Discover Ijsselstein: History between city and river

Ijsselstein combines a monumental historic town centre with green surroundings beyond the urban area, and lies on the Hollandse IJssel. Its historic streetscape includes an old town moat and remains of the fortifications; many buildings and houses are designated municipal monuments. When choosing a hotel in Ijsselstein, you might therefore consider whether you would like to focus your stay mainly on architectural history, museum exhibits or activities on the river.

Old Town and Architectural History

Today, only the 16th-century Loyertoren remains of Kasteel IJsselstein. The Benschopperpoort is one of the city’s two gates. These are distinct links to the city’s history: the Loyertoren is the surviving remnant of the castle, while the Benschopperpoort is a city gate. The tower by the Italian architect Pasqualini is considered the first Renaissance building in the northern Netherlands. Together with the town moat and the remains of the fortifications, these structures are among the various historical traces that shape the cityscape.

The churches also reflect different periods. The Oude Nicolaaskerk was built around 1307 and dedicated to Saint Nicholas in 1310. The Sint Nicolaasbasiliek is a three-aisled Neo-Gothic hall church that came into use in 1887. It was designed by the architect Wilhelm Victor Alfred Tepe. Different architectural styles and periods therefore stand side by side in the city, from the medieval Oude Nicolaaskerk to the late-19th-century basilica.

The Marian image Onze Lieve Vrouwe van Eiteren is housed in the Sint Nicolaasbasiliek and has been an object of veneration and devotion for centuries. Each year, the image is carried at the front of a procession through Ijsselstein. If you would like to include this event in your travel plans, check the dates for the relevant year.

Museum, Windmill and Garden

Museum IJsselstein presents changing exhibitions, each focusing on a current social issue. The museum also takes a distinctive approach to presenting the city’s history: instead of a traditional chronological narrative, it uses emotional themes. The history is thus told through these themes rather than as a continuous sequence of years. Opening hours are also relevant when planning your visit: the museum is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm; check the hours in advance.

Korenmolen De Windotter was built in 1732 and is a working windmill where grain is milled and flour is made. Its history is therefore also connected to a craft that continues today. The mill shop stocks a wide range of products for anyone who wants to bake their own bread, cakes, pizza, biscuits and other treats. As the selection may change, it is worth checking what is currently available if you are looking for something specific.

Another historic green space is the Historische Kruidentuin in Vestingplantsoen. It is inspired by historic monastery gardens. Ijsselstein therefore offers not only churches, gates and fortification remains, but also a garden whose design draws on a different tradition.

Boat Trips and Activities on the River

For 2026, boat trips are listed on Saturdays and Sundays through 31 October. They pass numerous monuments, including the two Sint Nicolaaskerken and Korenmolen De Windotter. Check the timetable before your visit. The Hollandse IJssel cycling route follows the river through its different landscapes and passes through the fortified town of Ijsselstein; check the current route before setting off. Visitors can also go canoeing or stand-up paddleboarding on the IJssel. This gives you a choice of different ways to experience the river: a cycling route through its varied landscapes, or activities directly on the water. Check the current conditions for each activity in advance.

Families can also find something suitable: a playground is set in historic, green surroundings and is suitable for children with and without disabilities. Check the latest operating details before visiting. The Sint Nicolaasbasiliek is open daily from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm; check these opening hours in advance too.

For the broader travel overview: Ijsselstein.