Living in Zeeland
Discover life along the coast
Zeeland is a unique river delta in the southwest of the Netherlands. As the meeting point of land and sea, it’s a place of harmony: between work and down time, city and seaside, quiet and adventure. Authentic local produce, close-knit communities, unique traditions and plenty of opportunities for both business and breaks – that’s Zeeland. It’s a place to live a mindful life. Close to nature, yet with everything you need nearby. Read more about living in Zeeland.
Why life is good in Zeeland
Find your work-life balance
In Zeeland, you’ll naturally find a healthy balance between work and time off. It’s part of who we are. The province is made up of former islands, each with its own character. Wherever you are, the sea, dunes and polders are never far away. The salty sea air and miles of beaches give you all the space you need to relax, refresh and recharge. Just imagine: remote working from a beach hut with views of the waves, or finishing a productive day at work with a refreshing walk through the dunes.
Authentic local products from land and sea
Zeeland is heaven on earth for foodies, offering a wealth of authentic local products straight from the sea or fertile polders. The province is known for its abundance of fresh fish and shellfish – its mussels and oysters are nothing short of legendary. Did you know we even grow our own wine?
Zeeland’s communities, traditions and events
Zeelanders have always lived in tight-knit communities and still do today. In villages or towns, you’ll find neighbours who know each other and are ready to help – or just have a quick chat. That community spirit is strengthened by Zeeland’s unique traditions and events, such as tilting at the ring, mussel festivals, fishermen’s festivals and Straô. These local traditions continue to be a source of pride
and are enriched by a huge range of other cultural and sports events, many at unique locations along the coast. They include Concert at Sea at Brouwersdam, the Dutch Headwind Cycling Championships on the Oosterscheldekering storm surge barrier or the Kustmarathon Zeeland running event.
Right in the middle
Zeeland is conveniently located in the southwest of the Netherlands near the Belgian border. And with large cities such as Rotterdam, Breda, Ghent and Antwerp just a 1.5-hour drive away, it’s easy to combine the peace and quiet of the seaside life with the hustle and bustle of cosmopolitan cities.
Stories from people living in Zeeland
Want to hear what locals think about life in Zeeland? Check out our blog and read some of their tips for newcomers. If you already live in Zeeland, have a look at our Bucketlist Zeeland blog for the must-dos to start feeling like a local.
Want to find out more about living in Zeeland?
We’re thrilled you’re thinking about starting a new life in Zeeland. The pages below are full of information about housing, education and healthcare. All to help you settle in.
Housing, education and health care in Zeeland
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International community
The Zeeland International Center is a hub for internationals living, working or studying in Zeeland. The Center organises regular meetings and offers practical support. You’ll also find an active International Community on Facebook, including a private group called Internationals in Zeeland in which you can share your experiences and ask any questions you have.
Support for internationals
The Welcome to NL Relocation App has lots of practical information for people looking to move to the Netherlands from abroad.
Learning Dutch opens doors to both work and community connections. You can start your language journey at the International Center Zeeland, which has a large network of teaching partners.
Zeeland’s libraries also offer plenty of opportunities to attend Dutch lessons or practice your conversational skills in the form of language support desks and hubs. Taalhuis Walcheren is one such hubs that hosts language cafés in Middelburg, Vlissingen and Arnemuiden. The Bibliotheek Zeeuws-Vlaanderen and Oosterscheldebibliotheek libraries also provide language resources and organise friendly language cafés – the perfect place to meet new people and practise speaking.