Things To Do
in Zierikzee
Zierikzee is a remarkably well-preserved medieval town on the island of Schouwen-Duiveland in Zeeland, bathed in maritime history and Dutch charm. Its cobbled streets, historic gates, and waterfronts create a picturesque atmosphere that invites leisurely exploration. The town serves as a gateway to the Oosterschelde and surrounding polders, balancing culture, cuisine, and nature.
With a compact center and friendly locals, Zierikzee feels like a friendly step back in time with modern conveniences nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Stadhuis, the old town hall of Zierikzee, and admire its Gothic architecture. Stroll through the cobbled streets, taking in the charming medieval buildings and picturesque canals that surround this enchanting town. Stop by a local bakery to enjoy a traditional Dutch breakfast with freshly baked bread and coffee.
After lunch, explore the Maritime Museum to learn about Zierikzee's rich maritime heritage and its significance as a shipping hub. Spend the afternoon walking along the harbor, enjoying the views of the boats and the bustling waterfront. Consider renting a bike to venture out to the nearby Zeeland bridge and enjoy stunning views of the coastline.
As the sun sets, indulge in a delectable dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring local seafood delicacies. Take a leisurely stroll along the old harbor, where the glow of lights reflects off the water, creating a romantic atmosphere. End your day with a visit to a cozy café for a nightcap and a slice of Dutch apple pie.
Immerse yourself in local culture by visiting the weekly market where artisans and farmers sell fresh produce and handcrafted goods. Take your time to interact with the locals and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs. Enjoy a light breakfast at one of the market stalls, sampling some local cheese and pastries.
Visit the local art galleries and shops featuring the works of regional artists, which provide insight into the artistic culture of Zierikzee. Participate in a craft workshop if available, and try your hand at traditional Dutch crafts. Spend the afternoon relaxing in one of the nearby parks, soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
For dinner, explore a different local cuisine at a bistro that emphasizes seasonal ingredients. Afterward, attend a scheduled performance at the cultural center for an opportunity to enjoy live music or theater. Conclude your evening with a sunset walk along the city walls, reflecting on the day’s experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-6 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket (one-way) | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $100-180 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $50-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Excellent historic architecture and charm in a compact, walkable town
- Close proximity to Oosterschelde for seafood and nature lovers
- Nightlife is low-key compared to larger cities
- Weather can be changeable; plan for rain and wind
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the toilet?
- "Kunt u mij helpen?" - Can you help me?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Zierikzee
Visit one of these nice places.
The ornate town hall and surrounding 17th-century façades create striking architecture and vibrant street scenes, especially in morning light.
The tall church tower offers panoramic views of the old town and its waterways; best captured during golden hour.
Colorful gables, boats, and reflections along the harbor provide classic Dutch maritime photography opportunities.
Remnant gates and walls frame historic streets for moody, atmospheric shots, especially at dusk.
Cobblestone lanes, arches, and quaint bridges make for intimate street photography.
Food in Zierikzee
Zierikzee Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh mussels steamed with shallots, white wine, and herbs; best enjoyed at harbor-side eateries with crusty bread.
Must-Try!
A sweet, cinnamon-sugared pastry roll perfect with coffee or tea.
Eel served with a green herb sauce, a Zeeland specialty often paired with potatoes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on Markt square offering seafood, cheese, produce, and local crafts.
Casual stalls near the quay serving kibbeling, fried fish bites, and other seaside snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Goedemorgen' / 'Goedemiddag' and a handshake; use 'u' for formal situations and show modesty in conversations. In queues and on sidewalks, be courteous and keep to the right when cycling on bike paths.
Nederlandse bike culture is strong—give way to pedestrians on narrow streets and ring bells when passing on bike paths.
Respect quiet hours in neighborhoods, especially in the evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Zierikzee
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants for good service, or rounding up in cafés and bars.
Card payments (PIN/Contactless) are widely accepted; cash is still used but is less common in some places. ATMs are easy to find.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with refreshing sea breezes; long evenings and plenty of outdoor dining and boat activity; expect occasional showers and crowded harbor areas on weekends.
Milder days with wind and changing colors in the countryside; good light for harbor photos and quieter streets.
Cool, damp, and sometimes frosty; holiday lights and indoor museum visits are appealing options; crowds are thinner.
Blooming gardens and markets; longer daylight hours for cycling and walking tours; pleasant outdoor seating.
Zierikzee at Night
Hiking in Zierikzee
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trails and wetlands offering birdlife and sea views; ideal for birdwatchers and photographers.
Network of gentle to moderate trails through dunes, forests, and open landscapes with abundant wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Zierikzee by plane.
A regional airport about 60-70 km from Zierikzee; convenient for short-haul flights and easy to reach by road or rail.
Major international hub roughly 150-170 km away; excellent flight connections and rail links to Zeeland via intercity services.
Belgian options within a couple of hours' drive; good for connections to broader European destinations
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and seasonal workers; population centers around the historic core with a steady stream of visitors in peak seasons.
Steady influx of Dutch and international travelers drawn to maritime history, seafood, and Zeeland’s scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite activity given the scenic coastal routes and flat terrain around Zeeland.
Access to the Oosterschelde makes sailing, kayaking, and paddling popular year-round.
Local clubs and casual games are common in the community and clubs welcome visitors for friendly matches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zierikzee.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants can prepare vegetarian options; look for vegetable mains, salads, and dairy-friendly dishes, and ask for meat-free adaptations when needed.