Harderwijk, a charming town in The Netherlands, is a must-visit destination that is perfect for a day trip. Nestled in the province of Gelderland, Harderwijk exudes a magical and romantic ambiance, making it an ideal place to explore. The town offers a plethora of activities to enjoy within a single day.
Immerse yourself in the beauty of Harderwijk by admiring its stunning landmarks and wandering through its enchanting streets. There are countless things to see and do, both in Harderwijk and the surrounding Gelderland region. Whether you have a penchant for museums or prefer connecting with nature, Harderwijk caters to diverse interests. You can indulge in the rich cultural heritage of the town through its museums, or lose yourself in the breathtaking natural landscapes that make Harderwijk a true gem.
If you’re captivated by the allure of Medieval streets and yearn to uncover hidden treasures in Europe, Harderwijk is an absolute must-visit in The Netherlands. With its intriguing history and architectural marvels, the town will transport you back in time.
Enriching Day Itinerary in Hanseatic City of Gelderland, NL
The Netherlands boasts countless Hanseatic towns to explore, with Deventer and Zutphen being some of the popular destinations. However, Harderwijk stands out as a remarkable and unique place to visit. This town has a rich history and numerous monuments and historic buildings that have adorned it since the 13th century, offering an array of attractions for you to explore.
If you’re considering a visit to Harderwijk, rest assured, it’s definitely worth your time! Even during a weekend getaway, you’ll find plenty of exciting things to see and do. Although not located in the Holland region, Harderwijk is an amazing hidden gem that’s nestled in the heart of The Netherlands. While tourism in Harderwijk may not be as widely known, it flourishes, especially during the summer months of July and August.
Harderwijk: A Glimpse into History
Harderwijk, a city in Gelderland, has an intriguing history that dates back to the 13th century. With a current population of around 44,000, it is believed that Harderwijk was home to an estate or settlement with a church called Sint Nicolaaskerk near the Luttekepoort, one of the city gates.
During the 13th century, Harderwijk flourished as a trading city, with ships carrying goods like wool, skins, herring, and wood reaching as far as Flanders, Germany, and England. In the 14th century, Harderwijk became an active member of the Hanseatic League, earning the name “Ardroick” from sailors in southern Europe.
Through the centuries, Harderwijk’s privileges and rights were confirmed by various rulers and dukes. The city enjoyed the staple right for fish, a valuable economic advantage that required traders and fishers to first sell their goods in Harderwijk before continuing to other destinations.
Harderwijk faced challenges in the 16th century, including a devastating city fire, conflicts with other regions, and outbreaks of plague. However, the city managed to reconquer itself and establish Protestantism. Harderwijk had a renowned university from 1648 until 1811, attracting notable scholars and students, including Herman Boerhaave and Carolus Linnaeus. Despite occupation and destruction by the French in the 17th century, Harderwijk persevered. Today, it stands as a living testament to its rich history.
Another fascinating aspect of Harderwijk’s history is its association with the East India army. From 1814, the city in Gelderland became home to the Koloniaal Werfdepot, where volunteers from across Europe were recruited into the military. Due to a lack of local volunteers, many of these soldiers had challenging backgrounds, earning the depot the reputation of being the “gutter of Europe.” These soldiers would receive substantial sums of money upon enlistment, much of which would often be spent on sex workers before they even reached the Dutch Indies (now Indonesia). Until its closure in 1910, the Koloniaal Werfdepot sent nearly 150,000 soldiers from Harderwijk to Indonesia.
From 1909 to 1996, Harderwijk served as a garrison city, hosting barracks, a military hospital, army units, and training centers. The town was also home to a school for the military intelligence service and a training center for infantry troops.
Harderwijk’s geographical position as a Hanseatic league city placed it on the shores of the Zuiderzee. However, with the creation of the Afsluitdijk and the formation of Flevoland, the Markermeer, and the Ijsselmeer, the city was safeguarded from the turbulent waters of the Wadden Sea. Prior to these developments, Harderwijk thrived as a fishing city, with herring, anchovies, shrimp, and eel being major catches. The closure of the Zuiderzee from the Wadden Sea in 1932 significantly impacted Harderwijk’s fishing industry, leading to a shift toward industry and tourism as economic drivers.
