Go terrace hopping
Once the temperature rises above 15 degrees, you know what time it is: time to hit the terrace! Whether you’re in the mood for a beer, Aperol Spritz or just a classic iced tea, the Oude Markt is the place to be. Bring your friends, a game and your sunglasses, and you’ve got everything you need for a relaxed afternoon in the sun!
Go for a picnic
A picnic with friends is the perfect way to enjoy a relaxing afternoon outdoors. Grab some snacks and fruit from the supermarket, buy your favourite sandwich from Broodbode, or bake something yourself and find a nice spot outside. The Volkspark, Abraham Ledeboerpark or Van Heekpark are all great places to wind down on your picnic blanket. Or cycle to the Rutbeek or Hulsbeek for an afternoon by the water!
Try some outdoor sports
Now that the weather is nice, it's the perfect time to exercise outside. There is a great skating route (without too many bumps 😉) from Roombeek to Lonneker, for example. You’ll also find loads of cool walking and cycling routes around Enschede and the campus. Or go for a nice run through the park or across campus!
Visit the Lonneker Molen
Are you looking for a fun destination for your next bike ride? A scenic, relaxed ride will take you from Enschede to the Lonneker Molen (Lonneker Windmill) in about 20 minutes. The Lonneker Molen is a cosy spot to enjoy the sunshine. On Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, you can even visit the mill and its accompanying shop. If you are a fan of pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes) or you want to try them out, their pancake mix is a must-buy!
Get an ice cream at Van der Poel
What screams spring more than a good ice cream? And the best ice cream in Enschede comes from Van der Poel, of course! Are you going for a classic or will you try the flavour of the month?
Cuddle some baby animals
Newborn animals are the ultimate sign that spring has arrived! Who doesn't love seeing fluffy lambs, goats or baby alpacas? At local petting zoos like Kinderboerderij De Wesseler, Kinderboerderij Noord, Kinderboerderij Erve ‘t Wooldrik and Dierenpark Het Hulsbeek, you can admire and cuddle them!
Visit a tea house or pick-your-own garden
In and around Enschede, there are several cosy tea houses and gardens where you can relax with a refreshing drink, a cup of tea or even a full-on high tea. Check out spots like Theetuin Schuif's aan, Theetuin Ik & Mijn Moeder, or Theetuin De Oale Zessprong. Theehuis Driene, a hidden gem practically located on campus, is also worth a visit. Some of these tea houses also have a pick-your-own garden, where you can harvest your own bouquet of flowers, fruit or herbs!
Go to the Easter Fair
Up for a bit more action? From 12 to 21 April, the Easter Fair returns to the Volkspark. From fast, high and spinning attractions to claw machines and bumper cars, there is something for everyone!
Start gardening
Gardening is booming – and besides, it’s super relaxing! Do you have a garden or balcony that could use some love? Get some nice plants and flowers from the home and garden centre, and it will look a lot better in no time! While you’re at it, also make sure to plant some herbs, tomatoes or strawberries to enjoy your own home-grown food this summer!
Don't have a garden or balcony? No worries! A few new houseplants or tiny herb plants from the supermarket will still do the trick! Moreover, you could also become a member of the Drienerlo Organic Garden Association, where you can rent an allotment garden on campus for just €20 a year.
Do a spring cleaning
Okay, spring cleaning might not be the most exciting activity ever, but trust me: it’s super satisfying. Open all your windows, blast your favourite playlist, and take some time to tidy and clean your room from head to toe. Convince your housemates to also tackle the common areas together, and don’t forget a deep-clean of your oven, fridge and microwave. All going smooth? Make sure to clean out your winter clothes while you’re at it. This will give you a great excuse to go shopping for new spring outfits later ;).
