Things To Do
in Bergen op Zoom
Bergen op Zoom is a charming Dutch city located in the southern province of North Brabant. The city is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, including the impressive Markiezenhof palace and the beautiful city hall. Bergen op Zoom is situated close to the border with Belgium and is surrounded by picturesque countryside, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as cycling and hiking.
The city also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing its rich cultural heritage.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the historic Markiezenhof, a beautiful museum showcasing the local history. Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the museum's picturesque gardens.
Visit the stunning St. Gertrude's Church and admire its remarkable architecture. Afterward, wander the charming streets filled with local shops and cafes.
Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving Dutch cuisine. End your day with a leisurely walk along the scenic waterfront.
Begin your day at the Kasteel van Bergen op Zoom, exploring its impressive grounds and history. Take in the beautiful views and learn about the castle's role in local conflicts.
Head to the nearby Brabantse Wal for some nature walking or cycling. Enjoy the diverse flora and fauna in this scenic area.
Savor dinner at a cozy bistro in the city center. Wind down at a local bar with a fine selection of Dutch beers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture with well-preserved architecture
- Beautiful parks and natural surroundings
- Strong sense of community and local events
- Strategic location near the Belgian border and the North Sea
- Good transportation links including train services
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
- Some areas may feel small or less dynamic
- Higher cost of living than some other towns in the region
- Job opportunities may be limited in specialized fields
- Public services and amenities may not be as extensive as in larger cities
Best Activities in Bergen op Zoom
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic city center of Bergen op Zoom on a walking tour to discover its charming streets, beautiful architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
Enjoy hiking, biking, or picnicking in the scenic Bergen op Zoomse Bossen, a series of forests and natural areas offering opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature exploration.
Spend a day at Bergen op Zoomse Plaat, a nature reserve where you can birdwatch, walk along the coastal dunes, or simply relax on the beach by the Oosterschelde estuary.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bergen op Zoom with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bergen op Zoom
Visit one of these nice places.
A historical building with beautiful gardens offering great views of the city
A stunning church with a tower that provides panoramic views of Bergen op Zoom
The main square lined with picturesque buildings, ideal for capturing the essence of the city
Food in Bergen op Zoom
Bergen op Zoom Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional local bread roll with a crispy crust and soft interior, often served with butter and cheese. Best enjoyed fresh from local bakeries like De Grebbe.
Must-Try!
A fried fish dish using fresh catch from the nearby waters, typically served with remoulade sauce. Look for this dish at seafood stalls in the Gevangenpoort area.
Sweet, buttery candies unique to Bergen op Zoom, available at specialty candy stores such as Zoete lieve Gerritje.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bergen op Zoom better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The lively market in the city center offers a diverse selection of local produce, cheeses, and snacks. Visitors can sample freshly made stroopwafels and poffertjes from food stalls scattered throughout the market.
An annual event featuring an array of street food vendors showcasing regional and international cuisines. Takes place at Korenbeursplein, offering a variety of dishes to indulge in.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bergen op Zoom, cycling is a popular mode of transportation. Be respectful of cyclists and familiarize yourself with cycling etiquette to avoid any misunderstandings or conflicts.
When interacting with locals, a polite greeting, such as 'Goedemorgen' (good morning), 'Goedemiddag' (good afternoon), or 'Goedenavond' (good evening), is important. It's also customary to wait for the appropriate response before proceeding with conversation.
Respect for public spaces and cleanliness is highly valued. Littering is frowned upon, and it's important to maintain cleanliness and orderliness in public areas.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bergen op Zoom with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bergen op Zoom
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not compulsory in the Netherlands, including Bergen op Zoom. However, it is appreciated to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 5-10% if you are satisfied with the service provided.
In Bergen op Zoom, like in the rest of the Netherlands, credit and debit cards are widely accepted. Cash is also commonly used for smaller transactions, but it's always good to have cards on hand for convenience. Contactless payment methods are becoming increasingly popular in the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bergen op Zoom.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Bergen op Zoom, with colorful flowers blooming in the city's many parks and gardens. The weather is generally mild and pleasant, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
Summer is peak tourist season in Bergen op Zoom, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Visitors can enjoy outdoor festivals, markets, and al fresco dining during this time.
Autumn brings cooler temperatures and stunning foliage to Bergen op Zoom. It's a great time to explore the city's historic sites and museums without the crowds.
Winter is a quieter time in Bergen op Zoom, with fewer tourists and the chance of snow. Visitors can enjoy cozy cafes, holiday markets, and seasonal events during this time.
Bergen op Zoom at Night
Hiking in Bergen op Zoom
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful forest area offering various hiking trails and lush nature, perfect for a serene experience.
A spacious forest area featuring extensive walking paths, diverse flora, and stunning scenery, ideal for both casual and more challenging hikes.
A scenic trail along the Kleine Gracht river, offering picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere for walkers and nature lovers.
This forest area features multiple trails suitable for hiking, cycling, and enjoying local wildlife, surrounded by tranquil landscapes.
A popular hiking route that combines natural beauty with historical landmarks, providing a unique hiking experience.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Bergen op Zoom through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Bergen op Zoom by plane.
The main international airport of the Netherlands, located approximately 120 km from Bergen op Zoom.
The primary international airport serving Brussels, Belgium, located around 150 km from Bergen op Zoom.
A regional airport located in Antwerp, Belgium, about 100 km from Bergen op Zoom.
An international airport located in Eindhoven, Netherlands, approximately 80 km from Bergen op Zoom.
An international airport located in Rotterdam, Netherlands, roughly 75 km from Bergen op Zoom.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising the majority of the population, predominantly ethnically Dutch.
A significant minority with a sizeable community, stemming from immigration during the late 20th century.
Another notable cultural group, primarily from Morocco, contributing to the city's multicultural landscape.
A smaller group, consisting of individuals with the cultural heritage from the former Dutch East Indies.
This group includes individuals from countries such as Poland and Romania, who have migrated to the Netherlands in recent years.
Includes various other nationalities from Africa and the Middle East, contributing to the diversity of the city.
The Soul of Bergen op Zoom
Discover the essence of Bergen op Zoom through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Bergen op Zoom, with many local clubs and teams participating in regional leagues.
Field hockey is widely played in Bergen op Zoom, supported by various clubs offering training and competitions for all ages.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Bergen op Zoom, with both indoor and beach volleyball being common among residents.
Basketball has a strong following in Bergen op Zoom, with local teams and youth programs encouraging participation.
Running is a favorite recreational activity in Bergen op Zoom, with numerous parks and trails available for runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bergen op Zoom.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Bergen op Zoom offer an assortment of vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options like plant-based burgers, salads, and soups. Look for 'V' symbols on menus to easily identify these choices.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find a variety of gluten-free options in the city, including gluten-free bread, pasta, and desserts. It's advisable to inform the staff about any specific dietary requirements when dining out for tailored recommendations.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Bergen op Zoom with these cultural adventures.
