2 Hours Walking Tour Throughout History and Highlights of Hoorn
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Step into the storybook streets of Hoorn, once one of the wealthiest cities of the Dutch Golden Age. This 2-hour walking tour takes you through centuries of trade, shipbuilding, religion, and resistance. Hear about heroic sailors, explosive naval battles, the shadow of the VOC, and the clash between Remonstrants and Gomarists.
Walk past the Hoofdtoren and former VOC warehouses where ships once set sail for the East Indies. See the weigh house, the controversial statue of Jan Pieterszoon Coen, and the mighty church that sparked riots. Learn how the Baltic grain trade quietly made Hoorn richer than spice.
Your expert guide brings local legends, architecture, and hidden history to life — from underground tunnels to a pirate who climbed the Spanish flagship’s mast.
The tour is conducted in English. Dutch is available upon request.
Available options
Dutch tour
English tour
What's included
Expert local guide
Visit to historical landmarks and hidden sites
2-hour walking tour of Hoorn
Detailed itinerary
1
The Maria Tower is a historic tower originally used for storing gunpowder in the 17th century. It is one of the city's oldest buildings and offers a glimpse into Hoorn's military and maritime past.
2
De Doelen is a former target building on the Achterstraat in the centre of the North Holland city of Hoorn . The building consisted of two parts, one for the Sint-Sebastiaansdoelen and one for the Sint-Jorisdoelen.
3
The VOC Warehouses were used by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) in the 17th and 18th centuries to store valuable goods like spices, silk, and tea.
4
Provincial guesthouse and meeting place for regional rulers
5
Former Reformed church, site of religious conflict and riots
6
Gable stones recall the heroic Battle of the Zuiderzee
7
(Main Tower) – Iconic harbor defense tower from 1532
8
The Boys from Bontekoe refers to a group of young sailors from Hoorn who were part of the famous 17th-century Dutch expedition led by Willem Ysbrandtszoon Bontekoe.
9
Former seat of regional government, now a museum (exterior visit)
10
Renaissance building once key to Hoorn’s grain trade
What's not included
Food or drinks
Transport
Gratuities for the guide
Entrance tickets
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Not recommended for People with mobility impairments
Meeting point
Look for the guide with the orange umbrella.
Meeting point in between the station and the park
He/she will stand next to the small statue inside the park in front of the central station.
About Hoorn
Hoorn is a charming historic city in North Holland, known for its rich maritime heritage and well-preserved 17th-century architecture. The city offers a delightful mix of cultural attractions, scenic waterfronts, and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts and those seeking a peaceful getaway.
Top Attractions
Westfries Museum
This museum showcases the history and culture of West Friesland, featuring exhibits on maritime history, traditional crafts, and local art.
Museum
2-3 hours
€10
Hoorn Harbour
A historic harbour that played a significant role in Hoorn's maritime past. Today, it's a charming area with cafes, restaurants, and scenic views.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (boat tours cost extra)
Roode Steen
A historic square in the heart of Hoorn, surrounded by beautiful buildings and the iconic Waag (Weigh House).
Historical
1 hour
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stroopwafel
A thin waffle cookie filled with a layer of sweet syrup, often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Kibbeling
Deep-fried battered fish, typically cod, served with a variety of sauces.
Snack
Gluten-free options available
Popular Activities
Boat tours
Biking
Canal cruises
Coffee shop visits
Museum visits
Historic site tours
Fishing
Exploring the historic harbour
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, long daylight hours, and various festivals. It's the best time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
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: Very safe
Hoorn is a very safe city with low crime rates. It's a welcoming and friendly destination for travelers.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
- • Be cautious when withdrawing cash from ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 40 km
By train
Hoorn Railway Station
By bus
Hoorn Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Hoorn. They are efficient and frequent.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber is available
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Harbour Area
Day trips
Medemblik
15 km • Half day
A charming historic town with a rich maritime heritage. Medemblik is home to the Dutch Steam Tram Museum and the Castle Radboud.
Enkhuizen
20 km • Full day
A picturesque historic town with a well-preserved old town center and several museums. Enkhuizen is known for its maritime history and charming canals.
Festivals
Hoorn Summer Festival • July
Sail Hoorn • Every five years (next in 2025)
Pro tips
- Visit the Westfries Museum early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Take a boat tour to explore the city from a different perspective
- Try local delicacies like kibbeling and stroopwafel at the harbour market
- Explore the historic harbour area in the evening for a romantic atmosphere
- Consider visiting during the off-peak season for a more relaxed experience and lower prices
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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