Bergen op Zoom

Curious what's happening in Bergen op Zoom in the coming period? The city is buzzing with activities all year round: from events and performances to exhibitions, markets and enjoyable seasonal activities.

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Bergen op Zoom is known for its lively calendar full of recurring events that bring the city to life year after year. For example, there is the Shrove Tuesday, where the city transforms into ‘Krabbegat’ and is dedicated to parades, music, and conviviality for days on end.

In the summer, the Crab fair thousands of visitors to the city centre. This large, Burgundian annual fair has existed for decades, combining market stalls, live music and street theatre into one big celebration.

Culture and history also receive plenty of attention, for example during Open Monument Weekend, when special buildings are accessible for free, and the Maria Ommegang, an impressive historical procession.

In the spring, you can enjoy culinary events such as Taste the May and music festivals such as JazzBoZ. and in December the city transforms into an atmospheric winter wonderland during the Magical Winter Weeks, including an ice rink, lighting and plenty of entertainment in the city centre.

In short: Bergen op Zoom offers a varied programme of events throughout the year, making every visit different and surprising.

Here you will find an overview. 

Bergen op Zoom breathes culture and history. The city has a rich tradition that dates back to the Middle Ages, and you can see this not only in the monuments but also in daily life. In the impressive Markiezenhof Discover the story of the marquises and the role the city played in Brabant for centuries.

Culture is alive here on the streets too. Think of the unique Vastenavend tradition, local art initiatives and exhibitions by contemporary artists at the Arsis gallery. Among The Maagd Theatre enjoy a wide range of theatre, music, and cabaret, while the pop stage Building T known for its live music and festivals.

The city also offers galleries, studios, and cultural events that provide inspiration and social interaction throughout the year. The combination of history, art, and vibrant traditions makes Bergen op Zoom a surprising cultural destination where there's always something to discover.

Go here for a completely up-to-date overview.

Bergen op Zoom is also a great choice for relaxing in nature. Around the city, you'll find varied landscapes of forests, heathland, and water, ideal for unwinding.

Highly recommended Lievensberg Estate, where you can walk among forests, sand drifts and heathlands. Here you can experience the peace of nature, while the city is still close by. Also Fort Roovere and the surrounding nature are part of the Southern Water Line and offer beautiful walking routes with a historical touch.

For those who love water, the Inland sea a lovely place for walking, cycling or simply enjoying the view. In addition, the nature reserve lies Brabantse Wal close by, known for its unique elevation changes and beautiful vistas.

In short: whether you want to hike, cycle or simply escape the hustle and bustle for a while – the nature around Bergen op Zoom offers ample opportunities to relax and enjoy.

See here for an up-to-date overview.

Bergen op Zoom is a city steeped in history, and you can see this in the many monuments you encounter everywhere. In the heart of the city, you'll find the impressive Markiezenhof, the oldest city palace in the Netherlands, where you can experience the rich history of the marquesses.

Also the St Gertrude's Church with the iconic Peperbus tower is a real eye-catcher. From the tower, you have a beautiful view over the city and its surroundings. As you walk further through the centre, you will pass historic city gates such as the Captive's Gate, a tangible reminder of the medieval defence system.

Outside the old city centre lie special fortifications, such as Fort Roovere with the famous Moses Bridge, and the Water defence, where you experience military history up close.

In short: Bergen op Zoom is one large open-air museum, where every street and every monument tells a story. Perfect for a surprising discovery trip!

An overview can be found here.

And the monuments in the city centre you will encounter on this city route.

Here you will find an overview of the possibilities.

Paid parking is in place around the city centre. There are ample outdoor parking spaces, or you can choose one of the two car parks.

You can find information about our parking spaces and rates here.