zwolle tourist information

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Netherlands Tourism

Zwolle is a municipality that has around 120,000 inhabitants. The town has a beautiful medieval centre, with lots of well preserved and archeologically interesting buildings. Although most of the city wall has now gone there are still some of the gates and towers surviving. The Saxon gate is particularly interesting, as is the moat that was made in the shape of a star.  Zwolle is also a very green city with lots pf parks and tree lined streets. It has an excellent theatre and very good shopping and food.

History Of Zwolle

The town carried on and turned into a thriving community which was accorded the right to become a city in the early thirteenth century. The town was granted this status by the Bishop of Utrecht. Towards the end of the century the city joined the “Hanseatic League”. This was an association of guilds, towns and cities that were based along the north sea coast as far as the Baltic States.

Its main purpose was the protection and diplomatic interests of its members. The city provided soldiers for the war between the League and Denmark in the mid 1300’s. This war ended after nearly a decade when a treaty was signed between the participants. In the 14th century the city was twice hit by fires. In the second fire, virtually every building was destroyed.

The Golden Age

In the 1400’s the city of Zwolle was a very prosperous place with good trading links which brought a great deal of wealth to the city and to the merchants who traded in it.  In 1448 the beautiful town hall was built, though today it has a slightly strange frontage due to the modern concrete extension to the building. In the early 1500’s the church of Saint Michael was renovated and rebuilt. However in the late 1700’s the tower of the church fell down and without the money to repair it the council decided to sell the bells to the nearby city of Kampen.

When the bells arrived however the residents of Kampen found that the bells had been damaged and were unplayable. But, as good as their word, the people paid for the bells, but with a huge amount of tiny denomination copper coins. Unabashed the residents of Zwolle counted every last coin and were thereafter known as “Bluefingers” because of the colour of their fingers after counting the number of coins.

The city maintained a, relatively, quiet and prosperous life, making its way by its good trading links and local agriculture until the occupation by the Spanish during the Dutch War of Independence. It was also occupied later by the forces of Napoleon.

In the early 20th century the city was thriving with large markets for both animals and fish and also other industries such as boat building cotton weaving and also an iron working factory. The last occupation by the Germans during the Second World War was ended when a single French Canadian soldier arrived in the city in April 1945.

Travelling In and Around Zwolle

If you are travelling to Zwolle on the A28 from Groningen to Utrecht motorway there are 4 different exits depending on where in the city you are going. You can reach the A28 from the junction with the A50. Although there is a ring road, as with many old Dutch cities, it is not really a good idea to drive to your destination due to congestion and high parking fees.

There is a good bus service around Zwolle and the neighbouring areas. It is much easier to travel with an ov-chippcaart where you prepay onto the card and this is then deducted whenever you travel. There is a good train service with trains running from Utrecht, The Hague, Groningen, Arnhemn and Deventer going directly to the city. There is also a good connection to Amsterdam, with the journey taking just over an hour, but you will need to change at Amersfoort.

Tourism In Zwolle

The Stedelijk Museum has both an old and a new part to its building. In the new wing They have changing exhibitions and in the old part they have the permanent exhibits on varying subjects, many of which are to do with the local area from prehistoric times until the 1900’s.

Eating In Zwolle

Vito’s is a great Italian restaurant with really good food and a great atmosphere. It is a really popular restaurant for the locals and is small but very comfortable. If you are on a budget you can get a fixed price menu, but there are always really good specials on, for a bit extra. If you are eating early, before 5, then there are just sandwiches.

De Koperen Hoogte is actually 2 restaurants in an old converted water tower. One is at street level which is great and has really good food. But the other one is at the top in the old water container. It has really good food as well , but what separates it is the view. It has really good views over Zwolle and even better, the seating area moves around in a full circle, so you get a great view over the whole city.

Zwolle is a great place to go at any time,the medieval part of the town is worth it alone, but there are many other attractions as well.

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Alphen aan den Rijn

13 Cool Things to See and Do in Zwolle

The city of Zwolle, a Hanseatic city located in the Northeastern Netherlands, is the capital city of the Overjissel province. It is an incredibly lively and vibrant city but is also steeped in history, boasting a medieval city center. The integrity of the historical side of the city is preserved as there are many inner-city walls, towers, and of course, the 600-year-old Sassenpoort.

There is also a plethora of lanes, trees, and canals that wind through the city, making way for architecturally astounding fortresses and old merchant houses. Aside from these historical ties, the city of Zwolle is also considered the culinary capital of the Netherlands, as it is home to the impressive three-Michelin star restaurant, De Librije.

Nearby Zwolle you will find the Weerribben-Wieden National Park ( Nationaal Park Weerribben-Wieden ) and one of the most beautiful places in the Netherlands – Giethoorn . So, Zwolle can be the perfect destination for a weekend city trip and a good base to explore the Overijssel province.

There are plenty of things to do in Zwolle, and this guide will highlight the top attractions in the city and surrounds. You’ll definitely want to visit Zwolle after immersing yourself in this article and include it in your trip to the Netherlands.

Let’s get exploring!

How to get to Zwolle

1. old fortifications and sassenpoort, 2. de librije, 3. de fundatie museum, 4. herman brood museum, 6. st michael’s church or grote kerk, 7. peperbus tower, 5. het vrouwenhuis, 8. van der velde in de broeren, 9. boat tour, 10. jugendstil architecture, 11. bonami spelcomputer museum, 12. dinoland, 13. anningahof, final words.

DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of those links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost for you.

Surprisingly, Zwolle is located more or less at an hour/hour and half from all big cities in the Netherlands, which makes it an easy day trip from Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague, or Rotterdam. Zwolle is also very well connected by train with the rest of the Netherlands.

Tip: Read this post about using the public transport in the Netherlands . It’s packed with tips that only a local knows!

Here are some distances from other major cities in the Netherlands to Zwolle by car and the time it takes both by car and by train:

• Amsterdam – Zwolle: 100 km/1 hr 10 min; by train: 1 hr 30 min
• Schiphol – Zwolle: 115 km/1 hr 15 min; by train: 1 hr 10 min
• Groningen – Zwolle: 105 km/1 hr 5 min; by train: 57 min
• Utrecht – Zwolle: 90 km/55 min; by train: 50 min
• The Hague – Zwolle: 155 km/1 hr 30 min; by train: 1 hr 40 min
• Rotterdam – Zwolle: 150 km/1 hr 30 min; by train: 1 hr 35 min
• Eindhoven – Zwolle: 155 km/1 hr 30 min; by train: 1 hr 50 min
• Maastricht – Zwolle: 235 km/2 hrs 15 min; by train: 3 hrs 10 min

The best way to find out how to travel from A to B in the Netherlands is to use the Glimble app. You can buy your tickets in the app and travel hassle-free. The app is absolutely free to download .

• Click here to download Glimble for Android
• Click here to download Glimble for iPhone

For international travel options, check out Omio , where you can also buy train and bus tickets.

Top Things to do in Zwolle

Read further to find out which are the best things to do in Zwolle. On the handy map below I’ve marked all tourist attractions in Zwolle. You can add the map to your Google Maps and use it even if you are offline.

The first of the Zwolle tourist attractions to visit when visiting the city are the old fortifications. These military constructions and buildings are located throughout the city and they tell the story of the historic past of Zwolle. The old ramparts and the remains of the city walls are perfect attractions to see on a day of exploring the city.

At one point there were 23 towers on the city walls and 8 city gates. The only surviving city gate today is the 600-year-old city gatehouse Sassenpoort . It was built in 1409 and is still standing today. The gate, built mainly of trachyte and tuff, is a Rijksmonument and one of the top 100 Dutch heritage sites. Taking a walk through the Sassenpoort is considered one of the top things to do in Zwolle.

In the 15th century Zwolle was an important city, member of the so-called Hanseatic League – a medieval commercial and defensive union, that included cities like Hamburg, Rostock, Dortmund, and Bremen in Germany, Riga in Latvia, Gdansk and Krakow in Poland. In the Netherlands, besides Zwolle, Deventer, Hasselt, Zutphen, Kampen, Elburg, Hattem, Harderwijk, and Duisburg belonged to this medieval confederation.

De Librije is the best restaurant in the country, and is located in Zwolle, Netherlands. This fine-dining restaurant, housed in a former 18th-century female prison, has consistently been in the top 50 restaurants in the world, and holds an impressive three-Michelin Star rating.

You can try their eight-course menu, and there is also a wine pairing option available for the wine aficionados. It’s definitely an experience as you navigate through the menu that consists of dishes that use authentic regional products. A visit to De Librije is a gastronomic experience that is bound to stimulate the senses and something that will be hard to forget – definitely one of the top places to visit in Zwolle.

To make the experience complete, you can book a room at the Librije’s Hotel , rated by guests as exquisite and fantastic. Click here to see the ratings and read the reviews:

Practical info

Address: Spinhuisplein 1, 8011 ZZ Zwolle Website: librije.com

De Fundatie Museum is a visual arts museum that belongs to the Hannema-de Stuers Foundation, along with the Nijenhuis Castle ( Kasteel het Nijenhuis ) in Heino. The museum is located in a unique egg-shaped building sitting on top of the former Palace of Justice, and is considered one of the top Zwolle attractions because of its interesting architecture and collections.

There are some interesting works on display by top artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Piet Mondrian, and Marc Chagall. You can also end off your visit with a coffee and pastry on the last floor of the building.

Tip: Saturday evening, from 5 pm till 9 pm the entree to the museum is free!

Address: Blijmarkt 20, 8011 NE Zwolle Admission fee: adults – 15 EUR, kids under 19 yoa – free of charge Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 11 am till 5 pm Website: www.museumdefundatie.nl

When visiting Zwolle, things to do are in abundance, especially if you enjoy tapping into your cultural side and visiting museums in the cities you travel to. The Herman Brood Museum-Experience is one of the most interesting things to do Zwolle – an ode to a unique character. Herman Brood was many things – a rock’n’roll star, a painter, and a poet from the Netherlands.

