Oude Markt Enschede
Enschede's vibrant central square, buzzing with cafes, bars, and a constant stream of lively events and social gatherings.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere
Oude Markt Enschede
Best Time
Lively atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Enschede's vibrant central square, buzzing with cafes, bars, and a constant stream of lively events and social gatherings.
"The heart of Enschede, always buzzing with life, food, and fun!"
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Oude Markt hosts many events! See what's on to maximize your visit.
☕ Grab a Terrace Seat
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere by snagging a spot at one of the many cafes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grote Kerk
Oude Markt
Historic church dominating the square, a landmark for events and community gatherings.
Cafes & Bars
Oude Markt
Lively terraces offering drinks and snacks, perfect for people-watching and soaking in the atmosphere.

Event Stage
Oude Markt
The square frequently hosts concerts and festivals, transforming into a vibrant entertainment hub.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Buzz
Event Central
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Oude Markt hosts many events! See what's on to maximize your visit.
☕ Grab a Terrace Seat
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere by snagging a spot at one of the many cafes.
🚶 Explore the Side Streets
Beyond the main square, discover hidden gems and local shops.
🎶 Live Music Nights
Often features live music, especially on weekends.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Event Schedule
Oude Markt hosts many events! See what's on to maximize your visit.
☕ Grab a Terrace Seat
Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere by snagging a spot at one of the many cafes.
🚶 Explore the Side Streets
Beyond the main square, discover hidden gems and local shops.
🎶 Live Music Nights
Often features live music, especially on weekends.
🍻 Student Hangout
Popular with students, especially during introduction weeks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Oude Markt is widely praised as Enschede's vibrant social and event hub, loved for its lively atmosphere, diverse dining options, and frequent public gatherings. While the energy is a major draw, some visitors find it can get overwhelmingly crowded during peak times and major events.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oude Markt is centrally located in Enschede, easily accessible by public transport. The main train station is a short walk away. Many bus routes also stop nearby. If driving, look for parking garages around the city center.
Yes, Oude Markt is very walkable and is the heart of the city center. You can easily explore the surrounding streets on foot.
Several parking garages are available near Oude Markt, such as Q-Park Boulevard and parkeergarage De Waag. Be aware of city center parking fees.
Absolutely! Enschede is bike-friendly, and there are numerous bike racks available around Oude Markt for secure parking.
The square itself is generally flat and accessible. However, some venues might have steps. It's best to check with individual establishments if you have specific accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Oude Markt is a public square and is free to enter. Tickets are only required for specific ticketed events held on the square.
Oude Markt is always accessible as it's a public space. However, the opening hours of the surrounding cafes, bars, and shops vary.
There are no entrance fees to simply be on the Oude Markt. You only pay if you purchase food, drinks, or attend a ticketed event.
For specific events like concerts or festivals, it's highly recommended to book tickets in advance through the event organizer's website.
Yes, Oude Markt is a great focal point for a day trip to Enschede, offering plenty of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
📸 📸 Photography
The Grote Kerk provides a stunning backdrop. Capture the lively cafe terraces, street performers, and the general buzz of the square.
While generally allowed in public spaces, be mindful of privacy. It's polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light. Evenings are great for capturing the vibrant nightlife and illuminated buildings.
Generally, no specific restrictions apply to casual photography. However, professional shoots or commercial use might require permits.
A versatile camera, like a smartphone or a mirrorless camera, is ideal for capturing the varied scenes from wide shots of the square to details of cafe life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Oude Markt offers a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine, tapas, and bistros.
Many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's best to check menus or ask staff for specific choices.
Popular spots include Loev (bistro), Paddy's (pub food), and various cafes offering snacks and light meals.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like snacks from cafes or during happy hour deals.
Yes, during warmer months, most cafes and restaurants on Oude Markt have outdoor seating, offering a great al fresco dining experience.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🍻 Nightlife Enthusiasts
🚶 Solo Travelers & Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heartbeat of Enschede: Oude Markt's Role
The square is lined with numerous cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it a prime destination for dining and socializing. Whether you're looking for a quick snack, a full meal, or just a place to enjoy a drink, Oude Markt offers a diverse range of options. The terraces are particularly popular during warmer months, allowing visitors to soak in the lively ambiance and people-watch. The opening of new establishments, like Barbistroloevenschede, further cements Oude Markt's status as a dynamic culinary destination.
Beyond its everyday buzz, Oude Markt is a testament to Enschede's community spirit. It hosts everything from dance events to demonstrations and religious services at the City Church. This constant activity ensures that Oude Markt is always a place to experience the local culture and energy of Enschede.
Experiencing Oude Markt: From Day to Night
As evening approaches, Oude Markt truly comes alive. The terraces fill up, and the square becomes a popular destination for drinks and dinner. The ambiance shifts to a more energetic nightlife scene, with bars and pubs offering a variety of entertainment. Special events, like live music nights or themed parties, are common, transforming the square into a lively entertainment hub.
Throughout the year, Oude Markt is a focal point for significant events. From national holidays like King's Day to sporting events like EURO 2024 fan zones, the square is often the center of public celebration. These events draw large crowds and create a unique, festive atmosphere that's characteristic of Enschede's community spirit. Even during less eventful times, the consistent flow of people and activities ensures Oude Markt remains a dynamic and engaging place to visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit