Things To Do
in Middelburg

Middelburg is the charming capital of Zeeland, Netherlands, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The city features beautiful canals, a picturesque old town, and impressive monuments such as the Gothic-style Abbey Tower. Visitors can enjoy a mix of cultural experiences, including museums, shops, and local restaurants.

With its close proximity to the North Sea, Middelburg also offers various outdoor activities and scenic landscapes.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historic Middelburg
morning
:

Start your day at the Zeeland Museum, where you can learn about the region's maritime history and culture. Afterwards, take a stroll through the historic streets and admire the beautiful architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lange Jan (Long John) tower for panoramic views of the city. Have lunch at a local café and then explore the nearby Abbey of Middelburg, a stunning Gothic structure steeped in history.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy restaurant in the town square, followed by a leisurely walk along the canals to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local market, where you can sample fresh produce and local delicacies. Next, head to the Park Toorenvliedt for a relaxing walk among nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the Zeeuws Archief to delve into the historical archives of Zeeland. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro before exploring the nearby beach at Domburg.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with dinner at a seafood restaurant, enjoying local catches, followed by a nightcap at a bar with live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel (1 Night)$80-150
🍺Beer (Local)$4-6

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Beautiful canals and architecture.
  • Friendly locals and vibrant community.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities.
  • Weather can be unpredictable.
  • Some attractions may have restricted hours.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Middelburg

Visit one of these nice places.

Lange Jan

The iconic tower offers a perfect backdrop for sunset shots over the city.

Canals of Middelburg

The picturesque canals provide beautiful reflections and charming scenes at any time of day.

Middelburg Abbey

The historical architecture and gardens make for stunning photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Middelburg

Middelburg offers a delightful culinary scene with a variety of local specialties and international cuisine.

Middelburg Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Zeeuwse Bolus

A sweet, sticky bun that is a local specialty, often enjoyed with coffee.

Must-Try!

Kibbeling

Battered and fried fish, served with a garlic sauce, perfect for a quick snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Weekly Market

Held on Thursdays, this market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Middelburg experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Rain is quite common throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued, especially for social gatherings and appointments.

Direct Communication

The Dutch are known for their straightforwardness; honesty is appreciated.

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain an appropriate distance during conversations, as personal space is important.

Safety Guide

Safety

Middelburg is generally considered a safe city, with low crime rates. Standard precautions apply, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and being mindful of personal belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Middelburg

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 5-10% in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; however, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, perfect for exploring parks and gardens.

Summer

Warm temperatures and longer days make it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Autumn

Enjoy beautiful fall colors in parks, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.

Winter

Cold and occasionally snowy, winter is a great time to enjoy cozy cafés and festive markets.

Nightlife Guide

Middelburg at Night

Middelburg has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of pubs, bars, and clubs. Popular spots include local pubs offering craft beers and live music venues hosting regional bands. The atmosphere is generally laid-back, and many places close by midnight, making it ideal for a relaxed night out.

Hiking in Middelburg

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Domburg Beach Trail

A scenic coastal trail that offers stunning views of the North Sea and is suitable for all skill levels.

Zeeuws-Vlaanderen Trail

A longer trail through the Zeeland countryside, offering a mix of forest and open fields, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Middelburg by plane.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport

Approximately 80 km from Middelburg, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point.

Getting Around

Walkability

Middelburg is highly walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The city center features cobblestone streets that are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Public squares and parks are well integrated into the walking routes, enhancing the overall experience.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant number of students reside in Middelburg due to its educational institutions, adding vibrancy to the local culture.

Retirees

Many retirees choose Middelburg for its peaceful environment and community-focused lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Middelburg, with local clubs representing the city in various leagues.

Sailing

Given its proximity to the sea, sailing is a favored sport, with many locals participating in water sports.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Middelburg is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. Parking is available in designated areas, but it can be limited in the city center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Middelburg.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to specify your dietary needs.

Gluten-Free

Some places may have gluten-free options, but it's best to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Middelburg is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available. Dutch healthcare is generally high quality, and EU residents can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Private health insurance may be required for non-EU visitors.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide