Zwolle on a Budget: A Fun Day Trip

Explore the charm of Zwolle without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Exploring Zwolle on a string (budget)

  • Wake up early and walk to the Grote Markt to see the beautiful Sassenpoort, an impressive 15th-century gate.
  • Take a stroll around the historic center and visit the Museum de Fundatie, located in a grand palace, where Dutch art is displayed.
  • Have lunch at Waanders In de Broeren, a unique church turned into the most beautiful bookshop and lunch space in the country.
  • Continue exploring the city, walking around the canals and admiring the architecture, concluding with a visit to the Museum of the Vollenhove.
  • For dinner, head to the cozy De Buik van Parijs, a restaurant that serves delicious French-inspired fare at a reasonable price. Don't miss the pan-fried duck breast or the homemade ravioli.
  • Finish your day with a drink at Het Vliegende Paard, a student pub that offers a wide selection of beers and a lively atmosphere.

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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