Your Essential Travel Guide To Ijmuiden
Things To Do In IJmuiden
Sail to IJmuiden from Newcastle and spend some time exploring before you continue on your adventure. The northern port city near is a short drive from Amsterdam and offers fine sand beaches with textured dunes, beautiful natural landscapes and maritime attractions including the largest fish market in the country. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the IJmuiden Sea and Harbor Museum, where you can dive into the captivating history of the port and its seafaring traditions.
With its prime seafront location, IJmuiden is a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Feel the rush as you ride the waves while surfing or kiteboarding in the invigorating North Sea. The area boasts great surfing conditions, attracting surfers from near and far.
Eating in IJmuiden
IJmuiden is brimming with super cool, continental restaurants. Waterside dining is in abundance, and most menus offer fresh, local seafood. Be sure to sample the catch-of-the-day specials for a truly authentic experience.
However, if seafood isn’t for you, IJmuiden also boasts a number of international restaurants, including French at Restaurant Augusta, Asian at Chi Ling and Greek at Kreta. No visit to Ijmuiden is complete without a visit to one of its charming ice cream parlours. Treat yourself to a scoop (or two!) of creamy, artisanal ice cream.
How to get to IJmuiden
Embark on a ferry journey to IJmuiden, Netherlands with DFDS. Our Newcastle-Amsterdam route is the perfect choice, with you arriving in IJmuiden port. If you are looking to get from IJmuiden to Amsterdam, you can drive and be there in roughly 30 minutes, or get a bus to the Dutch capital.
Alternatively, our Dunkirk and Calais ports in France are within 4 hours' driving distance from IJmuiden, providing alternative routes for your journey. Experience a seamless connection to IJmuiden with DFDS and explore the wonders of this northern Dutch city.
Shopping in IJmuiden
Ijmuiden offers fantastic souvenir shopping, well known chains, and traditional Dutch outlets where you can indulge in the local cuisine, including cheeses, meats and beers.
The heart of IJmuiden's shopping scene is the IJmuiden Centrum shopping area, which encompasses Plein 1945, Lange Nieuwstraat, and Marktplein. Here, you'll find a mix of popular retail chains offering a diverse range of products. From fashion and accessories to homeware and electronics, you'll be spoilt for choice. The nearby town of Beverwijk is the largest covered market in Europe. Beverwijk Bazaar boasts 2000 shops, selling everything you could imagine.
Plus, with no luggage restrictions onboard, you can bring home all the treats and souvenirs you like!
What to see in IJmuiden
IJmuiden is surrounded by expansive, sandy beaches, with soft dunes covered in beachgrass. The beaches are also popular for water sports and surfing, or sport lovers can try their hand at skiing at the Snow Planet track.
The 19th century Fort IJmuiden holds UNESCO World Heritage status and is the largest of its kind in Amsterdam’s Defence Line. Though originally located on the north shore, canal construction resulted in the fort becoming islanded in the North Sea Canal, only adding to its reverence. History buffs can also visit the IJmuiden Bunker Museum, a former German bunker from WW2.
Where to stay in IJmuiden
When visiting IJmuiden, there are several great places to stay that offer comfortable accommodations and convenient access to the city's attractions. For those looking to be near the beach, Leonardo Hotel IJmuiden Seaport Beach is a great location, with modern rooms, on-site restaurant and bar, and wellness facilities. Augusta Hotel is perfect for those looking to be in the heart of IJmuiden, or relax in the stylish and charming Hotel Rauw Nan de Kade. Whether you prefer a beachfront location or a central spot in the city, IJmuiden has options to cater to various needs.
