This Dutch city's Grote Markt square is home to a 12th-century church and town hall. Museums showcase visual arts and local history, while pubs and clubs enliven evenings.
Zwolle, the capital of Overijssel province in the Netherlands, is a city rich in history and culture. You can explore its medieval center, climb the iconic Sassenpoort gate, or admire art at Museum de Fundatie. Cycle along scenic canals, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, or simply relax in one of the city's green spaces. Zwolle offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern Dutch life.
Museums and Cultural Sites
At Museum de Fundatie, housed in a striking modern structure atop a 19th-century courthouse, you'll find art from the Middle Ages to contemporary works. The collection includes pieces by Vincent van Gogh and Piet Mondrian. To learn about local history, visit the Stedelijk Museum Zwolle in the 16th-century Drostenhuis mansion. Here, you can discover how Zwolle developed from a Hanseatic trading city to its current status.
Exploring Zwolle's Historic Center
As you walk through Zwolle's medieval core, you'll encounter the Grote Kerk (St. Michael's Church), a Gothic structure dating back to 1406. Inside, you can see an impressive Baroque organ built by Arp Schnitger. Another architectural highlight is the Onze Lieve Vrouwe ten Hemelopneming-basilica, known for its massive tower called the Peperbus. You can climb the 75-meter tower for views of the city. Don't miss the Sassenpoort, a 15th-century city gate with four towers, one of Zwolle's most recognizable landmarks.
Green Spaces and Cycling
Zwolle was recognized as the 'greenest' city in Europe during the 2006 Entente Florale competition. The city is surrounded by three rivers - Zwarte Water, Vecht, and IJssel - where you can enjoy water-based activities. Rent a "water bike" to navigate the city's canals or cycle along the 48-kilometer route that encircles the city center. Park de Wezenlanden, a large urban park, is ideal for picnics and walks.
Culinary Experiences
Zwolle is home to De Librije, one of only three restaurants in the Netherlands with three Michelin stars. For more casual dining, you'll find numerous cafés and bistros in the city center. The annual 'Culinary Zwolle' event allows local restaurants to showcase their specialties. Visit the cheese shop in the city center to taste a variety of Dutch cheeses.
Getting Around Zwolle
Zwolle has excellent rail connections, with direct trains from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes. The city is compact and easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Local buses operated by Syntus cover the city and surrounding areas. To use public transport, you'll need an OV-chipkaart, available at the train station or various shops around the city.
Day Trips from Zwolle
From Zwolle, you can easily explore other parts of the Netherlands. Visit Giethoorn, known for its canals and absence of roads, where you can rent a boat to explore the village. Another nearby site is Sint Agnietenberg, where Thomas à Kempis, author of "The Imitation of Christ," lived for most of his life.
