Dominating the Markt, the town hall certainly grabs the eye. It's ornately beautiful, and displays a pastiche of styles: the Gothic side facing the Markt is from the mid-1400s; the more classical portion on Lange Noordstraat dates from the 1600s.

Inside there are several sumptuous ceremonial rooms that boast treasures such as the ubiquitous Belgian tapestries. Visits to the building are by one-hour guided tours, which are offered most days. These visit the mayor's room, the aldermen's room, the city council room and the court of justice; purchase tickets at the Tourist Shop.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Markt

0.06 MILES

On Thursdays, this huge square in the centre of town hosts a popular market where stalls sell food and household products. Its proximity to the Stadhuis,…

2. Nieuwe Kerk

0.16 MILES

Part of the original 13th-century Abdij but largely rebuilt in the 16th century after a fire extensively damaged the complex, this double-naved church is…

3. Wandelkerk

0.16 MILES

Dating from the 1600s, this walkway between the two churches in the Abdij holds the tombs of Jan and Cornelis Evertsen, admirals and brothers killed…

4. Lange Jan Tower

0.17 MILES

This 91m tower is topped with a gilded imperial crown, a tribute to Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I. Climb the 200-odd steps to enjoy views over town.

5. Abdij

0.18 MILES

Dating from the 12th century, this huge abbey complex houses the regional government as well as two churches: the Koorkerk (built for the clergy) and…

6. Koorkerk

0.18 MILES

Dating from the 1300s but largely rebuilt in the 16th-century after a fire devastated the Abdij complex, the vaulted Koorkerk (Choir Church) operated as a…

7. Zeeuws Museum

0.19 MILES

Housed in the former monks’ dormitories of the abbey complex, this museum is divided into three permanent sections: one concentrating on fashion; another…

8. Damplein

0.28 MILES

The area around the elongated Damplein (east of the Abdij) preserves many 18th-century houses, some of which have been turned into interesting shops,…