Noordwijk Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Noordwijk, Netherlands. An informative travel guide for anyone planning a trip to this scenic destination.


Introduction to Noordwijk

Nestled in the heart of Bollenstreek, in South Holland, Noordwijk is a charming coastal town in the Netherlands. This picturesque destination is renowned for its scenic sandy beaches, natural beauty, and rich cultural heritage. If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands, Noordwijk is a must-visit destination.

List of Places to Visit in Noordwijk

Noordwijk boasts a myriad of exciting places to visit, including cultural attractions, natural wonders, and more. Here are some of the must-visit places in Noordwijk.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Noordwijk has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many museums and historical places to explore. Some of the must-visit attractions include:

  • Museum Noordwijk: This museum is dedicated to the history of Noordwijk and showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the exhibits and learn about the local traditions and customs.
  • Atlantikwall Museum: Located in a former Nazi bunker, this museum is dedicated to the history of World War II and the Atlantic Wall. Visitors can explore the bunkers and tunnels and learn about the war’s impact on Noordwijk.
  • Huis van Hilde: This archaeological museum showcases the history of the province of Noord-Holland. Visitors can view the ancient artifacts and learn about the region’s rich history.

Natural Attractions of Noordwijk: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Noordwijk is surrounded by natural beauty, and there are many outdoor adventures to explore. Some of the top attractions include:

  • Noordwijk Beach: With its long stretch of sandy beach, Noordwijk is a perfect destination for beach lovers. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports on the beach.
  • Keukenhof Gardens: Located just a short drive from Noordwijk, Keukenhof Gardens is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. This beautiful park is filled with colorful tulips and other flowers and is open from March to May.
  • Noordwijk Dunes: These protected sand dunes are located just behind the beach and offer miles of hiking and biking trails. Visitors can explore the dunes and enjoy the stunning views of the North Sea.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Noordwijk

Noordwijk is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with miles of scenic trails to explore. Some of the top routes include:

  • Noordwijkerhout Route: This 17-kilometer route takes you through the scenic countryside around Noordwijk and Noordwijkerhout. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful tulip fields and windmills along the way.
  • Beach Route: This 11-kilometer route takes you along the scenic beaches of Noordwijk and Katwijk. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the North Sea and the dunes.
  • Noordwijk Dunes Route: This 6-kilometer route takes you through the beautiful protected dunes behind the beach. Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural scenery and wildlife along the way.

Best Things to Do in Noordwijk: Activities and Tours

Noordwijk offers a wide range of exciting activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Some of the top things to do include:

  • Surfing Lessons: Noordwijk is a perfect destination for surfing, and there are many surf schools offering lessons for all levels.
  • Segway Tours: Visitors can explore the town and the surrounding countryside on a fun and eco-friendly Segway tour.
  • Horse Riding: There are many stables in Noordwijk offering horse riding lessons and guided tours through the dunes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Noordwijk

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Noordwijk:

Day 1: Explore the town center and Museum Noordwijk Day 2: Visit Keukenhof Gardens and the surrounding countryside Day 3: Surfing lesson and beach day Day 4: Segway tour through the dunes Day 5: Visit Huis van Hilde and explore the Noordwijk Dunes Day 6: Horse riding tour through the countryside Day 7: Relax on the beach and enjoy the local food scene

Food and Drink Scene of Noordwijk

Noordwijk is renowned for its fresh seafood and local delicacies. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Haring: This local delicacy is a type of raw herring that is filleted, served with onions, and eaten with the hands.
  • Stamppot: This Dutch classic is a hearty dish made from mashed potatoes, vegetables, and meat.
  • Kibbeling: This deep-fried fish dish is a popular street food in the Netherlands.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever: This traditional Dutch gin is made from malted grain and juniper berries.
  • Beer: The Netherlands is famous for its beer, with many local breweries offering unique and delicious brews.
  • Koffie Verkeerd: This is a Dutch version of a latte, with more milk and less coffee than a typical latte.

Where to Stay in Noordwijk: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Noordwijk offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the top places to stay include:

  • Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin: This luxury hotel offers stunning views of the North Sea and is located just steps from the beach.
  • Stayokay Noordwijk: This affordable hostel is a perfect option for budget-conscious travelers and offers a range of rooms and amenities.
  • Villa De Duinen: This stylish guesthouse offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere and is located just a short walk from the town center.

