Tholen is a historic town with medieval charm. Walk around the atmospheric old town surrounded by star-shaped city walls, canals and fortifications. Cobbled streets lined with brick townhouses and flower-filled hanging baskets give the town a postcard-perfect feel. Explore local sights and attractions or day trip to nearby cities like Bergen op Zoom and Rotterdam.
Things to do in Tholen
Crumbling city walls and defensive towers encircle the medieval old town. Walking around the area, you’ll get an idea of just how old the city is. Venkelstraat is one of the most atmospheric streets in the city and is lined with red-brick townhouses and half-timbered buildings that date to the 14th century.
A 14th-century church looms over Tholen and is the centrepiece of the historic townscape. It’s topped by a 49-metre-high tower and features a dramatic Brabantine Gothic façade. Head to the main square to watch the centuries-old carillon clock chime every 15 minutes, then cross the bridge across the Scheldt-Rhine Canal and spend a few hours walking around the harbour and historic shipyard.
Molen De Hoop was built in the 18th century and is still used to mill corn. The picturesque white windmill is open for tours on weekends, though you’re free to walk around the grounds, feed the ducks and enjoy a picnic on the grass anytime.
Stop at a local café for a Dutch-style lunch or afternoon tea. Try traditional dishes like pickled herring and “erwtensoep” split pea soup. There’s plenty to tempt your sweet tooth, including “poffertjes” pancakes dusted with icing sugar, fresh-baked apple tart and “stroopwafel” cookies layered with sticky caramel.
Getting around Tholen
Tholen is pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot. The city is a 45-minute drive from Rotterdam, one hour from The Hague and 1.5 hours from Amsterdam. Bergen op Zoom is a 15-minute drive away. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is a 1.5-hour drive away.