Things To Do
in Purmerend
Purmerend is a charming city in the Netherlands, located just north of Amsterdam. It is known for its historic city center with picturesque canals and traditional Dutch architecture. The city offers a mix of modern amenities and traditional charm, making it a popular residential area.
Purmerend is surrounded by beautiful countryside and nature reserves, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
- "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 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic city center, admiring the unique architecture. Visit the Purmerends Museum to learn about the local history.
Enjoy lunch at a cozy café and try some traditional Dutch pancakes. Afterward, take a bike ride along the picturesque canals.
Dine at a local restaurant offering fresh seafood. End the night with a leisurely walk along the waterfront to soak in the beautiful views.
Head to the nearby Purmerenderbos for a refreshing nature walk among the trees. Bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.
Pack a picnic and enjoy it in the lush green surroundings. Spend the afternoon birdwatching or relaxing by the small lake.
Return to the city and have dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant. Share your day's adventures over a warm drink.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Amsterdam, making it easy for commuting.
- A friendly and cozy community with a small-town feel.
- Rich history and culture, with historical sites and events.
- Good public transportation links, including trains and buses.
- Affordable housing compared to larger cities in the Netherlands.
- Access to beautiful parks and recreational areas.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Can be less diverse in terms of international culture.
- Weather can be damp and overcast, which may not suit everyone.
- Industries and job opportunities may be more limited.
- Fewer shopping and dining options than bigger urban centers.
Best Activities in Purmerend
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or a pleasant walk along the banks of the De Where river, which offers beautiful views and a peaceful environment.
Explore the diverse natural landscape of 't Twiske, which features forests, meadows, and lakes, and offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, picnicking, and water activities.
Visit Purmerbos, a serene forested area with walking trails, cycling paths, and a nature playground, providing a great setting for outdoor recreation and nature appreciation.
Tours
Uncover the best of Purmerend with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Purmerend
Visit one of these nice places.
Kanaalkade - for views of waterways and historic buildings
Purmerend Overwhere Windmill - for a traditional Dutch windmill backdrop
Westerweg Street - for picturesque street scenes and architecture
Food in Purmerend
Purmerend Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Dutch dish made of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables such as kale, carrots, or sauerkraut, often served with a smoked sausage or bacon. Look for stamppot at traditional Dutch restaurants like De Stadskroon.
Must-Try!
These small, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar are a must-try sweet treat. Visit the Purmerend Markt on Tuesdays and Saturdays, where you'll find stalls selling freshly made poffertjes.
For seafood enthusiasts, trying the Dutch delicacy of raw herring is a must. Look for haring stands during the herring season (May to July) at the Kaasmarkt and Koemarkt squares.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Purmerend better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Purmerend Markt is the place to go for a variety of local and international street food. From stroopwafels to Vietnamese spring rolls, the market offers a diverse range of culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Purmerend, it is important to respect personal space, especially in public places and social interactions.
Being punctual is highly valued in Purmerend, so it's important to be on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings.
Politeness and courtesy are key cultural norms in Purmerend. It's important to use polite language, say 'please' and 'thank you,' and show respect to others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Purmerend with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Purmerend
Ensure a smooth experience
In Purmerend, it is common to leave a tip of 5-10% at restaurants and cafes if the service was satisfactory. Tipping is also appreciated for other services such as taxis, hotel staff, and hairdressers.
In Purmerend, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular, and most establishments, including restaurants and shops, accept card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Purmerend.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Purmerend, as the weather starts to warm up and the tulip fields are in full bloom. The city comes alive with outdoor markets and events, and you can enjoy beautiful walks along the canals.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Purmerend, with the warmest weather and longest days. It's a great time for outdoor activities such as boating on the nearby lakes or exploring the surrounding countryside.
Autumn brings beautiful fall foliage to Purmerend, creating a picturesque setting. The weather is still mild, and you can enjoy harvest festivals and local produce at the markets.
Winter in Purmerend is cold and can be snowy, but the city has a cozy atmosphere with festive decorations and Christmas markets. It's a quieter time to visit and perfect for enjoying indoor attractions like museums and cozy cafes.
Purmerend at Night
Hiking in Purmerend
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful nature reserve featuring trails through dunes and forests; great for hiking and observing wildlife.
A region characterized by its picturesque landscapes, waterways, and charming villages ideal for walking and hiking.
A recreational area with a large lake, forests, and meadows, offering various hiking paths and outdoor activities.
A stunning scenic area known for its vast dunes and forest trails, excellent for hiking and enjoying nature.
A nature area featuring walking trails around water bodies, perfect for a peaceful hike and birdwatching.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Purmerend through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Purmerend by plane.
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the main international airport of the Netherlands, located approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Purmerend. It is one of the busiest airports in Europe, serving as a major hub for international flights.
Rotterdam The Hague Airport is an international airport located about 72 kilometers southwest of Purmerend, serving the cities of Rotterdam and The Hague. It offers both domestic and international flights.
Eindhoven Airport is located about 130 kilometers southeast of Purmerend and is the second-largest airport in the Netherlands. It primarily serves low-cost carriers and offers flights to various European destinations.
Groningen Airport Eelde is an international airport located approximately 150 kilometers northeast of Purmerend. It mainly provides flights to leisure destinations in Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group, predominantly individuals with Dutch nationality and heritage.
A significant minority group, descended from Turkish immigrants.
Another notable ethnic group, primarily consisting of Moroccan nationals or descendants.
Individuals of Surinamese descent, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the city.
A smaller demographic group, primarily consisting of individuals with Indonesian heritage.
Includes individuals from various European backgrounds, such as German, Polish, and others.
Includes a mix of individuals from various African nations and backgrounds.
A group encompassing individuals from various Asian countries, excluding Indonesians.
The Soul of Purmerend
Discover the essence of Purmerend through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Purmerend, with many local clubs and a strong community following various levels of play.
Field hockey has a significant presence in Purmerend, with dedicated teams and facilities that attract many young athletes.
Volleyball is a popular sport in both indoor and beach settings, with various clubs and recreational leagues available.
Handball is growing in popularity, with a number of clubs that engage players of all ages in competitive and recreational play.
Tennis is widely played in Purmerend, with several tennis clubs offering programs for all ages and skill levels.
As in many parts of the Netherlands, cycling is a popular pastime for both recreation and commuting, supported by extensive bike paths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Purmerend.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in Purmerend, with many restaurants offering creative meat-free dishes alongside the traditional menu.
While vegan options may be somewhat limited, most establishments in Purmerend are accommodating and willing to adjust dishes to suit vegan dietary requirements.
A growing awareness of gluten intolerance means that many restaurants and cafes in Purmerend now provide gluten-free alternatives or are willing to modify dishes to accommodate gluten-free diets.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Purmerend with these cultural adventures.