Mistakes to Avoid
The things that catch people out at the Dutch TT — sorted before you go
Planning
Booking accommodation too late
Assen is a small town and the Dutch TT sells out every year. Hotels within 30 km are booked months in advance. If you are not camping, book by February at the latest. Groningen (20 min by train) is the best backup — a proper city with more capacity. Emmen and Hoogeveen are also options but require a car.
Assen first-timer guide →Planning
Skipping Friday or arriving without a plan
Friday is the quietest day at Assen and the best time to explore the compact circuit, test different viewing spots, and settle into the campsite or TT Festival. The circuit is purpose-built for motorcycles with excellent sightlines — use Friday to find your favourite corner before the Saturday and Sunday crowds arrive.
Assen first-timer guide →Timing
Arriving too late on race day
The Dutch TT attracts 100,000+ fans. The shuttle bus queue from Assen station builds from 8 AM on Sunday. GA spots on the grass banks fill up fast. Arrive by 9 AM at the latest. If cycling, you have more flexibility but early is still better for securing a good viewing position.
Getting to Assen →Tickets
Not printing your ticket
Mobile tickets work well in the Netherlands, but with 100,000 fans on the same cell towers, signal can be unreliable. Screenshot your ticket or print it as a backup. Do not rely on loading it from email at the gate.
Assen first-timer guide →Tickets
Planning to buy grandstand tickets on the day
The Dutch TT sells out every year — often months before the race. Popular grandstands go first. If you show up hoping to buy at the gate, you will not find one. Buy your tickets as early as possible. GA tickets may have slightly more availability but even those sell out.
Assen first-timer guide →Transport
Assuming you can get a taxi after the race
Taxis are scarce in Assen at the best of times. When 100,000 fans leave at once, taxis are essentially impossible without a pre-arranged booking. The free shuttle bus to Assen station is reliable. Cycling is even better — 20 minutes and no queue.
Getting to Assen →Transport
Driving and expecting a quick exit
Post-race traffic from the circuit parking areas is slow. Expect 1-2 hours to get back to the main roads on Sunday. If you can cycle or take the shuttle instead, do it. If you must drive, either leave before the podium or settle in for a long wait.
Getting to Assen →Technology
Relying on your phone for navigation and communication
Mobile data slows to a crawl with 100,000+ fans at the circuit. Download offline maps before you arrive, screenshot your ticket, and agree on a physical meeting point with friends. Do not plan to use WhatsApp or Google Maps in real time.
Assen packing guide →Bag Policy
Bringing glass, alcohol, or prohibited items
Glass containers and outside alcohol are prohibited at TT Circuit Assen. Items are confiscated at the gate — not stored for collection. If you are camping, keep glass and alcohol at your campsite and bring only permitted items through the circuit gate. Pack a small day bag with plastic bottles and snacks.
Assen bag policy →Preparation
Not packing for variable weather
Late June in the Netherlands averages 20°C — but rain can arrive at any time, and mornings are often 13-15°C. If you are camping, nights can drop to 10-12°C. Pack waterproofs, warm layers, and a decent sleeping bag. The Dutch TT has a well-earned reputation for unpredictable weather.
Assen packing guide →Comfort
Not bringing ear protection
MotoGP bikes are genuinely loud — louder than most people expect from watching on TV. Foam earplugs cost €1 and save you from ringing ears for two days. Loop earplugs are better if you want to hear the atmosphere while protecting your hearing.
Assen packing guide →Money
Not carrying cash
The Netherlands is one of the most card-friendly countries in Europe, and most vendors at the circuit accept contactless. But when phone signal is poor, contactless can fail. Carry €20-30 as backup. Campsite bars and farmer-field campsites are more likely to be cash-only.
Assen first-timer guide →