During World War II, Harderwijk played a vital role in providing refuge for approximately 8,000 evacuated people from Nijkerk during the German invasion of the Netherlands in May 1940. The city also fell under German occupation and witnessed the construction of a Luftwaffe radar station in its meadows. Tragically, 117 soldiers from the Allied forces lost their lives in and around Harderwijk, and 72 inhabitants were brutally murdered by the Germans, including 21 Jews. However, on April 18, 1945, Harderwijk was liberated by Canadian troops, marking a turning point in its history.
Through hardships and triumphs, Harderwijk stands today as a testament to the resilience of its people and the enduring spirit of the city.
Accommodation Options in Harderwijk: Where to Stay
To truly experience the charms of Harderwijk, I suggest staying for a full day and night. The city takes on a magical quality in the evening, making it a worthwhile place to overnight. Thankfully, Harderwijk boasts some of the best hotels and bed-and-breakfast accommodations around, ensuring a comfortable stay during your visit. Whether you prefer a hotel or a cozy B&B, Harderwijk has got you covered.
Best Breakfast Cafés in Harderwijk
Starting your day off right is crucial when exploring Harderwijk. For a scrumptious and locally inspired breakfast, look no further than Baron Eten & Drinken. Their uniquely palatable dishes feature ingredients sourced from the Veluwe region. A visit here will unquestionably leave you delightfully satisfied and energized for the day ahead
Discover the Beauty of Harderwijk with this Free Walking Tour
The free walking tour in Harderwijk measures around 4.5 kilometers in length. Before we delve into one of Harderwijk’s must-see spots, here’s a fun fact: the town center has been a protected cityscape since 1969, and it boasts nearly a hundred monuments.
To begin our self-guided walking tour in Harderwijk, head to Kerkplein 1. Here you’ll find the Grote Kerk in Harderwijk, a gothic cross-basilica that dates back to the 14th and 15th century. The church used to be larger, but a tower’s collapse destroyed part of the ship in 1797, which has remained unreconstructed. Initially named the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk and dedicated to Mary, it became a Protestant church in 1578 after the city prohibited practicing Catholicism during the Reformation.
If you’re interested in visiting the Grote Kerk, it’s open to the public from 27th April (King’s Day!) until the beginning of September, Monday to Thursday, from 13:30 to 16:30. Don’t miss the 16th-century murals discovered during a massive restoration from 1972 to 1980.
Now head over to Straat van Sevenhuysen 8. This building, built-in 1441, was once a pesthuis or a house where the plague-stricken were confined involuntarily. From 1441 to 1580, it served as a monastery for priests from Zwolle, situated in the Straat van Sevenhuysen, a street with seven buildings during the Middle Ages. “Seven” is an old Dutch word for seven. It was affectionately known as the “Fraterhuis” during its occupation as a monastery since the Latin word “frater” equates to “brother,” and “Fraters” were monks. The Fraters were involved mainly in education, writing, and binding books.
Around 1580, during the Reformation, the city council of Harderwijk pledged allegiance to the Protestants, turning over ownership of Roman Catholic churches and monasteries to the city. Roman Catholics were no longer permitted to practice their faith, resulting in the loss of housing and monasteries for the monks. This led to the monastery being used as the plague house from 1587 to 1771. Harderwijk’s most destructive plague outbreak was in 1636.
Formerly nicknamed the Pesthuisstraat or the plague house street, residents of the street, unhappy with the name, requested the municipality in 1920 to change it to Eendrachtstraat. The original name of this street, Straat van Sevenhuysen, came back in 1976.
Next, check out the part of the Medieval city wall in Harderwijk, one of the city’s best-preserved areas. It was built between the 15th and 17th centuries, consistently upgraded and restored. The city walls facing the seaside were initially built low at around 2.20 meters as the threat was less significant from the sea than from the land, which warranted higher city walls.