The museum houses art pieces as well as many of his personal belongings such as painted guitars, clothing, painting materials, and spraying needles. There is also a shop housed in the museum that sells a range of merchandise as well as pieces of artwork.

Address: Blijmarkt 21, 8011 ND Zwolle Opening times: Friday-Sunday, from 12 am till 5 pm Website: hermanbroodmuseum.nl

The St. Michael’s Church , also known as Grote Kerk , was built around 1406-1466 during the heyday of the city on the place of an early Romanesque church from 1040. The Grote Kerk is home of the biggest organ in the Netherlands, the Schnitger Organ ( Schnitgerorgel ), built by the famous German organ builder Arp Schnitger and finished in 1721 after his death by his son – Franz Caspar.

Fun fact: There was a second church in Zwolle named St. Michael’s Church. As the Grote Kerk was converted into a protestant church, a new catholic church devoted to Archangel Michael was built at the end of the 19th century. The church was demolished in 1965.

The Peperbus Tower , or Onze Liewe Vrouwetoren as it’s formally known, is a 75-meter-high bell tower that forms a part of the Basilica Onze Lieve Vrouw Tenhemelopname . A visit to the church is free of charge.

The tower offers the best views of the city. Locals from Zwolle are always happy upon returning to the city to see the iconic city landmark – it gives them a sense of being home.

Fun fact: They call this church tower Peperbus, as it looks like pepperbox . Peperbus is the Dutch for pepperbox.

Address: Ossemarkt 40, 8011 MS Zwolle Opening times: summer: Tuesday-Saturday, from 11 am till 6 pm; winter: Monday-Friday, from 1:30 pm till 3:30 pm; Saturday, from 1:30 pm till 4 pm Admission fee: adults – 3,50 EUR; kids under 12 yoa – 2 EUR Website: www.peperbus-zwolle.nl ( only in Dutch )

The Women’s Home ( Het Vrouwenhuis ) is one of Zwolle’s most famous landmarks and a small museum. The house was built somewhere before 1680 and since 1742 it served as a home for aged women until 1984. The ground floor of the house shows the grandeur of the 17th-century Zwolle an not much has changed since them. In 2022 the museum went a complete renovation. If you want to visit it, you need to check the Agenda on the museum’s website and enroll for a tour.

One of the most popular things to do in Zwolle is to take a stroll through Van der Velde in de Broeren – a hip and happy book shop that is housed in a historical church building. It is not considered a bookstore but more of an experience as you can browse the ever-changing selection of books and other merchandise.

There are also food and drinks available at Van de Velde in de Broeren and on occasion there are a variety of lectures, exhibits, and concerts within its walls.

Fun fact: Another famous bookstore housed in a church in the Netherlands, is the Dominicanen Bookstore ( Boekhandel Dominicanen ) in Maastricht .

Exploring the city by means of a boat is a favorite amongst both locals and tourists who visit Zwolle. It’s a great way to see the city as well as the various tourist attractions, as you navigate through the canals.

There are a variety of different tour options available, depending on your needs, but one thing is certain – you will have a great time. There’s even lunch and delicious pastries available for those who get a bit hungry along the way.

You can book a boat tour in Zwolle with Rondvaart Zwolle .

Quite surprisingly, Zwolle is home to some fine examples of Jugendstil architecture . Jugendstil is the Austrian version of the Art Nouveau Architecture movement during the Belle Époque period (1890-1910). Dutch architects G.G. Post, G.B. Broekema and M. Meijerink introduced the new avant-garde style in booming Zwolle at the beginning of the 20th century. You can spot Jugendstil architecture in the city centre, along the Veerallee , and in the so-called Royal district ( Prins Hendrikstraat and Koningin Wilhelminastraat ).

The Bonami SpelComputer Museum is a dedicated computer and gaming museum that is housed in the Weighing House in Zwolle. It’s a rather unique museum that is dedicated to the history of the gaming console and there are in excess of 10000 games to be found. Many of these games are still able to be played which is a fun way to spend a rainy day in the city.

Address: Ossenkamp 4, 8024AE Zwolle Admission fee: starting from 16,50 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 10 am till 5 pm; Friday-Saturday (in the evening), from 6 pm till 10 pm Website: computermuseum.nl ( only in Dutch )

A visit to Dinoland is one of the top things to do in Zwolle for families with kids. It’s a fun day out for the whole family as there a whole host of indoor and outdoor activities, from playing amongst the dinosaurs to climbing course, mini golf, and even digging up a dinosaur fossil. There’s also a restaurant for when the family gets hungry.

Address: Willemsvaart 19, 8019 AB Zwolle Admission fee: 14,75 EUR; kids under 4 yoa – 8,50 EUR Opening times: from April 2023 onward. Check the website for more information Website: dinoland.nl

The final activity on the list of things to do in Zwolle is a visit to the Annigahof Estate ( Landgoed Anningahof ). The sculpture park houses a large variety of different sculptures, big and small, that are spread throughout the park. The displays change yearly so it lends itself to multiple visits. It’s a great way to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of city life and to relax in an artistic and creative environment.

Address: Hessenweg 9, 8028 PA Zwolle Admission fee: adults: 10 EUR (including a catalogue of the exhibition); kids (aged 8-18): 5 EUR Opening times: Wednesday-Sunday, from 1 pm till 6 pm, in the summer months. The 2023 dates haven’t been yet announced. Check their website for more information. Website: www.anningahof.nl ( only in Dutch )

With so many things to do in Zwolle, it’s a highly recommend city to visit when travelling to the Netherlands. While it’s not Amsterdam, Rotterdam, or The Hague, Zwolle has its own unique charm and attraction.

So, next time you find yourself in the Netherlands, visit Zwolle and immerse yourself in a different side of the country. There are many unique tourist attractions and of course, the top restaurant in the entire country. Start saving for De Librije, get planning, and pack your bags – destination Zwolle.

About Daniela

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One day in Zwolle: The best things to do in Zwolle

December 12, 2017 by Karen Turner 3 Comments

If you’re looking for a great day trip from Amsterdam, you’ll be surprised how many things to do in Zwolle you’ll find–and how much great shopping you’ll find in this medieval Dutch city, including a beautiful bookstore.  Keep reading for things to do in Zwolle, the Netherlands and how to get to Giethoorn from Amsterdam (via Zwolle). 

• 1 Things to do in Zwolle covered in this guide to Zwolle
• 2 A brief history of Zwolle
• 3 A must-see in Zwolle: Waanders in de Broeren bookstore in a former cathedral
• 4 Sassenpoort gate
• 5 Eat at the best restaurant in the Netherlands: De Librije ​
• 6 Shopping in Zwolle
• 7 Stadswandeling in Zwolle ​
• 8 Visit Museum De Fundatie
• 9 Admire or climb de Peperbus ( Onze Lieve Vrouwe Basiliek en Onze Lieve)
• 10 Try Zwolse Balletjes
• 11  St Michael’s Church
• 12.0.1 The reason that many people come to Zwolle: you must transfer through Zwolle to get to Giethoorn, which makes it the perfect place to stay if you want to take a day trip from Giethoorn.
• 13 Downloadable Map of things to do in Zwolle
• 14 Have you heard of Zwolle?

Things to do in Zwolle covered in this guide to Zwolle

• The stunning cathedral bookstore in Zwolle (Easily one of the most beautiful bookstores in the Netherlands)

Sassenpoort gate

• Eating at De Librije, a three-starred Michelin restaurant in the Netherlands

Shopping in Zwolle

• Melkmarkt for touristy stuff
• Walking around Zwolle aka exploring the medieval city of Zwolle with all its nooks and crannies!
• Visiting the innovative Museum de Fundatie
• Zwolse Balletjes
• Admire St Michael’s Church
• Not really in Zwolle, but consider taking a day trip to Giethoorn!

At the end, you’ll find a map of things do in Zwolle that you can download offline!

A brief history of Zwolle

Zwolle is the capital of Overijssel, one of the provinces in the Netherlands.  This historic Dutch city has seen inhabited for thousands of years and the city dates back to the 1200s.

It’s also a fortified city, which stems from the fact that Zwolle was one of the wealthiest Dutch cities due to its proximity to one of the mightiest rivers and its membership in the Hanseatic League.

The Hanseatic League was an organization formed by various cities in this part of the Netherlands to band together to protect their trade interests, including Kampen and Deventer.  They’re all lovely historic cities although the river that made many of them powerful is now dammed up.

However, the fortifications around these cities still make it clear that you’re entering a truly historic place, far older than the country of my birth. 😉

A must-see in Zwolle: Waanders in de Broeren bookstore in a former cathedral

I’m an unabashed literature geek and after seeing the Boekhandel Dominicanen bookstore in Maastricht , I figured that I’d seen enough beautiful bookstores in my lifetime–and there wasn’t another cathedral bookstore in the Netherlands.  However, a former colleague of my husband’s who is born and raised in Zwolle heard me raving about the Selexyz bookstore and casually asked if I had been to Waanders in de Broeren in Zwolle.  What a surprise I had in store.

The church that Waanders in de Broen was built in dates back to the dominicanen brothers who founded the church in 1465 as part of a cloister.

In the 1600s, the church closed and it became a protestant church like many churches at the time.  In 1983, the church closed and this historic church was restored in the ’80s into a historic exposition space.

However, in 2004, a local bookseller (Boekhandel Waanders) bought this historic church and turned it into a beautiful bookstore in a church with the assistance of Bureau BK.

The Broerenkerk is three stories high and full of fantastic Dutch literature.   Compared to the Selexyz cathedral in Maastricht , Waanders in de Broeren has done a fantastic job of integrating the existing structure in a modern way while showing off the beauty of the church.

