3 Day Getaway to Charming Zwolle, Netherlands

Discover the charm of Zwolle - where history meets modernity.

03 May 2023

Zwolle is a charming city in the Netherlands, known for its picturesque canals and historic architecture. As a tourist, you can visit the Museum de Fundatie, take a boat tour on the canal, and indulge in local cuisine at the farmers' market. With friendly locals and a relaxed vibe, Zwolle is a great destination for a weekend getaway.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring Zwolle's Historic Center

  • Check into Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel: modern luxury meets quintessential Dutch charm.
  • Visit Sassenpoort, a 600-year-old city gate that's a must-see.
  • Walk around the Grote Markt, where you can admire the Gothic-style town hall and quaint cafes.
  • Take a boat tour of Zwolle's canals, seeing the city from a different perspective.
  • Head to De Librije for dinner, a 3-Michelin star restaurant offering innovative and delicious cuisine.
Day 2

Art and Culture in Zwolle

  • Start the day with breakfast at Brasserie Jansen, featuring locally-sourced goods.
  • Explore Museum de Fundatie, another Dutch architectural marvel hosting classic and contemporary art exhibitions.
  • Check out Waanders In de Broeren, an old church converted into a modern bookstore with a coffee bar.
  • Head to the Dominicanenkerk, a Gothic church converted into a modern bookstore with a coffee bar.
  • Have dinner at Stadscafe Blij, with outdoor seating overlooking the canal, serving fantastic Dutch cuisine.
Day 3

Day Trip to Giethoorn

  • Take a 30-minute drive to Giethoorn, a picturesque village with waterways instead of roads.
  • Rent a boat or take a guided tour to leisurely explore the tranquil surroundings.
  • Visit the Giethoorn Museum to discover the history of this unique village.
  • Enjoy lunch at De Sloothaak, a charming restaurant with a beautiful terrace overlooking the water.
  • After arriving back in Zwolle, have dinner at Het Pestengasthuys, located in a 14th-century building, serving regional cuisine with a modern twist.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Zwolle

Nestled in the heart of this mysterious land lies a city with a name that sounds like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. Zwolle, where even the name is worth a giggle.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Zwolle on a Budget: A Fun Day Trip

Zwolle is a charming and quaint city located in the eastern part of the Netherlands. Despite the city's small size, there are plenty of affordable activities to enjoy, such as exploring the beautiful parks and gardens, visiting historical landmarks like the Sassenpoort gate, and sampling delicious Dutch cuisine at local cafes and restaurants. With budget-friendly accommodation options available, a trip to Zwolle is an excellent choice for travelers on a limited budget.

4 Days of Fun in Zwolle - Budget Edition

A trip to Zwolle, Netherlands on a limited budget can still be an enjoyable experience. Check out the quaint shops and cafes in the historic city center, visit the free exhibits at the Museum de Fundatie, and take a stroll through the picturesque Park de Wezenlanden. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations such as the Stayokay hostel or choose from affordable Airbnb listings.

Zwolle on a Budget: History, Food & Fun

Zwolle, Netherlands offers budget-friendly accommodation choices ranging from hostels to budget hotels and Airbnbs. The historic city is renowned for its picturesque canals and Dutch architecture, as well as its numerous museums, including the famous Stedelijk Museum. For those on a limited budget, sampling traditional Dutch cuisine at one of the local food markets is a must.

Romantic Long Weekend in Zwolle, Netherlands

Zwolle, Netherlands, is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway. The city is known for its charming medieval center, romantic canals, and spectacular yachts. Couples can enjoy exploring the city's museums, cathedrals, and historic buildings while indulging in delicious Dutch cuisine and fine wines.