12x The Best Things To Do In Kampen, The Netherlands
Welcome to Kampen, my hometown, and a beautiful hidden gem in the Netherlands! This charming Hanseatic city is filled with history, culture, and amazing waterways and architecture. Whether you’re into history, a nature lover, or a foodie looking for great restaurants, cozy Kampen has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the 12 best things to do in Kampen. From strolling through medieval streets to enjoying local treats and exploring great museums, you’ll find plenty of activities to make your visit to Kampen unforgettable. Get ready to discover why my hometown Kampen should be at the top of your travel list!
1. Visit The Koggewerf
The Koggewerf in Kampen is a must-visit for history lovers! It’s a lively museum that brings the past to life. You can step aboard its replica of a medieval cog ship and imagine what it was like to sail the seas. The Koggewerf is not just about the ship, there are also fun workshops and demonstrations where you can learn traditional crafts. Located by the beautiful IJssel River, it’s a great place to enjoy the views and soak up the rich maritime history of Kampen. Whether you’re exploring solo, or looking for the perfect family outing, the Koggewerf promises an unforgettable experience that combines education and entertainment.
2. Explore The City Gates
Kampen used to have twenty gates protecting the city, but now three beautiful gates remain: Koornmarktspoort, Cellebroederspoort, and Broederpoort. They all have their own unique characteristics and charm and they are definitely worth a visit. The Koornmarktspoort is close to the IJssel river and offers lovely views. Cellebroederspoort is known for its incredibly detailed design and history. Broederpoort stands out with its elegant architecture. A fun fact is that Koornmarktspoort once served as a prison! Visiting these picturesque gates takes you back in time and lets you see Kampen’s medieval past.
Tip: Behind the Cellebroederspoort and Broederpoort you can find our beautiful city park. It’s the perfect place for a picnic! Stock up on Italian sandwiches and antipasti (and a bottle of wine while you’re at it) at Casa Di Lucca and pick a spot in the soft grass. Enjoy!
3. Visit The Stedelijk Museum & Old Synagogue
The Stedelijk Museum in Kampen is one of the best museums in the region! It’s the place where history meets modern times, because it is partly located in the old town hall. The old town hall offers a unique insight into the local history and culture. The Stedelijk Museum boasts multiple temporary expositions each year, from modern art to old masters. These temporary exhibitions are also housed at another location of the Stedelijk Museum, namely inside the old Synagogue of Kampen. Apart from these temporary exhibitions, you can find a small but interesting display about Jewish life in Kampen here, and the Synagogues’ Holocaust monument.
The Stedelijk Museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 11AM until 5PM and on Sunday from 1PM until 5PM. Tickets cost €10, and include admission to the Old Synagogue and Old Town Hall. Every first Wednesday of the month there is free admission.
There’s a lot more to see during the rest of 2024, as there are already some new exhibitions planned. From 5 October 2024 you can see paintings by Belgian artist Koen Broucke about Belgian refugees in Kampen during WW1, and refugees now, in 2024. From 2 November 2024 you can see an exhibition of weekly self portraits by Linda Westra in the Old Synagogue.
4. Take A Walk Through The Park
Kampen’s city park is a must-visit spot! This beautiful green oasis in the heart of the city is perfect for a relaxing moment after a day of exploring. Stroll through the lush gardens, enjoy a picnic lunch on the grass, or simply sit on a bench and take in the beautiful surroundings. The park has lovely walking paths, charming ponds, and plenty of beautiful old trees providing shade on sunny days. In the spring and summer, the park is full of colorful flowers, making it even more picturesque. Kampen’s city park is the ideal spot to relax and soak in the beauty of this charming Hanseatic city.
5. Proef en Eetlokaal De Stomme van Campen
When in Kampen, don’t miss Proeflokaal De Stomme van Campen! This cozy and laid-back spot is the perfect place to enjoy some great food and drinks. Located in the heart of the town, with a view on the IJssel river, this tasting room offers an amazing selection of (local) beers. The friendly atmosphere and charming decor make it a great place to relax and enjoy a drink with friends. The knowledgeable staff are always ready to recommend the best pairings and share stories about the brews. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, Proeflokaal De Stomme van Campen is a must-visit. Discover the flavors of Kampen among the locals at this delightful local gem!
Tip: Looking for something special? Behind the dark and cozy tasting room, there’s a hallway leading to the light and vibrant restaurant. It’s a little more quiet than the tasting room, which makes it perfect for a lovely dinner with friends or a romantic outing!
6. Explore The Ikonenmuseum and The Botermarkt
The Ikonenmuseum in Kampen is a hidden gem showcasing a stunning collection of religious icons. This unique museum offers a deep dive into the rich history and artistry of Orthodox Christianity. Visitors can admire beautifully crafted icons, each telling a story through intricate details and vibrant colors. The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 11AM til 5PM and tickets cost €10 or $11. It is located in a charming historical building on one of the oldest and most beautiful squares in Kampen, the Botermarkt.
The Botermarkt is the perfect place to get a bite to eat. Enjoy lunch at Eetkamer de Tijd or get coffee and cake at France-inspired Lalaloes. For dinner you can get Neapolitan pizza at La Base, great Mexican food at Burrito Azteca or if you’re looking for something special, try the amazing Bottermarck Restaurant.