Then, head over to Klooster 2, Sint- Catharijneklooster, one of Harderwijk’s monasteries dating back to the sixteenth century. Admire the Sint- Catharinakerk on Klooster 1, part of the monastery constructed in 1502.
Afterward, continue your tour to Academiestraat, then to Linnaeus Toren, a small tower named after Carolus Linnaeus. The tower dates back to the sixteenth century and was part of the commandry of the Johanniter monastery. Next to the Linnaeus tower, you’ll find a small gate that dates back to 1576.
From there, visit the former clerical house at Donkerstraat, Korte Kerkstraat, and Achterom 2 dating back to the Middle Ages, then head over to Kerkstraat, Bruggestraat, Schoolsteeg, Vijhestraat, Buiten de Burggepoort, Wellenpad, Zeepad, Strandboulevard W, Hoogstraat, Schapenhoek, and Vischpoort/ Vischmarkt 1 to complete the tour of Harderwijk.
The Vischpoort is the only remaining city gate in Harderwijk located on the water’s edge. It was built at the end of the 14th century and served multiple purposes throughout history. Beyond facilitating the transportation of fish to and from boats waiting in Harderwijk, the city gate also played a defensive role, protecting the city from enemies and water.
During times of high water, the city gate was closed. However, there were instances when it was closed too late, resulting in flooding. To account for this, the houses at Vischmarkt square were built slightly higher or had special flooding rooms.
On top of the Vischpoort, you can find a small lighthouse that was constructed in 1851. Originally used for navigation, the lighthouse became obsolete when the Zuiderzee was divided into the Ijsselmeer and Markermeer. Nowadays, the light is only lit on special occasions.
Continuing your tour, make your way to Vischmarkt where you will find Vischmarkt 45, the smallest house in Harderwijk. It is quite charming. Further along Vischmarkt is Vischmarkt 57a, which was once part of the Agnieten Monastery, built in the 15th century. It was later converted into a carpenter’s house and workplace when the monastery was demolished.
Next, head to Kaatsbaan, Keizerstraat, Zoutkeetstraat, Havendam, and Havendijk 7 to visit the only traditional Dutch windmill in Harderwijk called De Hoop. The original windmill was destroyed by a fire in 1969, and this replacement was opened in 1999. The windmill and the nearby Bottermuseum, where old Dutch boats are renovated and can be rented, are worth exploring.
Continue your journey through Havenkade, Havendam, Scharrelsteeg, Molenstraat, Keizerstraat, Nonnenstraat, and Grote Marktstraat. Then proceed along Grote Poortstraat, Schoenmakersstraat, Wolleweverstraat, and Markt 1, where the former town hall of Harderwijk is located. Most of the building was rebuilt in the neoclassic style in 1837, but the council chamber was created in the Louis XIV style in 1727.
Finally, complete your tour by walking to Hondegatstraat, Hoogstraat, and Kleine Markstraat.
Museums in Harderwijk
A visit to one of the museums in Harderwijk is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the town’s culture and history. Here are three noteworthy museums to consider visiting during your stay:
- Palingmuseum Harderwijk
The Palingmuseum, which is the eel museum, provides a fascinating insight into the life cycle of eels and their processing. You’ll also learn about Harderwijk’s history as part of the former Zuiderzee region. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday, 10:00- 18:00, and entry is free. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out their fish shop for freshly-caught seafood.
Stephensonstraat 2, 3846 AK Harderwijk
- Stadsmuseum Harderwijk
The Stadsmuseum is a must-visit for those interested in the history of Harderwijk. Additionally, it showcases a variety of temporary exhibitions ranging from art to history. The ground floor, which houses the museum cafe and shop, is free to access during opening hours.
Donkerstraat 4, 3841 CC Harderwijk
- Marius van Dokkum Museum Harderwijk
The Marius van Dokkum Museum is the only museum in the Netherlands exclusively dedicated to a living artist, Marius van Dokkum. The museum houses approximately 55 paintings, and visitors can sometimes witness the artist working on his artwork.
