Things To Do
in Uitgeest
Uitgeest is a small North Holland town that sits just north of Alkmaar and close to the Dutch coast. It blends rural charm with easy links to Amsterdam and the Beemster polder. Its canal-lined streets, historic houses, and cycle-friendly streets make it a relaxed base for exploring the region.
Nearby beaches, windmills, and nature reserves offer scenic day trips in every season.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a peaceful morning walk along the Uitgeest Lake, where the gentle ripples of the water reflect the early sunlight. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse birdlife that thrives in the area, adding a touch of serenity to your experience. Grab a cup of coffee from a local café as you enjoy the morning ambiance.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Spaarnwoude Park, where you can engage in outdoor activities like cycling or picnicking amidst the picturesque scenery. Explore the scenic trails that wind through lush greenery, providing opportunities for both leisure and adventure. Don't forget to capture beautiful moments with your camera as you immerse yourself in nature.
As the sun sets, head back to Uitgeest for a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor traditional Dutch Cuisine. The cozy atmosphere will provide the perfect backdrop for unwinding and reflecting on your day's experiences. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the village, admiring the quaint houses and peaceful streets.
Begin your day by visiting the local museum to learn about Uitgeest's rich history and cultural heritage. The morning will be filled with intriguing exhibits that showcase the village's past and its significance in the region. Engage with the locals and staff, who are often eager to share stories and insights.
Spend your afternoon exploring the charming streets of Uitgeest, stopping by artisan shops and boutiques offering handmade goods. Get to know the artisans and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir as a memento of your travels. Enjoy a light lunch at a café while chatting with friendly locals.
End your day with a visit to a local theater where you can experience Dutch performing arts. Whether it's a play or a musical performance, the evening promises to be filled with creativity and talent. After the show, enjoy a nightcap at a cozy pub, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket (single ride) | $3-5 |
| 🧀Groceries (weekly) | $60-100 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/hostel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to Amsterdam and the coast
- Compact, walkable town with a friendly atmosphere
- Excellent cycling infrastructure and scenic day trips
- Safe, family-friendly environment with lovely nature nearby
- Limited nightlife within the town itself
- Seasonal variation in activities and crowds
- Fewer major-city amenities compared with larger towns
- Some services close on Sundays in smaller establishments
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Waar is de markt?" - Where is the market?
- "Hoeveel kost het?" - How much does it cost?
- "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch
Places to Visit in Uitgeest
Visit one of these nice places.
Open, flat landscape with windmills and canal boundaries; ideal for wide-angle and silhouette shots.
Quaint canal-front houses and small bridges; best photographed in golden hour light.
Waves, pine forests, and expansive skies; dramatic coastal photography opportunities at dusk.
Classic Dutch windmill with surrounding farmland; great for iconic architectural shots.
Food in Uitgeest
Uitgeest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Seasonal raw herring served with onions; best tried at seaside markets when in season.
Must-Try!
Battered cod bites with tartar sauce; widely available at fish stalls near the coast.
A winter classic of mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage; ideal on colder days.
Mini fluffy pancakes dusted with butter and powdered sugar; popular at markets and fairs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Famous weekly cheese market where you can sample Dutch cheeses and regional snacks; a short trip from Uitgeest.
Coastal stalls offering fries, kibbeling, and other street bites during warm months.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting; cheek kissing is rare in business contexts; greet with a polite Dutch expression when possible.
Yield to pedestrians, ring a bell to warn others, and ride on the right; stay in bike lanes where available.
Keep conversations considerate in public spaces; loud behavior is less common late at night in smaller towns.
Safety
Tipping in Uitgeest
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in cafes and restaurants.
Card payments are widely accepted; contactless and mobile payments are common; cash is still used but less so.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days and bright light; great for beaches, cycling, and outdoor markets. Expect some rain but mostly pleasant warmth.
Milder temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic coastal walks and marshlands; packing for variable rain is wise.
Cool to cold with possible frost or light snow; cozy cafes, Christmas markets, and quiet landscapes—great for off-season serenity.
Blooming countryside and temperate days; perfect for cycling, walking, and enjoying market bursts and food fairs.
Uitgeest at Night
Hiking in Uitgeest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, scenic routes through the UNESCO-listed polder; ideal for easy hiking and cycling with windmills in view.
Dune landscapes, forests, and wildlife; varied trails within a short drive from Uitgeest.
Coastal hikes through sandy dunes and pine forests with sea insights; great for day trips from Uitgeest.
Airports
How to reach Uitgeest by plane.
Major international hub reachable by train from Uitgeest in roughly 40-60 minutes, depending on connections.
Smaller gateway offering some European flights; typically longer travel by rail or car from Uitgeest.
Regional airport with limited service; can be a longer rail/car journey from Uitgeest.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban feel with safe neighborhoods, parks, and good schools nearby.
Quiet residential areas and easy access to nature and markets provide a relaxed lifestyle.
Many residents travel to Amsterdam or Alkmaar for work, supported by efficient rail links.
Smaller town amenities, with nearby universities and cultural activities in larger towns.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core Dutch activity; flat polder routes and coastal paths are ideal for all levels.
Popular in local clubs and schools; weekend matches and community leagues are common.
Sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking along the IJsselmeer and nearby waterways.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Uitgeest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Dutch dishes can be vegetarian; look for cheese-based plates, pastas, and vegetable specialties; chefs can often adapt.
Seek salads, veggie bowls, and dairy-free options; ask about butter or cheese in sauces.
Most places can accommodate with gluten-free bread or pasta; confirm cross-contamination if needed.
Carry a translation card; many venues note allergen information in English and Dutch.