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Hanseatic cities

The Dutch Hanseatic cities. Nine gems in the east of our country that are so much more than just beautiful relics from the 14th and 15th centuries. Places like Zwolle, Kampen, Hattem and Deventer are examples of medieval towns that remain closely linked to each other while successfully fusing tradition with the present day, thanks to a deep-rooted drive to innovate. Immerse yourself in the stories of our Hanseatic cities and discover this unique side of the Netherlands.
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Hasselt

This Hanseatic town is also known as Little Amsterdam.

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Kampen

Discover the Hanseatic town of Kampen with a rich history and over 500 monuments.

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Elburg

Visit the many historic buildings, museums and cafes and restaurants in this old Hanseatic town.

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Hattem

The charming, historic Hanseatic town in the Veluwe region.

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Harderwijk

Historic Hanseatic town on IJsselmeer lake with many monuments and excellent restaurants.

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Deventer

Discover this historic Hanseatic city and its many monuments.

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Zutphen

Magnificent Hanseatic town with countless monuments.

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Doesburg

One of Holland’s most important fortified towns.

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The Hanseatic city of Zwolle

Zwolle is a lively Hanseatic city with a Medieval centre, many shops and plenty of culinary treats.

Eye-popping medieval beauty

Follow the flow of the river IJssel and discover the fascinating history of the Dutch Hanseatic cities. They were once part of the dominant trade network of Hanseatic cities, which stretched from Portugal to the Baltic States through Spain, Belgium, the Netherlands, England, Germany, Scandinavia and Poland. It was a unique trading confederation that brought incredible commercial success and prosperity to the Dutch Hanseatic cities until the 16th century. The cities on the IJssel formed the axis of prosperity in Europe and completely dominated the trade in numerous products such as salt, food, beverages and clothing.

Centuries later, the Hanseatic cities of the Netherlands are still historic beacons with thousands of monuments, beautiful architecture, gorgeous fountains, vibrant culture and modern shops. They are hidden gems that will make your visit to the Netherlands truly unforgettable.

Human touch

While the Dutch Hanseatic cities share an impressive history, they all have their own unique characteristics and stories developed over the centuries. You can discover these stories during beautiful (and very educational) walking and cycling tours and immerse yourself in the green surroundings of the Hanseatic League. You will discover the protected waterfronts and harbors and at times feel like you’ve stepped back into the Middle Ages. But it’s the 'human touch' – the social character that is the distinctive feature of these cities – that will stay with you the most after your visit.

Discover the hanseatic cities

Feel the vibe

Meet the Hanseatic people

It is the citizens of the Dutch Hanseatic cities who give them their unique vibe. And it is the same Hanseatic people who welcome you with open arms, whichever Hanseatic city you visit. Meet the residents and experience the hospitality that will immediately make you feel like one of us. See how the spirit of commerce ensures that both the people and the cities are closely linked, and immerse yourself together with them in all the beauty that our Hanseatic cities have to offer.

Egbert Scheffer posing for graffiti work
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Street art in ancient Deventer

Well-known for its historic center, the ancient Hanseatic city of Deventer is getting an edgy twist thanks to Egbert Scheffer’s modern street art initiative.

Judith Elders against building with red door
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The old and the new come together in Zwolle

Discover how rich history and modern life merge in the Hanseatic city of Zwolle. Judith Elders knows all the best places to visit.

Roy Kappert with tray
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A flavor of the Hansa at De Waag in Doesburg

Get a taste of the Hanseatic cities. Roy Kappert is the owner of De Waag in Doesburg and knows the flavors of the region like nobody else.

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