Kampen

A charming medieval port city at the mouth of the IJssel known for its three magnificent city gates and maritime heritage. It's an excellent base for water sports and offers a quieter alternative to busier Dutch cities with authentic historical atmosphere.

Things to do

• Explore the Three City Gates — Walk through Kampen's iconic medieval gates—the Ezelpoort, Broerpoort, and Cellebroerspoort—which mark the original boundaries of this historic fortified city.
• Visit the Kampen City Museum — Discover the city's maritime heritage and golden age as a Hanseatic League port through artifacts, paintings, and exhibits housed in a 17th-century building.
• Sail or kayak on the IJssel River — Take advantage of Kampen's location at the IJssel mouth by renting a sailboat or kayak to explore the waterways and surrounding Overijssel lakes.
• Stroll the Historic City Center — Wander narrow cobbled streets lined with beautifully preserved merchant houses, antique shops, and cafés that evoke Kampen's prosperous medieval past.
• Climb the Bovenkerk Tower — Ascend the bell tower of this 14th-century church for panoramic views over Kampen and the IJssel valley.
• Visit the Waterfront Promenade — Relax along the renovated IJssel waterfront with restaurants, terraces, and mooring facilities for visiting boats.

Food to try

• Paling (smoked eel) — Kampen's signature dish is freshly caught and smoked eel, best enjoyed at waterfront restaurants or from local fish vendors.
• Kamper Hoofdkaas — A traditional Dutch head cheese specialty from the region, made with pork and served thinly sliced on bread as a local delicacy.
• Fresh IJssel fish platters — Sample daily catches of pike, perch, and carp prepared simply grilled or fried at harborside fish restaurants.
• Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken) — Visit cozy pancake houses throughout the city for sweet or savory crepes, a beloved Dutch comfort food.
• Cheese from local dairies — Sample nearby Overijssel cheeses, particularly aged Edam and Gouda varieties from surrounding farmlands.

Local customs & good to know

• Embrace cycling culture — Kampen is best explored by bicycle; rent one to navigate the flat terrain and reach nearby villages and water routes like a local.
• Visit during summer water sports season — May through September is peak season for sailing regattas and water-based festivals; plan accordingly as the city becomes livelier but more crowded.
• Respect maritime traditions — The city's identity is deeply tied to its river and sailing heritage; showing interest in boat culture and local maritime stories earns respect from residents.
• Shop at local markets and antique dealers — Kampen has a strong tradition of small independent shops and antique markets rather than chain stores; supporting these preserves the authentic character locals value.