Academiestraat 7, 3841 ES Harderwijk
Discover the Best Lunch Restaurants in Harderwijk
When it comes to having a scrumptious lunch in Harderwijk, there is no shortage of options. First on the list is Brasserie De Bank, which boasts a beautiful terrace that is perfect for an al fresco lunch. Another great option is Luigi’s, a small and cozy restaurant with delicious food.
For a delightful lunch with a fantastic atmosphere, head to Walhalla located on the city beach of Harderwijk. The restaurant offers stunning surroundings and excellent food. De Boterlap is another great lunch restaurant that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Go Supping in Harderwijk
If you love exploring new places by water or enjoy working out, then you must try supping in Harderwijk. The city boasts a magnificent marina, beautiful beaches, and an inviting boulevard perfect for exploring while on the water. Rent supboards from Sup & Go to experience this amazing adventure.
Shop for Souvenirs in Harderwijk
Shopping for souvenirs in Harderwijk is a great idea, especially if you are looking to buy local and regional foods. Make sure to visit Ouderwetse Bakkerij for an authentic Harderwijker product called Zeebeer, and Bica’s for the best local chocolate. Dries van den Berg has the freshest fish, while Het Melkhuisje offers tasty local products, including locally brewed beer called ‘Het Brouwhuys’. Head over to Egbert van der Vegt’s shop to buy ‘Bier van Plan100’, and Ratatouille offers tasty treats and useful kitchen products.
Enjoy a Nice Dinner at the Best Restaurants in Harderwijk
For a delectable meal in Harderwijk, try the Mexican restaurant Holy Moly, which offers fantastic options for vegans as well. Ratatouille is also a superb restaurant that works with mainly local and organic products. Bistro Vismarkt 49 is another restaurant that is highly recommended for their delicious food. At Da Gabriele, indulge in great Italian cuisine and even vegan and gluten-free pizza options.
Get the Best Ice Cream in Harderwijk
After dinner, it’s time for dessert – ice cream! Two excellent ice cream shops located in Harderwijk are Patrijs and Het Boerinneke. Make sure to leave some extra room after your meal as these shops offer some of the best ice creams in town.
Discover Evening Activities in Charming Harderwijk
Harderwijk, with its small-town feel and bustling nightlife, offers endless opportunities for evening entertainment. Here are some of the top things to do in Harderwijk when the sun goes down.
Unwind with a Drink at a Pub or Cafe in Harderwijk
Harderwijk is home to a wide range of bars and cafes where you can enjoy a relaxing drink. Cafe De Boterlap and Cafe De Belofte are highly recommended options for a delightful evening beverage.
Relax on the City Beach in Harderwijk
There is something magical about spending the evening at the beach. While the beach in Harderwijk may not be as long or spectacular as some of the coastal beaches in Holland, it still offers a charming experience. Sink your toes in the sand, take in the serene atmosphere, and reminisce about your wonderful day exploring this lovely Dutch town. Don’t worry about getting thirsty or hungry as there is a cafe conveniently located nearby.
Stroll through the Waterfront Neighborhood in Harderwijk
The Waterfront neighborhood, particularly the area around the street called Langezand, showcases a beautiful blend of modernity and the cozy ambiance of the city. It offers a different vibe compared to the rest of Harderwijk, making it an intriguing spot worth visiting if you have some spare time.
Capture the Beauty of a Harderwijk Sunset
Watching the sunset over the waterside of Harderwijk is undoubtedly one of the best activities to experience in the city. Witness how a familiar setting transforms into a breathtaking scene, with the warm golden hour light casting a mesmerizing glow over the town. Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere created by the stunning sunset.
Immerse Yourself in Harderwijk’s Nightlife
Sometimes, you just want to let loose and hit the dance floor. If you’re looking for a place to dance the night away in Harderwijk, there are a few recommended options. Cafe Gauwigheid, Cafe Ome Co, Cafe Spetters 2.0, and Cafe Stoppels are all fantastic venues where you can have a great time and showcase your best dance moves.
