Things to see and do in Meppel
Meppel has a small-town charm combined with a vibrant cultural scene. It was once an important hub for trade and transport, earning it the nickname “the gateway to Drenthe” a province in The Netherlands. Today, its beautiful old city center, canals that resemble a mini-Amsterdam, and a packed event calendar make it a delightful place to explore. Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or just looking for a cozy Dutch city to wander through, Meppel has something for everyone.
Top 10 things to do and see in Meppel
This compact city is full of hidden gems and interesting spots. Here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss when visiting!
#1 Grachten van Meppel (Meppel’s canals)
Meppel has its own canal system, giving it a bit of that Amsterdam vibe without the crowds. Historically, the canals were used to transport peat and other goods. Today, they offer a beautiful setting for a walk, a boat tour, or even a paddleboard adventure. During the summer, you’ll find locals relaxing by the water with a drink in hand, soaking up the relaxed atmosphere.
#2 Molen de Weert
A visit to the Netherlands wouldn’t be complete without seeing a traditional windmill, and Meppel has one of the most beautiful in the region: Molen de Weert. This still-working corn mill dates back to 1807 and is open to visitors on certain days. Climb to the top for a great view of the city and learn about the traditional milling process.
#3 Meppeler Toren
The Meppeler Toren is the city’s most iconic landmark. Standing at 45 meters tall, this 15th-century church tower is visible from miles away. Locals have a saying: “As long as you see the Meppeler Toren, you’re not lost.” Fun fact: it leans slightly, earning it the nickname “the Pisa of the North.”
#4 Drukkerijmuseum (Printing Museum)
One of the most unique museums in the Netherlands, the Drukkerijmuseum (Printing Museum) in Meppel showcases the history of printing and bookmaking. It’s a hands-on experience where you can try old printing techniques and see how books were made before the digital age. Book lovers and history buffs will love this place.
#5 Stoombootkade
The Stoombootkade (Steamship Quay) is a historic waterfront area where cargo ships once arrived from all over the Netherlands. Today, it’s a lovely spot for a stroll, with great views of the water and old warehouses turned into restaurants and cafes. In the summer, it hosts the famous Donderdag Meppeldagen, a series of market days with live music and entertainment.
#6 Nationaal Park Dwingelderveld
Just a short drive from Meppel, Nationaal Park Dwingelderveld is one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the Netherlands. It’s the largest wet heathland in Western Europe and home to flocks of sheep, wild deer, and rare bird species. Hike or cycle through the park for a refreshing break from city life.
#7 Oud-Zuid neighborhood
Oud-Zuid is one of Meppel’s most picturesque neighborhoods, with historic houses, small bridges, and cobblestone streets. It’s perfect for an afternoon walk, and you’ll find some of the best hidden cafés here. In the autumn, the tree-lined streets turn golden, making it a photographer’s dream.
#8 Schouwburg Ogterop
For a bit of culture, check out Schouwburg Ogterop, Meppel’s historic theater. Open since 1868, it hosts everything from comedy shows to musical performances. Even if you don’t attend a show, the beautiful architecture of this theater is worth seeing.
#9 Donderdag Meppeldagen
Every Thursday in the summer, Meppel transforms into a festival city with the Donderdag Meppeldagen (Meppel Thursday Days). Think of it as a mix between a street fair and a music festival, with market stalls, live performances, and fun activities for all ages. It’s one of the best times to experience the energy of the city.
#10 Meppel’s street art
Meppel might be an old city, but it has a modern side too! Keep an eye out for the vibrant murals and street art scattered throughout the town. Many are hidden in alleys and side streets, so it’s worth exploring beyond the main roads.
Where to stay in Meppel?
As Meppel is close to the famous Giethoorn it’s a perfect location to explore the area. We can recommend the follow stays in the and around the city. The best hotel is MyHotel Meppel but we prefered the homestay/villa De WiedenWeide just outside Meppel (towards Giethoorn) or the cool Eco-lodge nabij Giethoorn.
Food and local specialties
Drenthe is known for its hearty and traditional Dutch cuisine, and Meppel is no exception. Be sure to try:
- Poffert – A Drenthe-style sweet bread, perfect with coffee.
- Drents kniepertje – A thin, crispy waffle traditionally eaten on New Year’s Eve.
- Eierbal – A deep-fried Dutch snack, similar to a Scotch egg.
For great food, head to Herberg ‘t Plein, a cozy spot known for its regional dishes, or Restaurant Sukade, which serves excellent seasonal cuisine with local ingredients.
Events and festivals
- Donderdag Meppeldagen (July-August) – The city’s most famous festival, held every Thursday in summer.
- Meppel Culinair (September) – A food festival where local chefs showcase their best dishes.
- Sinterklaasintocht (November) – One of the most festive events for families, celebrating the arrival of Sinterklaas.
Living in Meppel
Meppel is an affordable and attractive place to live, with a strong community feel. The best neighborhoods include:
- Berggierslanden – A modern, family-friendly neighborhood with lots of green space.
- Oud-Zuid – The historic center, perfect for those who love old Dutch charm.
- Koedijkslanden – A quiet area with spacious homes, great for expats looking for peace and quiet.
In terms of macroeconomic factors, Meppel has a strong economy with a thriving service sector. The city has a population of approximately 30,000 people, with a strong focus on education, healthcare, and innovation.
A bit of history
Meppel started as a small trading settlement in the 15th century and grew into a bustling center for transport and commerce. It was historically known for its peat trade, with barges carrying goods through its canals. The city suffered damage during World War II but has since been restored, maintaining its historic charm.
5x fun facts about Meppel
- Meppel is the smallest city in the Netherlands with its own ‘grachtenfestival’ (canal festival).
- It once had over 20 windmills today, only a few remain.
- Meppel was an important stop on the old trade route between Amsterdam and Germany.
- The city has a tradition called “Meppeler Muggen,” where locals tease each other about imaginary mosquitoes.
- Meppel’s annual “Nacht van Meppel” (Meppel Night) is a huge party that lasts until the early hours!
Things to do in the area
