Things To Do
in Huizen
Huizen is a lakeside town in North Holland, perched on the Gooimeer with a charm rooted in its harbor and historic streets. The compact center is easy to wander on foot or by bike, with waterways and cafes at every turn. As a gateway to the Gooi region, Huizen offers quick access to forests, lakes, and nearby fortifications like Naarden-Vesting.
It’s an approachable base for day trips to Amsterdam and Utrecht while still feeling distinctly Dutch and local.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Huizen, a picturesque town in the Netherlands, and check into your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront of the Gooimeer, soaking in the serene views and refreshing air. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Dutch pastries.
Explore the local shops and boutiques in Huizen, where you can find unique souvenirs and local crafts. Visit the historic Old Town, admiring the charming architecture and quaint streets. Stop for lunch at a local bistro and try some classic Dutch fare.
As the sun sets, take a scenic boat tour of the Gooimeer for stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a waterfront restaurant, relishing fresh seafood and local dishes. End your day with a peaceful walk along the harbor, basking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Start your day with a bike ride through the beautiful parks and nature trails around Huizen. Visit the nearby Het Gooi nature reserve, where you can experience lush greenery and diverse wildlife. Enjoy a packed breakfast in a scenic spot, surrounded by nature.
Head to the local market to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods from surrounding farms. Afterward, visit the Huizen Museum, where you can learn about the town's rich history and cultural significance. Take time to relax in one of the local parks, perhaps reading a book or simply enjoying the scenery.
Dine at a traditional Dutch restaurant where you can savor a hearty meal of stamppot or poffertjes. After dinner, consider joining a local event or festival if available, to experience Huizen's vibrant community life. Wind down with a nightcap at a charming pub, mingling with locals and fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-20 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $3-5 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $12-16 |
| 🚆Public transit ride | $3-5 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $1,200-1,700 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic lake life and Gooi nature access
- Compact town with easy walkability
- Good base for day trips to Naardermeer and Naarden-Vesting
- Great cycling routes and lakeside leisure
- Limited nightlife within Huizen itself
- Some what-touristy crowds in Gooi area on weekends
- Public transport less frequent than bigger cities
- Higher prices on meals and accommodations compared to rural areas
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please/Here you go
- "Waar is de halte?" - Where is the stop?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Huizen
Visit one of these nice places.
Long coastline, boats, pastel-hued houses, and sunset reflections on calm water.
17th- to 19th-century houses and a prominent church tower provide classic architectural shots.
Wetlands with reeds and birds; boardwalks and hides for wildlife photography.
Star-shaped fortifications with moats and bastions for dramatic landscape and historic photography.
Dense woodland with seasonal light and tranquil trails in the Gooi area.
Food in Huizen
Huizen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh raw herring often served with onions and pickles, enjoyed as a snack at the harbor or markets.
Must-Try!
A hearty mash of potatoes with seasonal vegetables, usually served with rookworst (smoked sausage) or other toppings.
Local cheese varieties paired with fluffy Dutch pancakes (poffertjes) as a sweet finish or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls with fresh produce, cheese, bread, and ready-to-eat snacks by the harbor.
Seasonal food stalls offering fries, kibbeling, stroopwafels, and other lake-side treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and social gatherings; Dutch culture values punctuality.
Wait in line orderly; respect personal space and let others exit before entering.
Give way to pedestrians, ring bells politely when passing, and stay on designated bike lanes.
Safety
Tipping in Huizen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments (PIN, Apple Pay) are common; many places support iDEAL for online or in-store payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days and long evenings; outdoor terraces, lake activities, and boat trips are popular.
Mild to cool weather with colorful foliage; great for forest walks and photography at golden hour.
Cool to cold with possible frost; festive lights in towns and cozy cafes create a warm atmosphere.
Blossoms and fresh produce; birdlife returns to reserves such as Naardermeer.
Huizen at Night
Hiking in Huizen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Boardwalks and trails around wetlands with birdwatching opportunities.
Forest and heathland trails in the Gooi area, suitable for day hikes.
Loop trails around fortifications and villages; scenic routes.
Airports
How to reach Huizen by plane.
Major international hub about 40-50 minutes by car or train from Huizen.
Smaller airport serving domestic and some international flights; closer access for regional travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live in the Gooi region; good schools and parks.
Residents commute to Amsterdam, Hilversum, and Almere.
The Gooi region hosts expat communities and multilingual services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local clubs and fields nearby.
A staple activity in Gooi region; scenic routes and bike-friendly towns.
Due to proximity to Gooimeer, water sports are popular in warm months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Huizen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most restaurants; ask for veggie versions or dishes that can be adapted to exclude meat.