Zwolle

Europe

/

Netherlands

/

Zwolle

Zwolle is a historic city in the Overijssel province of the Netherlands. It is also known as one of the greenest cities in the country due to its abundant green spaces. When visiting Zwolle, make sure to stop by Sassenpoort, a medieval gatehouse that offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Climb the Peperbus, a 75-meter-high tower, for stunning views of the city. If you love paintings and sculptures, you will enjoy the Museum de Fundatie, which houses over 7,000 works by renowned artists, including Piet Mondrian and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Zwolle is also home to beautiful parks such as Park de Wezenlanden and Park het Engelse Werk, perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or nature lover, Zwolle has something special to offer you!

Travel Tips for Zwolle

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Zwolle

A guide to Zwolle's local transportation

Bus

Bicycle Rental

Walking

Buses are a great option if you want to venture outside the city center. There are 12 lines departing from Zwolle Station, taking you to various parts of the city, such as Aa-landen and Ittersumerbroek. You can purchase a ticket from the driver using a credit card or use an OV-chipkaart, which is valid for all public transportation in the Netherlands.

Practical Tips for Zwolle

Things to prepare and best way to visit

What is the Bevrijdingsfestival Overijssel?

The Bevrijdingsfestival Overijssel is an annual event held on May 5 in Park de Wezenlanden, Zwolle. It coincides with Liberation Day, which commemorates the Netherlands' liberation from occupation during World War II. The festival features all-day performances by Dutch musicians and is free of charge.

What are some family-friendly activities in Zwolle?

At Dinoland Zwolle, you can discover more than 100 life-sized dinosaur models from the Triassic, Jurassic, and Cretaceous periods. This theme park also offers various educational activities, such as digging up fossils and dinosaur shows. Another family-friendly attraction in Zwolle is Park de Wezenlanden, which features a playground, a petting zoo, and ample space for picnics.

How do I get to Zwolle from Amsterdam?

The most popular way to travel from Amsterdam to Zwolle is by train. Direct trains run from Amsterdam South Station to Zwolle Station multiple times per hour, and from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to Zwolle Station every 30 minutes. Both train journeys take approximately 1 hour. Alternatively, you can drive via the A1 and A28 highways, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Does Zwolle have an airport?

Zwolle does not have its own airport. If you wish to travel by plane, the nearest major airport is Groningen Airport Eelde, approximately 90 kilometers from downtown Zwolle. For international flights, residents and visitors typically use Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, which is about 120 kilometers away. There’s a direct train connecting Zwolle and Schiphol Airport, making travel between them convenient.

What are the top attractions in Zwolle?

Don't miss one of Zwolle’s landmarks, Sassenpoort, a gate that was once used to enter the city during the Middle Ages. Other must-see attractions include the Onze Lieve Vrouwe Basiliek (Basilica of Our Lady), which features an iconic tower known as the Peperbus (peppermill). If you’re an art enthusiast, make sure to visit the Museum de Fundatie, which boasts an impressive collection of visual arts, including works by Dutch artist Piet Mondrian.