This historic Dutch capital of Zeeland has a 12th-century abbey, the country's second-oldest astronomical clock, and winding canals lined with Golden Age merchant houses.
Walk through Middelburg's narrow streets and you'll find yourself among 17th-century merchant houses and medieval buildings. The Market Square buzzes with activity around its gothic Town Hall, while canal-side warehouses remind visitors of the city's trading past. Look up and you'll spot the 90-meter Abbey Tower rising above the rooftops, or walk through the red-brick Koepoort Gate, built in 1735. More than 1,100 protected buildings from the 15th to 18th centuries fill the city center, including former VOC warehouses and religious structures.
Getting to Middelburg
Trains run from Amsterdam four times per hour, with the journey taking 2.5 hours. From Rotterdam Airport, drive 1.5 hours, or from Brussels Airport, drive 1.15 hours. You'll find the city center easy to explore on foot or by bike. Street parking costs €2 per hour, with limited spots available in the center.
Main Attractions in the City Center
The Market Square sits at the center of daily life in Middelburg. Its 15th-century gothic Town Hall displays intricate stone carvings and statues on its facade. In the Abbey complex, you'll find three churches and five towers, including the 90-meter Lange Jan tower. Climb its 207 steps for views across the city and surrounding countryside. The red-brick Koepoort Gate from 1735 stands as the last remaining gate from the original eight that once guarded the city.
Museums and Culture
Inside the Abbey complex, the Zeeuws Museum displays 16th-century tapestries showing naval battles in detail, along with regional clothing from past centuries. Students from University College Roosevelt bring energy to the city's cafes and streets. At Sjakie's Chocolate Museum, you can watch chocolate-making demonstrations and learn about local confectionery techniques.
Food Scene
Two restaurants hold Michelin stars: Barres and Scherp. For morning coffee and pastries, head to Honeypie. De Mug brown café serves local beers in a historic setting. Around the Market Square, you'll find 18 restaurants serving Zeeland specialties like mussels and oysters.
Shopping and Markets
Lange Delft street contains most major shops and department stores. Antique hunters should explore Langeviele's specialist shops. The Thursday market runs from 8:30 to 16:00 at Market Square, selling local produce and crafts. Near the marina, look for a red and white painted door leading to Kuiperspoort, where small independent shops occupy 16th-century buildings.
Day Trips from Middelburg
Cycle 4 miles (30 minutes) to reach sandy beaches. The town of Veere, with its historic harbor and 16th-century buildings, makes for an easy day trip. In Oosterschelde National Park, watch seals sunbathe on sandbanks and birds feed in the tidal flats. Visit Ter Hooge castle, surrounded by a moat and gardens, just outside the city.
