Alkmaar: Self-guided History and Highlights Walking 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
Discover Alkmaar at Your Own Pace!
Explore Alkmaar with a self-guided WhatsApp tour on your smartphone. Visit landmarks like the Cheese Market, The Waag, and the House with the Bullet, while uncovering the stories behind the highlights and finding hidden gems. Follow a historic route through the city and learn about its famous sights as you explore at your own pace. Start and stop the tour whenever you like, avoiding large crowds. Enjoy secret tips as you discover Alkmaar’s rich history!
How does it work?
1. Purchase the tour and receive a ticket via Viator.
2. The link to start your tour is included in your ticket.
3. Start and stop whenever you like, avoiding crowds.
Bonus: Get secret tips as you dive into Alkmaar's rich history!
Available options
Alkmaar: Self-guided History and Highlights Walking Tour
What's included
Route past the hidden gems of Alkmaar
Stories about all of the locations in the tour
Tips for restaurants, the best places for pictures and more!
Self-guided tour through Alkmaar
Detailed itinerary
1
You'll receive interesting information and fun trivia at each location.
2
You'll receive interesting information and fun trivia at each location.
3
You'll receive interesting information and fun trivia at each location.
4
You'll receive interesting information and fun trivia at each location.
5
You'll receive interesting information and fun trivia at each location.
6
You'll receive interesting information and fun trivia at each location.
7
You'll receive interesting information and fun trivia at each location.
8
You'll receive interesting information and fun trivia at each location.
What's not included
Live guide
Entry fees
Available languages
Written guide
DE
EN
FR
NL
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Starting Point of Your Tour
The tour begins at St Laurenskerk. You will be guided there by your SmartWalk. Your SmartWalk will guide you to this location.
Important: The link to start your tour is included in your Viator ticket.
Important notes
Important: How to Start Your Tour
The barcode you received cannot be used to start your tour.
Simply click the link provided below to begin.
Select your preferred language for the walk, and you're ready to go!
Click this link or copy and paste the text into your browser.
https://cm.to/HMpAVyg
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
