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All the Dutch charm, without the crowds
Just north of Amsterdam lies Westfriesland, a region where you can experience a different side of Holland at a more relaxed pace. Wander through historic harbour towns, past old warehouses, city gates and beautifully preserved façades. See windmills turning in the landscape and discover a region shaped by water.
In the countryside, local makers continue long-standing traditions, producing, baking and brewing with ingredients from the region. Between colourful tulip fields and traditional villages, past and present come together naturally. Westfriesland is historic, down-to-earth and full of character. You may already know Amsterdam. Now discover what lies just beyond it.
In spring, Westfriesland bursts into colour as tulip fields spread across the flat countryside in shades of red, yellow, pink and purple. The fields are usually at their best in April, although the exact flowering period depends on the weather. One of the best ways to explore them is by bike. Follow the 35-kilometre Westfrisian Bulb Route through the countryside and past some of the region’s most colourful flower fields.
The best way to see all the colourful daffodils, crocuses and tulips is from a historic steam tram. The Tulip Tram runs between Hoorn and Medemblik, right through the West Frisian countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass the most beautiful tulip fields, authentic villages and old station buildings. The locomotive puffs away as the landscape glides peacefully by. The special Tulip Tram runs around the peak of the flowering season in the second half of April: always check the current timetable before your visit.
Step aboard the Tulip Tram
Hoorn has a rich history of trade, which is still evident throughout the town. Be sure to take a stroll past the stately façades, old warehouses and the historic harbour.
Enkhuizen is all about water, shipping and life around the IJsselmeer. The old fortress, monuments and museums bring the history here to life.
Medemblik is small, peaceful and deeply connected to the wind, water and the vast polders. You’ll find old canals, romantic bridges and a relaxed harbour atmosphere.
On the outskirts of Hoogwoud, De Lastdrager has been catching the wind for centuries. This corn mill features an octagonal tower dating from 1522, possibly the oldest in the Netherlands.
De Stofmolen did not start out at its current location, as it was built in Zaandijk in 1791. Moving an entire windmill? That’s indeed what they did.
The sails of Molen Ceres have been turning for many years. This corn mill tells the story of grain, flour and new beginnings. Inside, the wood still creaks.
Nestled amongst the farmland near Obdam stands Molen Weel en Braken. This swing mill, dating from 1632, kept the polder dry and still stands firmly in its place today.
At the Zuiderzee Museum, you’ll discover how people used to live on and by the water. Stroll through the reconstructed Zuiderzee village, view historic houses and workshops, and experience how residents made their living from fishing, trade and crafts.
Step aboard a historic steam tram and travel right through the West Frisian countryside. The locomotive runs from Hoorn to Medemblik , passing old stations, historic villages and polders.
The Westfries Museum tells the story of Hoorn and Westfriesland, with a particular focus on trade and shipping in the seventeenth century. The museum building is currently closed for refurbishment, but the history is right there on the street, with an audio guide available in English or German.
Here in the small village of Hoogwoud, you can buy Dutch cheese straight from the farm. Choose an authentic cheese or try a small herb cheese with cumin, truffle or pesto. And do pop round to see the cows and calves whilst you’re there: you can’t get any closer to the source than this.
At De Oude Bakkerij, you’ll discover how Dutch bakers used to make bread, biscuits and sweets. You’ll see the craft in action during demonstrations and smell the baked goods as soon as you walk in. This is a museum where you don’t just look, but – fortunately – get to taste the goods too.
For a genuine Dutch fish snack, this fishmonger’s in Medemblik is the place to go. Order herring freshly sliced or choose cod kibbeling with homemade sauce. The fish is freshly fried whilst you wait, so be sure to eat it straight away.
At Melktap Grosthuizen, you can get delicious fresh milk straight from the dairy cows. You can tap the milk yourself into a bottle or pick up a tasty treat from the cheese vending machine. Did you know that this is the oldest agricultural business in North Holland and that farmer Dirk is already the 13th or 14th generation to run the business?
