Zutphen Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Zutphen, Netherlands. Plan your trip now with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Zutphen

Zutphen is a charming city located in the Achterhoek region of Gelderland in the eastern part of the Netherlands, in Benelux, Europe. With its rich history dating back to the medieval times, Zutphen is now a vibrant city with a great food scene, cultural attractions, and natural beauty.

Visitors can explore the city’s winding streets lined with historic buildings and picturesque parks. There is plenty to see and do in Zutphen, making it a popular destination for both local Netherlands residents and international travelers alike.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ve put together all the information you need to plan your trip to Zutphen. From the best places to visit to where to stay, this guide has got you covered. Let’s get started!

List of Places to Visit in Zutphen

Zutphen has a wealth of attractions, from historical landmarks to outdoor adventures. Here are our top picks for the best places to visit in Zutphen:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Walburgis Church: This Gothic-style church was built in the 11th century and features stunning stained-glass windows and an impressive organ.
  • Museum Henriette Polak: This museum is dedicated to 20th-century Dutch art and has an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and drawings by Dutch artists.
  • Berkelpoort: This medieval gate dates back to the 14th century and is the only remaining gate of the original six gates that once protected Zutphen.
  • De Graafschapspost: This museum provides a glimpse into the history of journalism in the Netherlands, with displays of the first newspapers and printing machines.

Natural Attractions of Zutphen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wijnhofpark: This beautiful park features winding paths, green lawns, and a tranquil pond. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
  • Deventerseweg: This scenic road winds through the beautiful countryside of Zutphen and is ideal for a scenic drive or a bike ride.
  • Vroolijke Frans: This restaurant and outdoor space is surrounded by lush forests and fields, providing a great opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Zutphen while enjoying a meal.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zutphen

Zutphen and its surrounding areas offer plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • The Two Castles Route: This route is a 35-kilometer loop that takes you through the stunning countryside around Zutphen, passing by two historic castles - Castle Hackfort and Castle Vorden.
  • The IJssel Valley Route: This route is a 60-kilometer ride along the IJssel River, offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.
  • The Knnv Route: This route is a 20-kilometer hike through the wetlands surrounding Zutphen, providing an excellent opportunity to observe local flora and fauna.

Best Things to Do in Zutphen: Activities and Tours

Zutphen has plenty of activities and tours to offer visitors, from historical walking tours to food tours. Here are some of the best things to do in Zutphen:

  • Join a walking tour of Zutphen’s historic center, visiting landmarks like St. Walburgis Church and the Berkelpoort.
  • Take a boat tour along the IJssel River and enjoy stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.
  • Join a food tour and sample local delights like Dutch cheese and stroopwafels.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zutphen

If you’re planning to spend a week in Zutphen, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day 1: Arrive in Zutphen and explore the city center. Visit the St. Walburgis Church and the Museum Henriette Polak.

Day 2: Take a bike ride along the IJssel Valley Route and enjoy the stunning views of the river and the surrounding countryside.

Day 3: Go on a food tour and sample local delights like Dutch cheese and stroopwafels.

Day 4: Visit the Berkelpoort and explore the city’s medieval history. Spend the afternoon in Wijnhofpark.

Day 5: Join a hiking tour of the wetlands surrounding Zutphen, observing local flora and fauna.

Day 6: Take a boat tour along the IJssel River and enjoy stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Day 7: Spend the day shopping for souvenirs and local products to bring home.

Food and Drink Scene of Zutphen

Zutphen has a burgeoning food and drink scene, with plenty of opportunities to indulge in local delights. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stroopwafels: These thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup are a Dutch classic and a must-try when in Zutphen.
  • Poffertjes: These mini Dutch pancakes dusted with powdered sugar are a sweet treat that you won’t want to miss.
  • Goudse Kaas: This cheese is a Dutch classic and is available in a variety of flavors, from mild to sharp.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever: This traditional Dutch gin is a favorite in Zutphen and is typically served with a slice of lemon.
  • Dutch beer: The Netherlands has a rich tradition of brewing beer, and there are plenty of local breweries in Zutphen to sample.

