Situated on the eastern side of the Netherlands, Overijssel is a wonderful province for heritage aficionados and outdoorsy travellers to discover. Expect lush landscapes of fields, meadows and forests bordering cooling waterways and historic towns and cities — all of which are particularly pretty in the spring and summer months. Admire traditional windmills in charming villages, marvellous medieval architecture in Zwolle, and tuck into delicious regional fare at some of the best places to stay in Overijssel. Ranging from intimate B&Bs to chic hotels, our Gurus’ picks of top accommodation options offer a brilliant starting point for planning your trip.

Explore the beautiful small cities of Deventer and Kampen on foot, stepping in to towering churches, sip coffee in sunlit squares, or fill your bags with regional finds at lively weekend markets. Expect excellent museums, fun craft workshops, and lively summer food and music festivals. The region’s cheeses are particularly well-known — don’t miss the chance to sample and savour them during your trip.

Outdoorsy types will find seemingly endless rambling, cycling and horse riding routes through idyllic farmland, as well as ample bird watching opportunities in protected nature reserves and along scenic canals. The Weerribben-Wieden National Park is a particular highlight. Kayaking excursions and boat trips are great fun for the whole family — within easy reach of many of the best places to stay in Overijssel.

The Best Places to Stay in Overijssel

For Boutique Bliss

• Finch began life as a bank in Deventer. Now a hip boutique hotel with a lively wine bar and regular tastings, it has become a popular spot with city residents as well as visitors. The 24 guest rooms are compact but characterful and comfortable, with cosy beds, velvet upholstery and big bathtubs. 
• Grand Hotel Ter Borch was originally a police station. A grand, tree-framed building close to Zwolle's old town, the hotel now fuses period features with sleek contemporary design. Drinks, coffee and snacks are served in 'The Living', a generous space with an open fire in the heart of the hotel. Sleek suites are wonderfully romantic. 
• Huis Vermeer has a more indulgent old-school feel, with 11 individually designed guest rooms featuring polished wooden antiques, warm gold tones and rich textiles. The restaurant specialises in refined European fare, the leafy outdoor dining spaces are ideal for long summer evenings, and the 18th-century building is wonderfully atmospheric. A romantic choice for a trip to Deventer. 

For Riverside Style

• Mooirivier has stylish, minimalist interiors in a gorgeous riverside setting near Dalfsen. Savour regional dishes in the trendy restaurant, soak up Vecht River views from the terrace and bar, or unwind in the sauna after a workout at the gym. Boat trips are not to be missed! A hip hotel in a wonderful natural setting. 
• Pillows Luxury Boutique Hotel Aan De Ijssel is an elegant hotel with 29 guest rooms set within a 19th-century building. Expect sophisticated, understated interiors, beautiful river views and fabulous gourmet dining at the Michelin-starred IJssel Restaurant. The sauna and spa are ideal for unwinding after ambling around Deventer. A foodie favourite. 

For a Rural Escape

• Landgoed de Holtweijde is a wonderful rural escape for nature lovers and wellness enthusiasts. The 76 guest rooms, cabins and suites have a stylish yet rustic feel, with exposed wood, roaring fireplaces and velvet-upholstered armchairs. Some spaces have private kitchenettes. There's also superb gourmet fare, extensive wellness facilities and outdoor activities ranging from hiking to tennis. One for adventurers of all ages!
• Parkhotel de Wiemsel, surrounded by meadows and parkland on the edge of Ootmarsum, has a contemporary-classic feel, with spacious guest rooms facing leafy gardens. The extensive spa is a highlight, with two swimming pools, a steam room, a small gym and rejuvenating massages. Innovative gourmet fare will delight foodies, and the grounds are great for relaxed ambles and reading in the sunshine. A lovely fusion of rural bliss and proximity to town. 
• Landgoed de Wilmersberg has a more contemporary feel, with classic-contemporary guest rooms and suites decorated in warm golden yellow and blue tones. Close to De Lutte, the estate is ideal for rambling and cycling excursions, and has a soothing spa, excellent restaurant and cosy bar. Ideal for a weekend away with friends and family or a romantic retreat. 

For an apartment or holiday house

• For a self-catering spot, we recommend visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, 1 hour and 15 minutes by car or train from the Overijssel region. Most hotels will be happy to organise an airport or train station pickup in advance. 
• The Netherlands is great for exploring with the freedom of your own transport! If you would like to hire a car, we suggest that you contact our online partner Rentalcars.
• Travel during the summer for temperatures ranging between 11 and 23ºC, although this is the busiest time of year. The spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) are ideal for those seeking fewer crowds and great hotel offers.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to explore our list of the best places to stay in Deventer. 
• Alternatively, see our pick of all the best places to stay in the Netherlands. 
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.