Ter Apel(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Ter Aar, the top family-friendly hotel is Hotel De Gouden Vleugel, a charming boutique property blending traditional Dutch architecture with modern amenities. Located in the heart of town, it’s within walking distance of St. John's Church and the local market, surrounded by green spaces perfect for children.

The hotel offers spacious family rooms, kid-friendly breakfasts featuring Dutch pancakes (Poffertjes) and stamppot (potato stew), and hosts weekly workshops like pottery making and farm tours. Its cozy atmosphere and rich cultural programming make it ideal for families seeking authentic Groningen Province experiences while enjoying comfort and safety.

The best area to stay in Ter Aar is the historic city center, where most boutique hotels and cultural landmarks are concentrated. This district features cobbled streets, 17th-century red-brick buildings, and proximity to Marktplein square, the Town Hall, and the local crafts market.

Staying near Marktplein allows easy access to morning coffee at traditional cafés, evening concerts, and weekend markets. The area is quiet, safe, and brimming with charm—perfect for exploring the region’s heritage, natural beauty, and rural Dutch lifestyle without needing a car.

In Ter Aar, one must experience the annual Windmolenfeest (Windmill Festival) held every spring, when historic windmills are lit up, showcasing traditional grain milling techniques and live folk music performances.

You can also join a hands-on workshop at a historic weaving studio, where you’ll learn to operate a wooden loom to create traditional checkered fabric. Some hotels offer Dutch language lessons paired with dining etiquette sessions, allowing guests to understand the stories behind dishes like herring with onions. These immersive activities reveal deep-rooted traditions of Groningen Province’s agricultural heritage and family craftsmanship.

For nature lovers, De Zandweg B&B is the ideal choice—nestled on the edge of Waldwoud forest just outside Ter Aar, surrounded by pine trees and wildflower meadows. The eco-friendly inn runs on solar power, with a private garden featuring birdwatching platforms and walking trails leading to IJsselmeer Lake.

Guests enjoy organic breakfasts made with locally sourced ingredients, including homemade apple jam and rye bread. The B&B provides free bicycles for exploring nearby North Holland Wetlands, where you can spot white storks and flamingos. This peaceful retreat offers a genuine connection to the lowland Dutch ecosystem.

Must-try dishes in Ter Aar include Gouda and Edam cheese, especially the handcrafted aged varieties from local farms; frikandel (fried meatballs) served with mustard sauce, crispy and savory.

Also sample stamppot with pork sausage, a traditional dish made with fresh potatoes and smoked meat, slow-cooked to perfection. During festivals, enjoy pepernoten (spiced ginger cookies) and glühwein (mulled wine)—a warm blend of cinnamon, orange peel, and brandy. These specialties are available at Café de Drie Koningen and weekend markets, offering a true taste of regional cuisine.

The peak tourist season in Ter Aar runs from May to September, when the weather is mild and sunny, ideal for outdoor exploration. Highlights include the Windmolenfeest in mid-June and the Summer Market Week in July, drawing visitors from across the Netherlands.

Additionally, the Autumn Harvest Festival (Herfstfeest) in September features parades in traditional costumes, horse-drawn carts, and craft fairs. While winter months are quieter and colder, they offer a serene, off-the-beaten-path experience—perfect for those who prefer solitude and indoor cultural events.

For solo travelers seeking tranquility, Stadshuis B&B is an excellent choice—a secluded boutique stay tucked behind the Town Hall, with only four guest rooms and exceptional soundproofing. The minimalist design features soft grays and whites, with reading nooks and walls adorned with vintage maps and photos of Groningen Province.

Hosted by a retired teacher, the B&B offers personalized recommendations for hidden gems like abandoned church murals or stargazing spots. Enjoy morning coffee on the private terrace or read in the quiet library. It’s a sanctuary for introspective travel and slow, mindful living.

Top photo spots in Ter Aar include St. John’s Church, whose Gothic spire and stained-glass windows glow beautifully in golden hour light; Marktplein Square’s 18th-century fountain, surrounded by cobblestones and seasonal decorations.

Another favorite is the old windmill (De Windmolen), though non-functional, its red sails against a white facade create a striking contrast. Don’t miss the willow-lined canal path along the northern edge—lush green arches form a natural tunnel perfect for romantic or cinematic shots. Visit early morning or late afternoon for soft, flattering light and fewer crowds.

Although Ter Aar has no airport, it’s about 50 km from Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ), accessible via bus (approx. 1 hour). Alternatively, take a train to Groningen Centraal Station, then transfer to regional bus line 90, which reaches Ter Aar in around 20 minutes.

Once in town, public transport is minimal—walking and cycling are recommended. The OV-chipkaart works for all buses and trains. Many hotels offer shuttle services or can assist with taxi bookings. Even without a car, exploring Ter Aar is seamless and scenic.

Ter Aar’s nightlife is uniquely calm and cultural. Visit Café De Drie Koningen, a century-old café with timber beams and candlelit interiors, often hosting live folk music and intimate poetry readings.

Every Friday, the outdoor beer garden (Bierterras) opens with local craft beers and Dutch fries (frites). For a quieter night, join a library book club focused on Dutch literature or attend a classical concert at St. John’s Church, where acoustics are superb and tickets are affordable. The low-key, arts-focused evenings make it perfect for travelers who value serenity and soulful connection.