This fortified Dutch city, founded in 1267, has a well-preserved 13th-century city center with the Markiezenhof palace and a historic fish market dating back to medieval times.
Bergen op Zoom lies in North Brabant close to the Zeeland border, where sandy hills transition to marine clay. Founded in 1212, the town holds onto its medieval roots through landmarks such as the Markiezenhof Palace and the Gevangenpoort gate. Climb the 14th-century Sint Gertrudis Church tower to see the surrounding area from above, walk through the underground Grebbe waterways, or bike to Fort de Roovere’s Moses Bridge. You’ll find historic streets, nearby beaches like those at Zoommeer lake, and forests such as those around Landgoed Mattemburgh. These elements create opportunities for calm exploration and active discovery.
Start at the Grote Markt and Historic Center
Begin your visit at the Grote Markt, the central square dominated by the Sint Gertrudis Church and the 15th-century town hall. The church tower, known locally as “De Peperbus” due to its shape, charges €2 to climb its 183 steps for views over the rooftops. Theater De Maagd, a five-minute walk east, stages plays and concerts inside a former Catholic church updated with modern sound systems. Head northeast to the Gevangenpoort, a medieval gate that once served as a prison and now displays rotating art exhibits. Nearby streets like Kremerstraat have small shops and cafes, including Inspire Coffee, where locals gather for fresh pastries and espresso.
Tour the Markiezenhof Palace
Built between 1485 and 1520, the Markiezenhof Palace was home to the region’s noble families. Today, its rooms display artifacts like 16th-century weaponry, portraits, and furniture arranged to reflect life during the Renaissance. Temporary exhibitions in the grand halls might include modern sculpture or historical documents. The palace garden, with geometric hedges and a central fountain, provides shade on sunny days. Guides share stories of how the building survived wars, including a French attack in 1747 that damaged parts of the structure.
Hike Around Fort de Roovere and the Moses Bridge
Drive eight minutes from the town center to Fort de Roovere, part of a 17th-century military defense line. Walk the 2 km loop trail around the star-shaped fort, passing through wooded areas and past a reconstructed cannon battery. The Moses Bridge, a sunken walkway crossing the fort’s moat, appears to split the water as you approach. Climb the nearby Pompejus tower to see the Brabantse Wal’s distinct landscape of sandy ridges and flat clay fields. Trails here connect to longer routes, including the 42 km Liberation Route marking World War II history.
Visit Landgoed Mattemburgh and the Zoommeer Lake
South of Bergen op Zoom, the Brabantse Wal’s geological ridge supports pine forests and heathland trails. Landgoed Mattemburgh, a 10-minute drive, has formal gardens with statues and ponds circled by walking paths. Look for kingfishers near the water or woodpeckers in the trees. From April to June, rhododendrons in the estate’s gardens bloom in bright pinks and purples. Combine your visit with a stop at Zoommeer lake, where a sandy beach invites swimming on warm days.
Experience Carnival Celebrations
Each year, Bergen op Zoom becomes “Krabbegat” during Carnival, a three-day festival with parades, costumes, and live music. The Sint Gertrudis Church tower is wrapped in fabric to look like a large doll, a custom started in the mid-20th century. Brass bands perform in the Grote Markt, and pubs serve bitterballen snacks with local beers like Hertog Jan. The “Prince’s Ball” on the final night includes a ceremony where the mayor hands over a symbolic key to the Carnival prince. If visiting in February or March, reserve accommodations months ahead.
Plan Your Trip
Trains from Rotterdam or Antwerp reach Bergen op Zoom in 40 minutes, with the station a short walk from the center. Use the De Parade or Grote Markt parking garages for hourly-paid parking. Pick up maps or book a Grebbe sewer tour at the tourist office on Kortemeestraat. The Grote Markt hosts a Thursday morning market selling seasonal produce like white asparagus in May. For historic lodging, Hotel De Draak has operated since 1397, with rooms facing the square.
