Things To Do
in Hulst
Located in Zeeland near the Belgian border, Hulst is a historic fortified town dating back to the Middle Ages. Its compact, walkable center is framed by old walls, bastions and a charming market square. Visitors can explore centuries-old churches, a market hall, and a peaceful riverside ambience.
The town makes a great base for exploring the Holland-Delta region with easy access to coast and forested countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Hulst, where the charming cobblestone streets and colorful facades will transport you back in time. Stop by the imposing St. Willibrordus Church, marveling at its intricate architecture and the beautiful stained glass windows. Enjoy a fresh pastry from a local bakery while taking in the sights and sounds of this quaint Dutch town.
After lunch at a cozy café, visit the impressive Hulst City Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region through fascinating exhibits. Wander along the old city walls, which offer stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside, perfect for capturing memorable photos. As you explore, keep an eye out for unique shops selling local crafts and souvenirs.
As twilight descends, enjoy dinner at a traditional Dutch restaurant in the heart of Hulst, savoring local specialties such as hachee or fresh fish. After your meal, take a relaxing evening walk along the canals, soaking in the serene atmosphere as the town lights twinkle in the water. Cap off the night by enjoying a drink at a cozy pub, mingling with locals and fellow travelers alike.
Start your day with a guided tour of the historic fortifications that surround Hulst, learning about their strategic importance during various conflicts throughout history. The knowledgeable guide will share intriguing stories and anecdotes, making the experience both educational and engaging. Don't forget to take your time exploring the impressive bastions and gates that still stand today.
In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby park, where you can relax under the shade of trees and watch local families enjoying their day. Afterward, rent a bike and take a scenic ride along the fortified walls, allowing you to appreciate the architecture from a different perspective. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, as the area is known for its diverse flora and fauna.
As evening approaches, head back into the city to discover a hidden gem of a restaurant offering a fusion of Dutch and international cuisine. Relish the delicious flavors while sitting at an outdoor table, enjoying the pleasant breeze and the calming sounds of the city. After dinner, stroll through the town square, where you might catch a local concert or event happening under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-4 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $7-12 |
| 🍷Glass of wine at a restaurant | $6-9 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $80-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Historical, scenic town center with fortifications
- Close to the coast and cross-border opportunities
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Some services can be seasonal or small-scale
- Weather can be changeable and damp
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Hulst
Visit one of these nice places.
The historic market square framed by stone and timber façades, perfect for daytime and golden-hour shots.
A striking church with a tall tower and classic Dutch brickwork, ideal for exterior photography and interior details when open.
Remnants of Hulst's medieval defenses along tree-lined streets and canal edges—great for moody architectural shots.
Food in Hulst
Hulst Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mussels steamed in white wine, herbs, and shallots; a Zeeland classic found at seafood-focused eateries near Hulst.
Must-Try!
A sweet, cinnamon-scented pastry roll from Zeeland, often enjoyed with coffee.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on the Markt offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, and regional bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch people tend to be direct and punctual; greet with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Goedemorgen' and keep to schedules.
Be mindful of cyclists; pass on the left and ring the bell when crossing or passing close to pedestrians.
Safety
Tipping in Hulst
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip for excellent service is common in restaurants.
Card payments (debit/credit) are widely accepted; contactless is common; iDEAL is popular for online and mobile payments; cash is accepted but becoming less common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming trees; pleasant for city walks and markets.
Warm days with refreshing breezes from the coast; longer daylight for sightseeing and outdoor meals; occasional showers.
Clear harvest light and autumn colors; quieter streets and seasonal events.
Cool to cold with potential rain or snow; festive lights and indoor attractions keep things cozy.
Hulst at Night
Hiking in Hulst
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive tidal nature reserve with birdlife and walking trails through unique landscapes.
Accessible dune and coastal paths within a short drive, combining sea views and farmland scenery.
Airports
How to reach Hulst by plane.
Major international hub about 150-200 km away; accessible by train or car.
Regional airport near Rotterdam with European flights.
Large international hub in Belgium; good rail links to the region.
Coastal Belgian airport offering occasional European connections; convenient for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population consisting of families, retirees, and workers.
A small but present mix of people from Belgium and other nearby regions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widespread sport with local clubs and community leagues.
A favored activity in Zeeland with flat, scenic routes and many cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hulst.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Dutch menus include vegetarian options; look for galettes, cheese plates, salads, or ask for a vegetarian version of a dish (vegetarisch).