Some stranger to our town wrote, The Dutch are very friendly. Although I had quite some difficulties to express myself and to understand them, I found that they were very helpful. City center is situated within the ruins of the city walls, and is surrounded by the Stads-Gracht, which is a man-made canal.The Sassenport was the main door of the city wall. It is now used as a one traffic lane, as the doors remain open, and the building is now used as a museum. Favourite spots: Be sure to spend at least one Sunday there, as the local bands practice in the streets and at the local pubs in the afternoons. What's really great: Be sure to also take the time to walk around the Wijde Aa Lake. The paths are easy to follow and the scenery easy on the eyes. One can also go horse riding around the lake, by renting a horse nearby. The trees, especially the many weeping willows, their branches caressing the water of the many canals, add charm and great beauty to this city. Be sure not to miss it if you're in the Netherlands. By train, from Amsterdam it is only about a 2 hrs train ride north. Sights: The Cathedral was under reconstruction while I visited Zwolle. Yet one was still allowed to walk in and experience the raw structure of the building. Also on Sundays the market is quite impressive and takes up most of the city center. Other recommendations: The population here speaks Dutch only (nonsense!!!! We speak English, French, German, Swedish, Spanish, Italian et cetera), so be sure to be able to express yourself in their language, or bring a phrase book, ha ha ha!!!!. (I find Dutch a very difficult language to learn) This city is a great place to take awesome pictures. Don't forget your camera. The city itself is quite safe; I had no fears whatsoever to walk around alone, at any time of the day or night.