One of my favorite features of Waanders in de Broen is the stunning organ that has been left intact (and still is played on occasion).  The book selection in English isn’t fantastic, but this beautiful bookstore church is very good for Dutch literature and for gifts.

Waanders in de Broen also has a lovely cafe that hosts an affordable yet delicious lunch with a twist.  Either way, it’s a great place to sit to enjoy the beauty of the church with a cup of coffee in hand.  Their menu looks like a newspaper and it’s in Dutch although the staff can help translate. I thoroughl enjoyed my sandwich at the cafe.

You can visit Waanders in de Broen on weekdays and Saturdays typically in the afternoon with a late night on Thursdays.  Check their hours ahead as they’re closed on Sundays.

It’s hard to miss the historical medieval gates of Zwolle.  The Sassenpoort gate was built in the 1400s shortly after Zwolle’s admission to the Hanseatic league to both defend the city and show off its wealth.

This Riijksmonument building was outfitted in the 1800s with the “cool feature” of being able to throw down boiling oil on enemies entering through the gate.   It’s easy to imagine yourself going back in time when you step through the Sassenpoort gate and I really think it’s one of the most beautiful city gates in the Netherlands.

Eat at the best restaurant in the Netherlands: De Librije ​

De Librije has been named one of the best restaurants in the Netherlands and it currently holds three Michelin stars.  De Librije focuses on locally sourced ingredients used in an innovative way where you get to choose what suits you best in a multi-course meal with an ever-changing menu.

It’s possible to get a reservation on most weeknights with some planning (weekends are difficult), so if you’re looking for a foodie experience at a Michelin starred restaurant in the Netherlands, consider heading to De Librije for lunch or dinner.  If you plan poorly, consider visiting their gourmet shop for some goodies!

De Librije also a luxury hotel in Zwolle for those who want the complete experience of being pampered in this former prison hotel… and you get breakfast in the morning.

Most of the reason that Dutchies come to Zwolle is to shop as the historic centre of Zwolle is full of popular Dutch shops that you’ll mostly find close to Diezerstraat. For touristy stuff, you can pick up things at Waanders in de Broen or the  Melkmarkt.

Lovers of cute boutique shops that carry independent Dutch brands will love Luttekestraat, Sassenstraat, and Melkmarkt, which is home to a number of concept stores. Be warned that many are not open on Sundays and close on the earlier side.  

Stadswandeling in Zwolle ​

  Getting lost in a medieval city like Zwolle is one of the BEST parts about visiting the historic Dutch cities like Zwolle.  The bit close to Waanders is quite pretty although history lovers will want to seek out the picturesque streets of Zwolle.

The bulk of the Rijksmonument buildings in Zwolle are clustered in the streets in between Sassenstraat, Grote Kerkplein, Praubstraat, and Luttekestraat (starred on the Zwolle map, so don’t worry if you’re wondering where these streets are!).   I also loved the area close to Pelserbrugje.

Similarly, don’t miss the medieval tower  Wijndragerstoren .  You’ll also have a picturesque view from across the canal close to Waanders in de Broeren. Hofje lovers may want to visit the historic Vrouwenhuis museum for one of the last original hofjes in Zwolle to be owned by the original family. 

Visit Museum De Fundatie

Museum De Fundatie has a diverse collection of art from all different ages and even has work from Van Gogh and Mondriaan.  Their exhibits change every three months, so check their website for the latest exhibits.  At minimum , admire the crazy egg on top.

Admire or climb de Peperbus ( Onze Lieve Vrouwe Basiliek en Onze Lieve)

  The Peperbus is an iconic church in Zwolle named for its shape.  You can climb to the top for great views of the city although the streets around it make it easy to admire it from below.   The name is the inspiration for a spicy cheese produced in Zwolle (peperbuskaas).

Try Zwolse Balletjes

Zwolse Balletjes are a candy from Zwolle made with cane sugar originally.  They come in all kinds of different and delicious flavors now, including mocha and vanilla.  The recipe is the same as the original, so you’ll need to try this unique Dutch candy at the Zwolse Balletjeshuis.   Even if you just love candy, it’s a great excuse to buy some Dutch candies as a souvenir.

 St Michael’s Church

This massive church in Zwolle dates back to the 1400s although earlier forms of the church have existed in the same place since the 700s.  Lovers of medieval churches will enjoy the rich interior details as well as the elaborate organ within this Dutch church.

Unfortunately, the tower collapsed, however, Saint Michael’s is considered to be one of the most beautiful churches in the Netherland. It’s free to visit although it’s not always open to the public on days besides Sundays.

If you’re curious to see another church in Zwolle that has been since converted, consider visiting Blue Sakura for a sushi buffet in a former church.  Who says that eating sushi can’t be a religious moment?  😉

How to get to Zwolle by train

There’s a direct train from Amsterdam to Zwolle that takes one hour and a half per way.   Part of the reason I encourage you to stay over in Zwolle is that there’s a bus connection to Giethoorn from Zwolle and it’s a bit much to go from Amsterdam to Giethoorn (2.5 hours per way) by public transit as the connection isn’t great.  I think that having one day in Zwolle and one day in Giethoorn would be perfect.

The reason that many people come to Zwolle: you must transfer through Zwolle to get to Giethoorn, which makes it the perfect place to stay if you want to take a day trip from Giethoorn.

Giethoorn is accessible by bus from Zwolle via the 70 bus towards Steenwijk.  The journey from Zwolle to Giethoorn takes about one hour and the bus stop for Giethoorn is Blauwe Hand. Giethoorn is widely considered to be one of the cutest towns in the Netherlands.  (Who can resist this?)

Click for my guide to Giethoorn .

Downloadable Map of things to do in Zwolle

Have you heard of Zwolle?

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

December 13, 2017 at 12:15 pm

Great article! Had a great time exploring Zwolle with you… and I need to go back for De Librije one day ​;)

December 13, 2017 at 3:21 pm

I could’t agree with you more!! Maybe good to know, but f you can’t get into De Librije (it’s extremely popular, you have to book months and months in advance), there is a Librije food shop nearby where you can buy such nice food goodies, well worth it.

[…] train: You’ll need to take the train to Zwolle, a gorgeous typically Dutch city.  There’s the 70 bus from Zwolle that goes to Giethoorn […]

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Visit Zwolle, The Netherlands, if you feel like a fun day trip. Zwolle offers the opportunity to visit the pretty east of The Netherlands. The small city should absolutely be on your to-visit list since it’s only an hour by train from Amsterdam. Discover the gorgeous buildings, splendid museums, winding lanes, design shops and excellent restaurants in Zwolle.

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About Zwolle, The Netherlands

Top things to do in zwolle, restaurants in zwolle.

• By train When you arrive in  Amsterdam by plane , you can easily catch a train to Zwolle. It will take you a little over an hour to get to Zwolle by Amsterdam central station or Amsterdam Schiphol airport. Check out the exact timetable  online . To travel on public transport in The Netherlands you will need an  OV Chip Card  that you can charge as you go.
• By car If you’re driving with your own car, or if you’ve rented a car, it’s very easy to get to Zwolle from anywhere in The Netherlands. You can park in various parking garages around the city centre. If you decide to stay the night (and you should) I advise you to book a hotel with parking space . 
• Planning your trip Looking for a nice place to stay? There are great hotels in Zwolle , as well as many lovely Airbnb’s .

Hotels in Zwolle

Van der valk hotel zwolle.

Van der Valk is a top choice when staying in The Netherlands and the hotel in Zwolle is no exception. The hotel is situated outside the city centre and a great option if you’re arriving by car and want to see some other sights in the area. The standard rooms in the hotel are superior rooms, so you’ll be sleeping in grand and comfortable rooms, upgrades are available for very little as well. 

Pillows Boutique Hotel

Location-wise there is no better hotel in Zwolle to stay at than Pillows Boutique Hotel . It’s only a stone’s throw away from both the train station and the city centre. And the rooms are so very lovely. 

It is probably hard to imagine, but when Holland’s top cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam were still meaningless little villages, Zwolle was a sprawling city of great importance. The cities’ location near the IJssel river meant Zwolle was part of the powerful Hanseatic League, which made it an important trading port and cultural centre from the 11th to the 15th century.

But Zwolle is even older than that. With a discovery of a woodhenge south of the city, historians were able to conclude that Zwolle was inhabited from the Bronze Age on. The formation of the modern city started in the 8th century and Zwolle was granted city rights in 1230.

Since Zwolle was part of the Hanseatic League, the historical city is walled with a star-shaped fortification, which is very distinctive for  Hanseatic cities . Exploring what’s inside those city walls will easily occupy you for a day, making Zwolle a lovely day trip from Amsterdam, though there is more to see and do. I highly recommend visiting the stunning ‘Venice of Holland’ Giethoorn when you’re in Zwolle, as this town (that has only waterways and no roads) is one of the prettiest towns in The Netherlands.

Cycling in Zwolle

The best way to get to know any Dutch city is by bike, and Zwolle is no exception. This guided bike tour is the perfect way to get to know the city. A very knowledgeable guide will take you along the pretty canals, fortresses and historical buildings of Zwolle. And you’ll make a stop to taste some typical local delicacies. 

Zwolle by boat

Zwolle has a fine system of canals, so the city is pretty prefect to see from the water. You can either join a canal boat tour or rent a boat yourself. If you’re travelling with your kids, why not rent a pedalo or a standup paddleboard . So much fun!

Locals have actually baptised the tower of the Church of Our Lady as Peperbus (peppermill) as the tower has such a distinctive shape and can be seen from everywhere in the centre of Zwolle. You can climb the 234 steps of the tower to enjoy a beautiful view over the city, as well as see the remains of Thomas à Kempis, a German theologist who moved to Zwolle where he became a devotee of the Brethren of the Common Life.

