Zwolle: Medieval Charm & Modern Delight

Explore the rich history and charm of Zwolle, where past meets present in the heart of the Netherlands.

22 April 2023

Zwolle, Netherlands is a charming city that offers a mix of historical and modern attractions for tourists. Visitors can explore the medieval city center, including the iconic Sassenpoort gate, and wander through the quaint streets lined with shops and cafes. Additionally, Zwolle is home to several museums, parks, and cultural events, providing a well-rounded experience for any traveler.

Day trip plan

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Day

Zwolle Delight

  • Visit the Museum de Fundatie which has a unique collection of contemporary art and a stunning rooftop viewing deck offering panoramic city views.
  • Savor a cup of coffee at the quaint cafe called "Waanders in de Broeren" inside a 15th century church, which also houses a bookstore with an extensive collection of books.
  • Take a stroll through the historic center to see the beautiful architecture, including the Gothic St. Michael's Church, the medieval city gate, and the grand town hall.
  • Shop at the artisan boutiques tucked away in the narrow alleys, selling everything from handmade chocolates to bespoke clothing and accessories.
  • Lunch at De Librije, a 3 Michelin star restaurant housed inside a former prison, known for its inventive dishes that showcase the flavors of the region.
  • End the day at the windmill outside the city walls, where you can climb to the top for incredible sunset views over the city.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Zwolle by plane is to fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and take a direct train from the airport station to Zwolle Central Station. The journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Car

Zwolle is easily accessible by car from all directions, thanks to its location at the intersection of several major highways. The A28 motorway runs directly through Zwolle and provides easy access from cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Groningen.

Train

Zwolle has excellent train connections from all over the Netherlands. The best option is to take an Intercity train from Amsterdam Central Station to Zwolle Central Station, which takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Boat

While there are no direct water connections to Zwolle, it is possible to arrive by boat via the Overijsselse Vecht. The best option is to moor your boat at one of the many small harbours along the river and take a local bus or taxi to Zwolle city centre, which is around a 10-15 minute drive away.

Bus

Zwolle is well-served by long-distance bus services, with connections to many destinations in the Netherlands and beyond. The best way to get there by bus is to take a Flixbus or Eurolines coach which departs from Amsterdam Sloterdijk station and arrives at Zwolle bus station. The journey time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

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Zwolle, Netherlands is a charming city that offers a mix of historical and modern attractions for tourists. Visitors can explore the medieval city center, including the iconic Sassenpoort gate, and wander through the quaint streets lined with shops and cafes. Additionally, Zwolle is home to several museums, parks, and cultural events, providing a well-rounded experience for any traveler.