Bergen op Zoom City Guide

Local dishes like Zeeland mussels, bitterballen, and stroopwafels are popular. International options include Italian and Asian food. Vegetarian and vegan choices are growing. Late-night options are limited but some snack bars stay open.

Nightlife is modest with cozy bars and pubs mainly in the city center. Large clubs are rare.

Coffee culture mixes traditional cafés with some emerging specialty shops. Good for quick espresso or coffee with cake.

Tipping is not required as service is included. Small tips or rounding up are appreciated for good service.

SIM cards can be purchased at phone stores like KPN, Vodafone, T-Mobile or supermarkets. eSIMs are available depending on the provider. ID registration is required for prepaid.

Streets are clean with efficient waste management and recycling. Sanitation issues are rare.

Few 24/7 services. Emergency pharmacies rotate schedules. Some supermarkets have extended hours. Limited late-night food.

Supermarkets like Albert Heijn, Jumbo, Lidl, and Aldi are common. Local fresh markets run weekly offering produce. Hours vary but most open early and close by 9 PM on weekdays.

Card payments like Maestro or V-Pay are standard. Smaller shops often don’t accept cash.

ATMs (Geldmaat) are common near supermarkets and downtown. Non-EU cards may incur fees from your bank.

Local Dutch schools are available. International English-language schools are mainly in nearby bigger cities like Rotterdam or Antwerp, reachable by commute.

Limited digital nomad presence and meetups. Networking mainly through local groups and cafes with Wi-Fi.

Parks like Anton van Duinkerkenpark and Bergse Heide provide plenty of green space for walking and running.

Popular running routes include parks and countryside. Safe and well-maintained paths with local running clubs.

Several gym chains offer fitness options around the city.

Tennis and padel courts available with clubs like LTC Bergen op Zoom, coaching, and equipment rentals.

Padel courts available with club memberships and guest access.

Several yoga studios offer various styles and drop-in classes. English-speaking instructors possible but check ahead.

Various martial arts schools offer judo, karate, taekwondo, boxing, and kickboxing. English instructors may be available.

No natural ski slopes; indoor skiing is available nearby at SnowWorld Rucphen.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing options on local lakes and Oosterschelde. Rentals and tours available in warm months.

Surf spots are over an hour's drive along the North Sea coast. Water is cold year-round; wetsuits needed.

Diving is popular in Oosterschelde National Park with rich marine life. Equipment rentals and schools available.

Bravis Ziekenhuis and other facilities have English-speaking staff. Healthcare is high quality. Pharmacies stock common meds; some need prescriptions. Emergency number is 112.

Tap water is safe and of high quality.

Playgrounds like Speeltuin De Warande and kid-friendly cafés exist. Attractions include Markiezenhof Palace and parks.

Generally safe and inclusive city. The Netherlands is welcoming with strong legal protections. Local LGBTQ+ events are small.

Pet-friendly city with parks and vet clinics available. Few dedicated dog parks but many green areas allow leashed dogs.