Museum de Fundatie

Museum de Fundatie is considered one of The Netherlands’ top museums and is, without a doubt, the top thing to see in Zwolle. The main building is quite classical, but a surreal addition was connected to the rooftop, depicting (what I think is) a glistening cloud. The museum stages high-quality contemporary exhibitions.

If you have read this article you know that The Netherlands has a thing for opening (amazing) bookshops in grand churches. And there is also an amazing bookstore in Zwolle. Waanders is situated in the old Broeren church and the light and bright building, with the impressive organ in the centre, is filled with an amazing collection of books. If it’s all a little daunting, the café is a great place to relax.

Moonloft is just a great concept store and a fabulous place to go on your shopping spree in Zwolle. There are clothing and lingerie, jewellery, ceramics, glasswork and stationery to choose from.

Sassenpoort

Since Zwolle was once a fortified city, people in the Middle Ages could only enter the city through one of the city gates. Only one of these gates remains nowadays: Sassenpoort. You can see this grand gate at the corner of Wilhelminasingel and Sassenstraat. The latter is also the best street to find independent and colourful shops.

Day trip to Giethoorn

Giethoorn is a highlight in the east of The Netherlands and an absolute must-see. Plus, Giethoorn makes for a perfect day trip from Amsterdam. However, when you’re in Zwolle Giethoorn is just around the corner so you may as well visit while you’re there. Take the train from Zwolle to Steenwijk. There take bus no. 70 which takes you to Giethoorn. Use website  9292ov.nl  to plan your trip.

Giethoorn is called ‘the Venice of Holland’ as it is a town that hasn’t got any streets and is connected through canals, walking paths and bike trails. Giethoorn is actually built on water, and to say that Giethoorn is charming is a complete understatement. In spring and summer, Giethoorn can get extremely crowded as it’s only a small town and it has become extremely popular with Asian tour groups. So see if you are able to visit outside these seasons, or visit the northern part of Giethoorm, which is a bit quieter.

Discovering Giethoorn by water is an absolute must-do. Near the tourist office electric boats, bikes and canoes are for rent. If you’re pressed for time, but you’d love to visit Giethoorn when you’re in Amsterdam, there are (almost) daily  day trips from Amsterdam to Giethoorn .

Lots & More

Lots & More is my new favourite restaurant in Zwolle. It’s an easy find, right across the historical Sassenpoort. Try to grab one of the seats outside as it’s perfect for people-watching, and order a lovely breakfast, brunch or a salad for lunch. You can compose all the dishes to match your taste, it’s perfect. 

Stadscafé Blij

Taking a break is great at Stadscafé Blij , a lovely restaurant on the ever-vibrant market square of Zwolle. In the morning it’s a great place for coffee and cake, during lunch you can order scrumptious salads here and the evenings are best for a cocktail and burger from the extensive menu. 

Cocktails with matching hotdogs, or the other way around. What a clever concept. Dogtails is an excellent bar and restaurant to try when you’re visiting Zwolle. Order one of the hotdogs with some excellent coleslaw on the side and try one of the amazing cocktails.

De gillende keukenmeiden

De Gillende Keukenmeiden , which translates into ‘the creaming kitchen maids, is one of the loveliest restaurants at a pretty square in Zwolle. The outside seating is the best part of the restaurant, with funky parasols, bunting and colourful potted plants. Order a freshly made lemonade and a piece of one of the homemade cakes. 

Read more about Hansa towns in The Netherlands

• Like Zwolle, Deventer is also part of the League of Hansa Towns. It’s a colourful and pretty city, perfect for a day trip from Amsterdam. Or you can combine a visit to Zwolle and Deventer and make it a weekend away. 
• Road trip in The Netherland: along Hansa Towns

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More cities in The Netherlands

• 1 Understand
• 2.2 By train
• 3 Get around

The Dutch city of Zwolle is home to some 120,000 people and, although second in size to Enschede , it serves as the province capital of Overijssel . It is known as a "green city" for its many parks and the municipality's efforts to maintain them through sustainable activities. Zwolle is surrounded by different rivers and lies at a meeting point of different ecological zones. For visitors, its well-kept town centre is one of the main attractions, with an abundance of historic buildings and a pleasant city atmosphere.

Understand [ edit ]

The area where Zwolle lies has been inhabited since the Neolithic times, for which proof was found in the form of archeological artifacts and a (Bronze time) timber circle which is colloquially called Zwolle's Woodhenge . In Roman times, Salian Franks lived here. The city as we know is first documented in the 11th century, but it was the 13th century city- and market rights that made the Zwolle grow. It became a member of the Hanseatic League and grew into a flourishing trade centre. There was strong competition with neighbouring Kampen .

Get in [ edit ]

Zwolle is an important transportation hub towards the Northern Netherlands , both for road and rail traffic.

By car [ edit ]

The A28 between Groningen (in the north) and Utrecht (in the middle of the country) passes right through the city. The part near Zwolle is one of the busiest roads outside the Randstad area. Although additional lanes have been created over the past years, traffic jams are still not uncommon during rush hour. Direct road connections via the A28 include those to Assen (45 min) and Groningen (60 min) to the north, and Harderwijk (30 min), Amersfoort (45 min) and Utrecht (60 min) to the south-west.

The A50 intersects with the A28 just a few kilometres out of town (intersection Hattemerbroek ), providing easy connection to Apeldoorn (30min), Arnhem (45 min) and Eindhoven (85 min). From the intersection Hattemerbroek, this national road continues north-west as the N50 to Kampen and Emmeloord .

By train [ edit ]

Zwolle is a major rail transportation hub, and with trains running in 8 different directions from here, it's second only to the central station of Utrecht . The standard schedule sees eleven different trains arriving around the same time, twice per hour (around 15 and 45 min past the hour). This allows for a broad range of easy transfers. All southbound trains from Groningen and Leeuwarden stop in Zwolle, allowing for transfers from those lines to connections in all other directions. The station is served by fast intercity trains to large destinations, and by regional services to smaller towns. Important train connections passing through or ending in Zwolle include:

• The intercity train from Rotterdam Centraal – Utrecht Centraal – Amersfoort – Zwolle – Groningen / Leeuwarden .
• The intercity train from Den Haag Centraal – Schiphol – Lelystad Centrum – Zwolle – Groningen/Leeuwarden.
• The intercity train from Roosendaal – Tilburg – 's-Hertogenbosch – Nijmegen – Arnhem – Zutphen – Deventer – Zwolle .
• The intercity train from Vlissingen – Roosendaal – Dordrecht – Rotterdam Centraal – Den Haag Hollands Spoor – Schiphol – Amsterdam Centraal – Lelystad Centrum – Zwolle – Leeuwarden/Groningen

Other directly connected destinations via several regional Sprinter trains are Enschede , Almelo , Hengelo , Emmen and Kampen . Two direct Sprinter trains an hour run from Amsterdam Centraal via Almere and Lelystad, but the journey is around 30 minutes slower than picking up the Intercity from Amsterdam Zuid station.

Get around [ edit ]

The city centre is compact and in part car-free, so the best way to get around there is on foot. It's about a 10-minute walk from the train station to the centre.

To get to the outskirts of town or to see the surroundings, renting a bike is a good idea. You can rent one at Fietspoint Spruijt , the guarded bike parking at the train station. It's open early morning until late at night.

Although most visitors will remain mostly in the city centre, there are of course plenty of bus lines available to the different city district and surrounding towns. City buses are operated by Syntus . Regional bus connections are carried out by Syntus and OV Regio IJsselmond . There are two bus terminals, one on the east side of the train station, and one on the left. The division can be a bit confusing, but most of the city-bound buses leave from the west side, while most of the regional lines leave at the east side.

See [ edit ]

Most of the city's 14th-century defensive walls are gone, but a few parts remain. Especially in combination with the few surviving city gates, some towers and the canals, it's not too hard to get an impression of the extend of the fortified city from late Medieval times to the 17th-century Dutch Golden Age. This area, the historic city centre inside the canal ring, is the most charming part of town and holds a range of other old buildings.

• 52.513611 6.098889 2 City wall ruins . Only small pieces of the former city walls can be seen today. The best place to see them is at the end of the Diezerstraat. Once, the Diezer tower stood here too.  

Parks [ edit ]

Famous as one of the country's "greenest" cities, Zwolle has no less than 33 parks on its city grounds. Many are small, but all are well-kept and where possible, sustainable and environmentally friendly measures are used for all necessary maintenance activities. A stroll or a summer pick-nick are excellent ways to get away from the city buzz. One or two of the parks contain historic graveyards, and most have some sort of playground for children.

Other [ edit ]

Do [ edit ].

• Football: PEC Zwolle were promoted in 2023 and now play soccer in Eredivisie, the Dutch top tier. Their home ground Mac3Park Stadion (capacity 14,000) is 1 km east of town centre.

Buy [ edit ]

Zwolle serves as a regional centre for shopping and there's a wide selection of shops. You'll find all the chain stores that other large Dutch cities have, as well as a range of smaller boutiques and family shops. Combined with the pleasant atmosphere and ample cafés and restaurants, there's plenty of opportunity for a fun day of shopping.

The Diezerstraat is the centre of the shopping area, with surrounding streets offering plenty of choice. For smaller shops and more exclusive fashion boutiques, try the Luttekestraat, Sassenstraat or Melkmarkt The Assendorperstraat or Thorbeckegracht have some interesting picks as well.

Shops open their doors on every first Sunday of the month. On Friday morning (08:00 - 13:00) and Saturday (09:00 - 17:00) there are markets in the city centre, around the Melkmarkt, Grote Markt and adjoining streets.

