Looking for a nice place to spend a weekend away? Why not go to Breda? It's a charming city with great nightlife, excellent restaurants and a slightly different culture. You can pop over to Antwerp for the day, spend a day outdoors or go to an amusement park.
Breda once played an important role in the history of the Netherlands. Some 150 years ago, the Nassaus, the ancestors of the royal family, lived in Breda Castle, which was inherited by William of Orange. Today, the city celebrates its ties with the Nassaus every year on Nassau Day which falls on Whit Monday.
Start your visit to Breda at Grote Markt, the city's main square with the beautiful Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk. Stroll through the streets and take in the charming atmosphere. From here it's a short walk to ’t Sas, a lovely square with up-market shops.
It's also a very short walk to the Begijnhof where you'll find an oasis of tranquillity surrounded by some 30 homes and a herb garden. If you're looking for nice day trips outside the city, consider going to De Biesbosch which is just north of Breda. This national park is the perfect place to walk, canoe or take a boat ride.
If you're with the kids, the Efteling is a real must. Have fun on the rides, walk through the enchanted forest and enjoy a performance. Breda really is a diverse city!
The city centre is small and easy to explore on foot. Fun alternatives to walking are a horse-drawn carriage and even an electric train. If you're travelling by car, park at your hotel or one of the parking garages. You can park cheaply near the station at one of the park and ride (P+R) parking lots. Amsterdam and Rotterdam are the best airports to fly into. There are several trains an hour to Breda from Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam Central Station.
Visit Breda, a lovely city and the ideal base for outdoor activities with your kids or partner.
