Doetinchem

Doetinchem, capital of the Achterhoek area, is a centuries-old city by the river Oude IJssel and rich in opportunities for exploration and discovery. In addition to amazing historic buildings, such as the Medieval castle Slangenburg, the Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk church and De Kelder castle, Doetinchem is a great place to shop and has many great cafes and restaurants.

Discover Doetinchem’s rich history.
Visit beautiful castle Slangenburg.
Savour the excellent restaurants of Doetinchem.

What to do in Doetinchem?

Doetinchem, also known as Deutekom, has a history that stretches as far back as the 9th century, which is obvious from its many historic buildings.

For instance, no one can pass up a visit to Castle Slangenburg, the former guest house of the Benedictine monastery St. Willibrord’s Abbey. This 17th-century castle also offers overnight stays – a very special experience. Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk church and castle De Kelder are two further Medieval treasures that are definitely worth a visit.

If you’d like to know more about Doetinchem’s history, try exploring the Stadsmuseum (or City Museum) located in the old post office, which is built in the Amsterdam School style. And if, after all the cultural and historic exploration, you feel like shopping a bit, be sure to take a look in and around the Hamburgerstraat, where you will find numerous stores to suit all tastes and budgets.

Where to eat?

Doetinchem’s historic centre is home to excellent restaurants, from which we have selected the top 3 for you:

1. Grandcafé De Bank

The cozy and casual Grandcafé De Bank has a lovely terrace where you can enjoy great food and fresh beers on tap the whole year round.

Address: Simonsplein 16, Doetinchem

2. Restaurant de Zaak

In the Grutstraat, Doetinchem’s culinary alley, you’ll find de Zaak, serving excellent French dishes with surprising twists. Delicious!

Address: Grutstraat 16, Doetinchem

3. Restaurant Villa Ruimzicht

For fantastic dishes with seasonal and regional products, you're at the right place at Restaurant Villa Ruimzicht. Staff are more than happy to advise you on the perfect wine to match.

Address: Avenue of wide-view 150, Doetinchem

Editor’s tip

Hop on a bike and seek out the beautiful windmills in the Doetinchem area, such as ‘Benninkmolen’, a still-functional windmill from the year 1921, and ‘de Walmolen’, a windmill dating back to 1851.