Eat [ edit ]

• Kota Radja , Melkmarkt 50 , ☏ +31 38 421 35 34 . Tu-Su 16:00-23:00 . This Asian-fusion place is so popular, it's almost always packed. Reservations are strongly encouraged, especially on weekends, but even then you might have to wait for your table. It's not the setting or service people come for; it's the food. You pick small dishes from an extensive menu, in five rounds. The concept works much like an all-you-can-eat sushi place (and sushi is among the options), with dishes arriving when they're ready. €26 .  
• Os en Peper , Ossenmarkt 7/8 , ☏ +31 38 421 19 48 . Tu-Su 18:00-21:30 . A cosy restaurant with a small but excellent French inspired menu. 3 courses €32.50, 4 courses €42.50 .  
• Vidiveni Bistronomie , Jufferenwal 17 , ☏ +31 38 421 19 95 . Tu-Sa 09:00-22:00 . A bistro with a mission in a charming historic building. It serves high-quality bistro dishes, prepared with seasonal produce, but also offers a work and learn environment for students who face trouble entering the job market. The service is very friendly and many of the dishes have an interesting twist. It serves lunch (or even late breakfast) and dinner. Also a nice place for a cup of coffee with cake. lunch dishes from €6, dinner mains from €18 .  

Drink [ edit ]

The old centre is full of small and large cafés, perfect for some drinks and a good conversation. When the weather allows, outdoor terraces fill up. Thursday - Saturday, there are several dance clubs to choose from.

• Club 38 , Grote Markt 13 . Open only on Fridays and Saturdays from midnight to 05:00, this place offers serious dance music in the middle of town.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• Bilderberg Grand Hotel Wientjes , Stationsweg 7 . A stone's throw away from the train station, this is a friendly hotel in the Bilderberg chain. It's one of the better options close to the city centre. €70 for a single, €150 for a double .  
• Hanze Hotel Zwolle , Rode Torenplein 10-11 , ☏ +31 38 421 81 82 . Simple but adequate rooms in a historic building in the old city. The rooms can be a bit noisy and aren't too big, but some have pleasant views. The location at one of the old city gates is a major plus for this small hotel, but the service is nice too. €99 for double incl.breakfast .  
• Librije Hotel , Spinhuisplein 1 , ☏ +31 38 421 20 83 . This top-end hotel offers the same kind of standards as the highly awarded restaurant of the same name. It has modern rooms and suites with a range of facilities on top of the standard ones. The spacious and well decorated rooms have free use of an iPad, free use of a mini-bar and 24-hr butler service. The excellent hotel restaurant has gained 2 Michelin stars of its own, with prices being accordingly high. €295 .  
• Hotel Lumen , Stadionplein 20 , ☏ +31 88 1471471 . A large, new hotel with good facilities and a colourful modern design. It's located at the IJsseldelta Stadion. Single rooms from €60, doubles from €100 .  

Connect [ edit ]

There are a number of bookstores and supermarkets that sell stamps. For other post office services, try one of the following mail service points:

• Multicopy , Gasthuisplein 16 . M 12:00-18:00, Tu-F 09:30-12:30 & 13:00-18:00, Sa 10:00-17:00 . A copyshop that doubles as a post office, providing all the regular services in both categories.  
• Primera , Luttekestraat 52 . M 12:00-18:00, Tu W F 09:00-18:00, Th 09:00-21:00, Sa 09:30-17:00 . This bookstore has a post service desk as well, and also sells post cards.  

Go next [ edit ]

Although much smaller, the nearby city of Kampen has a comparable historic feel. Easy as transportation is from here, the lively student city of Groningen , historic Amersfoort or Utrecht are just a few train stops away. If you're travelling with children, consider hopping over to nearby Apeldoorn , to see the great range of primates in the Apenheul, or for a broader selection of animals consider the famous zoo of Emmen . Walibi Theme Park in Biddinghuizen is half an hour's drive from here.

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Zwolle: Top 7 Sights and Activities

Zwolle is the capital city of the province of Overijssel . Due to its strategic location at the junction of several rivers, Zwolle has become a city of wealth (as a trading station) and great charm (its historic city core resembles a multi-sided star surrounded by lovely canals). Zwolle is also popularly known as one of the historic Hanseatic cities (Hanzesteden), a collective whose aim was to protect and foster trade.

In this article, we will give you our recommendations on the best sights and activities Zwolle has to offer.

Zwolle – What to See and Do

1. museum de fundatie.

Museum De Fundatie , situated on the Blijmarkt , is housed in an imposing former court building that’s popular for its dome-shaped roof (locally called ‘the egg’ or ‘the UFO’). It showcases art from the Middle Ages up to the present time. In addition to its permanent collection, various exhibitions showing Modern Art are scheduled throughout the year.

Due to its massive collection of art (over 7,000 pieces of art!), Museum De Fundatie has a secondary location just 15 km outside of Zwolle, the Kasteel Het Nijenhuis . This museum is housed in a well-preserved manor that dates back to the 15 th century. The castle grounds also have an extensive garden where over 90 art sculptures can be viewed.

2. Grote Kerk

The Academy House Grote Kerk Zwolle (a.k.a. Grote Kerk or Sint-Michaëlskerk) is a 600-year-old church known for its ‘contradictions’. You might come across a religious artifact that hints at the city’s religious side, only to go a few steps and come upon an ornate gate that’s claimed to symbolically ‘block’ any recall of Catholic rituals. Either way, a visit to the Grote Kerk will reveal to you the richness of Zwolle’s history.

Our Tip: Entering the church is free but you may want to take a guided audio tour if you want to know the ‘secrets’ behind many of the things you see inside the church.

3. Dominicanenklooster

Another religious place to visit in the city is the Dominican monastery. Opened in 1901, it’s an active church used for various religious events and exhibitions. Tours are available every first Saturday of the month.

4. De Peperbus

If you’re interested in a city view of Zwolle and don’t mind a little exercise, visit the De Peperbus. It’s part of the Onze Lieve Vrouwe Basiliek (Basilica of Our Lady) and is 75 meters high. Climb the tower and be rewarded with a spectacular view of Zwolle. On a clear day, you’ll even be able to see the outline of its star-shaped canals.

5. Sassenpoort

Another way to view the city is to go to Sassenpoort (Sassen Gate), the only remaining gatehouse of Zwolle. Constructed in 1409, it’s a Dutch monument that enables visitors to learn how the city’s defense system was organized.

If you prefer to stay on the ground and relax, visit one of the city’s parks. Park de Wezenlanden is just outside the historic city center. It’s a large park with a petting zoo and playground, so it’s great for kids. The restaurant, or park pavilion, even has a little beach area.

Another great park for kids is the Doepark De Nooterhof , where they can learn about nature in an active way. It’s surrounded by ecological gardens and inside the park, you will find a terrace, a water playground, and a barefoot path.

If absolute tranquility is what you’re after, then we suggest Het Engelse Werk , the oldest park in Zwolle. Created in the early 1800s, it was designed to replicate the English landscape.

7. Shopping

Zwolle has an extensive area for shopping! The Sassenstraat is listed as one of the Top 10 Shopping Streets in the Netherlands. Other notable shopping streets are the Diezerstraat, Luttekestraat and Oude Vismarkt.

Just like Groningen , Zwolle has a Grote Markt (Market Square) where lovely restaurants and terrace cafes are situated. On Fridays and Saturdays, the place transforms into one big open market where various food items are available.

If you’re into books, drop by the Waanders in de Broeren book shop. It’s a wonderful and massive bookstore with a reading café on the first floor. By the way, it’s inside an old church building!

Hiking, Cycling, and Boating in Zwolle

There are plenty of walking, hiking and biking routes available in and just outside the city. You can get walking and cycling routes at the Tourist Information Points or TIPs located at the Zwolse Balletjeshuis and the Waanders In De Broeren book shop. Alternatively, you can always create your own route using the national fietsroutenetwerk .

You can also take a guided boat tour to explore Zwolle’s many canals or rent a boat and sail yourself. You can rent a classic boat, canoe, or kayak. If you’re a bit more adventurous, rent a water bike or a ‘donut’ (i.e., a round, donut-shaped boat).

Where to Eat in Zwolle

Zwolle is a foodie’s dream location. There are plenty of restaurants but if you’re looking to experience something different (and budget’s not a concern) then consider visiting the De Librije. It’s one of only two restaurants in the Netherlands with a 3-star Michelin rating.

Accommodations in Zwolle

As Zwolle is quite popular, there’s a wide variety of accommodations available ranging from cozy apartments to 4-star hotel stays. For a unique experience, rent a room at the De Pelsertoren, a medieval defense tower, or stay at a ‘boat boutique’ (houseboat).

About Kitty & Yogesh

Hoi! We’re Kitty and Yogesh, expats in the Netherlands. HollandDreams is a blog dedicated to traveling and living in the Netherlands. Together with our beagle dog Pépa, we travel across the country to explore exciting destinations and gather useful tips for travelers and expats.

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Home » Travel Guides » The Netherlands » 15 Best Things to Do in Zwolle (the Netherlands)

15 Best Things to Do in Zwolle (the Netherlands)

Zwolle is a municipality that is located in the Overijssel province of the Netherlands, a short distance from Apeldoorn and Enschede. Traces of settlement can be found in Zwolle as far back as the Bronze Age and the modern city was established as far back as 800 A.D. Zwolle is at the meeting point of several rivers including the IJssel, Zwarte and Vechte and the old city centre resembles a many sided star and is surrounded entirely by canals.

Throughout its history, the city has seen much involvement in the various wars that have shaped the Netherlands as we know it today, and has seen great trade through its rivers. In modern times, Zwolle features a myriad of historical buildings and attractions and offers something different to the likes of Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Lets explore the best things to do in Zwolle :

1. Grote Kerk

A magnificent example of a Gothic church, the Grote Kerk stands proudly in the old town centre of Zwolle and is recognized throughout the region.

Sparse records exist of the church before its current form, and from what is gathered there was a Romanesque style building before the current Gothic design.

