Things To Do
in Krommenie
Krommenie is a small Dutch town in North Holland within the Zaanstad municipality, set along scenic canals and green polder land. It offers a peaceful, walkable atmosphere with historic houses, a charming town center, and easy access to larger cities. The surrounding Zaan region adds a rich industrial heritage and ample cycling routes.
Visitors can expect a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and quick day trips to Amsterdam or the coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Krommenie, where you can admire the quaint architecture and local shops. Stop by a nearby café for a traditional Dutch breakfast of boterham (bread) with cheese or jam, paired with a rich cup of coffee. As you wander, take the time to explore the historical sites, including the old church that stands proudly at the town's center.
In the afternoon, visit the local museum to dive into the rich history of Krommenie, showcasing its past and cultural heritage. Afterward, enjoy a relaxing lunch at one of the local eateries, sampling traditional Dutch pancakes with a variety of toppings. Once recharged, take a bike ride along the scenic countryside paths that lead out of town, offering beautiful views of the surrounding fields.
As the day winds down, enjoy a delicious dinner at a restaurant known for its Dutch cuisine, perhaps trying a classic dish like stamppot or herring. After your meal, take a peaceful evening walk by the Zaan River, watching the sun set and reflecting on the day's adventures. Conclude your night with a stop at a local pub for a refreshing Dutch beer or a glass of jenever.
Begin your day with a visit to the nearby nature reserve, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Dutch landscape. Bring along binoculars to spot various bird species that inhabit the area, making it a perfect morning for birdwatching enthusiasts. Enjoy the fresh air as you walk along the well-marked trails surrounded by lush greenery and wildflowers.
After your nature walk, have a picnic lunch amidst the serene surroundings, enjoying local cheeses, fresh bread, and seasonal fruits. Spend the afternoon exploring the various paths and hidden corners of the reserve, perhaps even bringing a sketchbook to capture the beauty of the landscape. As you stroll, keep an eye out for local wildlife, from rabbits to colorful butterflies flitting about.
Return to Krommenie for a cozy dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, where you can savor dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, consider attending a local event or concert, often held in community spaces, offering a glimpse into the vibrant local culture. Wrap up the evening with a relaxing cup of herbal tea at a local café, reflecting on the beauty of nature you experienced throughout the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $3-6 |
| 🥖Bakery item | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transportation (one-way fare) | $3-5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, family-friendly town with easy access to Amsterdam
- Beautiful canal views and historic architecture
- Limited nightlife within Krommenie itself
- Can be crowded in nearby tourist spots like Zaanse Schans
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik ben vegetariër" - I am vegetarian
- "Mag ik een glas water?" - May I have a glass of water?
Places to Visit in Krommenie
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic Dutch canal scene with charming houseboats and a functional drawbridge—great for golden-hour shots.
Narrow lanes, brick facades, and stepped gables—perfect for architectural photography.
Rural fields and windmills in the distance provide expansive landscape compositions.
Food in Krommenie
Krommenie Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic caramel syrup-filled waffle, best enjoyed warm with coffee or tea.
Must-Try!
A thick, hearty soup traditionally served in winter with smoked sausage and rye bread.
Raw herring served with onions and pickles; a quintessential Dutch street-food experience.
Fluffy mini pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, a popular street dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and local snacks.
Casual stalls around town offering Dutch bites, fries, and seasonal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Keep to the right on bike lanes, signal when passing, and announce when you’re overtaking someone.
A handshake is common; use polite language and say thank you (“dank u wel”).
Queue patiently in shops and on public transport; keep noise moderate in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Krommenie
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are discretionary; rounding up or about 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Cash is accepted in many places, but cards and contactless payments are standard; some small shops may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cool mornings give way to milder days; tulip fields and green landscapes start to bloom nearby.
Long days with plenty of outdoor seating; expect more cyclists and sporadic showers.
Golden light and harvest season; comfortable cycling weather and fewer crowds than in peak summer.
Chill and gray skies are common; cozy cafés and winter markets offer warmth and charm.
Krommenie at Night
Hiking in Krommenie
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic riverside routes with bridges and views of traditional Dutch landscapes.
Polder landscapes, bird life, and easy hiking paths nearby.
Short day trips to dune landscapes and beaches for coastal hikes.
Airports
How to reach Krommenie by plane.
Major international hub; fast rail links to nearby towns and Amsterdam.
Smaller international airport serving select routes; accessible by rail and road.
Regional airport with some seasonal and charter flights; connected by road and public transit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families and commuters seeking a quieter base near larger cities.
Young adults connected to nearby universities and industrial hubs.
Some international residents in the broader Randstad region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A Dutch staple; flat terrain makes it easy for all levels.
Popular pastime with local clubs and community leagues.
Common in schools and clubs; nearby facilities are widely available.
Winter can bring canal or rink skating opportunities when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Krommenie.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for vegetarisch on menus or ask staff to tailor dishes; dairy-rich Dutch fare is common, but many venues provide suitable substitutions.