Discover Alkmaar with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Experience a new way to discover a city with this 'gamified' tour! Explore Alkmaar during this self-guided walking tour that lets you see the city in a different light. You'll even learn about hidden spots most locals don't know about!
Immerse yourself in a uniquely crafted story as you solve engaging puzzles that highlight the history and noteworthy sights of the city.
An old map, once drawn by military engineer Adriaan Antonisz, points to a forgotten gunpowder stockpile underneath the city. Can you help neutralize this potential bomb threat?
Rally your friends and put your problem-solving and exploration skills to the test!
- Start your adventure at any moment you choose
- All you need is a smartphone with a mobile data plan
- Suitable for a team of up to 5-6 players aged 15 and older (supervision recommended for younger players)
- This city tour takes around 2 hours to complete and is approximately 2,5 kilometers long
Available options
Discover Alkmaar with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour
What's included
Detailed online instructions with riddles and hints (no extra fees needed during tour)
Detailed itinerary
1
Here you'll find the Adriaen Antonisz statue. He designed the fortifications of Alkmaar to keep the Spaniards out during the Eighty Years' War.
2
The Weighing House is the main building on Waag square that has been used as a chapel and weighing house. Nowadays, the Dutch Cheese Museum and the Tourist Information Office are located in the building.
3
The Chapel Church is a medieval church in the old town of Alkmaar, on Laat street. Originally, the Catholic St. John's Chapel stood at this location, hence the name "Chapel Church."
4
The Town Hall of Alkmaar was built between 1509 and 1520 in the Gothic style. The corner tower has an openwork pear-shaped spire, and the building itself is eleven bays wide.
5
The Great St. Laurens Church, formerly the Great or St. Laurens Church, is a church building on Koorstraat in the city center. It is a stone-clad brick cross-basilica with a seven-sided choir closure. Construction took place from 1470 to 1518.
6
After Alkmaar sided with the Dutch Revolt in 1572, the modernization of the fortifications began immediately. The existing fortification dated from the years 1525-1550 and consisted of brick walls (on the west side of the city) and brick-clad earthen ramparts. Half-round towers had been built at various locations where artillery could be placed. It quickly became clear that the existing fortifications would not withstand modern artillery. Military engineers had come to the realization that large bastions and substantial earthen ramparts were needed. One of the bastions that was completed just before the Siege of Alkmaar in 1573 was the Clarissenbolwerk.
Available languages
Written guide
NL
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
3 reviews
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Tripadvisor
4.8
14 reviews
5★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Important notes
--- IMPORTANT STEPS TO RECEIVE YOUR TICKETS ---
This is a self-guided tour, you can start at any moment.
Go to the website below to complete your order and recieve your tickets:
https://outsideescape.nl/en/order-with-a-voucher-code/
Please use the following coupon code: TJALKMAA2
Once the coupon code is applied, the payment amount on the website will be €0,-.
After placing the order you will receive an email with a link to the Outside Escape. Enjoy!
(you could check www.prettigparkeren.nl for up-to-date info on parking.)
About Alkmaar
Alkmaar is a picturesque city in North Holland known for its historic cheese market, charming canals, and well-preserved medieval architecture. It offers a delightful blend of Dutch tradition and modern charm, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts and culture lovers.
Top Attractions
Alkmaar Cheese Market
A historic cheese market where vendors in traditional attire sell and weigh cheese, a tradition dating back to the 17th century.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to watch, cheese purchases vary
Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar
A museum showcasing the history and cultural heritage of Alkmaar, including art, archaeology, and historical artifacts.
Museum
1-2 hours
€10
Alkmaar Canal Ring
A picturesque network of canals that encircle the city, offering scenic views and boat tours.
Nature
1-2 hours
€10-€15 for boat tours
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stroopwafel
A thin waffle cookie filled with a sweet syrup, often served warm.
Dessert
Contains wheat and sugar
Haring
Raw herring fish, typically eaten with onions and pickles.
Lunch
Contains fish
Popular Activities
Biking
Hiking
Boat tours
Canal walks
Museum visits
Cheese tasting
Ice skating (if conditions permit)
Cheese weighing at the Alkmaar Cheese Market
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the best time to visit Alkmaar for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is vibrant with tourists and hosts various festivals.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Alkmaar is a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to stay vigilant and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas.
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services.
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.
Getting there
By air
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 35 km
By train
Alkmaar Station
By bus
Alkmaar Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network in Alkmaar is extensive and connects all major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, TaxiApp
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Oudorp
Day trips
Amsterdam
35 km • Full day
The capital of the Netherlands offers a wealth of cultural attractions, including museums, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Zaanse Schans
20 km • Half day
An open-air museum and village featuring traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and crafts.
Festivals
Alkmaar Cheese Festival • First weekend of September
Alkmaar Pride • Late August
Pro tips
- Visit the cheese market early to avoid crowds and secure a good viewing spot.
- Rent a bike to explore the city like a local and discover hidden gems.
- Try local specialties like stroopwafels and Dutch herring for an authentic taste of Alkmaar.
- Check the schedule for the Alkmaar Cheese Festival if visiting in September.
- Use the OV-chipkaart for easy and discounted travel on public transport.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
