Aaltjesdagen (fishing festival)
On the second weekend of June Harderwijk holds its largest free event with historic fishing ships, a food market and music by the water.
PlizioGo
Try fresh smoked eel at the fish stands along the boulevard near the harbor.
Enjoy dinner at the historic Vischmarkt square, known for its excellent dining options.
Sample and buy local cheese from the specialty shops in the town center.
Stroll down Donkerstraat, the main shopping street featuring a mix of boutiques and known brands.
Visit the local market on Saturday morning for fresh regional produce.
Relax in the Hortuspark, a quiet green oasis right in the middle of the city.
Take a peaceful walk on the new city beach on the shores of the Veluwemeer.
Water temperature…
Harderwijk is a former Hanseatic city located on the edge of the Veluwe region in the province of Gelderland. Situated on the shores of the Veluwemeer, the city has a long-standing history as a significant trading and fishing port on the former Zuiderzee. Harderwijk was once widely known for its university, which operated from 1648 to 1811 and granted doctorates to figures such as the famous botanist Carl Linnaeus. The historic city center is enclosed by well-preserved ramparts that protect numerous monuments dating back to its peak during the Hanseatic era. Following the damming of the Zuiderzee, the city transitioned from a fishing hub into a major tourist destination, with the Dolfinarium, opened in 1965, becoming its most famous attraction. The city blends maritime heritage, academic history, and natural beauty due to its proximity to the Veluwe forests.
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 74 | 63 | 54 | 39 | 59 | 64 | 81 | 85 | 64 | 71 | 70 | 78 |
Notable places around
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Start your day at the historic Vischpoort, breathe in the sea air, and admire the Grote Kerk. At midday, explore the rich history at the Stadsmuseum and have a laugh at the art in the Marius van Dokkum Museum. End your day with a walk to the imposing Smeepoort and the classic Dutch windmill, De Hoop, soaking up the atmosphere of this charming Hanseatic city.
Morning starts at Vischpoort, where thick walls provide shelter from the rain. At midday, we dive into local history at the City Museum while the rain taps on the windows. In the afternoon, the humorous art of Marius van Dokkum brightens the mood. We end the day in the cozy warmth of a restaurant in the old town, safe from the damp wind off the lake.
A frosty morning at Vischpoort offers beautiful views of the icy waters. Midday is spent warming up in the Grote Kerk and exploring the City Museum's collections. The early sunset around 5 PM casts a golden glow over the Smeepoort gate. We enjoy the evening with a hot drink in the festively lit old town.
Hop on your bike and start at the De Hoop windmill before cycling through the historic Smeepoort and Vischpoort gates. At midday, immerse yourself in the city's culture at the two central museums. The afternoon is reserved for the highlight: a longer ride to the famous Dolfinarium, where you'll discover the fascinating world of marine animals. A perfect day combining culture and nature.
Despite the rain, we start our bike tour at Molen De Hoop, waiting out the first shower. At midday, we ride quickly through Smeepoort to the museums, which offer dry shelter. In the afternoon, we pedal past Vischpoort to the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk. We end the day at the Dolfinarium, where many shows are held under protective roofs.
The winter morning starts fresh at Molen De Hoop, with frost glistening on the fields. At midday, we seek warmth in the old town's museums after cycling through Smeepoort. In the afternoon, our path leads past Vischpoort to the quiet Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk. We crown the day with a visit to the Dolfinarium, where the winter atmosphere by the water is uniquely peaceful.
Park your car centrally and explore Harderwijk's historic core on foot: from the old gates to the bustling harbor. After a leisurely lunch in the old town, drive to the Dolfinarium, the undisputed highlight. Spend the afternoon with dolphins and sea lions. A final quick car stop at the De Hoop windmill completes your eventful day before you leave the city.
Rainy days in Harderwijk are best managed by car. We park centrally at Smeepoort, keeping walking distances short. At midday, we visit the City Museum while the car stays dry nearby. After a cozy lunch in the old town, we drive to the Dolfinarium, where parking is close to the entrance. We finish the day at Molen De Hoop, easily reached by car.
In winter, the car provides a warm base for your tour. We start at Smeepoort, enjoying the frosty views. At midday, we warm up in the City Museum before driving through the decorated town. The sunset at the harbor around 5 PM is wonderful to watch from the car. We end the day in a relaxed way at the Dolfinarium and the lit-up windmill.