Discover the Best Events & Markets in Harderwijk
Aaltjesdagen
Experience the annual Aaltjesdagen festival, taking place in the second weekend of June. Enjoy live music, markets, traditional crafts, fishing boat displays, water sports, and more. Aaltjesdagen is a must-visit event in the Veluwe region and is a highlight of spring in Gelderland.
Weekmarkt Harderwijk
Every Saturday from 08:30 until 13:30, visit the weekly market at Kloosterplein. Explore around 30 stalls offering a variety of items, including bread, vegetables, fruits, flowers, clothing, and more.
Zomerkermis Harderwijk
Celebrate summer at the Harderwijk Summer Funfair, held during the third and fourth week of July (Thursday until the following Sunday). Enjoy thrilling attractions and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this lively event.
Learn Everything About the Dutch Schaapskooien in Ermelo
Discover the charm of a Dutch sheepfold in Ermelo. Explore the visitor’s center next to the barn, where you can learn about the fascinating world of sheep farming. Observe the sheep returning to the barn and enjoy the traditional architecture of one of the largest sheepfolds in Gelderland, housing around 300 sheep. If you visit in February or March, you’ll have the chance to see adorable lambs and their mothers. Don’t forget to check out the shop at the visitor’s center, where you can purchase local products and items crafted from wool.
Visitor’s Center Address:
Postweg 50, 3852 PK Ermelo
Enjoy the Nature Reserve Ermelosche Heide
While visiting the sheepfold in Ermelo, take the opportunity to explore the stunning Ermelosche Heide nature reserve. Start your journey at the visitor’s center and embark on walking or cycling routes that wind through the expansive heather fields. Admire the beauty of this 343-hectare area, with its highest point known as “Paalberg.” As you venture through the landscape, you may even spot the contours of a Roman camp that once housed thousands of soldiers. And if you’re near the town of Ermelo, don’t miss the chance to visit Speciaalbier café de Hazeburg, renowned for its excellent selection of Dutch craft beers in the Gelderland region.
Discover the traditional Dutch town of Spakenburg
If you’re interested in experiencing traditional Dutch culture and history, a visit to the small fishing town of Spakenburg is a must. Situated on the former Zuiderzee, Spakenburg offers a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life that still exists in some parts of The Netherlands.
While the town has seen some changes over the past few decades, you can still immerse yourself in the local mentality and witness the remnants of its rich fishing heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Klederdracht- en Visserijmuseum, where you can admire traditional Dutch clothing and learn about the significance of the fishing industry. The Museum Spakenburg is also worth a visit for a deeper understanding of the town’s history.
But Spakenburg has much more to offer than just museums. Take the time to explore the town, and you’ll discover a variety of hidden gems and unique experiences.
Explore the museum Aviodrome in The Netherlands
For aviation enthusiasts, a visit to the Aviodrome Museum in The Netherlands is an absolute must. With over 100 aircraft on display, including the opportunity to step inside a real Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet, this museum offers a fascinating journey through Dutch aviation history. From flight simulators to interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Visit the Walibi theme park
If you’re looking for a thrilling day out, make sure to visit Walibi Holland, one of the best theme parks in The Netherlands. Located in the province of Flevoland, it’s just a short bus ride away from the Harderwijk train station. With a wide range of attractions, including exhilarating roller coasters, Walibi Holland guarantees a day filled with excitement and fun.
Walk in the area of Harderwijk
Harderwijk, situated in a stunning region of The Netherlands, is a perfect destination for nature lovers. There are numerous walking routes to choose from, depending on your preferred distance and surroundings. Whether you decide to explore the nearby Leuvenum or Staverden, the beauty of the Dutch landscape will leave you captivated.
Explore the town of Elburg
The picturesque town of Elburg should not be missed during your visit to the province of Gelderland. As a fortified Dutch city in the heart of The Netherlands, Elburg boasts a wealth of historical landmarks, fascinating museums, and enchanting streets. In addition to its cultural treasures, the town offers a wide selection of remarkable dining options, guaranteeing a memorable experience.