7. Enjoy A Coffee Or Tea Tasting At De Eenhoorn
There’s more to taste in Kampen! De Eenhoorn is a charming tasting room that is a must-visit for coffee and tea enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the main Oudestraat, the centuries old Eenhoorn boasts an amazing variety of freshly roasted coffees and high-quality teas. The cozy, inviting ambiance makes it an ideal spot to shop for souvenirs and to enjoy a hot cuppa with a piece of cake. The friendly staff are true experts, eager to share their knowledge about coffee, tea and the fascinating stories and history behind their company.
Tip: Kampen was once a key trading city on the Hanseatic route. Besides the famous Kanis & Gunnink coffee, Kampen was known for producing high quality cigars. Today, De Eenhoorn is the only company in Kampen that still produces coffee, tea, and cigars in their own factory, so a factory tour is a unique chance to get a look into the history of Kampen!
8. Discover The Beautiful Waterways and Canals Of Kampen
Kampen has stunning waterways and canals, and you can visit them without the crowds! The IJssel River flows through Kampen, creating a picturesque setting that is perfect for boat rides and scenic walks. During Spring, Summer, and early Autumn, you can participate in many water activities in Kampen. You can rent a boat, go kayaking or take a SUP out on the river. You can also enjoy a bite to eat and drinks at one of the many riverside restaurants, like de Stadsherberg and my personal favorite Madame Som Tam. The canals are lined with beautiful historic buildings with amazing art nouveau details, so make sure to look up to see all the amazing details!
Tip: Once every four years during Easter, Kampen hosts the biggest maritime festival of the Netherlands: SAIL Kampen. The next edition is in 2028.
9. Shop For Vintage In Kampen
Treasure hunters and vintage fashion lovers unite! Vintage shopping in Kampen is a great experience, and there are plenty of shops to choose from! Start your adventure at Filter, a unique coffee bar and vintage shop where you can sip coffee while browsing for cute home decor (their carrot cake is delicious). Next, head to Fair & Share and Waypoints, both filled with vintage clothing and accessories. For a nostalgic trip, visit Luanto Vintage & Retro, known for its retro pieces and timeless classics. Lastly, hop on a bicycle and make your way to one of the Goodwill shops outside the city center. Here, you can discover a wide variety of pre-loved items at great prices. Happy vintage hunting in Kampen!
10. Explore The Bovenkerk – St. Nicholas Church in Kampen
The Bovenkerk in Kampen is a magnificent Gothic church and a must-visit landmark. Inside, visitors can marvel at stunning stained glass windows, an impressive organ, and beautifully crafted woodwork. The Bovenkerk is not only a place of worship but also a venue for concerts and cultural events, so make sure to check if there’s something on the agenda when you visit.
When there are no planned events in the church, you can visit the Bovenkerk for free. The church is open for visitors from May to October. On Monday and Tuesday the church is open from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM and on Wednesday to Saturday from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. On Sunday, the church is only accessible for worshippers.
11. Visit The Movie Theater in Kampen
Bad weather during your visit? In the middle of the Plantage square, you can find the coziest movie theater that you simply must visit. This theater offers a wide range of films (also in English), from the latest blockbusters to timeless classics. Book one of the sofa-beds or love seats for a romantic evening. Care for some popcorn? During the movie you can push the button in front of your seat, and someone will come by to get your order of snacks and drinks.
12. Shop For The Perfect Souvenir in Kampen
Kampen is one of those places that still has a lot of locally owned shops, which makes it the perfect city to find unique gifts. Start at the museum shop of the Stedelijk Museum for art-inspired items and amazing books. Food lovers can get some goodies at the Italian delicacy shop Casa di Lucca or dive into the world of chocolate at Chocolaterie de Swaen or Zoetelief. Make sure to stop by Safi, with a fantastic selection of cute home decor and clothing (they are amazing gift-wrappers). Happy shopping!
How To Get Around Kampen
Kampen is a charming and compact city, ideal for exploring on foot. All the key attractions are close together, as they are located inside or just outside the city gates. To explore the beautiful nature that surrounds the city, like the scenic Reevediep, renting a bicycle is a great option. It’s a fun way to get around and see more of the area. Kampen is easily reachable by both (rental) car and by train, which makes it a very accessible city to visit!
Tip: Do you have more time? Consider combining a visit to Kampen with a visit to Zwolle, which is only a 15 minute train ride away! These cities are close together and all have their own unique vibes
Where To Stay In Kampen?
Finding a great place to stay is easy! The city offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler. For a unique experience, stay at one of the cozy B&Bs, boutique hotels or apartments in the historic city center. There are a couple of gems in the heart of the city center, like Boetiekhotel Kampen (my personal favorite), ‘t Hanzehuys, Pandje 118 of Pandje 119, where you’ll be close to the amazing restaurants and beautiful waterways. For a budget-friendly option that’s still within the city center, try de Stadsboerderij. Enjoy a warm welcome and a comfortable stay as you explore all that Kampen has to offer!
Here are all your hotel options in Kampen
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