Bakkerij Rood in Enkhuizen is a family business now run by the sixth generation. From the open bakery, you can see how bread and pastries are made every day. Be sure to try specialities such as jodekoeken and krentenmik.
The Opperdoezer Ronde is no ordinary potato. Only potatoes from a small growing area around the church in Opperdoes are allowed to bear this protected name. Here, you can buy a bag of these creamy West Frisian spuds to take home.
You might once have served your sentence here. Now you can simply book a night’s stay of your own free will. Hotel Oostereiland is situated in a former prison on the harbour in Hoorn. The thick walls, original cell doors and long corridors are a reminder of days gone by. It’s not exactly what you’d call cosy. Yet it’s surprisingly comfortable to sleep in. More info about Oostereiland Hotel
It’s not every day you get to sleep in a church. Heavens Hotel is situated in the former Grote Kerk in Hoorn. You’ll spend the night amidst high vaults, historic features and stained-glass windows, right in the heart of the city centre. So, it’s no ordinary hotel room – it’s a place full of character. More info about Heavens Hotel
During the Maritime Event, historic ships fill the harbours of Enkhuizen. Stroll along the quayside, watch the fleet review and experience just how vibrant Dutch maritime heritage still is.
During the Westfriese Waterweken, everything revolves around boating, water sports and a convivial atmosphere at the harbour. Expect sailing boats, demonstrations, music and activities on and around the water.
During the Enkhuizer Klipper Race, historic sailing ships compete on the IJsselmeer. From the quay, you can watch the clippers set sail, hoist their sails and return to the old harbour.
In Westfriesland, you’ll find tulips mainly between Enkhuizen, Bovenkarspel and Andijk. They also pop up around Hoorn and the surrounding villages. Not as a grand backdrop, but simply amongst farms, dykes and fertile soil.
The flowering season usually runs from early April to mid-May, although the exact timing naturally depends on the weather. During this period, the Museum Stoomtram Hoorn-Medemblik travels more slowly past the fields.
Yes, Westfriesland is conveniently close to Amsterdam. By car, it takes about half an hour to reach Hoorn. Would you like to travel by train from Amsterdam Central Station to Westfriesland? You can do so via a direct train service to Hoorn, Enkhuizen or Medemblik. Authentic Holland is right on your doorstep, just a short distance from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam.
Looking for inspiration for your visit to Westfriesland? Then check out our blog ‘8 hidden gems in Westfriesland with a bit of an edge’.
Westfriesland is Dutch through and through, but without the crowds. Historic harbour towns, dykes, tulip fields, windmills, cheese, waterways and characterful villages are all part of the landscape. This is a region shaped by water, trade and fertile clay soils, where centuries-old towns sit alongside traditional farmhouses and open countryside. It has everything you might associate with the Netherlands, but in a quieter, more down-to-earth setting with a character all its own.
Looking for places by or on the water in Westfriesland? Then take a look at our blog ‘7 ways to navigate through water-rich Westfriesland’.
Westfriesland is at its best from April to September. Visit in April to see the tulip fields in bloom, or come in summer for boating, cycling and events by the water. September tends to be quieter, while many museums and attractions are still open.
Absolutely. Children can take a ride on the steam tram, play in the Streekbos or explore the Zuiderzee Museum. Sprookjeswonderland is a particular favourite with younger children, with plenty of rides and attractions designed especially for them. You’ll also find swimming pools, playgrounds, treasure hunts and indoor activities for rainy days.
Pop into a museum, such as the Museum of the 20th Century or Sow to Grow. Are you a real history buff? Then you’ll certainly find the Medemblik War Museum and Radboud Castle interesting. There’s plenty to see, hear and experience in Westfriesland.
Information is available in English – and sometimes in German – at various major attractions. The Zuiderzee Museum and the Museum Steam Tram provide visitor information in English. The Westfries Museum’s audio walks through Hoorn are also available in English and German. Please check in advance which audio tours, guided tours and texts are available on the day of your visit.