I’m currently planning a road trip through the eastern provinces of the Netherlands for later this year. I really want to experience some unique local culture and hidden gems away from the usual Amsterdam tourist track. I’m a big fan of flea markets and vintage hunting, and I recently came across the website for a massive indoor market in the region: https://zwartemarktslagharen.nl/ It looks huge and seems like a fascinating glimpse into local life, but I haven't found much mention of it in standard travel guides. Has anyone here ever visited this specific market while traveling through the area? Is it worth a detour for someone who loves thrifting and antiquing? Also, if you have any recommendations for other small towns, historic stops, or scenic spots to check out nearby in the Overijssel region, I would love to hear them!
Posted by
Sydney, Australia
363 posts
If you are driving, then yes, Vesting Bourtange - a star-shaped fort town. Hard to find, it has been restored completely after losing population in the 1960s. There was some discussion here on star forts recently and I posted about it. It is right up against the German border, and a short drive from Groningen.
And not in the Netherlands, but in Tongeren, in Belgium, there is a very significant antiques market. I have never visited it but it is quite famous. Tongeren is known for its Roman ruins also. The market runs on Sundays: https://www.antiekmarkt-tongeren.be/en/home-2/
Good on you for visiting the Netherlands outside Amsterdam. Most people don't, with the consequence that Amsterdam is overtouristed, and the rest neglected, but there is so much to see. Hope you enjoy it!
Lavandula
Posted by
Amsterdam
15 posts
Haven’t visited this market but there’s a similar Zwarte Markt in Beverwijk (close to Amsterdam). Been there twice but it wasn’t my cup of tea: hardly any second hand -let alone antiques or vintage- and too much bulk sale. Slagharen looks similar but again, haven’t been there so can’t say for sure.
What you definitely will find: thrift stores (kringloopwinkels in Dutch)! Most cities and some major villages have one, and they are great fun to explore. Just check your Maps to find them or ask the locals where the good kringloopwinkels are.
As for Overijssel: the larger towns of Zwolle and Deventer are not to be missed. I love Deventer in particular because of its narrow mazed streets and second hand bookstores. Zutphen is lovely as well. Further east is Ootmarsum, with an absolutely gorgeous historic centre filled with art galleries and an open air museum nearby.