Urk Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, food and drink scene, accommodations, and more in Urk, a charming town in Western Netherlands.


Introduction to Urk

Urk is a charming town located in the province of Flevoland in Western Netherlands. Originally an island, the town is known for its rich maritime history, stunning scenery, and friendly locals. It boasts an impressive range of cultural and natural attractions, making it a popular destination for travelers of all interests.

List of Places to Visit in Urk

Here are some of the must-visit places in Urk:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Urk Museum - Located in a former fisherman’s cottage, the Urk Museum provides an insight into the town’s history and traditional way of life. The exhibits include fishing equipment, traditional clothing, and household items.

  • Fish Auction Hall - The Fish Auction Hall is a historic building where fish auctioning took place in the past. Today, it is used for events and exhibitions.

  • Lighthouse Urk - The Lighthouse Urk is an iconic landmark of the town. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking views of the surroundings.

  • Reformed Church - The Reformed Church is a neo-gothic building that dates back to the 19th century. It is an impressive sight to behold and features beautiful stained glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Urk: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Urk Beach - This picturesque beach offers stunning views of the IJsselmeer Lake and is an ideal spot for relaxing, sunbathing, and swimming.

  • Urk Woods - The Urk Woods is a small forest located near the town center that is perfect for nature walks and picnics.

  • Urk Harbor - Urk Harbor is the heart of the town’s fishing industry. With its colorful boats and bustling fish market, it’s a great place to experience the local culture.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Urk

Urk offers several exciting hiking and biking routes that pass through scenic landscapes and charming villages. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Urk Coastal Route - A scenic coastal route that runs along the IJsselmeer Lake.

  • Urk Green Route - A leisurely route that passes through the Urk Woods and surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Urk: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Urk, such as:

  • Fishing Tours - Urk’s fishing industry is one of the town’s main attractions. Taking a guided tour of the harbor and fish market offers a unique insight into this traditional way of life.

  • Boat Trips - Boat trips allow visitors to explore the IJsselmeer Lake and enjoy stunning views of the town and surrounding landscape.

  • Cycling Tours - Cycling tours are a fantastic way to explore Urk’s natural beauty and charming villages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Urk

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Urk, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activities
1 Arrival, explore town center, visit Urk Museum
2 Cycling tour of surrounding villages
3 Boat trip on IJsselmeer Lake
4 Hiking in Urk Woods, visit Fish Auction Hall
5 Fishing tour of Urk Harbor, Reformed Church visit
6 Relaxation day at Urk Beach
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Urk

Urk offers a fantastic selection of local dishes and beverages that are worth trying during your visit.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kibbeling - A popular Dutch snack made of deep-fried cod.

  • Haring - Raw herring is a traditional dish in the Netherlands and is often served with onions and pickles.

  • Vissoep - A hearty fish soup that features a variety of fresh seafood.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever - A traditional Dutch gin that is often enjoyed as an aperitif.

  • Beer - The Netherlands has a rich brewing tradition, and Urk offers a selection of local beers to try.

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

Urk offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some popular choices include:

  • Hotel Zuiderzee - A modern hotel with excellent facilities and a central location.

  • Bed & Breakfast De Roos - A cozy guesthouse in the heart of Urk’s town center.

  • Stayokay Hostel Urk - A budget-friendly option located in a beautiful countryside setting.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring back home, some great options include:

  • Urk Cheese - Made with local milk, Urk cheese is a delicious treat to take back home.

  • Traditional Clothing - Urk’s traditional clothing is a reflection of the town’s rich heritage and makes for a unique souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Urk

Urk is known for its strong sense of community and religious traditions. Visitors are advised to be respectful of local customs and dress codes

Best Time to Visit Urk

The best time to visit Urk is between May and September when the weather is warm and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Urk

Do:

  • Respect local customs and dress codes

  • Visit the Fish Auction Hall and Urk Harbor to experience the town’s fishing culture

Don’t:

  • Disrupt local religious ceremonies or services

  • Take photographs of people without their permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Urk

Urk is a relatively safe town, but visitors should still take standard safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings at all times.

Health in Urk

The healthcare system in the Netherlands is of a high standard. Visitors can find medical assistance at local hospitals and clinics if needed.

Getting to Urk: Transportation Options and Logistics

Urk is located in Flevoland, which is well connected with major Dutch cities. Travel options include:

Airports Near Urk

  • Amsterdam Airport Schiphol - The largest airport in the Netherlands and located approximately 77 kilometers from Urk.

Bus Stations Near Urk

  • Emmeloord Bus Station - A major bus station in Flevoland that serves multiple destinations, including Urk.

Other Options

  • Train - The nearest train station is in Kampen, which is about 30 kilometers from Urk.

How to Get Around in Urk

Urk is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to walk or cycle.

Where to Go Next from Urk: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore after your visit to Urk, such as:

  • Kampen - A charming town located on the banks of the River IJssel.

  • Giethoorn - A picturesque village known as the “Venice of the Netherlands.”

  • Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet - A shopping center that offers popular brands at discounted prices.

Conclusion

Urk is a charming town that offers a unique glimpse into Dutch culture and history. Whether you’re interested in fishing, outdoor activities, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Urk has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip now and experience the best of this beautiful town!

Urk's harbor Urk's harbor