Things To Do
in Heiloo
Heiloo is a quiet town in North Holland set among green countryside and close to the Dutch coast. It blends a village atmosphere with convenient access to dunes, forests, and nearby coastal towns. The area is bike- and walk-friendly, with historic streets, farms, and friendly locals.
Visitors can combine relaxed town life with easy day trips to Alkmaar, Bergen, and the seaside just a short ride away.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Heiloo and check in at your cozy accommodation. Take a leisurely walk around the charming streets to get acquainted with the town. Stop by a local café for a traditional Dutch breakfast with freshly baked bread and coffee.
Visit the historic Ruins of the Kapelkerk, which offers a glimpse into the town's rich past. Explore the beautiful surrounding gardens and parks, taking in the serene atmosphere. Engage with local artisans and boutiques as you stroll through the main shopping district.
Dine at a popular local restaurant, sampling traditional Dutch cuisine. Enjoy the lively ambiance of Heiloo’s nightlife, perhaps finding a cozy pub to unwind in with a local beer. Conclude your day with a peaceful walk back to your accommodation under the starry sky.
Start your day with a visit to the Museum Kranenburgh to explore contemporary art and local history. Take your time to appreciate the diverse exhibits and collections that tell the story of the region. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum's café amidst the artistic surroundings.
Head to the nearby village of Egmond aan Zee to enjoy the beautiful beaches and rolling dunes. Spend the afternoon walking along the shore, collecting seashells, and soaking in the fresh sea air. Consider indulging in fresh seafood from a beachside café for lunch.
Return to Heiloo and relax at your accommodation, taking some time to recount the day's adventures. For dinner, seek out a restaurant that offers a fusion of traditional and modern European dishes. Enjoy a quiet evening stroll through illuminated streets, embracing the calm of the night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport (one-way) | $3-4 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $80-120 |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entry | $10-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful towns and easy access to dunes and coast
- Strong cycling infrastructure and scenic day trips
- Friendly locals and authentic Dutch experiences
- Proximity to Alkmaar, Bergen, and Amsterdam for culture and nightlife
- Limited nightlife within Heiloo itself
- Smaller town feel may mean fewer big-city amenities
- Seasonal attractions (like cheese markets) operate on specific days
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is…?" - Where is…?
- "Ik begrijp het niet" - I don’t understand
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kunt u me helpen?" - Can you help me?
- "Kan ik betalen met pin?" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Heiloo
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunlit dunes and pine forests with expansive views and winding paths ideal for landscape photography.
Iconic lighthouse by the coast, perfect for seaside shots at sunrise or sunset.
Historic canals, charming gabled houses, and a picturesque market square for architectural and street photography.
Soft light over rolling dunes and the North Sea creates dramatic coastal silhouettes.
Food in Heiloo
Heiloo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting skillet of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables like boerenkool (kale) or zuurkool (sauerkraut), usually served with sausage or gravy on the side.
Must-Try!
Raw herring served with onions and pickles; best enjoyed at a market stall or seaside snack bar.
Local cheeses from nearby farms, often available at small cheese shops and at Alkmaar’s famous cheese market.
Large, thin pancakes served with sweet or savory toppings; popular in family-friendly cafés.
A crispy waffle sandwich with caramel syrup, a classic Dutch treat found in bakeries and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market where cheese traders showcase large wheels; great for cheese tastings and photo opportunities (seasonal and in fixed days).
Seasonal markets offering fresh produce, bread, dairy, and street snacks like haring and friet.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake on first meeting; be polite, speak clearly, and use Dutch or English as appropriate. When cycling, keep to the right and observe cyclists’ manners on shared paths.
Safety
Tipping in Heiloo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% at nicer restaurants is common but not required.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still usable though less common in some places.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming flowers; great for long bike rides and canal-side strolls. Pack light layers and a rain jacket.
Long daylight hours, comfortable sea breeze, and beach days at Bergen aan Zee or Egmond. Hydration and sun protection are key.
Brisk air with turning foliage; quieter towns and lush landscapes. Dress in layers and enjoy hearty Dutch comfort foods.
Cool temperatures with potential frost or light snow; festive markets and cozy cafés are popular. A warm coat and sturdy shoes are recommended.
Heiloo at Night
Hiking in Heiloo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Dune and forest trails with scenic overlooks, ideal for daytime hikes and photography.
Coastal trails through dunes and beachside areas, offering panoramic sea views.
Gentle countryside routes with farms, windmills, and quiet lanes suitable for easy hikes.
Airports
How to reach Heiloo by plane.
Major international hub about 30-40 minutes by train or car from Heiloo; well-connected for international arrivals and domestic flights.
Smaller regional airport offering limited international and domestic flights; farther from Heiloo but reachable by car or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly area with good schools, parks, and safe streets.
Quiet neighborhoods, green spaces, and a slower pace during weekdays.
Accessible rail links to larger cities attract commuters and students seeking a quieter home base.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched, with local clubs in the region offering youth and senior teams.
A core Dutch activity; extensive network of bike lanes through Heiloo and surrounding countryside.
Community courts and clubs nearby provide seasonal play and coaching.
In coastal towns like Egmond aan Zee, beach volleyball and seaside activities are popular in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Heiloo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most menus in Heiloo and nearby towns offer vegetarian options; ask for the daily vegetarian dish or fruit/vegetable-focused plates; many places can adapt traditional dishes to vegetarian versions.