This vibrant Hanseatic city is found in Salland, a historical region in the Dutch province of Overijssel. Many come for events such as its book market, Deventer op Stelten and Dickens Festijn. But you can easily spend a few days wandering the lantern-lit cobbled lanes, shopping in boutiques and absorbing the alfresco cafe culture, or hiring a bicycle to explore the nearby nature reserves. Learn about the area’s medieval through to present-day heritage and trading past in the Museum De Waag, or peruse the collection of toys and childhood artefacts at the Speelgoedmuseum. And do sample some of the Deventer koek, a local honey cake.
Pillows Deventer
In a prime waterside location, this 19th-century property exudes understated luxury across its 29 rooms and suites. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow light to flood in and guests to enjoy the leafy and IJssel river views. Crisp white Egyptian cotton linens are contrasted by monochrome photo prints and inky wooden furnishings. And some categories of bedrooms come with complimentary vouchers to ride the nearby ferry across to the other side of town. There’s a sunny terrace for warmer days, the IJssel Restaurant serving fine cuisine and The Living, found in the conservatory, with a menu of drinks and bites.
FINCH — boutique hotel
The building may be a century and a half old, but the 24 rooms are bang on trend at Finch. One of the coolest addresses in town, it pairs original architectural features with modern design. Each bedroom comes equipped with a record player and a selection of vinyl, a Nespresso machine and a yoga mat — confirming its fashionable credentials. The hotel bar welcomes guests from morning till late at night, whether for a coffee while catching up on some work, a light lunch, cocktails or a sociable evening meal. The decor at Finch has a retro feel, with vintage black and white photography and art-deco-era-inspired furnishings.