Middelburg is a treasure trove of history, architecture, and waterways, making it an ideal place for a variety of tours. Whether you prefer drifting along the canals, walking through centuries-old streets, or solving puzzles with friends, Middelburg offers experiences that bring its stories to life. We particularly enjoy the Middelburg: City Canal Cruise, which provides a relaxing way to see key landmarks like the Lange Jan tower and the Oostkerk, all while learning about the city’s past from the water. This cruise is a fantastic way to get a broad overview without tiring your feet, and it’s affordable at just $14 per person.
If you love walking and want an authentic, immersive experience, the Guided City Walking Tour offers a deeper dive into Middelburg’s historic significance, with over 1200 monuments to admire. For something more interactive, the e-Scavenger Hunt turns sightseeing into a fun game, perfect for families or groups looking to explore at their own pace. For those interested in architecture, the Town Hall tour showcases one of Zeeland’s most stunning buildings, while the Abbey tour provides a fascinating glimpse into 1000 years of local history. Lastly, for active travelers, paddling through the canals with a Canoe or SUP rental offers a fresh perspective on this scenic city.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour, helping you choose the one that suits your interests, pace, and budget.
1. Middelburg: City Canal Cruise
At number 1 on our list, the Middelburg: City Canal Cruise is a perfect introduction to the city. Priced at just $14 per person, this 45-minute cruise offers a relaxed way to take in Middelburg’s most iconic sights, such as the Lange Jan tower, the VOC building, the Oostkerk, and the Kloveniersdoelen. The water route provides a unique angle on the city’s architectural gems, many of which are difficult to appreciate fully from land.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to learn about Middelburg’s origins, its role in the Dutch East India Company, and its cultural significance—all from a boat with panoramic views. The commentary is mostly in Dutch, but the water views and landmarks speak for themselves. Many travelers appreciate the calm atmosphere and the opportunity to relax while enjoying historic scenery. The cruise departs from Achter de Houttuinen 39, making it centrally located and easy to combine with other explorations.
While reviews praise the enjoyable experience and good English commentary when available, some note the desire for more comprehensive narration. Still, for the value price, it’s hard to beat a scenic and informative tour on the water.
Bottom Line: A gentle, affordable way to see Middelburg’s top landmarks from a different perspective, ideal for first-time visitors and those short on time.
2. Middelburg: Guided City Walking Tour
Next up, the Guided City Walking Tour offers a more in-depth look at Middelburg’s monumental city center. For about $15 per person, you’ll walk through the historic streets for 1.5 to 2 hours, passing quiet squares, the abbey with its tower, and charming merchant houses.
This tour is perfect if you want to understand the city’s historic importance during the Dutch Golden Age. The guide shares stories behind the architecture, the merchants, and the city’s key role in regional trade history. On Sundays, the tour includes a visit to the Zeeuws Museum’s tapestries, adding a cultural touch to the walk.
The route emphasizes more than 1200 monuments, making it a rundown for history lovers and architecture enthusiasts. The walking pace allows ample time to take photos and absorb the atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the engaging guides and well-chosen route as key strengths.
This tour suits those who prefer exploring on foot and want a detailed context for Middelburg’s buildings. It is a good value for its duration and depth, especially if you’re interested in the city’s cultural history.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for history buffs and architecture fans who want a thorough, guided introduction to Middelburg’s historic center.
3. e-Scavenger Hunt Middelburg: Explore the city at your own pace
For a fun, modern way to explore Middelburg, the e-Scavenger Hunt turns sightseeing into an interactive game. Priced at around $35.54 per group (up to 6 people), this 3-hour smartphone app adventure is perfect for families, friends, or small groups who want to control their schedule.
Using GPS and riddles, you’ll solve puzzles and unlock secrets about the city’s Gothic architecture, historic sites, and hidden corners. The game is available in several languages, including German, Spanish, French, and Italian, making it accessible for international visitors. The only requirement is a data connection, and you’re free to start, pause, or stop whenever you want.
Reviewers appreciate the engaging format, saying it’s a “super fun way to discover Middelburg,” especially for those who dislike traditional tours. The app makes exploring less about following a guide and more about personal discovery, making it ideal for independent travelers or tech-savvy groups.
Bottom Line: A great option for a personalized, interactive exploration that keeps everyone engaged, especially if you want flexibility and a sense of adventure.
4. Middelburg: Guided Tour Townhall Middelburg
The Town Hall guided tour offers a rare chance to step inside one of Zeeland’s most beautiful late Gothic buildings. For around $18 per person, the 1-hour tour provides a detailed look at the history, architecture, and stories of this historic landmark.
Led by an expert local guide, you’ll see highlights like the ornate interior, the historic council chambers, and learn about the building’s role during Middelburg’s prominence in trade and politics. The tour emphasizes the architectural details and the events that shaped the structure’s history.
Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the exclusive access to parts of the building usually not open to the public. The tour is especially suited for history and architecture enthusiasts who want a close-up experience of Middelburg’s civic pride.