What to Buy in Noordwijk: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Noordwijk is famous for its fresh seafood and local products. Here are some of the top souvenirs and products to bring home:

  • Cheese: The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, with many local varieties available in Noordwijk.
  • Stroopwafels: This classic Dutch snack is a delicious combination of waffles and caramel syrup.
  • Seafood: Noordwijk is renowned for its fresh seafood, with many local fishmongers offering a wide range of delicious seafood products.

Local Culture and Customs of Noordwijk

Noordwijk has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should respect the local customs and traditions. Here are some of the key cultural aspects of Noordwijk:

  • Religion: The majority of the population is Christian, and there are many beautiful churches and chapels throughout the town.
  • Cycling: Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in the Netherlands, and visitors should be aware of cyclists on the roads and bike paths.
  • Coffee Culture: The Dutch love their coffee, and there are many cozy coffee shops and cafes throughout Noordwijk.

Best Time to Visit Noordwijk

The best time to visit Noordwijk is during the spring and summer months, from March to August. This is the peak tourist season, and visitors can enjoy the sunny weather, outdoor activities, and local festivals. The fall and winter months are also a great time to visit if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.

Do’s and Don’ts of Noordwijk

Do:

  • Do try the local seafood and Dutch delicacies
  • Do explore the town on foot or by bike
  • Do visit the local museums and cultural attractions

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to respect the local customs and traditions
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment
  • Don’t forget to check the local weather forecast before heading out

Safety and Health

Noordwijk is a safe and healthy destination, with a high standard of healthcare and emergency services. Visitors should be aware of the following:

Safety in Noordwijk

  • Noordwijk is a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Visitors should still be aware of their surroundings and take normal precautions to protect themselves and their property.
  • The natural environment of Noordwijk can also pose some safety risks, such as strong currents and tides at the beach or hazards on hiking and biking trails. Visitors should follow all posted safety warnings and guidelines when participating in outdoor activities.

Health in Noordwijk

  • Noordwijk has a high standard of healthcare and emergency services, with several hospitals and clinics located in the town and surrounding area. Visitors should ensure they have adequate travel insurance and take normal precautions to protect their health and wellbeing.

Getting to Noordwijk: Transportation Options and Logistics

Noordwijk is easily accessible by a range of transportation options, including air, train, and bus. Here are some of the key logistics to consider:

Airports Near Noordwijk

  • Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is the closest major airport and is located just a 30-minute drive from Noordwijk. Visitors can take a taxi or rental car from the airport to Noordwijk.

Bus Stations Near Noordwijk

  • Noordwijk has several bus stops throughout the town, offering connections to nearby cities and attractions. Visitors can check schedules and purchase tickets online or at the local tourist office.

Other Options

  • Noordwijk is also easily accessible by train, with the closest station located in Leiden. Visitors can take a train from Amsterdam or other nearby cities to Leiden, then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach Noordwijk.

How to Get Around in Noordwijk

Noordwijk is a relatively small town and is easily explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also use public transportation or rental cars to get around. Here are some of the top transportation options:

  • Walking: Noordwijk is a pedestrian-friendly town, with many sidewalks and pedestrian areas throughout the town center.
  • Biking: Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in the Netherlands, and visitors can rent bikes from local shops or their accommodations.
  • Public Transportation: Noordwijk has a bus network that connects the town with nearby cities and attractions.
  • Taxis: Taxis are available throughout the town and can be reserved or hailed on the street.

Where to Go Next from Noordwijk: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Noordwijk is located in a scenic and culturally-rich region of the Netherlands, with many nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some of the top places to visit:

  • Leiden: This historic city is located just a short drive from Noordwijk and is renowned for its beautiful canals, old buildings, and museums.
  • The Hague: This vibrant city is the seat of the Dutch government and is home to many important cultural attractions, including the Mauritshuis museum and the Peace Palace.
  • Amsterdam: This world-famous city is located just a short train ride from Noordwijk and is renowned for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful canals.

Conclusion

Noordwijk is a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience the natural beauty, rich culture, and historic heritage of the Netherlands. With its scenic beaches, charming town center, and wide range of attractions and activities, Noordwijk has something to offer every type of traveler. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, surfing, or simply relaxing on the beach, Noordwijk is a must-visit destination.