Where to Stay in Zutphen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Zutphen has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are some of our top picks:

  • Hotel Inntel Zutphen: This four-star hotel is located in the heart of Zutphen and features spacious, modern rooms with city views.
  • Hotel-Landgoed Huis Te Eerbeek: This historic hotel is located just outside Zutphen and features plush rooms and a tranquil garden.
  • Hostel B&B Gorssel: This affordable hostel is located just a short drive from Zutphen and offers simple, clean rooms.

What to Buy in Zutphen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Zutphen has plenty of unique local products and souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in Zutphen:

  • Dutch cheese: Pick up some Gouda or Edam cheese at one of the local shops.
  • Stroopwafels: Take home a bag of these delicious Dutch waffles to share with friends and family.
  • Handmade pottery: Zutphen has several local pottery shops selling handmade ceramics.

Local Culture and Customs of Zutphen

Zutphen has a rich history and culture, with its medieval past still very much alive in its historic buildings and landmarks. Locals in Zutphen tend to be friendly and welcoming to visitors, and it is customary to greet anyone you meet with a friendly “hallo” or “goedendag.”

Best Time to Visit Zutphen

Zutphen is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild and the days are longer. However, autumn (September-November) is also a good time to visit when the leaves start to change colors, creating a beautiful backdrop for exploring the city and its surrounding countryside.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zutphen

Do:

  • Do dress appropriately when visiting churches and other places of worship.
  • Do sample local delicacies like Dutch cheese and stroopwafels.
  • Do try to learn a few Dutch phrases - locals appreciate the effort.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter - the Netherlands is known for its clean streets and environmentally friendly attitude.
  • Don’t smoke in public places - smoking is only allowed in designated smoking areas.
  • Don’t be too loud - the Dutch tend to be reserved and quiet, so try to keep noise levels down in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zutphen

Zutphen is a safe destination for visitors, with a low crime rate. However, visitors should still take common sense precautions, like not leaving valuables unattended and staying away from dark, unlit areas at night.

Health in Zutphen

Zutphen has good medical facilities, but visitors should always have travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies. Visitors should also make sure they have all necessary vaccinations before traveling to the Netherlands.

Getting to Zutphen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Zutphen is easily accessible by public transportation or car. Here are some transportation options for getting to Zutphen:

Airports Near Zutphen

  • Schiphol Airport in Amsterdam is the closest international airport to Zutphen. From there, visitors can take a train or rent a car to reach Zutphen.

Bus Stations Near Zutphen

  • Zutphen has its own bus station, making it easy to connect to other cities in the Netherlands and beyond.

Other Options

  • Zutphen is also accessible by car, with several major highways connecting to the city.

How to Get Around in Zutphen

Zutphen is a small city, making it easy to get around on foot or by bike. Bikes can be rented from several locations throughout the city, and there is also a local bus system.

Where to Go Next from Zutphen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Zutphen is a great jumping-off point for exploring other destinations in the Netherlands and beyond. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Arnhem: This historic city is just a short train ride from Zutphen and is known for its World War II history and impressive museums.
  • Deventer: This charming town is located just a 20-minute drive from Zutphen and features historic buildings, quaint streets, and beautiful parks.
  • Hoge Veluwe National Park: This stunning nature reserve is located just a 40-minute drive from Zutphen and is home to forests, valleys, and heathlands.

Conclusion

Zutphen is a hidden gem in the Netherlands, offering visitors a unique combination of history, culture, nature, and culinary delights. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s medieval history or admiring its scenic countryside, Zutphen has something for everyone. Plan your trip now and discover all that this charming city has to offer.

A view of historic Zutphen. A view of historic Zutphen. The rail bridge spanning across the IJssel. In the background the Walburgiskerk. The rail bridge spanning across the IJssel. In the background the Walburgiskerk. Oudewand, one of the many small and narrow yet picturesque streets. Oudewand, one of the many small and narrow yet picturesque streets. Saint Walburgis church Saint Walburgis church