Zierikzee(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Zwolle, the top family-friendly hotel is Hotel De Bonte Koe, located in the city center near Sint Martinuskerk. This historic boutique hotel offers spacious rooms with baby beds and children’s meals, making it ideal for families. Its on-site restaurant serves authentic Dutch cuisine, including hearty stews and fresh pastries.

For a nature-oriented stay, consider Hotel de Gouden Leeuw, situated by Almere Plassen lake. It features outdoor play areas, bike rentals, and easy access to scenic trails perfect for family rides. Both hotels boast excellent reviews for hospitality and convenience, ensuring a stress-free family getaway in this charming Dutch town.

The city center of Zwolle is the best area for tourists. Located around Markt Square, it's within walking distance of major attractions like the Town Hall, Sint Martinuskerk, and local shops. The area boasts well-preserved 17th-century brick buildings and vibrant street life.

With numerous cafes, art galleries, and weekly farmers' markets, the center offers a rich cultural experience. It also provides easy access to natural sites such as Almere Plassen and Wageningen University, making it an ideal base for both urban exploration and countryside adventures.

Don’t miss the Zwolse Feesten, a summer festival featuring open-air concerts, traditional costume parades, and craft markets showcasing local artisans. It highlights Zwolle’s strong community spirit.

Visit the Stadsmuseum Zwolle, which houses extensive collections on the city’s history, especially its role during the 16th-century Reformation. Guided tours provide deep insights into how Zwolle evolved from a medieval trading hub into a modern cultural center.

Also explore the Gothic interior of Sint Martinuskerk, including its stunning stained glass and bell tower offering panoramic views of the city.

Photography enthusiasts should visit Markt Square, where colorful 17th-century facades create dramatic lighting, especially at sunrise or sunset. The Sint Martinuskerk tower offers a striking silhouette against the sky.

The Brouwersgracht canal is another must-photograph location—charming wooden houses, footbridges, and cherry blossoms reflect beautifully in the water. For wide-angle shots, head to the Almere Plassen viewing platform, where you can capture the city skyline blending with wetland landscapes—ideal for golden hour photography.

Try bitterballen (deep-fried meat croquettes) and aardappelpannenkoeken (potato pancakes) at De Vleeswaren or Het Kleine Huis in the city center.

Don’t miss Hollandse kaasschotel, a baked cheese casserole served with apple sauce and rye bread. For a taste of home-style cooking, visit Oude Willems, known for its homemade eierenboeren (egg stew) and vanillepudding (vanilla custard).

Every Saturday, the Boerenmarkt farmer’s market offers fresh produce, organic jams, and artisanal goods—perfect for food lovers seeking authentic local flavors.

Yes, Zwolle has excellent public transport. The city is a major rail hub with Zwolle Station connecting directly to Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam—journeys take just 30–50 minutes.

Local buses cover all key neighborhoods and tourist sites, accepting the OV-chipkaart electronic ticket. The city is also one of the Netherlands’ top cycling cities: rent an OV-fiets bike easily and ride along dedicated paths to Almere Plassen or Wageningen University.

Transportation is reliable, affordable, and eco-friendly, making it simple to explore Zwolle and surrounding areas.

Explore De Oude Lezer, a vintage bookstore tucked inside a 17th-century building, selling rare literature and art books. Its cozy reading nook doubles as a café—perfect for writers and readers.

Visit Beckmanstraat, a quiet alley lined with vibrant street art reflecting social themes and nature. Occasional pop-up exhibitions and poetry readings are held here.

Join a guided tour to Zwolse Ondergrondse Ruïnes, the underground remnants of medieval city walls—accessible only through special tours. These hidden layers reveal the city’s ancient foundations, offering a profound sense of history for curious minds.

Plan for 2 to 3 days in Zwolle. On day one, explore the city center: walk around Markt Square, visit Sint Martinuskerk, and stop by the Stadsmuseum Zwolle. Enjoy a riverside evening stroll along Brouwersgracht.

Day two focuses on nature: rent bikes and ride to Almere Plassen, or visit the botanical gardens at Wageningen University. Day three includes a visit to the weekly farmers' market or a hands-on workshop like pottery-making.

This balanced itinerary allows you to savor both urban charm and rural tranquility without feeling rushed.

Winter in Zwolle brings magic. From December, Markt Square transforms into the Zwolse Kerstmarkt, with twinkling lights, handmade gifts, warm mulled wine, and gingerbread stalls.

In late November, celebrate Sinterklaas, when St. Nicholas arrives on horseback, distributing sweets and poems to children.

Indoor highlights include guided tours of underground ruins and exhibitions at Stadsmuseum Zwolle, offering cozy, atmospheric ways to enjoy the season—even in cold weather.

Zwolle’s nightlife is relaxed but culturally rich. Along Dorpstraat, you’ll find independent bars like Café De Tijd, serving craft beer and hosting live jazz nights.

Art lovers enjoy monthly poetry evenings at De Oude Lezer or small theater venues. At night, Almere Plassen becomes a peaceful spot for couples or solo walks under soft-lit pathways.

While not flashy, the scene thrives on authenticity and intimacy—perfect for travelers seeking a quiet, meaningful evening away from crowds.