Bergen’s central Plein area is a popular spot for tourists and local residents to enjoy history, culture, relaxing afternoons and excellent dining. Browse through boutiques, cafés and restaurants tucked away in winding streets around an old ruined church.
Make a short walk from the Plein to the Museum Het Sterkenhuis, a house museum depicting the rustic peasant life in Bergen during the 18thand 19thcenturies. Discover historic artifacts such as a decorative cheese press, traditional clothing, furnishings, prints and paintings of Bergen through the ages. The museum displays a fascinating selection of early topographical maps and prints of the Bergen region, dating as early as the late 1500s.
Stroll along adjacent streets lined with gelaterias, cafés and boutiques. Nearby you’ll find the peaceful green common on which the ruined 15th-century church (Ruïnekerk) sits. The church dedicated to Peter and Paul was destroyed in the late 1500s, with some reconstruction in later years. Chamber music events are often presented in the warmer months. Listen to concerts ranging from Bach to Irish folk music at other times of the year. Purchase tickets for the annual Christmas singalong which includes not only carols, but also pop, rock and soul.
Entertain your family or test your putting skills at the beautiful old mini-golf course, Midgetgolfbaan "De Merelhof,” open since 1954. The greens are surrounded by natural woodland near the Ruïnekerk. Visit from May through October. Rent bikes to ride to the North Sea shore, about 20 minutes west of the Plein.
If you’re interested in trying Indonesian food, a staple of the Dutch diet, find plenty of restaurants tucked away in the pretty little streets around Plein. Sample rijsttafel, with rice and up to 40 different dishes of meats and savory and spicy tidbits. Accompany your meal with Dutch beers that you may already know: Heineken, Grolsch and Amstel.
