Logo van Gemeente Zwolle dat doorverwijst naar de homepage
Logo van Gemeente Zwolle dat doorverwijst naar de homepage

Introduction to Zwolle

Welcome to Zwolle! 

Zwolle is a lively city with a population of approximately 129 000 people. It is the capital of the province of Overijssel. Zwolle boasts a beautiful city centre with historic buildings, canals and the remainders of an old city wall. But Zwolle has more to offer than just historic landmarks. The city is also rich in art and culture. Some highlights:

Rich in art and culture

Zwolle has two large theatre locations, ‘Odeon’ and ‘De Spiegel’, as well as a small narrative theatre and unique cinema. The Zwolle art route takes visitors along the city’s numerous studios and galleries, and art lovers will also find plenty to enjoy at Museum De Fundatie. Find out more about culture and art in the city of Zwolle on Visit Zwolleexterne-link-icoon.

Great shopping facilities

The city of Zwolle has great shopping facilities. There are charming shopping streets in the centre, where large chain stores alternate with small specialty shops. There are also plenty of culinary delights to be found in and around the centre, ranging from top restaurants like 'De Librije' to bistros and cafés. During the annual ‘Culinary Zwolle’ event, reputable restaurants from Zwolle and the surrounding area present their specialties to the public amidst a festive ambiance.

The green city of Zwolle

The municipality of Zwolle feels very strongly about the nature found in and around the city. Not only will you find plenty of green spaces, but the municipality also maintains its natural beauty in an innovative fashion. Zwolle was voted the 'greenest' city in Europe during the ‘Entente Florale’ horticultural competition in 2006.

Excellent source of employment

The central location for the West and North has ensured that the economic performance of Zwolle has been one of the highest in the Netherlands. A relatively young working population, a low level of unemployment and a high work ethics make Zwolle a healthy working city. Find out more about the business climate.

Facts & figures

  • Population: approx. 129 000
  • Average age of the population: 39,6 years old
  • Residents with migration background: 17,5%
  • Employment growth: 8.6% (5.6% in the Netherlands)
  • Employment share (% of the population): 68% (66.1% in the Netherlands)

You can find out more about Zwolle in facts and figures on Cijfersoverzwolle.nlexterne-link-icoon.

Please enjoy browsing this website to find out more about life in Zwolle!