Vlissingen
Visit Vlissingen for fresh sea air, close-up ship watching and a long, lively boulevard right on the North Sea coast.
About Vlissingen and why you should visit it
Vlissingen is a historic port city in the province of Zeeland and a top travel destination for people who love maritime life, sandy beaches and easy coastal walks. The town sits where the River Scheldt meets the North Sea, so large freighters sail unusually close to the shore, creating a unique seaside spectacle.
Stroll the boulevard, explore the compact old town and try local seafood at a kiosk while watching ships pass. For travellers researching the best hotel in Vlissingen and other practical needs, the short walk from station to waterfront makes it a convenient base for exploring Zeeland.
Local weather in Vlissingen
SPRING
mild & temperate
SUMMER
warm & sunny
Autumn
mild & temperate
WINTER
cool
Top destinations on the coast of Netherlands
Goes
Arnemuiden
Sluis
Hotels in Vlissingen
discover the best accommodations for Vlissingen and start planning your holiday.
Popular things to do or visit and practical tips
Start with the MuZEE maritime museum to get a sense of Zeeland's sea-faring past and present; the exhibits are housed in an old arsenal building and showcase fishing, shipbuilding and naval history. A short cycle or bus ride takes you to the 16th century Rammekens fortress, often called one of Europe’s oldest sea fortifications, which sits on a tidal channel and offers clear views of the estuary and passing vessels.
Take the Westerschelde ferry to Breskens for a quick car or foot crossing that lasts about 20 minutes and gives excellent photo opportunities of large ships and the tidal landscape. Walkers and cyclists can follow coastal paths that link Vlissingen with nearby seaside towns and quiet dunes; bring layers because the wind picks up in the afternoon.
Other popular things to do or visit include:
- Ship watching along the seafront boulevard
- Visiting the maritime museum and local galleries
- Exploring the historic fort at Rammekens
- Relaxing on the beach and trying fresh kibbeling or mussels
- Taking short ferries or scenic drives across Zeeland
An anecdote locals share is that when the fog rolls in you can hear the ferry horn for miles, and fishermen still haggle good naturedly over the day’s catch in the market on weekends. Once in a blue moon you might catch a naval review or a tall ship event, which fills the quay with flags and crowds. Pack a windproof jacket, and you will be fine for afternoon storms or brisk evening strolls.
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