The Sint-Maartenskerk and the Waterpoort show two sides of Zaltbommel’s history: here, a church tower more than 60 metres high; there, a pointed-arch gateway dating from the 14th century. The Sint-Maartenskerk is a Rijksmonument, a monument protected by the Dutch state and of great cultural and historical value. The Waterpoort was restored in 1942–1943. These contrasting architectural forms alone offer a reason to discover Zaltbommel not just as a collection of historic sights, but also through the story of its city.

Discover history and culture

The Stadskasteel Zaltbommel Museum explores the history of the city and the Bommelerwaard. It features a permanent exhibition and changing exhibitions. Another way to explore local history is the Jewish heritage route, which leads to places in Zaltbommel connected with the lives of members of the Jewish community before the Second World War. The mikveh also offers a glimpse of Jewish heritage and can be visited.

Another historic landmark is the water tower on the edge of the northeastern part of the old town’s earthworks. Its distinctive shape combines a cylinder and a cone. The Sint-Maartenskerk offers a different view from its tower: it is more than 60 metres high and provides views of Zaltbommel’s medieval fortress and the surrounding area.

City ramparts and walking routes

From 1834 onwards, Zaltbommel’s Stadswallen were transformed from fortifications into a green landscape park. From 2017 to 2025, the park was restored according to the 1834 park design. You can explore the Stadswallen at your own pace using a special walking and tree-route map. The map leads past fourteen notable trees, giving your walk a specific theme.

The area around the water tower was also transformed into a park with walking paths. In Zaltbommel, the history of fortifications and landscaped green spaces come together, without limiting your walk to just one way of discovering the city. The city is also home to the Gootspoken, figures created by artist Joris Baudoin. They add a local artistic touch to the historic buildings.

Routes, exhibitions and events

The routes of Hanseatic city Zaltbommel explore the city’s Hanseatic history and are accompanied by figures such as Everhardus de schepen, Jan de koopman, Marycken de molenaarster and Zacharias de zakkendrager. Another walking route introduces Everhardus van Balveren as its guide; he is known as a 15th-century alderman and toll collector. The different figures and historical references offer various ways to connect with Zaltbommel’s history on a walk through the city.

For a playful way to explore, try the Fiep scavenger hunt, which starts at the Stadskasteel Museum. Its game elements include Pluk’s tow truck and a Jip and Janneke house. Theater De Poorterij stages numerous performances each year, including cabaret, dance, music and shows for young audiences; specific performances and dates change. The Gasthuiskapel also hosts exhibitions, talks, concerts and full music festivals. Its programme changes over time.

Local experiences and getting around

Local experiences also include food and hands-on activities. At IJssalon Hygge, participants can make a flavour of ice cream or an ice-cream sundae in workshops; workshop formats may change. The Zaltbommelse Stadsbrouwerij has a taproom with a varied beer menu and a tap list updated weekly. The beer selection and tap list change over time.

Zaltbommel is accessible by car, bicycle and public transport. From Zaltbommel NS railway station, it is about a 15-minute walk to the historic centre. For information about the Bommelerwaard, visit Tourist Info Bommelerwaard at Markt 3 in Zaltbommel; it provides visitor information about the region. The municipality also refers visitors to Beleef Bommelerwaard for information about sights, nature areas, history, city walks, cycling routes and boat trips.

The Vuren–Zaltbommel Struinroute crosses back to the other side of the Waal by foot ferry. If you plan to take this route, check the ferry timetable before setting out.

Discover more destinations: Nederhemert, Zaltbommel, Aalst, Bruchem, Brakel, Nieuwaal, Poederoijen, Scherpenzeel.

For the main travel overview: Gelderland.