This version was built in the 1400’s and has stood ever since.

On the right hand side of the exterior you can find three outer buildings that are a later addition to the church, and give it an unusual appearance.

Inside, the high narrow windows provide plenty of light, and the large decorative pulpit an organ provide a degree of opulence.

As the main church in Zwolle, this is a great example of Netherlands religious architecture.

2. Peperbus tower

While this tower is actually part of the Basilica of our Lady, its has become lovingly known as the pepper pot owing to its shape and design.

De Peperbus was constructed in the 1400’s which was a time of great growth and prosperity for the city.

Until 2006, it held the title as the tallest building in Zwolle and towers over the surrounding buildings in the city centre.

A must do when in Zwolle, climbing the tower to the public viewing platform is a great way to see the city from a different angle and make out the outline of the star shaped canals.

3. Sassenpoort gatehouse

A remnant of the once domineering fortifications of Zwolle, the Sassenpoort is a gatehouse and one of the finest examples in the Netherlands that still stands.

Constructed in 1409 during the towns involvement in the Hanseatic League, the gates show Zwolle’s old power and wealth.

Listed as a national monument, the building has been restored lovingly and stands today in perfect condition.

Admire the two circular gate towers, the crenulations, the decorative windows and the city emblems.

You can also see inside this fantastic building and check out the wooden beams and beautiful interior.

4. Museum de Fundatie

The prime museum in Zwolle, this establishment attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually and is a fantastic place to learn about visual art.

Included in the collection are over 7000 items such as paintings, drawings, sculptures and prints.

Famous artists you can find here include Mondrian, Van Gogh and Chagall.

The collection of art is stunning and the variety of works will provide endless amounts of discussion and engagement for art lovers.

5. Bonami Spelcomputer Museum

You can find this specialist museum on the outskirts of the city centre near the train station.

Spread over 3000 m2 in  a large warehouse, this is a paradise for any gamer or lover of computers, consoles and video games.

Part of this museum contains a dazzling myriad of historical computers, consoles, pinball machines and video game memorabilia including Atari, Dreamcast, NES and the once popular Sinclair Spectrum.

In the second part of this museum, you can find a series of consoles and arcade machines that you can actually play on! You could literally spend hours here looking at the historical items, or playing your favourite games in the console area.

6. Basilica of our Lady

While the domineering pepper pot tower is undoubtedly the main attraction, the actual Basilica that it is attached too is equally as impressive and worth a visit.

Constructed slightly before the immense tower, this cruciform church also features a Gothic design.

Inside this fantastic building you will find a complementing style of pink stone pillars with white-washed walls and tall stained glass windows.

The high altar at the far end is full of decoration an has a great deal of religious iconography and colourful detail.

When visiting the Pepper-pot, you should ensure you also step inside this wonderful building.

7. Nationaal Park Weerribben Wieden

This vast parkland covers two areas totalling 100 square KM of bog and waterways.

Approximately 20 minutes drive to the north of Zwolle, this wonderful place features a great deal of stunning natural landscapes to explore and an abundance of wildlife.

Species found here include the water soldier, sundew, black tern and the northern pike.

Explore this beautiful park by bicycle on the many cycle trails that wind through the fields, or take to the waters and explore the canals and lakes on a canoe.

8. Boat tour on the Zwolle Canals

What better way to see the marvellous city centre than via an interesting canal boat tour? A particular company of repute who provide boat tours is Rondvaart and you can find their pier in the south western corner of the star canal on Harm Smeengekade street.

For a reasonable price you can tour the canals on a pleasant river boat, enjoy a glass or two of your favourite drink and take in the fantastic sights of Zwolle from the water.

Your guide will explain various sights that you pass and you will learn a great deal about the history of the city and its waterways.

9. Dominicanenklooster Monastery

An imposing and intriguing building that can be found to the south of the old city centre, the monastery features a traditional design with a central courtyard and was built as late as 1902. While the exterior is quite charming, the interior is truly spectacular and is full of stunning detail and opulent decorations.

With high vaulted ceilings, some colourful and detailed stained glass windows and a myriad of intricate brickwork, this building really is a joy to behold.

10. Het Engelse Werk Park

One of the premier public parks in Zwolle, the Engelse Werk is a pleasure to behold and is a fine place to walk and enjoy some fresh air.

Constructed in 1828, this park has the style of an English Landscape park and was designed by Hendrik van Lunteren.

Much of this park is covered with beautiful woodland, but there is also several small lakes and waterways to explore.

Walk through the main trails, enjoy the scenery and wildlife and check out the old fortification remnants that can still be seen.

11. Enjoy a fine coffee in the Konkeltje cafe

Zwolle has a plethora of coffee shops, however the Konkeltje Cafe is one of the finest.

You can find this cafe on Dijkstraat on the smaller of the two islands that form the old town centre.

This is one of the locals favourite but the owner speaks fantastic English and will make you feel welcomed.

Enjoy their variety of delicious coffee’s or try a warming hot chocolate.

You can also enjoy a selection of fine homemade cakes, or buy some local coffee and tea to take with your as a souvenir.

12. Gasthuisplein

This long stretch of public walkway and open square is a pleasant place to enjoy a drink or a meal and watch the locals of Zwolle.

Located a short walk from the equally interesting Grote Markt, the Gasthuisplein features a myriad of cafes and restaurants all with outside seating.

Trees provide ample amounts of shade so why not sit outside one of the eateries, enjoy a hearty meal and relax in the city centre.

13. Walk around the old city centre

The small city centre of Zwolle lends itself to those who love to walk and explore in their own free time.

If you really want to immerse yourself in this fantastic place, take a self-guided walking tour starting at the Grote Markt.

From here make your way to the south and to Potgietersingel street and proceed through the wooded areas on the edge of the canal.

Afterwards make your way around the edge of the city centre and take in the gorgeous sights of the waterways, parks and architecture.

Don’t forget to cross some of the bridges and lochs and maybe stop for a coffee at one of the local cafes.

14. Stedelijk Museum

One of the finest museums in Zwolle, this establishment can be found on the Melkmarkt street and has a fantastic exterior and front facade.

Inside you can find a great display of artwork based mainly on contemporary works.

Works include an archaeology basement, a small display on the history of Zwolle, and an interesting display of micro miniatures that you can only see via a microscope.

15. Zwolle Golf Club

For golf fanatics, the Zwolle golf course is a pleasure to play on and offers breath taking scenery and a challenging course.

Located on the eastern outskirts of the town and surrounded by nature, this really is a beautifully presented and maintained course to play on.

Practice your swing on the driving range, perfect your short game and putting on the smaller 4 hole par 3 course, or challenge yourself on the intriguing 18 hole main course.

Don’t forget to relax in the club house after for a drink or a meal, and enjoy the views across to the range.

15 Best Things to Do in Zwolle (the Netherlands):

• Peperbus tower
• Sassenpoort gatehouse
• Museum de Fundatie
• Bonami Spelcomputer Museum
• Basilica of our Lady
• Nationaal Park Weerribben Wieden
• Boat tour on the Zwolle Canals
• Dominicanenklooster Monastery
• Het Engelse Werk Park
• Enjoy a fine coffee in the Konkeltje cafe
• Gasthuisplein
• Walk around the old city centre
• Stedelijk Museum
• Zwolle Golf Club

Tourist info Zwolle

A day out in Zwolle In Zwolle you will find the unique combination of the historic rich Hanseatic past and the innovative vibrant downtown. Within the old city walls you will discover a multitude of cultural and culinary offerings.

Vibrant and historic downtown

The historic city center houses many terraces, restaurants and cafes. Strolling through the center you automatically arrive at the two most striking manifestations of Zwolle: the most beautiful bookstore in the Netherlands, 'Van der Velde in de Broeren' and Museum de Fundatie. From the striking window of the museum one look is enough: the bustling city center lies at your feet.

Contact information

• Address Achter de Broeren 1 8011VA Zwolle
• phone number +31384215392
• email [email protected]
• website website

Opening hours

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Zwolle travel guide

Zwolle tourism | zwolle guide, you're going to love zwolle.

The capital of the Netherlands' Overijssel province, Zwolle was once a mighty trading port. Now it's a beautiful city of around 125,000 people that can be explored by bike. Plenty of festivals, activities to enjoy, and historical museums make it a town that punches well above its weight.

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Zwolle

1. the medieval center.

In the 14th century, Zwolle was the hub of the Hanseatic League, growing rich trading across the Baltic and North sea region. These days the medieval core is almost intact, and landmarks like the Pepperbox Tower offer a portal back in time that few other cities can match.

2. There Are Some Fantastic Museums

Check out the City Museum (housed in the Drostenhuis, an opulent 18th-century mansion), and don't miss the Museum De Fundatie, one of the finest contemporary art spaces in the Netherlands.

3. Festivals for Foodies, Theater Fans, and Music Lovers

Zwolle has a busy events schedule. From dance events like Kingdance, to the Bevrijdingsfestival (which commemorates the defeat of Nazi Germany), and June's Vier Oost theater festival, there are events for everyone.

4. It's a Wonderful Place to Explore

One of the great things about Zwolle is how accessible it is. The core can be explored on foot, but there's a 30-mile-long cycle route around the city center, and you can even rent "water bikes" to navigate the town's canals.

5. There Are Plenty of Day Trip Destinations

Giethoorn is just a few miles to the north and is a real treat. Lacking any roads, it solely relies on canals - just like Venice. Kampen is close by too, another Hanseatic port, with a remarkable drawbridge and a quaint medieval center.

What to do in Zwolle

1. a masterpiece of a museum.

Visually striking due to its neoclassical facade and outlandish lozenge-shaped addition on the roof, the Museum de Fundatie is one of the Netherlands' premier art galleries. That's saying something in one of the world's great artistic nations. But don't expect to encounter too many Reubens or Rembrandts here. Instead, the museum is dedicated to modern art, with works by giants like Van Gogh, Mondrian, and Marc Chagall, along with regular retrospectives and showcases of established and rising artists.

