Purmerend

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Purmerend's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Purmerend's historic center, where you can admire traditional Dutch architecture. Stop by the weekly market at the Koemarkt, where local vendors sell fresh produce and unique crafts. Enjoy a warm pastry from a nearby bakery as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Visit the Purmerends Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the region through engaging exhibits. Afterward, take a relaxing walk along the Purmerend waterways, soaking in the scenic views and the tranquil ambiance. Stop for lunch at a quaint café, sampling local Dutch dishes and enjoying the laid-back vibe.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring traditional Dutch cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk around the beautifully lit town square, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Conclude your evening with a drink at a cozy bar, where you can mingle with locals and reflect on your day.

day 2
A Day at the Waterland
morning
:

Start your morning with a bike ride to the nearby Waterland, a picturesque area filled with lakes and wetlands. Take in the stunning views as you pedal through lush green fields and charming villages. Stop for a coffee at a lakeside café, enjoying the serene environment before diving into your day’s adventures.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon kayaking on the tranquil waters, exploring the natural beauty of the area. Paddle through scenic canals and observe wildlife, including swans and ducks, in their natural habitat. After your water adventure, have a picnic lunch on the shore, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

evening
:

As the day winds down, return to Purmerend and freshen up before heading out for dinner. Choose a restaurant that specializes in seafood, where you can indulge in fresh catches from the nearby waters. Enjoy a leisurely meal as you recount the highlights of your day spent in nature.

day 3
Art and Culture Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the local art galleries in Purmerend, where you can discover works by local artists. Take your time to appreciate the creativity on display, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for a day of cultural immersion.

afternoon
:

After exploring the galleries, visit the Theater de Purmaryn, where you can learn about upcoming performances and local theatrical productions. Attend an afternoon workshop or talk if available, engaging with the local arts community. Enjoy lunch at a bistro nearby, sampling dishes inspired by international cuisine.

evening
:

As night falls, return to the theater for a live performance, whether it be a play, concert, or dance show. Immerse yourself in the local arts scene, experiencing the talent and passion of the performers. After the show, unwind with a drink at a nearby bar, discussing your favorite moments from the evening.

day 4
Cycling Adventure to Edam
morning
:

Rent a bike and set off for a scenic ride to the nearby town of Edam, famous for its cheese and picturesque canals. Enjoy the fresh air and beautiful landscapes as you cycle along well-marked paths. Upon arrival, grab a quick breakfast at a local café, sampling Edam's famous cheese.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring Edam's charming streets, visiting its quaint shops and the Edam Cheese Market if it happens to be open. Take a guided tour of a traditional cheese factory to learn about the cheese-making process. For lunch, enjoy a meal at a waterfront restaurant, taking in the views of the canals.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, ride back to Purmerend, enjoying the sunset views along the way. Once back, treat yourself to a hearty dinner at a local steakhouse or grill. End your evening with a stroll along the canals of Purmerend, reflecting on the day's adventures.

day 5
Nature Walks in the Surrounding Countryside
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the nearby Purmerenderhout, a beautiful forest area perfect for leisurely nature walks. Enjoy the crisp morning air as you wander along the trails, surrounded by lush greenery and birdsong. Pack a light breakfast to enjoy during your walk, taking in the peaceful environment.

afternoon
:

Continue your exploration by visiting the nearby fields, which are known for their vibrant tulip blooms in spring. This is a great opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture the stunning colors and landscapes. Enjoy a packed lunch in a scenic spot, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

evening
:

Return to Purmerend and freshen up before heading out for dinner at a rustic Dutch eatery. Try traditional dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, celebrating the flavors of the region. After your meal, take a quiet evening stroll along the illuminated canals, enjoying the peace and tranquility of the night.

day 6
Local Markets and Culinary Delights
morning
:

Begin your day by exploring the local markets in Purmerend, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade goods. Taste samples from various stalls, engaging with friendly vendors to learn about their products. Enjoy a freshly brewed coffee as you stroll through the market, absorbing the local culture.

afternoon
:

After the market, take a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you can learn to prepare traditional Dutch dishes using local ingredients. Engage with the chef and fellow participants as you chop, mix, and cook together. Enjoy the delightful lunch you prepared, sharing stories and laughs with your new friends.

evening
:

Conclude your culinary day with a visit to a local wine bar, where you can sample exquisite Dutch wines paired with artisan cheeses. Enjoy the cozy ambiance and chat with the knowledgeable staff about the best pairings. Relax as you savor each sip, reflecting on the flavors and experiences of the day.

day 7
Historic Windmill Tour
morning
:

Start your day with a trip to one of the historic windmills located just outside of Purmerend, such as De Krijtmolen or De Schoolmeester. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and mechanics of these iconic structures, which are a symbol of Dutch heritage. Enjoy the scenic countryside views while you explore the grounds.

afternoon
:

After your windmill visit, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby café, featuring traditional Dutch snacks and pastries. Spend the afternoon cycling along the scenic routes that connect various windmills and picturesque landscapes. Stop occasionally to take photographs and enjoy the tranquility of the Dutch countryside.

evening
:

Return to Purmerend for dinner at a local restaurant offering a menu inspired by Dutch heritage. Savor dishes made from seasonal ingredients while reflecting on your day of exploration. After dinner, take a moonlit walk along the canals, enjoying the serene beauty of the night.

day 8
Family Fun at Recreation Parks
morning
:

Spend your morning at one of Purmerend's recreation parks, such as Leeghwaterpark, where you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Engage in games like frisbee or soccer, or simply relax on the grass with a good book. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy in the park, surrounded by the sounds of laughter and nature.

afternoon
:

After a fun-filled morning, take the family to the nearby Playland, an indoor play center perfect for kids of all ages. Let the children explore the various play structures, while adults can unwind with a snack and drinks in the café. Enjoy a relaxed lunch in the park, sharing stories and laughter about the day’s activities.

evening
:

As the day winds down, head to a family-friendly restaurant for dinner, offering a variety of options to please everyone. Wrap up your evening with ice cream from a local shop, treating yourselves to sweet delights. Reflect on the day’s fun and make plans for your next family adventure.

day 9
Cultural Immersion through Local Festivals
morning
:

If your visit coincides with a local festival, start your day by immersing yourself in the festivities in Purmerend. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere filled with music, dance, and local crafts as you wander through the festival grounds. Taste traditional treats from food stalls, sampling local flavors and specialties.

afternoon
:

Continue enjoying the festival activities, participating in workshops or demonstrations that showcase local traditions and skills. Engage with artisans and performers to learn more about their crafts and culture. Take a break for lunch at one of the festival's food stalls, enjoying the lively ambiance around you.

evening
:

As the festival continues into the evening, find a spot to enjoy live performances from local musicians and performers. Share the joy of the celebration with fellow festival-goers, dancing and singing along to the music. End your day by watching the festival's closing fireworks display, a beautiful finale to an immersive cultural experience.

Discover Purmerend

Read more in our Purmerend 2025 Travel Guide.

Purmerend Travel Guide