Zuiderzee Museum

The Zuiderzee Museum brings the maritime culture of the former Zuiderzee to life. It’s both an open-air village and an indoor museum of Dutch coastal heritage. Historic houses, windmills, and shops have been relocated and reconstructed. Costumed interpreters demonstrate traditional crafts like sail making and smoking fish. Inside, exhibitions show art, textiles, ship models, and local history. The museum covers themes of water, resilience, and Dutch identity. Children can play, explore, and participate in hands-on activities. Set on the shores of the IJsselmeer, it feels like stepping back in time. Accessible by ferry from Enkhuizen station during the season. A delightful journey into Dutch life, culture, and craftsmanship.

Opening hours

Tuesday to Sunday, from 10.00 to 17.00

How to get there

Wierdijk 12-22, 1601 LA Enkhuizen

Prices from

From €19.50

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Nestled along the historic harbor of Enkhuizen, the Zuiderzee Museum brings the cultural heritage of the former Zuiderzee region vividly to life. It‚Äôs a museum in two parts‚Äîan open-air museum with a recreated 19th-century fishing village and an indoor museum that explores life on and around the water.

Dedicated to preserving traditional craftsmanship, maritime life, and folk culture, the museum paints a living portrait of Dutch coastal communities before the Zuiderzee was closed off in the 20th century.

Founded in 1948, the museum brings to life the maritime history, trades, and communities that shaped the Dutch coastline before the Afsluitdijk closed the Zuiderzee in 1932.

Historical Significance

The museum preserves the memory of the Zuiderzee communities, illustrating the transformation from sea to lake and the resulting social changes.

Featured Themes & Exhibits

Historic Fishing Villages
- 140 buildings relocated to form a recreated town

Maritime Traditions
- Boats, nets, and navigation equipment

Dutch Folk Art & Costume
- Authentic regional attire and crafts