What to do in Vlissingen: the best activities and tips
August 20, 2024
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If there is one place in Holland that we have secretly fallen a little in love with, it is the province of Zeeland with its beautiful Zeeland coast and old villages and towns. In particular, the historic fortified town of Middelburg is immense fun for a day out or weekend in the Netherlands. Experience a wonderful day out in Middelburg with all our tips for visiting this vibrant city.
A day out in Middelburg: visiting the historic city
Middelburg is the capital of the province of Zeeland. It is a historic city with a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The city center alone has 1,100 (!) monuments. The historic center of Middelburg could easily appear on a postcard. What beautiful, picturesque streets and imposing buildings can be found here! It is wonderful to spend a day strolling through Middelburg.
The most beautiful sights in Middelburg
Middelburg has a beautiful city center with many historical attractions, such as churches and monuments. We therefore recommend wandering through the streets of Middelburg, as you will find such gems as the Nieuwstraat and the Kuiperspoort. Make sure you have seen at least these beautiful attention-grabbers in Middelburg:
1. Abbey tower The Lange Jan
In the middle of Middelburg's historic center, the imposing Abbey Tower de Lange Jan towers over the city. The Lange Jan is part of the Abbey of Middelburg. The watchtower is 90.5 meters high and the top can be reached by climbing no fewer than 207 steps. Not only is De Lange Jan a picture from the outside, the magnificent view from atop the tower is well worth the climb.
2. City Hall
Middelburg Town Hall is known as one of the most beautiful medieval town halls in the Netherlands. Construction of the town hall started in 1452 and it is built in Gothic style of the late Middle Ages. The town hall has a tower with a clock and chimes. Middelburgers call the tower Malle Betje because the clock is always behind that of the Abbey tower the Lange Jan.
3. Zeeland Province House
The Provinciehuis Zeeland in Middelburg is located in De Librije, also part of the medieval Abbey. The Abbey complex consists of 18 buildings in the center of Middelburg. Some of the buildings have monumental status. The Zeeuws Museum is also located here. While visiting Middelburg, be sure to walk to the beautiful, quiet Abdijplein square and imagine yourself in medieval spheres for a while.
4. The Zeeland Museum
If you are interested in history, you can visit the Zeeland Museum, where you can learn all about the history and culture of Zeeland. The Zeeuws Museum is located in a beautiful old abbey complex in the center of Middelburg. The museum has a very diverse collection, focusing on the history and culture of Zeeland. The collection includes paintings, furniture, silverware, archaeological finds and costumes, which together give a picture of the region's rich history.
5. The Coopersgate
It is perhaps the most beautiful little street in Middelburg: the Kuiperspoort. Middelburg is full of picturesque, quaint little streets, of which the Kuiperspoort is certainly one of the nicest. The Kuiperspoort is the narrowest street in Middelburg. In the seventeenth century, the Kuipersgilde was located here and barrels and tubs were made here.
6. Middelburg harbor
Middelburg's marina is called Marina de Arne and is located behind the Middelburg Dam. The Arne is surrounded by stately old buildings on the quays (including several former warehouses from the VOC era) and characteristic little bridges. Today, the marina is used exclusively for pleasure boating.
The best hotspots in Middelburg
Besides the beautiful sights, Middelburg is known for its many cozy stores, restaurants and cafes. At many Middelburg hotspots you can enjoy the Zeeland specialties and other delicacies.
1. The Juf Middelburg
The Teacher is a store in Middelburg where artisan cakes, cookies, high tea and other sweets are made and sold. In addition to the sweets they sell, it is also a fine lunch spot. De Juf is actually a store and lunchroom in one and well worth a visit in Middelburg.
Address De Juf: Damplein 20, 4331 GD Middelburg
2. House of Flowers
House of Flowers is perhaps the most unique florist in Middelburg. That it is no ordinary flower store is immediately apparent. In addition to beautiful cut flowers, bouquets of fresh flowers and plants, you will find a large and diverse selection of silk bouquets. You will find this spot near the Abbey tower the Lange Jan.
Address House of Flowers: Koorkerkhof 14, 4331 BB Middelburg
3. Favorite
Favorite is a fun gift store in Middelburg with creative and contemporary gifts. The store is located on the edge of the center, on the beautiful Londensekaai.
Address Lievelings: Korte Geere 11, 4331 LE Middelburg
4. The Kloveniers Goals
An unusual hot spot in Middelburg is the Houttuinen in De Kloveniersdoelen. The Kloveniersdoelen was built in 1607 in the Flemish Renaissance style. It is a beautiful building with 36 ornamental anchors. You can have breakfast, lunch and drinks at the Houttuinen.
Address The Kloeveniersdoelen: Achter de Houttuinen 30, 4331 NJ Middelburg
Staying overnight in Middelburg
If you want to enjoy all the beauty that Middelburg has to offer for longer, it is of course nice to know where you can spend the night. Fortunately, there are many good options when it comes to accommodation in Middelburg. For example, there are various hotels and B&Bs in the town, ranging from luxurious and classic to hip and modern. An example of a special accommodation is Boutique Hotel The Roosevelt, located in a beautiful old bank building. The hotel features luxurious rooms with high ceilings and large windows and stylish furnishings.
Take a trip to Flushing
If you spend a day or weekend in Middelburg, it is definitely recommended that you also take a trip to Vlissingen. This cozy coastal town is just 7 kilometers from Middelburg and is easily accessible by car or public transportation. In Vlissingen you can get a breath of fresh air on the beach, take a walk on the promenade or visit the many beautiful sights.
Other great cities to visit in Zeeland are Yerseke and Domburg!
Travander
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