Enschede City Guide

Dutch snacks like bitterballen and stroopwafels are common. Good range of international cuisines such as Italian, Asian, and Turkish. Vegan and vegetarian options are growing. Late-night snacks available.

Lively scene focused around Oude Markt with bars, pubs, and clubs.

Decent coffee scene with traditional and specialty cafes.

Tipping is optional and not expected. Rounding up the bill or 5-10% for good service is appreciated.

SIM cards are available at phone shops like KPN, Vodafone, T-Mobile, and electronics stores. Main providers offer good coverage and eSIM options. No ID registration is usually needed.

Generally clean streets and good recycling systems.

Limited 24/7 services. Some pharmacies and convenience stores open late, hospital emergency available any time.

Common supermarkets include Albert Heijn, Jumbo, Plus, Lidl, and Aldi. Fresh markets open weekly in the city center. Stores open 8am to 9pm weekdays, shorter on weekends. Many are open Sundays with limited hours.

Card payments are common and often preferred. You rarely need cash for daily use.

ATMs from ING, Rabobank, and ABN AMRO are widespread. Withdrawal fees are usually low or none but check with your bank.

The European School Twente offers international primary and secondary education with English and Dutch streams. University of Twente is the main higher education institution.

Small but growing community with some meetups and remote-friendly cafes.

Large parks like Volkspark and Ledeboerpark offer shaded green space for relaxing and exercise.

Good running routes in parks and around canals, safe even in low light.

Multiple gyms offer basic to advanced facilities; university center open mainly to students but sometimes public.

Several tennis clubs and courts, with growing padel facilities.

Padel courts becoming more common with club bookings available.

Multiple yoga studios offer various styles and English-speaking instructors.

Various dojos offering Judo, Karate, BJJ, Taekwondo, and Boxing with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing available; flat terrain.

Lakes and canals offer kayaking and paddleboarding, mainly in warmer months with rentals at spots like Rutbeek.

No surfing; city is inland.

Limited freshwater diving in regional lakes, but no marine sites.

Medisch Spectrum Twente hospital serves the city with English-speaking staff. Primary care is via general practitioners. Healthcare is high quality with both public and private coverage.

Tap water is safe to drink everywhere in Enschede.

Many playgrounds and family-friendly cafes. Attractions include De Waarbeek amusement park and Rijksmuseum Twenthe with kid programs.

Very accepting and safe for LGBTQ+ visitors and residents.

Pet-friendly city with parks allowing dogs, vet clinics, and pet-friendly stays.