population: 0.127 million

extension: 119.39 square kilometers

Museums

Great! If you're interested in museums and art, I would recommend visiting the Museum de Fundatie in Zwolle. It houses a collection of modern and contemporary art, as well as a number of temporary exhibitions. Additionally, there is the Stedelijk Museum Zwolle, which has collections of local history, fine arts, and applied arts.

If you happen to be looking for similar types of museums nearby, you could consider visiting the Kröller-Müller Museum in Otterlo, which is about an hour and a half's drive from Zwolle. This museum has a large collection of modern art, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Mondrian. Another option could be the Van Abbemuseum in Eindhoven, which has a focus on contemporary art and design.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Zwolle, Netherlands, according to local people include:

1. Zwolse Mosterdsoep: A creamy mustard soup with bacon bits that is a local specialty.

2. Pannenkoeken: Dutch-style pancakes that are often served with sweet or savory toppings.

3. Stamppot: A traditional Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, such as sauerkraut or kale, and usually accompanied by meat.

4. Gehaktbal: A hearty Dutch meatball typically served with gravy, potatoes, and vegetables.

5. Hachee: A beef stew that is slow-cooked with onions, vinegar, and spices and served with potatoes or bread.

6. Stroopwafels: A popular Dutch treat consisting of thin waffles with caramel syrup filling.

7. Bitterballen: Small deep-fried balls filled with a mixture of beef and a thick roux-based sauce, usually served with mustard for dipping.

These dishes can be found in many restaurants and cafes throughout Zwolle and are definitely worth trying if you're looking to experience local Dutch cuisine.

Activities

Sure! Here are some fun activities that locals enjoy in Zwolle:

1. Take a walk or bike ride along the city's historic fortifications and canal, which offer lovely views of the old town.

2. Visit the weekly farmer's market (Streekmarkt) on a Friday morning to taste local food and drink products from the area.

3. Explore the city's rich cultural heritage by visiting the Sassenpoort tower, Museum de Fundatie, and the Onze Lieve Vrouwe basilica.

4. Enjoy a drink or meal at one of the many cozy cafes and restaurants in the city center, such as Het Refter, De Gillende Keukenmeiden or Brasserie Jansen.

5. Attend one of the many festivals and events that take place in Zwolle throughout the year, such as the Zwolle Unlimited Festival, Bevrijdingsfestival Overijssel, or the Dutch BBQ Championships.

I hope you find these suggestions helpful and have a great time exploring Zwolle like a local!