Getting to the MotoGP Dutch TT at TT Circuit Assen

Grand Prix of the Netherlands

Getting to Assen

Transport, parking, cycling, and how to leave without chaos

Airports

GRQGroningen Airport Eelde

25 min drive

Pros: Closest airport to Assen. Small, easy to navigate. Some seasonal European connections.

Cons: Very limited international routes. Most likely you will need to fly via Amsterdam.

AMSAmsterdam Schiphol Airport

2h by train to Assen

Pros: Major international hub with connections worldwide. Direct train from the airport basement to Assen (change at Zwolle).

Cons: Assen is 190 km north-east. The train takes about 2 hours. Book early for race weekend — trains fill up.

Getting to the Circuit

Train (Recommended)

  • — NS (Dutch Railways) from Amsterdam Centraal to Assen: ~2 hours, change at Zwolle
  • — From Groningen to Assen: 20 minutes, direct trains every 30 minutes
  • — From Schiphol Airport: direct connection via Zwolle, ~2 hours
  • — Buy tickets at ns.nl or use an OV-chipkaart (Dutch transport card)
  • — Trains run frequently but fill up on race weekend — travel early

Bus from Assen Station

  • — City bus line 1 runs from Assen station directly to the circuit (stop: Jack Middelburgplein)
  • — Extra shuttle buses run on race days between the station and the circuit
  • — Journey time: approximately 15 minutes
  • — Runs from early morning until approximately 1 hour after the last race
  • — Follow the signs from the station — the route is well marked

Cycling (The Dutch Way)

  • — The circuit is about 5 km from Assen town centre — a 20-minute ride
  • — Free bike parking at the circuit, well-organised
  • — Fastest exit after the race — no traffic, no queues
  • — Rent a bike in Assen or bring your own
  • — Cycle paths are excellent — this is the Netherlands

Driving

  • — Multiple parking areas around the circuit — all parking is free
  • — The largest paved car park is at the Noordlus entrance
  • — Follow the signed parking routes on race days — do not rely on sat-nav near the circuit
  • — Post-race exit is slow — expect 1-2 hours on Sunday
  • — Dedicated motorcycle parking available, also free

Post-Race Exit Strategy

The Dutch TT sells out every year. 100,000+ fans leave at once. Parking is free but exit traffic can take 1-2 hours on Sunday.

  • —Best option: Cycle. You will be back in Assen town in 20 minutes while cars are still queuing to exit the parking areas.
  • —Shuttle bus: Free shuttles back to Assen station run until approximately 1 hour after the final race. Queue early or wait 30 minutes for the initial crush to pass.
  • —Driving: Leave before the podium if you cannot tolerate a 1-2 hour exit queue. Or stay, enjoy the atmosphere, and accept the wait.
  • —Camping: Walk back to your tent. No exit strategy needed — this is the advantage of camping.

Where to Stay

Assen town centre

20 min by bike / 15 min by shuttle

Best option. Walk to restaurants and bars, easy shuttle or bike to circuit. Books out very early — reserve by February.

Camping at the circuit

Walking distance

The authentic Dutch TT experience. Multiple campsites from basic to organised. Party atmosphere Thursday through Sunday.

Groningen

20 min by train

University city with plenty of hotels, restaurants, and nightlife. Good alternative when Assen is fully booked.

Emmen / Hoogeveen

30-40 min drive

Smaller towns south-east of Assen. More availability and lower prices. Need a car for the daily commute.