Kampen Vacation Rentals
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Tips on renting in Kampen
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
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Discover Kampen, a charming gem in Overijssel, Netherlands, where your family can unwind along the peaceful banks of the IJssel River. Picture yourselves wandering the cobbled streets of Kampen’s historic center, where medieval city gates like the Koornmarktpoort invite you to step into a living storybook. The aroma of fresh pastries from local bakeries fills the air, and vibrant markets offer local cheeses and treats perfect for a family picnic by the water.
Kampen and the surrounding Overijssel region are a paradise for outdoor-loving families. Spend your mornings cycling together along well-marked bike paths that wind through lush meadows and along the sparkling shores of the Ketelmeer lake. Children will love watching sailboats drift by or skipping stones from sandy beaches. For a unique family memory, rent a canoe and paddle quietly through the gentle currents, soaking up the wide-open Dutch sky and the calls of water birds nearby.
Every season in Kampen brings new adventures. In spring and summer, the riverside parks and playgrounds buzz with laughter, while autumn brings golden leaves perfect for nature walks. Even in winter, Kampen’s festive lights and cozy cafés make it a welcoming retreat. With family-friendly restaurants, lakeside amenities, and easy access to Overijssel’s best attractions, Kampen invites you to relax, explore, and make lasting memories together.
Nearby cities
Biddinghuizen
Discover Biddinghuizen in Flevoland—where your family can bike lakeside trails, picnic by sparkling water, and enjoy playful days in wide open green spaces.
Wanneperveen
Discover Wanneperveen in Overijssel—where your family can paddle calm lakes, bike flower-lined paths, and picnic by the water under wide Dutch skies.
Nunspeet
Discover Nunspeet in Gelderland—where your family can bike forest trails, picnic by sparkling lakes, and play together in safe, welcoming Dutch nature.
Bant
Discover Bant in Flevoland: splash in sparkling lakes, bike leafy trails, and picnic under wide Dutch skies. Your family’s lakeside adventure starts here!
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Kampen has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Kampen, Netherlands, is perfect for an explorer family getaway thanks to its enchanting medieval city center, where cobblestone streets lead to the impressive Bovenkerk and the iconic Koornmarktpoort gate. Families can enjoy interactive adventures at the Kamper Kogge shipyard, where history comes to life aboard a reconstructed medieval cog ship. The scenic banks of the IJssel River offer picturesque cycling paths and boat tours, while cozy riverside cafés provide a welcoming spot to relax after a day of discovery.
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Exploring Kampen with your family is both convenient and affordable thanks to the OV-chipkaart, which allows unlimited travel on buses and trains throughout the region, including easy access to Kampen’s historic city center. Many local attractions, such as the Stedelijk Museum Kampen and the iconic Koornmarktpoort, are within walking distance from the main station. For families, special group tickets are often available, providing discounted fares and making it simple to hop between Kampen’s charming sights.
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In Kampen, a charming Dutch city known for its historic Hanseatic architecture along the IJssel River, the average nightly rate for family accommodations typically ranges from €100 to €150, depending on the season and location. Families can stay in cozy guesthouses or riverside hotels close to major sights like the Koornmarktpoort and the Stedelijk Museum Kampen. Many accommodations offer spacious rooms and amenities designed for families, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in this picturesque destination.
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Families visiting Kampen for a short 2-night stay should start with a stroll along the historic IJssel riverfront, where the iconic Koornmarktpoort city gate and centuries-old merchant houses set the scene. Explore the Stedelijk Museum Kampen for interactive exhibits about the city’s Hanseatic past, and let kids enjoy the playgrounds at Stadspark. Don’t miss a visit to the Kamper Kogge ship replica for a taste of maritime adventure, and sample traditional Dutch treats at local bakeries in the bustling city center.
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Absolutely, families visiting Kampen on Sylt will love the nearby Buhne 16 beach, famous for its wide sandy shores and relaxed vibe. This beach offers plenty of space for kids to play, and you’ll find comfortable beach chairs for resting while the little ones enjoy the playground. The area is well-equipped with restrooms and snack bars, making it easy for families to spend a whole day enjoying the North Sea breeze and the stunning views of the red cliffs.
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For a fun day of sledding near Kampen, head to the Sylt dunes around the Rantumbecken or the slopes near Wenningstedt, where the sandy hills transform into playful runs after a snowfall. The area around the Uwe Düne, Sylt’s highest point, is especially popular for tobogganing, offering sweeping views of the North Sea as you zoom down. Local families often gather here, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere for visitors seeking winter excitement.
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In Kampen, using public transportation is generally more affordable than renting a car. The city’s efficient bus and train network, operated by Keolis, connects you to nearby destinations like Zwolle and the charming old town center with its medieval gates and the historic Koornmarktpoort. Renting a car can be convenient for exploring the wider Overijssel region, but fuel, parking fees, and rental costs add up quickly compared to the reasonably priced OV-chipkaart system for public transit.