Alkmaar, historic town center, windmills

Culture and History tour in Alkmaar

Tour Price : €100-300 Duration : 1-3 hours Languages: Dutch, English, German Discount: 10% discount already factored in.

When you visit Holland, just staying in Amsterdam is great; some of the unique experiences are however found in smaller towns like Alkmaar. Located 30 Km to the north of Amsterdam you will find the quiet and dreamy little town of Alkmaar. A private tour by train takes you there.

National history: In Alkmaar started the successful fight against the Kings troops from Spain. Because of that victory back in the 16th century the claim is that national victory began in Alkmaar, something that some Dutch take great pride in.

One thing that the locals are also proud of are the advances in engineering, technology that have taken place here. In this town the construction of the very first polder took place as well as other advanced engineering works and industry windmills. I will bring you up to datewith information during this tour. The largest painting by Saenredam, a church interior view,  is located right in town at the Municipal Art museum; other famous artists’ works can be admired here as well. On your friday visit to the museum you will be able to also see the massive and mediaeval Great Church of Saint Lawrence. Comparable in size and style to the great French cathedrals! That is just a part of the history that you will learn about during the trip.

The city center’s beauty stems from its  organic growth. The Canals, monuments and houses have been wonderfully preserved and the visitors enjoy them immensely.

Best choice: Visit on a Friday morning on a summer day for the fascinating Cheese Market on Market Square. It is a real show with competing teams of carriers.

At the polders outside town you will also learn about the windmills and their uses as water pumps or for milling grain. You will leave happy and full of impressions, and with a lot of knowledge about one of the most picturesque small towns in Holland.

Note: we may meet in Alkmaar or we can travel together by train from Amsterdam to Alkmaar (extra ticket cost).

Additional information