this delightful city.

1. Explore the City Center

• Grote Kerk (Old Church): This iconic medieval church stands proudly at the heart of the city in the Oude Markt. The surrounding square is ideal for dining, relaxing, and people-watching.

• Van Heekplein Market: Held every Tuesday and Saturday, this vibrant market offers fresh produce, local goods, and more. It’s one of the largest markets in the Netherlands.

2. Visit Museums

• Rijksmuseum Twenthe: This museum showcases fine art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works.
• De Museumfabriek: A fascinating museum that combines science, culture, and technology, located in a former textile factory.
• TwentseWelle Museum: Reflects the rich heritage of the Twente region by blending nature, history, and innovation.

3. Experience Roombeek Cultural District

• Roombeek Reconstruction: This area, once devastated by a fireworks explosion in 2000, has been transformed into a hub of modern architecture and art.
• Art Galleries and Studios: Discover local art and unique exhibitions as you stroll through the district.

4. Attend Festivals and Events

• GOGBOT Festival: A futuristic festival that blends technology and art.
• Enschede Marathon: A global sporting event held annually.
• Music Festivals: Enjoy diverse music events, from classical to modern genres.

5. Enjoy Nature and Outdoor Activities

• Volkspark: My favorite park for jogging and relaxation. A pathway connects it to the University of Twente.

• Hiking and Cycling in Twente: The countryside surrounding Enschede offers scenic routes through forests, meadows, and villages.
• Rutbeek Recreational Park: A hotspot for swimming, paddleboarding, and outdoor sports.

6. Discover Enschede’s Textile Heritage

• Textile Walks: Dive into Enschede’s history as a textile hub through guided or self-guided tours.
• Museum Buurtspoorweg: A historic railway museum showcasing trains pivotal to the industrial era.

7. Shop and Dine

• Van Heekplein Shopping Area: From popular stores to unique boutiques, the shopping scene here is surprisingly good for a student town.
• Visit Action, Dutch international discount store chain. Perfect for students to shop for their needs.
• Enschede has various grocery stores from Albert Heijn, Jumbo, Lidl, Coop and Spar. Coop has a small store inside Twente University which can be handy for students.

• Local Cuisine: Savor Dutch treats like poffertjes (mini pancakes) or explore the city’s multicultural dining options.

8. Experience Nightlife

• Old Market Square (Oude Markt): A vibrant spot lined with bars, cafes, and clubs. In winter, enjoy the ice-skating rink near the church.
• Music Venues: Check out pop and jazz performances at Metropool or Wilminktheater.

9. Take a Day Trip to Germany

• Hop on a train to Münster for a delightful day trip. It’s just an hour away and perfect for exploring German culture.

10. Visit or watch soccer at FC Twente Stadium (De Grolsch Veste)

• The stadium is known for its electrifying atmosphere, with passionate FC Twente supporters creating a sea of red and white in the stands. Guided tours are available, giving visitors behind-the-scenes access to the locker rooms, the pitch, and the press area. There is also a souvenir store and on a match day there will also be pop up store.
• The stadium is easily accessible by train, with the Enschede Kennispark station located right next to it.
• Fun fact for Indonesian: Mees Hilgers, naturalized player for Indonesia national team came from FC Twente.

How to Get to Enschede

By Train

You can buy the train ticket from the ticket machine or counter at train station or from NS apps or website. Download 9292 apps or go to NS Journey Planner to check schedules and plan trips.

• From Amsterdam: Direct intercity trains take about 2–2.5 hours.
• From Schiphol Airport: A direct train connects the airport to Enschede in roughly 2 hours and 20 minutes.
• From Other Dutch Cities: Enschede is well-connected by train to Utrecht, Rotterdam, and The Hague.
• From Germany: Regional trains from Münster and Gronau make cross-border travel easy. Use NS International app or website to buy train ticket to/from Netherlands

By Car

• From Amsterdam or Utrecht: The drive takes 1.5 to 2 hours via the A1 motorway.
• From Germany: Enschede is just 45 minutes from Münster via the B54 road.

By Bus

• Companies like FlixBus connect Enschede to various European cities. The bus terminal is near the central train station.

Getting Around in Enschede

By Bicycle

• Rent bikes from local shops, Swapfiets, or OV-fiets (there is one at the central train station and many more locations). Cycling is the most popular and scenic way to explore the city and nearby Twente region.

By Public Transport

• Use the OV-chipkaart for buses and trains. Enschede’s central bus and train stations make traveling convenient. You can purchase OV-chipkaart (at 7.5 Eur) at the train station and top up the balance at the ticket machine. They are widely used in all public transportation accross Netherlands. Alternatively you can use contactless card. Tap in and out when you travel.

On Foot

• The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly.

By Car

• Roads are well-maintained, but parking in the city center can be limited.

By Taxi

• Book taxis by phone or use local services, as Uber is not widely available. There is always taxis stand by at the Train Station so if just arrived by Train you do not need to worry.

Where to Stay in Enschede

Hotels

• Van der Valk Hotel: Upscale, with spacious rooms and a wellness center.
• IntercityHotel: Centrally located near the train station.
• U Parkhotel: Located on the University of Twente campus, ideal for academic visitors.
• Hotel de Broeierd: A charming boutique hotel near the university.

Apartments

While there are not many Hotels in Enschede, there are various apartments to choose from Airbnb or booking.com
Below are 2 apartments I have stayed on:

• City Stay & Go: Modern and centrally located, with studio for 2 people and loft options (spacious with 2 floors and can accommodate family of 4).
• Apartment No. 17: Spacious and well-maintained, perfect for families.

Tips:

• Book early during university events or festivals.
• Choose city center accommodations if you’re not renting a car.
• For a quieter stay, consider the Twente countryside.

Whether you’re visiting for leisure, work, or to support a student, Enschede offers a charming blend of history, innovation, and culture. It’s a hidden gem worth discovering!