Nightlife

Enschede is a university city in the east of the Netherlands, in the region of Twente, and its evening scene follows from that. The University of Twente and several colleges give the city a large student population, and the bars, pubs and clubs of the centre reflect it, with a lively but informal feel. Compared with Amsterdam or Rotterdam the scene is smaller, and that is part of the appeal: the venues are close together, the prices are moderate and the crowd is mixed.

The social centre of the evening is the Oude Markt, the old market square, which is surrounded by terraces and cafes that fill up on warm evenings. It is the most natural place to start, and in good weather the outdoor seating makes it one of the most pleasant spots in the city. The Grote Kerk stands nearby, and the square has been the centre of the city for generations, which gives the evening a historical backdrop. From there, a number of streets lead to bars, small clubs and restaurants.

Music is the strongest part of the scene. Metropool, the pop venue, hosts concerts by local bands and visiting acts of many kinds, and it is well regarded across the region. Other names that come up in local conversation include 't Bölke, Club Merlijn, Fellini and Het Bolwerk, covering dance nights, DJ sets, craft beer and cocktails. Venues change ownership and opening days often, so check what is open and who is playing before you head out, and ask locally for current recommendations.

Enschede has a few other things to see before dark. The city was largely rebuilt after a catastrophic fire in 1862 and again after damage in the Second World War, and it has a textile history that is still visible in old factory buildings. The Rijksmuseum Twenthe is a leading art museum, and the Grolsch Veste is the stadium of FC Twente. The Buurserzand Heathland and the Haaksbergerveen Nature Reserve are good for walks in the surrounding countryside, and the former Vliegveld Twenthe airfield is another local landmark.

The scene suits students, groups of friends and visitors who enjoy a relaxed, social evening in a mid-sized city. Weekend nights are busiest, with many places open late, while weekdays are quieter and cheaper. Bring identification, as the Dutch drinking age rules are enforced, and cycle or take a taxi home, as the centre is compact but trains and buses thin out late at night.