Things To Do
in Noordwijkerhout

Noordwijkerhout is a small Dutch town in South Holland, inland from the coastal town of Noordwijk aan Zee. It sits in the bulb-flower region and serves as a quiet gateway to dunes, beaches, and scenic cycling routes. The village blends a relaxed, family-friendly vibe with easy access to larger towns such as Leiden and Amsterdam via efficient rail and road links.

Visitors enjoy seasonal blossoms, nearby bulb fields, and the relaxed pace of the Dutch countryside.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring the Tulip Fields
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely bike ride through the vibrant tulip fields surrounding Noordwijkerhout. The early morning light casts a magical glow over the rows of colorful flowers, creating a picturesque landscape perfect for photography. Stop at a local flower farm to learn about the cultivation process and perhaps pick up some bulbs to take home.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a charming café, continue your exploration by visiting the famous Keukenhof Gardens, which feature millions of blooming flowers. Stroll through themed gardens and marvel at the intricate floral displays, taking in the scents and colors of spring. Don't forget to stop by the windmill for stunning views of the surrounding fields.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Dutch cuisine. Savor traditional dishes like stamppot while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. After dinner, take a peaceful stroll through the nearby parks, soaking in the tranquility of the evening.

day 2
Beach Day at Noordwijk
morning
:

Start your beach day with a refreshing breakfast at a seaside café, enjoying the sound of waves crashing against the shore. Once you've fueled up, take a morning walk along the sandy beach, feeling the cool breeze and watching the surfers catch waves. You might even spot some local beachgoers participating in morning yoga sessions.

afternoon
:

After soaking up the sun, spend the afternoon engaging in various water sports like paddleboarding or kite surfing. The beach clubs offer rentals and lessons for those looking to try something new or hone their skills. Enjoy a light lunch at a beachside bar, sampling fresh seafood while watching the world go by.

evening
:

As the evening approaches, find a cozy spot on the beach to witness the breathtaking sunset over the North Sea. Enjoy a candlelit dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can savor grilled fish and local wines. Cap off your day with a beach bonfire, sharing stories and roasting marshmallows under the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
Coffee and pastry$3-6
🚆One-way public transport$3-6
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$120-180
🧀Local cheese or souvenir$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic Dutch countryside and proximity to beaches
  • Calm towns with easy access to bulb fields and cultural sites
  • Limited nightlife within the village
  • Some attractions require trips to nearby towns like Leiden or Amsterdam
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
  • "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ik ben vegetarier" - I am vegetarian.
  • "De rekening, alstublieft." - The bill, please.

Places to Visit in Noordwijkerhout

Visit one of these nice places.

Noordwijkerhout Village Canals and Windmill View

Quaint canals, traditional Dutch houses, and a classic windmill provide charming foregrounds.

Coastal Dunes and Beach at Noordwijk aan Zee

Long sandy beaches, dune landscapes, and dramatic sunsets over the North Sea.

Keukenhof region fields (Lisse) in bloom

Vivid tulip fields and water features create vibrant photo opportunities during bloom season.

Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen viewpoints

Dune landscapes with pine forests and wildlife ideal for wide-angle shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Noordwijkerhout

Dutch cuisine in the Noordwijkerhout area leans on hearty comfort dishes, fresh seafood from the coast, and simple, seasonal produce. Expect approachable meals in village taverns and restaurants that highlight local ingredients.

Noordwijkerhout Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stamppot

A hearty mash of potatoes with kale or cabbage, usually served with sausage or bacon.

Must-Try!

Haring (Herring)

Raw herring served with onions and pickles, a classic Dutch street-food staple.

Pannenkoeken

Large Dutch pancakes, often served with sweet toppings or savory fillings.

Bitterballen

Crispy fried meatballs served with mustard, a popular Dutch snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Local markets in Noordwijkerhout and nearby towns

Weekly markets offer fresh produce, cheese, pastries, and regional snacks.

Coastal markets in Noordwijk aan Zee

Summer stalls along the promenade with seafood bites and quick snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The Netherlands has a temperate maritime climate. Winters are typically cool and mild, summers are comfortable with daytime highs around 20-25°C. Rain is frequent year-round, so carry a light rain jacket and prepare for sudden showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

General etiquette

Greet with a friendly Hallo; use polite forms like alstublieft or dank u wel; respect personal space and keep to bike lanes.

Safety Guide

Safety

The area is generally safe for travelers. Take common-sense precautions: watch belongings in crowded places, stay aware on bike paths, and be careful near water. Dial 112 for emergencies within the EU.

Tipping in Noordwijkerhout

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common for good service.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards widely accepted; contactless payments and iDEAL are very common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm, long days; coastal towns bustle with beachgoers, outdoor events, and refreshing sea breezes.

Autumn

Mild days with colorful foliage; fewer crowds and serene coastal walks.

Winter

Cool and sometimes frosty; festive lights and indoor cafés provide coziness.

Spring

Bloom season in bulb fields nearby; ideal for vibrant nature photography and bike rides.

Nightlife Guide

Noordwijkerhout at Night

The nightlife in Noordwijkerhout is low-key, with cozy bars and cafés. For more vibrant options, nearby Noordwijk aan Zee and Leiden offer seaside pubs, live music, and club venues, especially in warm months and university calendars.

Hiking in Noordwijkerhout

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen trails

Dune and pine forest trails with wildlife viewing.

Bulb fields cycling route (Lisse to Haarlem region)

Seasonal fields with photogenic landscapes during bloom season.

Airports

How to reach Noordwijkerhout by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

Major international airport about 20-40 minutes by car or train.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)

Smaller regional airport accessible from the area.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town is walkable with compact streets, and bike paths connect Noordwijkerhout to Noordwijk and Leiden. Parking can be challenging in peak season near the coast.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families live in Noordwijkerhout for a safe, quiet environment.

Retirees

Calmer neighborhoods and access to nearby healthcare facilities appeal to retirees.

Tourists

Domestic and international visitors exploring tulips, dunes, and beaches.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

A core local activity due to flat terrain and bike-friendly paths.

Football (Soccer)

Widespread at local clubs and recreational leagues.

Watersports

Sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding along the coast.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light to moderate; summer weekends see more visitors heading to the coast. Public transport (trains and buses) is reliable, and the area is bike-friendly with extensive lanes. In peak season, expect some congestion around the coastal towns.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Noordwijkerhout.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available; ask for veggie versions of local dishes or adapt meals with seasonal vegetables.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in the Netherlands is high quality. In Noordwijkerhout there are GPs and dental clinics; for major care you can access hospitals in Leiden, The Hague, and Amsterdam via public transport.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide