Things To Do
in Heemstede
Heemstede is a charming village located in North Holland, Netherlands. It is known for its beautiful parks, historic buildings, and tree-lined streets. The village offers a peaceful and tranquil setting for residents and visitors alike.
Heemstede also has a vibrant shopping area with boutique shops and cafes.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in the beautiful Groenendaal Park. Enjoy the serene surroundings and watch the morning birds.
Visit the Museum Heemstede to learn about local history. Don't forget to grab lunch in one of the quaint cafes nearby.
Stroll through the charming streets and admire the local architecture. Find a cozy restaurant to enjoy traditional Dutch cuisine.
Rent a bike and venture along the scenic routes of Heemstede. Enjoy the fresh air and picturesque views of the countryside.
Take a break at a lakeside spot, and have a picnic with local snacks. Continue your biking journey through nearby parks.
Return to Heemstede and find a local bar to relax with a drink. Share stories about your day with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful green parks and recreational areas.
- Close proximity to Amsterdam, providing easy access to urban amenities.
- Family-friendly environment with good schools and community services.
- Rich historical heritage and charming architecture.
- Safe and quiet neighborhoods.
- Higher cost of living compared to some surrounding areas.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Public transport may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Potential for crowded areas during peak tourist seasons.
- Housing market can be competitive due to demand.
Best Activities in Heemstede
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful natural landscape and diverse wildlife in the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen, a large area of dunes perfect for hiking.
Enjoy a scenic cycling tour through the historic Elswout estate with its gardens, woods, and beautiful scenery.
Rent a boat and spend a relaxing day cruising on the Haarlemmermeer, a large lake near Heemstede, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Tours
Uncover the best of Heemstede with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Heemstede
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful park with walking trails and scenic areas, perfect for photography.
Historic estate with well-maintained gardens and picturesque landscapes, offering great photo opportunities.
A charming tree-lined avenue with old mansions, providing a picturesque setting for photography.
Food in Heemstede
Heemstede Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These small, fluffy pancakes are a Dutch specialty and are usually topped with powdered sugar and butter. For an unforgettable taste, visit the Poffertjeskraam in the centre of Heemstede.
Must-Try!
These deep-fried meat-based snacks are popular in the Netherlands. Try them at De Oude Vos or De Luifel, both located in Heemstede.
A classic Dutch treat, consisting of two thin layers of waffle filled with caramel-like syrup. Look for fresh stroopwafels at the local farmers market on Saturdays.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Heemstede better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Every Saturday, the Heemstede Farmers Market offers a delightful range of fresh produce, local cheeses, baked goods, and street food. Don't miss the herring stand for a taste of traditional Dutch herring.
During the summer months, the Olivijn Food Truck Festival takes place in Heemstede, offering a diverse selection of gourmet street food from various cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Heemstede, it is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain direct eye contact. It's also polite to use formal titles and last names when addressing someone, especially in professional settings.
Dutch people value their personal space, so it's important to maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others. Be mindful of physical boundaries and avoid standing too close or initiating unnecessary physical contact.
Punctuality is highly regarded in Dutch culture, so it's essential to be on time for appointments, meetings, and social engagements. Being late without a valid reason is considered disrespectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Heemstede with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Heemstede
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Heemstede, Netherlands is not obligatory, as service charges are typically included in the bill. However, it is appreciated to round up the total amount or leave a small tip as a gesture of satisfaction with the service.
In Heemstede, Netherlands, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payment. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular, and most businesses, including restaurants and shops, accept major international credit cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Heemstede.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a popular time to visit Heemstede, as the city comes alive with beautiful blooming flowers, particularly the famous Keukenhof Gardens which showcases vibrant tulips. The weather starts to warm up, and outdoor activities become more appealing.
Summer is a great time to visit Heemstede for warm weather and long daylight hours. It's ideal for enjoying outdoor activities, visiting the nearby beaches, and taking part in various festivals and events.
Autumn in Heemstede is characterized by colorful foliage and a more tranquil atmosphere. The weather becomes cooler but still pleasant, and it's a good time for nature walks as the surrounding landscapes transform into stunning autumn hues.
Winter in Heemstede brings a festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, seasonal decorations, and the possibility of snow. While the weather is colder, there are still indoor attractions, cozy cafes, and the chance to experience the holiday spirit in the city.
Heemstede at Night
Hiking in Heemstede
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park located a short drive from Heemstede, offering diverse landscapes including dunes, forests, and beaches, with numerous hiking trails.
Part of the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, this area features scenic sand dunes and a variety of walking paths among unique flora and fauna.
A large park with several trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature. It is situated just east of Heemstede and offers a serene forest environment.
A protected nature reserve west of Heemstede, this area offers a mix of hiking paths through dunes and woodland, with opportunities for wildlife spotting.
A beach area with pathways that connect to the surrounding dunes, providing a unique hiking experience along the coast.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Heemstede through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Heemstede by plane.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located about 15 km from Heemstede. It serves as a major hub for international flights.
An international airport located approximately 25 km from Heemstede, serving the Rotterdam and The Hague areas with several international destinations.
Located around 120 km from Heemstede, Eindhoven Airport is a growing international airport offering flights to various European destinations.
Situated about 200 km from Heemstede, Brussels Airport is a major European airport that connects the region to numerous international destinations.
Located approximately 200 km from Heemstede, Düsseldorf Airport serves as an important international gateway to Germany and beyond.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population group in Heemstede, primarily of Dutch ethnicity.
A significant minority group, with a rich cultural presence in Heemstede.
Another notable minority group, contributing to the multicultural landscape.
A smaller community from the historical ties between Indonesia and the Netherlands.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various European countries.
A diverse group encompassing various nationalities from the Asian continent.
The Soul of Heemstede
Discover the essence of Heemstede through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is a very popular sport in Heemstede, with many local clubs and teams participating in various leagues.
Field hockey is a prominent sport in Heemstede, supported by several clubs and a strong community presence.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Heemstede, with numerous tennis clubs and facilities available for players of all levels.
Running is a favored activity among residents, with parks and natural areas providing great places for running and jogging.
Swimming is a popular sport, with local pools and swimming clubs catering to different ages and skill levels.
Cycling is a common activity in and around Heemstede, with many scenic routes that are enjoyed by both recreational and competitive cyclists.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Heemstede.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Heemstede offer excellent vegetarian and vegan choices, with plant-based dishes featuring prominently on menus.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options in several eateries, with gluten-free alternatives available for many traditional Dutch dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Heemstede with these cultural adventures.
