Schagen(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Schagen, the top choice for families is Hotel De Grote Kerk, a former church beautifully converted into a cozy hotel with Gothic architectural details. It offers spacious family rooms, child-friendly amenities like high chairs and cribs, and is just steps from the Schagen Canal and Town Hall Square. Nearby, you'll find a children's farm and scenic walking trails through polder landscapes. The hotel serves a traditional Dutch breakfast featuring local cheese and dark rye bread, offering a true taste of North Holland’s rural charm.

The best area for staying in Schagen is the historic town center, where charming 17th-century timber-framed houses line peaceful canals. You’ll be within walking distance of the Town Hall, St. John’s Church, and weekly artisan markets. This district is quiet at night, safe, and ideal for travelers seeking authentic Dutch village life. Stay near Oude Dorp to enjoy riverside cafés and views of illuminated old stone bridges—perfect for a serene evening stroll after a day of exploration.

Don’t miss the Spring Flower Festival in Schagen, when the entire town blooms with tulips and daffodils. Participate in a traditional windmill model workshop to learn Dutch craftsmanship. Take a guided canal boat tour to hear stories of Schagen’s evolution from fishing village to cultural hub. In the evening, join a local tavern night tasting North Sea herring and Jenever spirits. These immersive experiences offer genuine insight into the warmth and heritage of North Holland’s communities.

Yes, Schagen is ideal for self-driving travelers. The town has multiple free parking lots, including those near the Town Hall Square and along the canal front. Hotels like Hotel de Brouwerij offer dedicated parking and are close to the A7 highway exit, making access easy. We recommend driving slowly along the Amsterdam-Leiden route in the afternoon to enjoy the pastoral landscapes and historic windmills. Afterward, relax at a riverside restaurant, savoring your journey with a peaceful dinner under the Dutch sky.

For couples, Hotel Het Oude Huis stands out as a perfect retreat. Housed in an 18th-century farmhouse, it blends vintage furnishings with modern comfort. Each room features a private terrace overlooking the Schagen Canal, ideal for evening views. The hotel offers candlelit dinner packages paired with locally brewed Dutch apple cider. Start your day with a private breakfast on the garden patio or enjoy a shared bicycle ride through flower fields and tree-lined paths, creating unforgettable moments in a tranquil setting.

Most hotels in Schagen provide free bicycle rentals, including Hotel de Loo and De Vier Winden, which stock mountain bikes and city cruisers. Rentals are usually available for 24 hours and come with maps and suggested routes. Popular paths lead to nearby windmill villages, Keukenhof Gardens (seasonal), and West Friesland Lake—all rich in scenic beauty. Some hotels even offer bike racks for cars, supporting a hybrid travel style combining road trips with active exploration.

Must-try dishes in Schagen include smoked sausage (Rookworst) and a handcrafted cheese platter made from local farms. Visit De Gouden Molen for their signature grilled cod with herb mashed potatoes, using fresh fish from the North Sea. Don’t miss the annual cheese market, where over 30 types of Dutch cheeses—like Edam and Gouda—are sampled on-site. For a sweet treat, enjoy hot Dutch chocolate and homemade almond cookies at De Oude Molen Café, capturing the essence of North Holland’s culinary tradition.

The peak season in Schagen runs from April to June, when spring flowers bloom across the region. The Tulip Festival in early May turns the town into a floral paradise with vibrant displays. Additionally, the Windmill Festival in July draws many visitors. While crowds increase, the town retains its calm character—book accommodations early. Avoid late autumn to winter (October–March) if you prefer fewer tourists, though some shops and attractions may have reduced hours.

Yes, Schagen is a photographer’s dream. Stay at Hotel De Zonnewijzer, whose Dutch Renaissance façade and sundial rooftop offer stunning compositions. The hotel provides access to a rooftop viewing platform perfect for capturing sunrise reflections on the canal. The St. John’s Church tower gives panoramic views of the town, while Old Mill Street delivers dramatic lighting contrasts. The hotel also hosts photo workshops led by local artists, teaching how to capture the poetic beauty of Dutch countryside life.

Absolutely. Several hotels in Schagen embrace sustainability. EcoHuis Hotel uses solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and eco-friendly toiletries. They source ingredients from local organic farms for meals. The town also features shared electric scooters and zero-waste cafés promoting low-carbon tourism. Guests earn green points redeemable for local crafts or bike rentals, encouraging responsible travel. Schagen is becoming a model for eco-tourism in North Holland, welcoming environmentally conscious visitors.