Rent a boat and explore the Veluwemeer Lake near Harderwijk
To truly appreciate the beauty of the region, I highly recommend renting a boat in Harderwijk and exploring the scenic waters of the Veluwemeer Lake. This part of The Netherlands is known for its stunning lakes and even small islands waiting to be discovered. You can rent a boat from places like Scheepswerf Veluvia, B&B Bootverhuur, and Sauna Harderwijk.
Relax at the spa in Harderwijk
If you’re in need of some rest and relaxation, treat yourself to a visit to a spa in Harderwijk. Located in the nearby town of Hierden, these spas offer a range of treatments and facilities to help you unwind. Keep in mind that most saunas and spas in The Netherlands require you to be without clothing, although there are special bathing suit days available too.
Discover the Hoge Veluwe National Park
The Hoge Veluwe National Park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. As the most famous and visited national park in The Netherlands, it offers breathtaking landscapes including heather fields, dense forests, and abundant wildlife. While there is an entry fee, it’s well worth the cost. For a quieter experience, consider visiting on weekdays when the park is less crowded.
Rent bikes in Harderwijk and explore its surroundings
If you want to fully experience the beauty of the Dutch countryside in Gelderland, I highly recommend renting bicycles in Harderwijk. Veluwe Specialist is a great option where you can rent tandems, electric bikes, E-choppers, mountain bikes, or standard Dutch city bikes.
There are plenty of cycling routes to choose from. One option is the Harderwijk – Ermelo – Putten route, where you can visit the old Dutch farmhouses in Putterbrink. Another option is the Harderwijk – Leuvenum – Staverden – Speuld – Drie – Ermelo – Harderwijk route. But there are many other routes in the Veluwe region.
Visit the Sand Sculpture Festival near Harderwijk
Don’t miss the annual ‘t Veluws Zandsculpturenfestijn in Garderen, which is home to over 4000 sculptures. This festival is a must-visit attraction in the Veluwe region.
Get to know the smallest city in the Benelux
Discover the smallest city in the Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, Staverden. It’s an estate that includes a castle, a park, a coach house, and an orangery. Explore the park, spot deer, wild boars, white peacocks, and more. Don’t forget to visit Bierbrouwerij De Uddelaer in the coach house for a tour and beer tasting. Legend has it that the ghost of a woman who died of a broken heart still haunts the Castle of Staverden. Some say you can hear her crying at night.
Visit the Zomerbraderie (summer market) in Ermelo
Make sure to check out the summer market in Ermelo, which takes place every Tuesday from the second (or third) Tuesday of July until the third Tuesday of August. Explore the market from 18:00 to 21:00 and enjoy the DJs and bands on one of the main squares afterward.
Enjoy the Speulder- and Sprielderbos
Experience the beauty of the Speulder- and Sprielderbos forests, known for the stunning sunlight filtering through the trees’ thick leaves. These forests in Gelderland are perfect for hiking and cycling, allowing you to stay active while being surrounded by peace and tranquility.
How to get to Harderwijk
From Amsterdam
To get from Amsterdam to Harderwijk by train:
- Take a train to Amersfoort Centraal station.
- Transfer to the sprinter train to Zwolle.
- Get off at Harderwijk train station.
- The journey from Amsterdam to Harderwijk takes a little over one hour.
From Utrecht
To reach Harderwijk from Utrecht by train:
- Take a sprinter train in the direction of Zwolle.
- Get off at Harderwijk.
- The train journey from Utrecht to Harderwijk takes approximately 45 minutes.
From Rotterdam
To get from Rotterdam to Harderwijk by train:
- Take a train to Utrecht Centraal train station.
- Transfer to the sprinter train to Zwolle.
- Get off at Harderwijk.
- The journey from Rotterdam to Harderwijk takes about 1.5 hours.
Conclusion
I hope you found this Harderwijk city blog helpful. You now have a list of fun things to do in Harderwijk as well as other must-see cities in the province of Gelderland. Harderwijk offers a wide range of activities and places to explore, making it a perfect destination for your vacation in the Netherlands.
