Things To Do
in Kampen
Kampen is a historic city in the Netherlands known for its well-preserved medieval center. It is located along the river IJssel and is surrounded by picturesque landscape. The city features beautiful old buildings, including churches, towers, and gates that showcase its rich history.
Kampen is also a lively cultural hub with museums, galleries, and events that attract both locals and tourists.
- "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 - $5
- 🚌 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 leisurely walk along the picturesque canals of Kampen. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and take some great photos.
Visit the Kampen City Museum to learn about the rich maritime history of the town. Don't miss the artifacts and exhibits showcasing Kampen's heritage.
Dine at a local restaurant by the canal, savoring traditional Dutch cuisine. As the sun sets, take a romantic stroll along the waterfront.
Visit the iconic Bovenkerk, a stunning medieval church with impressive architecture. Take time to appreciate the stained glass windows and the serene atmosphere.
Explore the charming streets of the old town and visit small shops selling local crafts. Enjoy a coffee in a quaint café while watching the world go by.
Attend a local event or concert in one of Kampen's cultural venues. End the day with a nightcap in a cozy bar.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage with well-preserved architecture.
- Picturesque canals and scenic views, contributing to a charming atmosphere.
- Access to a variety of outdoor activities, such as cycling and walking tours.
- Community-oriented lifestyle with events and local markets.
- Proximity to larger cities like Zwolle, providing additional amenities.
- Limited job opportunities, primarily focused on local businesses.
- Smaller population may result in fewer entertainment and cultural options.
- Public transportation options may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Higher reliance on cars for commuting and accessing nearby urban centers.
- Seasonal tourism can lead to overcrowding during peak times.
Best Activities in Kampen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy scenic bike rides along the IJssel River and through the picturesque countryside surrounding Kampen.
Visit the city's parks and green areas such as Stadspark, where you can go for a relaxing stroll or have a picnic.
Try watersports like sailing, windsurfing, or kayaking on the nearby Ketelmeer lake for an adventurous outdoor experience.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kampen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kampen
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic ship offering views of the city and the river from the IJsselkade
A tall medieval tower offering panoramic views of Kampen and the surrounding area
A bridge over the IJssel river providing scenic views of the waterfront and skyline
Food in Kampen
Kampen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Smoked eel is a local delicacy and can be enjoyed at various fishmongers and restaurants along the banks of the river.
Must-Try!
Kamper koggetjes are a traditional local pastry resembling ship sails, often filled with almond paste and enjoyed at local bakeries and markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kampen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This market offers a wide range of local produce, meats, cheeses, and baked goods, providing a great opportunity to taste and purchase local specialties.
Look out for traditional herring carts offering marinated herring, a popular street food snack, usually served with onions and pickles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kampen, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. It is also polite to address people using their titles and last names, especially in more formal settings.
Punctuality is highly valued in Dutch culture, so it is important to arrive on time for appointments and social gatherings in Kampen. Being late without a valid reason may be seen as disrespectful.
Respecting personal space is important in Kampen and the Netherlands as a whole. It is courteous to maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others and to ask for permission before taking photos of individuals or their property.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kampen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kampen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kampen, it is generally appreciated to leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants and cafes if the service was satisfactory. Tipping is not mandatory, but it is a common practice to show appreciation for good service.
In Kampen, Netherlands, electronic payments are widely accepted, including credit and debit cards. Cash is also commonly used for smaller transactions, so it's advisable to have some on hand. Contactless payments and mobile payment apps are becoming increasingly popular in the area.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kampen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is the best time to visit Kampen, Netherlands, with mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and green landscapes. Expect vibrant tulip fields and pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Summer is another great time to visit Kampen, Netherlands, with warm temperatures and a lively atmosphere. Expect outdoor festivals, boat tours along the Ijssel River, and vibrant markets.
In autumn, Kampen, Netherlands, offers colorful foliage and a serene atmosphere. Expect the chance to explore the city's historic sites and enjoy cozy cafes amidst falling leaves.
Winter in Kampen, Netherlands, brings a festive spirit with charming Christmas markets, cozy cafes, and the opportunity to experience the city's traditional holiday celebrations.
Kampen at Night
Hiking in Kampen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful park within the city, perfect for leisurely walks and short hikes, offering scenic views and access to nature.
A nature reserve nearby with marked trails through diverse landscapes of forests and wetlands, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.
A stunning area featuring walking paths through woods and meadows, providing a peaceful hiking experience.
Located a bit further from Kampen, it offers extensive hiking trails through one of the largest wetland areas in Northwest Europe.
A scenic trail along the Drontermeer lake, offering both hiking and biking paths with beautiful waterfront views.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kampen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kampen by plane.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 95 km southwest of Kampen.
An international airport located around 190 km northwest of Kampen, serving various European destinations.
An international airport located about 130 km south of Kampen, known for low-cost carriers.
An international airport located approximately 180 km east of Kampen, serving regional and some international flights.
Located about 100 km southwest of Kampen, this airport serves a mix of domestic and international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population in Kampen, typically of Dutch descent with cultural and historical ties to the region.
Includes people from various countries who have moved to Kampen, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.
A significant demographic group representing older adults, often involved in community activities and services.
Includes children and teenagers, playing an essential role in local schools and youth programs.
Groups such as Turkish, Moroccans, and others, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Kampen.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Kampen, with several local clubs and teams participating in regional leagues.
Field hockey is also widely played in Kampen, with a strong local club that competes in various leagues.
Volleyball enjoys popularity among both recreational and competitive players in Kampen, with community teams and events.
Handball is gaining traction in Kampen, with clubs forming to promote the sport among youth and adults.
Cycling is a beloved activity in Kampen, supported by numerous cycling clubs and scenic routes for both leisure and competition.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kampen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants and cafes in Kampen offer vegetarian options, and some have specific vegan dishes available. It's advisable to inform the staff about any dietary preferences when dining out.
While gluten-free options may not be widely advertised, many places are accommodating to dietary needs. Communicating your dietary requirements in advance can help ensure a suitable meal.