While the duration is short, the focused content and quality of the guide make this a worthwhile visit. It’s a good add-on if you’re already exploring the town hall area or want a behind-the-scenes look.
Bottom Line: An intimate, detailed tour ideal for those interested in architecture, history, and Middelburg’s civic heritage.
5. Discover Middleburg by playing Escape game The Alchemist
For groups seeking a hands-on adventure, the Escape Game “The Alchemist” turns Middelburg into a puzzle-solving playground. Priced at about $23.12 per group (up to 6 people), this 2-hour urban escape game challenges you to unravel mysteries and complete missions using clues scattered throughout the city.
Your mobile app guides you through the streets, requiring keen observation and teamwork to solve riddles. It’s a fun way to explore Middelburg differently, especially if you enjoy puzzles and problem-solving. The game incorporates local landmarks into its challenges, making it both educational and entertaining.
Though only four reviews are available, those who have played report it as a “super fun way to discover Middelburg,” with positive comments about the engaging puzzles and city insights. It’s suitable for families, friends, or colleagues who crave interaction and challenge.
Bottom Line: Perfect for puzzle lovers and groups wanting an active, interactive experience that combines exploration and problem-solving.
6. Middelburg: Zeeuws Museum Entry Ticket
If you’re keen to learn about Zeeland’s culture, the Zeeuws Museum is a top cultural stop. For $17, you get a full-day admission to this diverse museum housed in a former abbey, with over 30,000 objects on display.
Highlights include naval battle tapestries from the Eighty Years’ War, regional costumes, jewelry, and objects from Zeeland’s trade history. The museum also hosts rotating exhibitions on fashion, regional traditions, and local crafts. It’s a comprehensive look at Zeeland’s past, with interactive displays and engaging storytelling.
Many visitors appreciate the museum for its extensive collection and beautifully restored architecture. It’s especially suited for those wanting a leisurely, indoor experience that deepens understanding of Zeeland’s regional identity.
The ticket is valid all day, making it easy to combine with other activities. The entry fee offers good value considering the variety and depth of exhibits.
Bottom Line: A must-visit for history and culture lovers wanting an immersive experience in Zeeland’s regional traditions.
$17 per person
7. Abbey tour in historic Middelburg
The Abbey tour gives a 1.5-hour guided exploration into one of Middelburg’s most significant historical sites. Starting at the Zeeuws Museum, this tour takes you inside the abbey to learn about its 1000-year history and its role in regional religious life.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll see the architectural details, hear stories of monks and local events, and enjoy a walk through this serene historic space. The tour also offers a 50% discount on a visit to the Zeeuws Museum, providing a seamless cultural experience.
This tour is best suited for families or history enthusiasts who want an accessible yet insightful look into the city’s religious and architectural past. Many participants comment on the beautiful setting and engaging storytelling.
While it’s not a lengthy tour, the depth of information and the opportunity to experience a significant religious site make it worthwhile.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, educational tour perfect for those interested in religious architecture and Middelburg’s medieval past.
8. Middelburg: Canoe or SUP Rental City Centre
Finally, for an active day, consider renting a canoe or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) to explore Middelburg from the water’s surface. The Canoe or SUP Rental allows you to paddle through the city’s charming canals at your own pace, with rentals typically lasting around 1.5 hours.
This experience offers a unique perspective, letting you appreciate Middelburg’s historic architecture from a different angle. Whether you prefer the relaxing rhythm of paddling or the fun challenge of balancing on a SUP, this is a memorable way to combine sightseeing with physical activity.
Reviews highlight the fun and freedom of paddling through the city, making it ideal for families, friends, or solo explorers who want an active adventure. It’s a flexible option, as you can choose your departure time and route.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers seeking a fun, memorable way to see Middelburg’s waterways up close and personal.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Middelburg
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your interest level, physical activity preferences, and budget. If a relaxed overview of the city’s landmarks appeals, the Canal Cruise or the Town Hall tour are excellent choices. For history lovers wanting a deeper understanding, the Guided Walking Tour or Abbey Tour provide rich stories and insights.
Families or groups interested in interactive experiences might enjoy the e-Scavenger Hunt or Escape Game, both encouraging engagement and teamwork. Active travelers or nature lovers should consider renting a canoe or SUP to explore the city’s waterways from a new perspective.
Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular options like the Canal Cruise or Guided Tours. Spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities, but indoor options like museums are perfect year-round.
Final Thoughts
Middelburg’s diversity of tours caters to all tastes—from scenic water trips and historic walks to interactive puzzles and cultural visits. If you’re looking for a gentle introduction, the Canal Cruise offers great views and value. For a more immersive experience, the Guided City Tour or Abbey Tour provide rich stories and architectural admiration. Adventure seekers will enjoy paddling or solving puzzles with friends.
No matter your style or interest, booking early ensures you’ll get the best times and availability. With so many options, Middelburg guarantees a memorable exploration filled with history, charm, and just the right touch of fun.