Because of world-famous attractions such as Amsterdam, Volendam and Zaanse Schans, North Holland is a real tourist draw. But besides all these famous sights, this province has so much more to offer. Bustling cities, beautiful polders, peaceful nature reserves, endless dunes, historic forts: discover the province of Noord-Holland!
Amsterdam, Haarlem, Alkmaar: those who love the city will easily find what they are looking for in North Holland. In the courtyard city of Haarlem, shopaholics are in the right place. The streets of the historic centre are home to the best boutiques, concept stores and interior design shops. Alkmaar, with its famous cheese market, many historic buildings and the Stedelijk Museum, is also worth a visit. Less obvious is Den Helder. This northernmost city in the province breathes water. Take a look inside a ramship and submarine at the Naval Museum or go back to the time of Napoleon at Fort Kijkduin. And then there is beloved Amsterdam. Wander the canals, soak up culture at the many museums and picnic in green parks.
Although Noord-Holland is a busy province, it is easy to find peace and quiet. From dunes to lakes and from low moorland landscapes to the wooded Gooi: the most beautiful natural areas are hidden between the busy cities. Also be sure to spend a day in the polders. Nowhere is the ingenious technique of reclamation more visible than in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites Beemster and Schermer. Here, an entire inland sea was pumped out between 1607 and 1612. What remained was fertile land, 3.5 metres below sea level. Today, the Beemster and Schermer is a beautiful cycling and hiking area.
Whoever thinks of North Holland thinks of endless beaches. Especially on a sunny day, this is a fantastic place to be. On the coast of North Holland are fairly quiet beaches belonging to small seaside resorts such as Egmond aan Zee and Schoorl. Or would you rather seek out the hustle and bustle in Zandvoort and Bloemendaal? The former Zuiderzee towns such as Volendam, Enkhuizen and Monnikendam are major attractions. These archetypal Dutch towns offer fantastic views over the water. Stroll along the dike, eat a fish, visit the Zuiderzee Museum or take a boat trip across the IJsselmeer. A special place is UNESCO World Heritage Site Fort Pampus, located in the middle of the Markermeer. This fort was built in the 19th century to protect Amsterdam.
A visit to Muiderslot is not to be missed. This beautiful medieval castle with a rich history, is located at the mouth of the river Vecht. The Muiderslot was built around 1280 by order of Count Floris the Fifth. Nowadays, it is a national museum where you can marvel at the beautifully decorated rooms, armour, weapons and other utensils, fully restored as they looked in the 17th century. The castle is open to visitors most of the year. When visiting, don't forget to take a walk through the herb garden.
Fancy discovering the versatile province of North Holland? Then book a holiday at one of the many campsites, holiday homes, Bed & Breakfasts or group accommodations of In Het Groen!
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