Meppel

Meppel lies in the southwest corner of Drenthe, close to the border with Overijssel, where the Meppelerdiep, the Drentsche Hoofdvaart and the Wold Aa meet. It developed as a transport hub for peat, which was dug in the surrounding moors and shipped out along the canals, and the network of waterways that grew up to carry it remains central to its identity today. The city’s canals, lined with historic warehouses and windmills, make a picturesque backdrop for boat tours, cycling and strolls, and the harbour area is a lively social space on summer evenings, with terraces facing the water and boats moored along the quay.

The old town is small and walkable, with cobbled streets and gabled houses that give it the atmosphere of a traditional Dutch city. Weekly markets in the main square are a highlight for locals and visitors alike, with fresh produce, flowers and regional specialities, and the cafe culture and varied dining options make it easy to settle in for an afternoon. A few streets back from the market, quiet corners and small shops reward a slower look.

One of Meppel’s standout attractions is the Drukkerijmuseum, the Printing Museum, which celebrates the city’s long connection with the printing industry. Visitors can explore exhibits, watch historic presses at work and try traditional printing techniques themselves. The museum gives a fascinating insight into the role of print in Dutch culture and history. The Meppeler Toren, the town’s church tower, can be seen from across the centre and is a useful landmark for finding your way around.

Meppel is also known for its windmills, such as Molen de Weert and Molen de Vlijt, which open on certain days. Bad Hesselingen is a popular outdoor swimming pool and play area with space for family fun. The city’s parks and green spaces offer further outdoor recreation, and a cultural calendar of festivals, concerts and art exhibitions fills the summer months when the town comes alive with music and celebration.

The surrounding region provides plenty of day trips. The famous village of Giethoorn, known as the “Dutch Venice” for its canals and footbridges, is a short ride away, and the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, a large wetland of reed beds, peat pools and wildlife, can be explored by boat or canoe. Cycling and walking routes connect Meppel to nearby towns and the Drenthe countryside, and the flat land suits cyclists of all abilities.

Getting to Meppel is convenient. It is a railway junction with direct trains from Zwolle, Groningen and other major Dutch cities, and the road network is good. The compact centre is best explored on foot or by bike, and parking and bike rentals are available for visitors.

The best time to visit Meppel is from late June to late August, when the weather is warm and the city’s festivals, outdoor events and canal tours are in full swing. Spring and early autumn also offer pleasant conditions, with blossom and fewer crowds. In winter the town is quiet, but the markets and cafes carry on.

Whether the interest is history, waterways or the lively spirit of a Dutch market town, Meppel is an easy and agreeable base in Drenthe.