2. Picnic, Take A Dip, Or Ride The Thrilling Zips

In the warmer months, Wythmenerplas is Zwolle's recreational hub. This large mix of parkland and lakes is a few miles southeast of the medieval center, but easy to reach via bike paths or buses. When you make the trip, it's the perfect place to unwind or cool off, with swimming ponds, cycle trails, and the adrenaline-filled thrills of the Lakeside Cablepark and its numerous ziplines. And with winter markets and activities like skating, it's actually a year-round attraction. So if you need some outdoor fun when you're in town, you know where to go.

3. A Towering Tribute To Zwolle's Medieval Greatness

Zwolle's iconic main church was built in stages during the 14th and 15th centuries, as the city established itself as a trading and financial center. A dominant feature on vistas of the city's heart, you can't miss it when wandering the narrow lanes - and experiencing the main chapel is a must for all visitors. But an even bigger attraction is the chance to scale the 234 steps of the church's tower. When you reach the top, you'll realize that the effort was worthwhile as you survey sublime views of the city below.

4. Zwolle's Vibrant Shopping And Dining District

If you want to stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables, or find Zwolle's finest eating and drinking spots, heading to Melkmarkt in the center of town is a must. Located on the star-shaped island which form's the historic downtown, every weekend this street becomes a vibrant market where fresh produce, second hand goods, fashion, and crafts are all on display. And with bars, French bistros, Vietnamese noodle joints, Italian cafes and much more being cooked up nearby, it's an enticing place to wander any day of the week.

5. A Little Slice Of Medieval Magic

Like Zwolle, Kampen rose to prosperity in the medieval era, but never became a larger urban center, partly due to the sea retreating, leaving its port almost totally obsolete. Located just 10 miles west of Zwolle itself, its medieval core has been miraculously preserved, with evocative towers, walls, 600 year-old homes, and a famous drawbridge. The Stedelijk Museum provides a fascinating explanation for the town's decline, there's the oddly leaning Nieuwe Toren, and countless bakeries to fill up on Dutch pastries before heading back to Zwolle.

Where to Eat in Zwolle

For fine Dutch cuisine like mussels in garlic butter or pancakes and asparagus, check out Poppe, and try Het Wijnhuis for a mixture of gourmet food and outstanding wine. Expect meals to cost around EUR25-40.

When to visit Zwolle

Zwolle's best tourist season is summer. From June to September, you can enjoy the cycle paths, swim at lakeside beaches, and attend most of the city's festivals.

How to Get to Zwolle

Eelde Airport (GRQ) is the nearest to Zwolle, but it's actually quicker to travel from Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS). Just take the Dutch Railways service straight to the city (1 hour 24 minutes, EUR17-20).

Trains run into Zwolle from Amsterdam and Rotterdam, and you can reach the city from most major northern European cities.

From Amsterdam take the E30, then the A50 at Apeldoorn.

Airports near Zwolle

Airlines serving zwolle, where to stay in zwolle.

Citycentrum - the center of Zwolle is separated from the rest of the town by a star-shaped man-made moat, and it's a magical place to explore.

Popular Neighborhoods in Zwolle

Assendorp - south of the center, Assendorp is much newer and is home to an eclectic community of students, artists, and well-to-do locals. It also hosts the city's train station.

Katerveer - Katerveer is a gem of a neighborhood, and is crowned by the sublime Spoolderbos, a beautiful woodland park that visitors can cross to reach the town center.

Where to stay in popular areas of Zwolle

Most booked hotels in zwolle, how to get around zwolle, public transportation.

Local buses are operated by Syntus and provide pretty good coverage. To ride them, you'll need to get an OV-chipkaart. After that, a single journey will cost EUR1.50.

Taxis should charge a flag drop of around EUR5, followed by around EUR3 per mile.

Car rental options include Hertz and Europcar, and rates can be as low as EUR8 per day.

The Cost of Living in Zwolle

Shopping streets.

Modern Zwolle continues to be a trading city, with plenty of great stores to explore. Head to the old center and check out boutiques like LIV, September, and La Ropa, or visit the Melkmarkt to find fresh food and drink.

Groceries and Other

Supermarkets in Zwolle include Jumbo and Spar, where 12 eggs will come to around EUR2.10.

Zwolle, The Netherlands – Explore History & 6x to See and Do!

Anyone visiting the Hanseatic city of Zwolle will discover that the inhabitants do not have blue fingers. But what you do see is that today it is a pleasant city with a beautiful historic center from the 15th century. It was not for nothing that this century before Zwolle was called the Golden Age. Just because of the history of the city it is a nice destination to stay there for 1 or 2 days.

But what about that story about the blue fingers? And what exactly is a Hanseatic city and why does the city have a star status? And which 6 sights shouldn’t be missed if you take a city trip to this nice place in Overijssel? Here you can read all about this historical destination: Hanseatic city Zwolle.

In this Travel Guide to Zwolle

• History of Zwolle – Blooming period, star status and Blue Fingers?
• Sightseeing – 6 places of interest

Accommodation – Where to stay in Zwolle?

Transport – how to get there, plan your trip to zwolle & the netherlands.

• Accommodation:   Hotel by Booking or Hostel by Hostelworld?
• Activities:   Tickets & Tours
• Transport by Air? Flight Tickets
• Own Transport? Rent a Car
• Public Transport? Traintickets

This Travel Guide to Zwollen in The Netherlands contains affiliate links. This means that if you make a booking through one of the links on this website, Travel4history gets a small compensation for it. This does not cost you anything extra by the way!

History Zwolle – Blooming period, star status and Blue Fingers?

The name Zwolle is mentioned for the first time in a charter in 1040. This means that in 2040 the city may officially celebrate its 1,000th anniversary. However, it took until 1230 before the city was actually granted city rights. These were granted by the bishop of Utrecht, Wilbrand van Oldenburg (1175-1233) because of the help the city gave the bishop during the Battle of Ane (1227). Of course, at that time Zwolle was a rather small hamlet that only really flourished in the 15th century.

Economic and cultural prosperity in the Hanseatic city of Zwolle

For the 15th century was the Golden Age for Zwolle. A number of buildings from the present inner-city come from this century and give the city a historical character. The economy grew with the arrival of merchants and guilds in the city. And in 1448, the German bishop Rudolf van Diepholt (1390-1455) granted Zwolle city rights by including it among the cities of the German Empire. It thus became a real trading town and joined the Hanseatic League. This was an alliance of about 200 cities that traded with each other. As a result of this partnership, Zwolle became one of the most cultural and economic cities in the region. This changed at the end of the 16th century when Amsterdam and the Zeeland region started to form the economic heart of the city.

A Star is born and her name is Zwolle

Finally, it is interesting to know that the center of Zwolle consists of a star. This was created during the Eighty Years’ War (1568-1648) when the stadholder and army commander of the Republic of the Seven United Provinces, Maurice of Orange, had the city fortified with a large wall. And you can still discover the contours of this star yourself from one of the 6 historic sights of this Hanseatic city.

But what is the story of those Blue Fingers?

Around 1500 there was a lot of rivalry between Zwolle and the nearby city of Kampen. Because Kampen needed a new glockenspiel, Zwolle decided to sell their bells to the enemy for far too much money. The Kampen people were quite willing to pay this amount, only how they wanted to decide for themselves. In order to give the people of Zwolle a polish, it was decided to deliver large bags of nickels. The people of Zwolle were counting for days, they literally ‘counted their fingers blue’.

Sights – 6 historical sites in Zwolle

In the meantime, you have gained an impression of the history of Zwolle. Below you will find 6 sights that you really should not miss during a visit to this old Hanseatic city. And don’t forget to take a look around you at the many monumental buildings in the old city center. And in addition to the 6 historical sites, you will find more tips and information to make your city trip to Zwolle complete.

1. The most beautiful gate in the Netherlands: De Sassenpoort

The most beautiful gate in the Netherlands? Maybe! It’s certainly an impressive appearance. When you arrive at the canal from the station, you will see the Sassenpoort on your right-hand side.

At the beginning of the 15th century, this gate was built as part of the city’s fortifications. It served as an internal gate made of trachyte, tuff, and sandstone. The beautiful exterior of the building shows how prosperous the Hanseatic city of Zwolle was in the 15th century.

After it lost its function as a defense gate in the 17th century, it was used as a prison. From 1739 the tower was used to house less fortunate families.

At the end of the 19th century, the Dutch State took control of the monument. Time for a restoration! The wooden bell tower was replaced by the current stone tower. For a century the Sassenpoort was in use by the Provincial State Archives in Overijssel and is now used as an exhibition space.

Would you like to visit the Sassenpoort? This is only possible on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. till 5 p.m. (in winter until 4 p.m.). Access to the gate and the exhibition costs 3 euros.

2. The church without a tower: St. Michael’s Church

There used to be a Romanesque church on the site of St Michael’s Church. But in the 15th century, a new church was built in honor of the dragon’s fighter, the archangel Michael. On top of the roof is a statue of him, but don’t forget the remarkable green version on the market square!

Once upon a time, St. Michael’s Church had the highest church tower in the Netherlands, higher than the Dom Tower in Utrecht. But in 1682, the 120-meter-high tower collapsed due to a lightning strike and was never rebuilt.

The interior of the church was a bit disappointing, but that was mainly because they were busy renovating it (May 2019). Nevertheless, this church has two objects that are normally worth a visit: an organ from 1721 and a pulpit from the beginning of the 17th century.

And after visiting this church it is time for an alcoholic drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants on the market square!

