Derek Ogilvie - Up Close and Personal
Join Derek Ogilvie in Zwolle for an interactive and spiritual show at the Mercure Hotel.
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Zwolle
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Zwolle
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- The star-shaped historic center is completely surrounded by canals and is perfectly sized for walking.
- Don't miss the 'Waanders In de Broeren' bookstore, spectacularly housed inside an old 15th-century church.
- The Museum de Fundatie is unmistakable with its futuristic 'cloud' extension on the roof; go early to avoid queues.
- For a unique perspective of the city's fortifications, rent a small boat or take a canal cruise.
🍽 Food
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Zwolse Balletjes
Get these famous traditional sweets from the authentic Zwolse Balletjeshuis sweet shop.
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Blauwvingers cookies
Try these local cookies named after the historic nickname ('blue fingers') given to Zwolle's residents.
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Haring
Grab a fresh Dutch herring from a traditional fish stall near the main squares.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
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Sassenstraat
One of the oldest and most beautiful streets, lined with exclusive boutiques and specialty stores.
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Waanders In de Broeren
Beyond books, this spectacular church-turned-bookstore sells excellent gifts and local products.
🧘
De Peperbus
Climb the tower for panoramic views, then enjoy the quiet square at the base of the church.
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Potgietersingel
A scenic green park at the edge of the historic center, right along the canal.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
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Zwolle is the capital city of the province of Overijssel and one of the most well-preserved Hanseatic cities in the Netherlands. Its history dates back to the 8th century, but it reached its peak of prosperity during the 15th century when it joined the Hanseatic League. The city's medieval heritage is clearly visible in its star-shaped canal system and the imposing Sassenpoort, a 14th-century gatehouse that remains a symbol of Zwolle's former defensive strength. The Peperbus, the 75-meter-tall bell tower of the Basilica of Our Lady, gives a panoramic view of the historic center and the surrounding landscape. Zwolle is also known for its rich cultural scene, featuring the Museum de Fundatie, housed in a neoclassical palace with a modern roof, and the world-renowned bookstore Waanders in de Broeren, located in a former 15th-century church. As a major railway junction, the city combines a tranquil, historical atmosphere with a dynamic modern infrastructure.
- Location: Overijssel, Netherlands
- Top sights: Museum de Fundatie / Paleis aan de Blijmarkt · Theater De Spiegel · Dinoland
- Nearby: Hattem (5 km)
- Population: ~129.840
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 2 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 75 | 61 | 54 | 39 | 60 | 63 | 79 | 82 | 62 | 67 | 69 | 76 |
Geography
Facts
- Capital city of the province of Overijssel
- Former member of the powerful Hanseatic League in the 15th century
- Features the Sassenpoort, a UNESCO-protected city gate
- The Peperbus bell tower stands 75 meters tall
- Home to Waanders in de Broeren, a bookstore inside a church
- One of the most important railway junctions in the Netherlands
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Zwolle (22)
Dinoland👨👩👧 family
A family theme park featuring numerous dinosaur replicas.
🌐 dinoland.nl🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-17:30
Frequently asked questions
What is the landmark of Zwolle?
The 'Peperbus', a 75-meter high church tower that you can climb.
What is the Sassenpoort?
An impressive medieval city gate dating from the 15th century.
Is there a special bookstore?
Yes, 'Waanders in de Broeren' is located in a magnificent old church.
Can you take canal tours?
Yes, you can rent boats or join guided tours through the star-shaped canals.
What is De Librije?
One of the best restaurants in the world (3 Michelin stars), located in Zwolle.
Zwolle: where is it located?
Zwolle is located in Overijssel, Netherlands.
Zwolle: what is there to see?
Highlights include Museum de Fundatie / Paleis aan de Blijmarkt, Theater De Spiegel, Dinoland.
Zwolle: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Zwolle: why is it worth visiting?
Zwolle is the capital city of the province of Overijssel and one of the most well-preserved Hanseatic cities in the Netherlands.
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