Alkmaar

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Alkmaar's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Alkmaar's Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Alkmaar Cheese Market, where you can watch the traditional cheese weighing ceremony. Enjoy a coffee at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Stedelijk Museum to learn about the region's history and art. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the canals and admire the charming historical buildings.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Dutch restaurant in the city center, savoring local delicacies. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful walk along the canals as the sun sets.

day 2
Discover Alkmaar's History
morning
:

Begin your day at the Alkmaar Regional Archives, where you can dive into the local history and heritage. Consider visiting the 16th-century Great or St. Lawrence Church for its stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Hollands Cheese Museum to learn more about the region's cheese-making tradition. Engage with interactive exhibits that will captivate cheese lovers and curious visitors alike.

evening
:

Relax at a nearby bar or brewery, sampling local beers. Enjoy the lively ambiance and perhaps catch some live music or an event.

day 3
Park Day in Alkmaar
morning
:

Start with a leisurely breakfast at a café near the park. Spend your morning in the Alkmaar City Park, enjoying its lush landscapes and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Have a picnic lunch in the park, followed by a visit to the nearby Pettemerduinen for some nature walking. Breathe in the fresh air while observing local wildlife.

evening
:

Return to the city for dinner at a cozy bistro. Take a night stroll through the illuminated streets and parks before winding down.

day 4
Alcove Adventures in Alkmaar
morning
:

Kick off your exploration by joining a guided walking tour that reveals the hidden gems of Alkmaar. This will give you insights and stories about the city.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby fishing village of Bergen to explore art galleries and shops. Grab lunch at a local café and soak in the artistic ambiance of the area.

evening
:

Return to Alkmaar for dinner at a restaurant featuring modern Dutch cuisine. End your day by exploring some local nightlife spots.

day 5
Art and Culture in Alkmaar
morning
:

Visit the Museum van de Geest to view contemporary art exhibitions that reflect societal themes. Take time to appreciate the innovative works on display.

afternoon
:

Explore Alkmaar's historic windmills and learn how they were used in the past. Have lunch at a nearby eatery while enjoying picturesque views.

evening
:

Attend a local theater performance or concert to experience the city's cultural side. Wrap up with a late-night dessert at a local café.

day 6
Cycling Around Alkmaar
morning
:

Rent a bike and head out on the city's cycling routes, exploring the beautiful countryside around Alkmaar. Stop at a farm for fresh produce or homemade cheese.

afternoon
:

Cycle towards the Coast of the North Sea, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze. Have lunch at a beachside café and take a stroll on the beach.

evening
:

Return to Alkmaar for a lovely dinner. Enjoy a casual evening at a pub, mingling with locals and perhaps playing a game of darts.

day 7
Taste of Alkmaar
morning
:

Join a local food tour to sample various traditional Dutch foods, including cheeses and pastries. Engaging with local vendors will enrich your culinary knowledge.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets where you can taste and buy authentic local products. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a food stall or outdoor market.

evening
:

Conclude with a cooking class focused on Dutch cuisine, where you can learn how to prepare some traditional dishes. Enjoy the meal you created with fellow participants.

day 8
Adventure by Water
morning
:

Start with a boat tour around Alkmaar's canals to see the city from a different perspective. This guided experience gives an insight into the city's maritime history.

afternoon
:

After your boat ride, visit the local maritime museum to delve deeper into Alkmaar's relationship with the sea. Have a quick lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Enjoy a seafood dinner at one of the canal-side restaurants. Spend your evening sipping cocktails while watching boats pass by under the twinkling lights.

day 9
Nature Retreat in Alkmaar
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby North Holland Dune Reserve early in the day. Enjoy hiking along trails while soaking in the stunning coastal scenery.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a rustic café in the dunes and continue exploring the natural surroundings. Look out for unique wildlife and beautiful flora.

evening
:

Return to Alkmaar for dinner and share stories of your adventures. Relax in a quiet bar or café, reflecting on the day's beauty.

day 10
Shopping Day in Alkmaar
morning
:

Kick off your day with breakfast in the city center, followed by a visit to the various boutique shops. Explore unique local products and souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a fashionable restaurant, then continue your shopping spree at a mix of independent shops and larger retailers. Don’t forget to browse local markets if available.

evening
:

Cap off your shopping adventure with dinner at a trendy eatery. Spend your evening catching up at a wine bar or enjoying dessert at an ice cream parlor.

Discover Alkmaar

Read more in our Alkmaar 2024 Travel Guide.

Alkmaar Travel Guide