3. Modern art in Museum de Fundatie

Would you like to visit a museum? Well, Museum de Fundatie is the right place for you. This remarkable building was built between 1838 and 1841 in neoclassical style. But the most characteristic part of the building is the ‘cloud’ on the roof. This ‘cloud’ consists of 55,000 white-blue tiles and gives the museum a spectacular appearance.

The museum houses a collection of fine art from the Middle Ages to the present day. But above all, modern and contemporary art predominates. But to be honest, it is a beautiful museum with paintings of Corneille, Appel, Toorop, and many other painters from the 20th century.

The museum is open from Tuesday till Sunday from 11 am till 5 pm. Entrance to the museum costs €14 per person.

Fact: Zwolle is the city of the painter Herman Brood (1946-2001). Opposite Museum de Fundatie is the Herman Brood Experience. If you are interested in a painting by Herman Brood, then this is the place to be!

4. View over the city: the Peperbus (Pepperbox)

Another church that should not be missed is the ‘Our Lady for the Assumption’. But this church is best known for its tower, called the Pepperbox. Why this name? Just take a good look at the tower! What does it look like (look closely!)? Right!

The first foundations for a church were built at the end of the 14th century. In 1450 a tower was added. After the iconoclasm of 1566, the church was used for a long time (until 1811) for nonchurch purposes. The Protestant majority in Zwolle decided that the Catholic Pepperbox could not be used as a church.

Climbing the 236 steps of the Peperbus is a funny thing to do! From the tower, you have a beautiful view of the Hanseatic city of Zwolle. The costs for this climb are € 3 euros per person. If you look closely you might recognize the star of Zwolle! Okay, it’s almost impossible to see, but the star-shaped city center is a fact!

The church is open from 1 April to 1 November on Mondays from 13:30 to 16:30 and from Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 to 16:30. From 1 November to 1 April it is open from Monday to Friday from 1.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. and from Saturday to 4.30 p.m.

History: Pope John Paul II awarded the honorary title of Basilica Minor to the Church of Our Lady.

5. The city wall and the 23 gates

If you’re going to visit an old city with defenses, you want to see the old city wall too, don’t you? On the north side of the city center, there are still some parts of the city wall from the 15th century. If you walk in the street ‘Aan de Stadsmuur’, which means ‘At the city wall’ you can’t miss it!

From the fortifications, only 3 of the 23 gates have survived in addition to the abovementioned Sassenpoort and the city wall. These are the Pelserpoorttoren, the Zwanentoren and the Wijndragerstoren.

Tip: How is the weather? Sunny? Well, you can take a nice boat trip around the old town. A ticket costs €9.

6. The Broerenkerk or Waanders in the Brothers

Finally, a church! Or not? In the 15th century, the Dominicans founded the Broerenklooster and the Broerenkerk. But from 1580 the monastery and the church were closed and in 1640 they were taken into use by the Protestants. They held their services here until 1983.

Since 1983, the building has been used for various exhibitions and events. But that changed in 2013. Since then it has been in use as a bookstore! The original organ from 1824 is still present and can officially still be used. Waanders in de Broeren is regarded as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the Netherlands.

Waanders in de Broeren is open every day, also on Sundays. On Sunday and Monday, the church/shop is open from 12 o’clock, the rest of the week from 9.30 o’clock.

Would you like to spend a historic night in Zwolle? One possibility is Bed & Breakfast de Pelsertoren . Here you will spend the night in a national monument, as the Pelsertoren was part of the city’s defense works in 1500. Book in time, because they only have a number of rooms available.

Look here for more nice hotels and guesthouses in Zwolle

Food & Drinks: Zwolle is known for the best restaurant in the Netherlands, the Librije . But if you are hungry for tasty sweets, go to the Zwols Balletjeshuis . In addition to typical Zwolle products, you can also find information about the city here.

Zwolle is easiest to reach by train. Zwolle’s train station is within walking distance and south of the old town. From Amsterdam, there is an intercity train to Zwolle every half hour. This takes just over an hour. For more information visit the website of the NS (Dutch Railways).

Prefer to go to Zwolle by car? On the municipality’s website, you will find a complete overview of parking charges around the old town.

Maybe also interesting?

• Discover Amsterdam | City Trip to Mokum| Historical Travel Guide
• Haarlem, The Netherlands | Explore Little Amsterdam | Travel Guide

And what did you think of Hanseatic city Zwolle? Feel free to leave a message below!

Historian and Backpacker/World Traveler. In Travel4history I write about special destinations from a historical point of view. How else can you get to know and understand the world better than by learning about its history....

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Experimental, surprising, striking. The dynamics of this historical and hip city on the IJssel river burst forth. Discover boutiques, delicious coffees, fascinating museums and the best restaurants. The streets of the medieval city centre have a lively atmosphere. Merchants used to rule here, but nowadays it is students, entrepreneurs and creative people who provide the dynamics.

Zwolle is a cultural hotspot. The most startling sight is Museum de Fundatie. The elliptical structure of the museum, also called 'De Wolk', offers a fantastic view of the historical inner city. It also has the most imposing bookshop of the Netherlands: Waanders in de Broeren is housed in a 15th century church.

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Museum de Fundatie

Museum de Fundatie owns and manages an extensive collection of visual arts. Marvel at art by Gerard ter Borch, Vincent van Gogh and William Turner and changing temporary exhibitions. From the museum's cloud you have a beautiful view of the city.

Waanders in de Broeren

Waanders In De Broeren is called by many the most beautiful bookstore in the Netherlands. Located in the Broerenkerk, a monumental church building with a rich history. The modern interior is interwoven with the traditional style elements of the old monastery church.

Pay a visit to the Grote Kerk. The Grote Kerk is the beating heart of Zwolle's city centre, where spirituality and culture go hand in hand. It is a place for learning and innovation. To listen and to look. To discover, to marvel and to enrich yourself.

Climb the Peperbus

Have you always wanted to climb the Peperbus? You can! During the opening hours of the basilica, you can climb the tower. On top of the Peperbus, you can enjoy the magnificent view of Zwolle.

The Sassenpoort

The Sassenpoort in the city wall of Zwolle is a city wall that was built at the end of the 14th and the beginning of the 15th century as part of the city's defences. The Sassenpoort is one of the Top 100 Dutch UNESCO monuments.

Het Zwolse Balletjeshuis Touristen-Information Grote Kerkplein 13 8011 VA Zwolle +31 (0)38-4218815 / +31 (0)6-51556506 [email protected] www.zwolseballetjes.nl

Travel options

Because of its central location, Zwolle is easy to reach from anywhere in the Netherlands. By car or train you are there in no time.

1 hour from Amsterdam, 2 hours and 20 minutes from Neuss

Virtual offers

• Virtual city tour
• Dominican Monastery

Plan je bezoek

Een dagje uit in hanzestad zwolle.

Ben je van plan om binnenkort een bezoek te brengen aan Zwolle? Dan ben je op de juiste plek. Op deze pagina vind je de informatie die je nodig hebt om je bezoek aan Zwolle goed voor te bereiden. Of je nu op zoek bent naar tips voor accommodaties, informatie over het openbaar vervoer of gewoon wat algemene informatie over de stad, we hebben het allemaal voor je op een rijtje gezet. Laat ons je gids zijn en ontdek alle hoogtepunten die Zwolle te bieden heeft tijdens je verblijf. Plan je bezoek nu en maak er een onvergetelijke ervaring van.

Verhalen en tips

Vegetarische lunch hotspots in Zwolle

De lekkerste smaken

Romantische hotels

Verras je lover met een romantisch hotel in Zwolle!

Must-visits in Zwolle

Dit wil je zien!

Ontdek Hartstad Zwolle tijdens een van de prachtige fietsroutes

Rondvaart Zwolle, ontdek de Hanzestad vanaf het water

Leer alles over de rijke geschiedenis van de Hanzestad!

Winkelen met kinderen

Hier moet je zijn!

De beste tips in Zwolle voor jouw bezoekje aan de stad

Fietsen met gids

De mooiste tours met de fiets én een gids

Met het openbaar vervoer naar Zwolle

Met het openbaar vervoer naar Zwolle reizen is goed voor de wereld én ontzettend gezellig. Station Zwolle is een belangrijk knooppunt met lijnen uit Kampen, Enschede, Deventer, Amersfoort, Emmen, Lelystad en Meppel. Op dit station vind je de vervoerders NS en Blauwnet. Naast treinen, rijden er ook veel bussen van en naar station Zwolle.

Het station biedt verschillende voorzieningen, zoals een lift, toilet (voor mindervaliden), bagagekluizen, OV-fietsverhuur, fietsenstalling, kaartautomaten, GWX en Greenwheels. Daarnaast zijn er mogelijkheden om een hapje eten (to go) te halen, bijvoorbeeld bij de AH To Go, Julia’s, The Döner Company, Smullers en Starbucks.

Handige tips

De Zwolse Uitagenda

Zwolle is een stad vol cultuur en entertainment. Of je nu van theater, muziek, kunst of festivals houdt, er is altijd iets te doen in Zwolle. De Uitagenda van Zwolle biedt een scala aan activiteiten voor alle leeftijden en interesses. Of je nu een avondje uit wilt met vrienden, een gezinsuitje plant of gewoon op zoek bent naar wat inspiratie, de uitagenda heeft voor ieder wat wils.

De leukste evenemeten

Zaterdag 13 april 2024 | Drie Koren Concert | Zwols Vocaal Ensemble, Overijssels Kamerkoor & Musica Vocalis | Concert

Erfgoedhotspot

Stadswandeling: Zwolle in oorlog – Vrijheidsweek 2024

Lezing Roof en Ontrechting in Zwolle

Zaterdag 13 april 2024 | De Nacht van Leo Major | Morgen zijn we vrij! |

Welkom in Hanzestad Zwolle

• Dit is Zwolle
• Wat te doen
• Zakelijk bezoek
• Overnachten