Visit Ede/Wageningen

A day or weekend in Ede/Wageningen? Great idea!
In this lively student city, you’ll have a wonderful time. Wageningen is the city where the German capitulation was signed on May 5, 1945. Liberation is celebrated every year with performances and the Liberation Parade, a procession of World War II veterans.

So on May 5, Wageningen is by far the most festive city in the Netherlands, but there’s plenty to enjoy throughout the rest of the year as well. This university town in Gelderland has about 40,000 residents, many of whom are students who bring a vibrant atmosphere. In the compact city center, you’ll find countless great spots for food and drinks.

There’s also plenty to see and do in the beautiful surroundings of Wageningen. The city is beautifully located on the Nederrijn river, between the Betuwe and the Veluwe, and close to the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Nature is always nearby!
Looking for fun things to do in Wageningen? We have gathered 15 great tips and attractions in and around the city for you.

15 Things to Do in Wageningen and Surroundings - Site Visit Ede

  • Arboretum Belmonte: A botanical garden with the largest rhododendron collection in the Netherlands and stunning views over the river Nederrijn.
  • Sculpture Gallery Het Depot: Free-entry gallery with contemporary sculptures and a beautiful botanical garden featuring a giant sequoia.
  • Fair Shopping in Wageningen: Discover unique boutiques and local shops in the cozy city center.
  • Wageningen University Campus: Explore the green and modern campus of one of the world’s leading agricultural universities.
  • Wageningen City of Liberation: Visit historical sites related to WWII, including the location where the German capitulation was signed on May 5, 1945.
  • The Casteelse Poort Museum: Learn about Wageningen’s history, including its role in the liberation of the Netherlands.
  • Wageningen Engpad Trail: A scenic 13 km walking route through nature and farmland.
  • De Blauwe Kamer Nature Reserve: A bird paradise near the Grebbeberg, ideal for hiking and wildlife spotting 
  • Cycling in the Veluwe: Enjoy beautiful bike routes through forests, heathlands, and estates 
  • Grebbedijk & River Views: Walk along the river and enjoy panoramic views of the Betuwe region.
  • Local Cafés and Restaurants: Try cozy spots like Het Depot’s restaurant or cafés in the city center.

Wageningen Market: Visit the weekly market for fresh produce and local specialties.

Historic Churches and Buildings: Discover architectural gems like the Grote Kerk and old university buildings.

Events and Festivals: Wageningen hosts cultural events year-round, especially around Liberation Day (May 5).

Day Trips to Nearby Cities: Combine your visit with trips to Ede or Arnhem

The Kröller-Müller Museum: At the Kröller-Müller Museum, you will find the world’s finest Vincent van Gogh collection and enjoy masterpieces by modern masters such as Claude Monet, Georges Seurat, Pablo Picasso and Piet Mondriaan. The museum is  a treasure trove of De Stijl and futurism, and will surprise you with presentations of contemporary artists.

In the sculpture garden, you will stroll past works by Barbara Hepworth, Jean Dubuffet, Marta Pan and others.

For architecture enthusiasts we have the museum buildings by Henry van de Velde and Wim Quist, the Gerrit Rietveld pavilion and Aldo van Eyck pavilion in the sculpture garden.

Its location in the heart of De Hoge Veluwe Park and the unique combination of art and nature make the Kröller-Müller a place to enjoy and unwind. A perfect day out for young and old!