Things To Do
in Middelburg
Middelburg is a picturesque city located in the southwest of the Netherlands, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and charming canals. The city is home to many historic buildings, including the impressive Abbey of Middelburg and the imposing Town Hall. Middelburg also offers a vibrant cultural scene, with art galleries, museums, and a bustling market square.
Visitors can explore the city by foot or bike, taking in its unique mix of history and modern amenities.
- "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 at the beautiful Market Square, where you can admire the impressive Town Hall. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café to fuel up for your adventures.
Visit the Zeeuws Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of Zeeland. Don't miss the beautiful art pieces and exhibitions on display.
Stroll along the canals and enjoy a scenic view of the city as the sun sets. Conclude your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant featuring local seafood.
Start with a visit to Kasteel Ter Walle, where history and beautiful architecture come together. Explore the gardens for a peaceful start to your day.
Continue on to the nearby gardens of Arnemuiden, offering lovely trails for a leisurely walk. Enjoy a packed lunch among the flowers and greenery.
Return to Middelburg and enjoy a relaxing dinner at a quaint eatery. Try the local specialties and unwind after a day of exploration.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and beautiful architecture, including historic buildings and museums.
- Charming canals and picturesque scenery, ideal for walking and cycling.
- Strong sense of community with friendly locals and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Access to the nearby North Sea beaches, offering recreational opportunities.
- Good public transport connections to other cities in the Netherlands.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with a tendency for rain and wind.
- Fewer job opportunities, particularly in specialized fields.
- Some amenities and services may not be as extensive as in larger urban areas.
- Tourist crowds can increase during peak seasons, affecting local life.
Best Activities in Middelburg
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful forest and dune landscapes.
Enjoy a scenic bike ride with picturesque views of the countryside and coastline.
Paddle through the tranquil waters and appreciate the surrounding nature.
Discover the miniature models of landmarks and traditional Dutch buildings.
Places to Visit in Middelburg
Visit one of these nice places.
Tall medieval tower offering panoramic views of Middelburg and the surrounding area
Historic abbey with a beautiful garden, providing picturesque photo opportunities
Quaint street lined with traditional Dutch houses, perfect for capturing charming architectural shots
Central square featuring a variety of iconic Middelburg landmarks, ideal for capturing the city's essence
Food in Middelburg
Middelburg Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Mosselen, or Dutch mussels, are a must-try in Middelburg. These fresh, plump mussels are often prepared in a savory broth with herbs and served with crispy fries. Head to Restaurant Scherp or De Visbar for an exceptional mosselen experience.
Must-Try!
Poffertjes are tiny, fluffy pancakes served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a dollop of butter. For a delectable serving of poffertjes, visit the weekly market at the Plein 1940 or the Molenwater Park, where you can find stalls offering this delightful treat.
A traditional Dutch delicacy, stroopwafels are thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup. Experience the authentic taste of stroopwafels at the Middelburg Market, where various vendors offer these delicious treats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Middelburg Market is a treasure trove of local flavors, featuring fresh produce, cheese, seafood, and a myriad of snacks. Dive into the bustling atmosphere and sample street foods like raw herring, warm stroopwafels, and freshly made frites.
This bustling square hosts a vibrant weekly market where you can indulge in local street food such as poffertjes, oliebollen (Dutch donuts), and a variety of artisanal cheeses and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. In business settings, wait for the other person to initiate using their first name.
Dutch people value their personal space, so it is advisable to maintain an appropriate distance when speaking to someone.
Being polite and punctual is highly valued. It is important to be on time for appointments and to say 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Middelburg
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory in the Netherlands but is generally appreciated for good service. It is customary to round up the bill or leave a small amount of change as a tip at restaurants and cafes. In Middelburg, a 5-10% tip is considered polite if you are satisfied with the service.
In Middelburg, as in the rest of the Netherlands, electronic payment methods such as debit and credit cards are widely accepted. Contactless payment is also common. Cash is also used but to a lesser extent. Foreign visitors should be aware that in many places, especially smaller businesses, cash might be the only accepted form of payment.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a delightful time to visit Middelburg, with temperatures gradually warming up, beautiful blooming flowers, and the chance to witness cultural festivals like Kingsday.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Middelburg, with warm temperatures, longer days, and lively events such as outdoor concerts and the Zeeland Nazomerfestival.
Autumn brings mild weather and colorful foliage, making it a picturesque time to explore Middelburg's historic streets and enjoy seasonal delicacies at local restaurants.
Winter in Middelburg is quieter, with the possibility of some snowfall, but it's an enchanting time to experience the festive Christmas markets and cozy up in charming cafes.
Middelburg at Night
Hiking in Middelburg
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area with scenic walking and hiking trails through natural landscapes, including forests and fields.
A picturesque hiking area featuring wetlands and wildlife, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
This region offers a variety of hiking paths along the coastline and through rural landscapes, showcasing the beauty of Zeeland.
A popular location with coastal trails, allowing hikers to enjoy the sea views and sandy beaches.
A nature reserve with trails through dunes and forests, ideal for peaceful hikes with a chance to see local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Middelburg by plane.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 120 km northwest of Middelburg.
The main international airport in Belgium, located about 150 km southwest of Middelburg.
An international airport serving the cities of Rotterdam and The Hague, located around 75 km northwest of Middelburg.
A regional airport located about 130 km southwest of Middelburg, primarily serving Antwerp, Belgium.
A regional international airport located approximately 130 km southeast of Middelburg.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Middelburg, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A notable group due to historical ties between the Netherlands and Indonesia.
A group that has settled in the area, reflecting the colonial history of the Netherlands.
A demographic present in Middelburg due to migration patterns in the late 20th century.
Another significant community formed due to migration trends.
Includes immigrants from various Eastern European countries seeking work and better living conditions.
Includes smaller groups from various countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the city.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Middelburg, with many local clubs participating in various leagues.
Field hockey is widely played in Middelburg, where several clubs offer programs for both youth and adults.
Given the flat terrain, cycling is a favored pastime and sport, with numerous trails and cycling events.
Indoor and beach volleyball have a strong following in Middelburg, supported by local clubs and recreational leagues.
Swimming is popular, with public pools and natural waterways available for recreation and competitive swimming.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Middelburg.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Middelburg offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with options ranging from hearty stamppot to creative plant-based fare. Cafe Tympaan and MarktCafe serve delectable vegetarian and vegan meals in a welcoming setting.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can enjoy a range of gluten-free options at establishments like Restaurant Scherp and Woodies, both of which provide carefully crafted gluten-free dishes without compromising on taste.