Breda (Netherlands)

~ youkyong

May 2025

Our Dutch friends had said there was much more to see in the Netherlands than Amsterdam, but most tourists just go to Amsterdam. After spending 10 days or so in “the other Netherlands,” I now totally agree with that statement.

A case in point: Breda. From our little town of Riel, you have Tilburg to the east and Breda (population: 186,000) to the west. Tilburg is a bit closer and a bit more populous. Breda is prettier. In fact, I would not mind parking myself in a town like Breda and chill out for a while.

What is so attractive about Breda? Let me show you where we had lunch one day.

As I entered the place, I felt I was walking into an artsy friend’s dining room
the menu with personal touch
relaxing and welcoming atmosphere
and the food! So fresh, tasty, and beautiful, and reasonably priced
their soup was soothing and satisfying
You can sit inside or outside, all very comfortable

So that’s how I felt about the old town core of Breda.

Mostly local shops than the international chains
Korean chicken?
Soju?
K – hotdog?

We have noticed all kinds of Korean food served in various towns in the Netherlands. However, the K-Food collection we saw in Breda was rather surprisingly varied and trendy. Not sure what to make of it, but hope they do well.

No Sugar No Fun?
Eat cake!

I appreciated the humor displayed in Breda. It added a more relaxed attitude to the laid back vibe of the town.

Anyone rushing?
I don’t think so

Of course there are beautiful churches, parks, plenty of nice restaurants, cafes, bars, shopping streets, arts venues etc.

Breda invites you to come and slowly stroll around, occasionally stopping to windowshop or sitting down for a tasty bite or a drink. If I were you, I’d gladly accept.