The Assendorp district

Assendorp in Zwolle

Assendorp is one of the hippest neighborhoods in Zwolle. Why is that? The streets are always moving, filled with people shopping, taking a walk or enjoying a cup of coffee on one of the many terraces. Walking through the neighborhood on a sunny day, people are sitting in front of their houses having drinks and children are playing with each other on the sidewalk.

The neighborhood has cozy cafes, restaurants and stores. From artisan bakeries to contemporary boutiques, you'll find everything you need here. The catering establishments in the neighborhood offer something for everyone: from trendy coffee bars to cozy eateries where you can go for a good meal. The Assendorperplein is the beating heart of the neighborhood, where events regularly take place.

Despite the liveliness, Assendorp also offers plenty of space for tranquility and nature. The neighborhood is surrounded by green areas where you can escape the hustle and bustle for a while. The Wezenlandenpark is one of the largest and best known parks of Zwolle. The park is a popular place for young and old. You can play sports, have a picnic or just enjoy nature. Besides the Wezenlandenpark there are also smaller green spaces in the neighborhood, such as neighborhood vegetable gardens and playgrounds.

Moreover, the location of the neighborhood is ideal: Assendorp is close to both the city center and the train station. If you come by train, you can walk straight into Assendorp. Ideal!

Historical background of Assendorp

Assendorp has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The neighborhood was originally created as a working class neighborhood, built for the workers of the nearby railroads and factories. This is still reflected in the architecture: the many workers' houses, built in a recognizable brick style, give the district an authentic and nostalgic character. The streets breathe history and give you the feeling of stepping back in time.

In recent decades, Assendorp transformed from a simple working-class neighborhood, to a sought-after neighborhood where a diversity of people come together. The old houses have been refurbished, the streets enlivened and a balance between the historic character and modern elements has been created.

What to do in Assendorp?

There is a lot to do in Assendorp. For example, start your day with a smoothie on the sidewalk at Lisa's Deli. Or go one door down, because next door to Lisa's Deli you'll find Everyday Bread & Coffee. Here you can find delicious sandwiches, bowls and sweets. You can also go to The Bread Company. This bakery sits on the edge of Assendorp and also has a small terrace. Fresh sandwiches, homemade brownies and airy croissants: you'll find it here.

Is it a hot summer day and you feel like an ice cream? Assendorp has recently gained an ice cream parlor. In fact, it is the first ice cream parlor in Assendorp. Het IJscuypje has flavors like syrup waffle and chocolate sorbet. You will also find all kinds of other flavors. Delicious!

You just read it: the Assendorperplein is the beating heart of Assendorp. Beer festivals, Sinterklaas parade or Koningsdag: you celebrate life on the Assendorperplein. Every second Sunday of the month a musical event is organized in the bandstand on the square. Different musicians play and everyone is welcome. You don't have to pay an entrance fee and it takes place outside. You can get a tasty snack at De Enk.

Speaking of De Enk: there's plenty to do there, too. The Multifunctional Center rents out rooms, organizes events and has a WijKeuken. At the WijKeuken you can eat affordable, fresh and healthy food. You pay only €10 per menu. For children up to 12 years old, you pay €5. Can you spare a little more? Then you can also pay €12.50 so someone else can eat for €7.50. Every Wednesday and Thursday you can eat at De Enk. You can make reservations until noon on Tuesday because they buy in for the number of reservations to avoid waste. Every week there is a different meal on the menu.

More restaurants in Assendorp

Celebrating a special moment? Catching up with that friend you haven't seen in years? Treating your mother? Whatever the occasion: for a delicious dinner, Assendorp is the place to be. The New Kitchen serves a dynamic menu. The 4-course menu changes every month. The chefs use sustainable seasonal ingredients. The meals are basically vegetarian and you can optionally supplement them with meat or fish.

The New Kitchen is in Eureka, a creative stronghold on Assendorperplein. Besides the restaurant, you'll find a recording studio, studios, a tattoo studio and the office of Theater de Makkers.

For a delicious meal, you can also visit Het Weeshuys in Assendorp. Skilled cooks prepare the most delicious dishes for you. This is a good place for dinner, but also for a good lunch or a drink.

StreetArt Route through Assendorp

Discover street art in Assendorp during a fascinating walking route of 7 kilometers. You'll walk past 18 different murals, ranging from large, impressive works of art to well-hidden gems. If you choose to follow the route on foot, you will be on your way for about two hours.