Things To Do
in Schagen
Schagen is a historic market town in North Holland, nestled inland from the Dutch coast. Its compact center is lined with centuries-old gabled houses, a lively weekly market, and welcoming cafés. The town serves as a calm base for exploring West Friesland’s polder landscapes and easy day trips to nearby dunes and beaches.
With solid transport links to larger cities, Schagen blends rural charm with convenient access to the wider Netherlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Schagen, take a moment to soak in the charming Dutch town's atmosphere. Stroll through the quaint streets, filled with traditional architecture and inviting cafés. Enjoy a coffee at a local bistro, savoring the start of your adventure.
Explore the local market, where you can find fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Engage with friendly vendors and learn about their products while sampling some delicious Dutch treats. Make sure to capture the vibrant market scenes with your camera.
As the sunsets, dine at a local restaurant that offers traditional Dutch cuisine. Sample dishes like herring or stamppot alongside a refreshing glass of local beer. Afterward, take a leisurely walk around the town, enjoying the calm ambiance of Schagen at night.
Start your day by visiting the Schagen Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the region. The museum features fascinating exhibits that highlight the town's cultural heritage and local art. Take your time to absorb the stories and artifacts on display.
After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, where you can indulge in local specialties. Post-lunch, take a stroll in the nearby park, basking in the natural beauty and serene environment. Look for hidden spots to relax and unwind.
Join a guided walking tour to learn about Schagen's historical sites and folklore. The stories shared by the guide will immerse you in the town's unique history and mythologies. End the evening with a cozy drink at a local pub, reflecting on the tales you've heard.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-4 |
| 🚆Train ticket (Schagen to Alkmaar/Amsterdam) | $10-20 |
| 🏨1-night hotel or B&B | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming small-town feel with markets and cycling routes
- Close to beaches and dunes for day trips
- Good rail and road connections to major cities
- Limited nightlife and weekend crowds on market days
- Some services require a short trip to Alkmaar or Den Helder
- Weather can be changeable and wet
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde halte?" - Where is the nearest stop?
Places to Visit in Schagen
Visit one of these nice places.
Classic Dutch market square with gabled houses and a historic town hall, ideal for golden-hour shots.
Quiet lanes and a church tower provide character and depth for street photography.
Picturesque waterways and small bridges around the old town offer reflections and intimate compositions.
Food in Schagen
Schagen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mix of mashed potatoes with kale, often served with sausage or smoked meat.
Must-Try!
Fresh raw herring typically enjoyed with onions; seasonal availability varies (late spring to summer).
Battered and fried chunks of cod or other white fish, served with remoulade sauce.
Large Dutch pancakes that can be savory or sweet, frequently found in cafés and bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market on Markt square with stalls selling fresh produce, cheese, fish, flowers, and crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; be punctual and polite; cycling etiquette is important on shared paths.
Ask politely; use 'alstublieft' and 'dank u wel' in formal settings; avoid loud talking in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Schagen
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in nicer places; many charges are included in the bill.
Cash is accepted in many places, but cards and contactless payments (PIN/Apple Pay) are widely used; online banking and iDEAL are popular for reservations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, pleasant outdoor dining, and regular markets; defensible humidity with possible showers.
Mild days with autumnal colors in polder landscapes; harvest markets and outdoor events are common.
Cool to cold with possible rain and wind; Christmas markets and cozy cafés provide warmth.
Blooming flowers and green fields; ideal for cycling and nature walks.
Schagen at Night
Hiking in Schagen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular coastal dune route near Alkmaar; varied trails and forested sections.
Flat, scenic paths through polder landscapes with canal views.
Airports
How to reach Schagen by plane.
Major international hub about 40-60 miles (60-100 km) from Schagen; excellent rail and road connections.
Regional airport with domestic and some international flights; roughly 70-90 miles (110-145 km) away depending on route.
Smaller international airport with connections across Europe; about 80-110 miles (130-180 km) away.
Regional airport serving the northeast; farther away for most travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Largest group; many residents with generations in West Friesland.
A significant portion enjoys a quiet town life with access to larger cities for work.
Visitors come for markets, beaches, and dunes, especially on market days and weekends.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular; local clubs and matches throughout the year.
A core activity given the flat Dutch landscape; many routes around Schagen.
Common in local clubs and outdoor courts during warmer months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Schagen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options such as vegetable stews, salads, and dairy dishes; ask for meat-free adaptations.