Tholen Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture of Tholen, Netherlands with this comprehensive travel guide.


Tholen is a picturesque town in the Zeeland province of the Netherlands. The town is situated on an island that is surrounded by the Scheldt-Rhine Canal and the Oosterschelde estuary. It boasts of beautiful natural surroundings, rich cultural heritage, and a thriving tourism scene. This comprehensive travel guide will take you through everything you need to know about Tholen, including the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture of the town.

Introduction to Tholen

Tholen has a rich history that dates back to the 13th century. The town has a population of around 12,000 people, and it is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, rich cultural heritage, and traditional Dutch architecture. It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

List of Places to Visit in Tholen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Tholen has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its numerous museums and historical places. Some of the must-visit places include:

  • The Stadsmuseum Tholen: This museum showcases the history and culture of Tholen through various exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

  • The Grote Kerk Tholen: This 14th-century church is an architectural masterpiece that features beautiful stained-glass windows, fascinating murals, and a grand organ that dates back to the 1600s.

  • The Oudheidskamer: This museum is dedicated to the maritime history of Tholen and features exhibits on fishing, boat-building, and other aspects of nautical culture.

Natural Attractions of Tholen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Tholen is surrounded by beautiful natural surroundings, making it an ideal place for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Some of the best places to explore include:

  • The Rammegors: This nature reserve is a popular spot for birdwatching and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding wetlands and estuaries.

  • The Oosterschelde National Park: This park comprises a vast expanse of saltwater marshes, tidal flats, and sandbars, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and sailing.

  • The Philipsdam: This artificial dam offers stunning views of the Oosterschelde estuary and is a popular spot for cycling and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tholen

Tholen has several scenic hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore the town’s natural beauty. Some of the popular routes include:

  • The Groene Route: This 19-kilometer route takes you through some of Tholen’s most stunning natural landscapes, including forests, beaches, and salt marshes.

  • The Scheldorado Route: This 42-kilometer route takes you along the Scheldt-Rhine Canal and the Oosterschelde estuary, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

  • The Waterlinieroute: This 44-kilometer route takes you through the historic military defense lines that used to protect Tholen from invaders.

Best Things to Do in Tholen: Activities and Tours

Tholen offers no shortage of exciting things to do and see. Some of the best activities and tours include:

  • The Tholen Markt: This weekly market is held every Thursday and offers a great opportunity to sample some of the town’s local produce, including fresh fruits, vegetables, and cheeses.

  • The Streekproductenroute: This tour takes you to some of Tholen’s best local producers, including breweries, cheese-makers, and vineyards.

  • The Thoolse Bode: This boat tour takes you along the canals and waterways of Tholen, offering stunning views of the town’s historic architecture and natural beauty.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tholen

If you’re planning to spend a week in Tholen, here’s a sample itinerary that allows you to make the most of your time:

Day Activity
1 Visit the Stadsmuseum Tholen and the Grote Kerk Tholen
2 Explore the Rammegors nature reserve and go birdwatching
3 Visit the Oudheidskamer museum and take a boat tour of the canals
4 Visit the Philipsdam and go hiking or cycling
5 Take the Streekproductenroute tour and sample some of Tholen’s local produce
6 Visit the Oosterschelde National Park and go birdwatching or hiking
7 Relax, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy some traditional Dutch cuisine

Food and Drink Scene of Tholen

Tholen is known for its unique and flavorful cuisine, which is heavily influenced by its coastal location and maritime heritage. Some of the must-try dishes and local beverages include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poffertjes: These miniature Dutch pancakes are a popular snack in Tholen, often served with powdered sugar and butter.

  • Stamppot: This Dutch comfort food is made from mashed potatoes and vegetables and is often served with sausage or meatballs.

  • Oesters: Tholen is famous for its fresh oysters, which are typically served raw or grilled with garlic butter.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever: This traditional Dutch gin is often served with tonic water and a slice of lemon.

  • Scheldebier: Tholen’s local beer is a refreshing, hoppy pilsner that pairs well with traditional Dutch cuisine.

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

Tholen has several accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Some of the top-rated hotels, hostels, and guesthouses include:

  • Hotel Tholen: This four-star hotel is located in the heart of Tholen and offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and great views of the town’s historic center.

  • De Schuur: This cozy bed and breakfast is located in a converted barn and offers comfortable rooms, a relaxed atmosphere, and a delicious breakfast spread.

  • StayOkay Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel is located on the outskirts of Tholen and offers clean, comfortable dorm rooms, private rooms, and communal spaces.

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

Tholen offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that make great mementos of your visit. Some of the best things to buy include:

  • Local cheeses and dairy products, such as Gouda and Edam.

  • Traditional Dutch wooden shoes, which are often hand-carved and painted.

  • Stroopwafels, a delicious Dutch cookie that is made from two thin waffles filled with caramel syrup.

Local Culture and Customs of Tholen

Tholen has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and history. The town is known for its friendly locals, relaxed pace of life, and strong sense of community spirit. Visitors should be mindful of local customs and etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering someone’s home and greeting others with a handshake or kiss on the cheek.

Best Time to Visit Tholen

Tholen is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny. The town also hosts several events and festivals during this time, such as the Tholen Maritiem festival and the Tholen Fietsvierdaagse cycling event.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tholen

Do:

  • Do try the local cuisine and sample some of Tholen’s famous oysters and cheeses.

  • Do explore the natural surroundings and go hiking or cycling along the town’s scenic routes.

  • Do respect the local customs and etiquette, such as removing shoes before entering someone’s home.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings.

  • Don’t enter someone’s home without removing your shoes, unless otherwise indicated.

  • Don’t disrespect local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tholen

Tholen is a relatively safe town with low crime rates. Visitors should take normal precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings when walking alone at night.

Health in Tholen

Tholen has a modern healthcare system with several clinics and hospitals. Visitors should ensure that they have comprehensive health insurance that covers emergency medical services.

Getting to Tholen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tholen

The closest international airport to Tholen is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, which is located around 1.5 hours away by car or train. Other nearby airports include Rotterdam The Hague Airport and Antwerp International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Tholen

Tholen has several bus stations that connect the town with neighboring cities and towns. The main bus station is located in the town center, and buses run regularly throughout the day.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Tholen by train or car. The town is well-connected by rail with regular connections to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and other major cities in the Netherlands. If you’re driving, Tholen is easily accessible from the A58 motorway.

How to Get Around in Tholen

Tholen is a relatively small town, and most of the attractions are located within walking or cycling distance. Visitors can also use public transport, including buses and taxis, to get around the town.

Where to Go Next from Tholen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Tholen is a great base for exploring the nearby towns and attractions in Zeeland and the rest of the Netherlands. Some of the best places to visit include:

  • Middelburg: This historic town is located around 40 kilometers from Tholen and is known for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and lively cultural scene.

  • Antwerp: This bustling Belgian city is located around 50 kilometers from Tholen and is famous for its diamond trade, Gothic architecture, and vibrant nightlife.

  • Rotterdam: This dynamic Dutch city is located around 75 kilometers from Tholen and is known for its futuristic architecture, iconic Erasmus Bridge, and abundant cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Tholen is a hidden gem in the Zeeland province of the Netherlands, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Dutch life, breathtaking natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. With this comprehensive guide, you can explore the best of Tholen and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

The peninsula of Tholen seen from the south. The peninsula of Tholen seen from the south. View over the ''Oosterschelde'' near Stavenisse. View over the ''Oosterschelde'' near Stavenisse.