Alkmaar is a city that’s small enough to explore on foot but packed with character and history that make every corner worth discovering. Its historic canals, medieval buildings, and famous cheese market give it a charm that just can’t be beaten. For those who want a deep dive with a local touch, the Small Group Alkmaar City Walking Tour really shines—providing an intimate way to soak up the city’s culture and stories. I also personally enjoy the e-scavenger hunt, which combines sightseeing with fun puzzles on your smartphone, making it ideal for families or groups who like a bit of adventure. And if you’re after a unique experience, the City Sup Tour offers a magical view of Alkmaar from its canals—on a paddleboard, no less.
For travelers who prefer a structured but flexible way to explore, the tours below offer a nice mix of history, local flavor, and fun. Whether you want to walk through the city, paddle its waterways, or solve riddles while sightseeing, this list has you covered.
1. Small Group Alkmaar City Walking Tour
This 2-hour small group walking tour provides a detailed look at Alkmaar’s most important landmarks, including the Molen van Piet, Grote Sint Laurenskerk, and the Waag. The tour is rated a perfect 5.0/5 based on 27 reviews, which speaks to its popularity and quality. What makes this tour stand out is the small-group format—limiting the crowd to ensure a personalized experience—and your guide’s ability to share in-depth stories about the city’s culture and history.
Your guide will take you through the narrow streets and past scenic views, making stops to explore key sites intimately. Many travelers appreciate the extra tips offered for further sightseeing beyond Alkmaar, as well as the friendly, warm nature of the guide. The tour’s price of $26.60 per person makes it a good value, especially since it includes plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized attention.
This tour suits those who want a relaxed but insightful overview of Alkmaar’s highlights, perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a more meaningful connection to the city. Be prepared for a walk and some standing, but overall, it’s an accessible way to get a feel for Alkmaar’s unique character.
Bottom Line: A well-rated, intimate introduction to Alkmaar’s most famous sights, with an engaging guide and a friendly group. Ideal if you prefer a personal experience.
2. Alkmaar: Small Group City Walking Tour
This 2-hour tour focuses on walking through Alkmaar’s historic medieval center, covering about 3-4 km along cobbled streets and along picturesque canals. It gets into the city’s role in Dutch resistance, recounting how Alkmaar’s residents fought to defeat Spanish forces in 1573. Rated 5/5 based on 6 reviews, it’s praised for its enthusiastic guide and the chance to see both tourist hotspots and quiet, deserted streets.
The tour includes a walk along the old city walls, giving a glimpse of the green spaces and city defenses that once protected Alkmaar. The price of $26 per person is very reasonable, especially considering the detailed storytelling and the opportunity to learn about the city’s resilience and local culture from a foreigner’s perspective. It’s a good pick for travelers who want to combine educational content with a relaxed stroll, emphasizing history and local life without the crowds.
This tour is best suited for those who want to see a mix of sightseeing and history, with the flexibility of a small group. It’s a lively walk that balances sightseeing with storytelling. The only potential downside is that the tour may be limited if you prefer a more in-depth or longer exploration.
Bottom Line: A lively, historically rich walk that highlights Alkmaar’s resilience and charm—perfect for history buffs and casual explorers alike.
3. City Sup Tour in Alkmaar
For a completely different perspective, the City Sup Tour offers a 2-hour paddleboarding adventure through Alkmaar’s canals. This is the only tour on the list that takes you onto the water, crossing by landmark buildings and city parks, all while standing on a paddleboard. Rated at 5.0/5 from just 1 review, it’s a rare chance to see the city from a magical vantage point that’s both relaxing and active.
The tour guides you along beautifully lit canals, providing views that are often missed from land. It’s ideal for people comfortable with balance and looking for a bit of outdoor fun. The price is $40.72 per person, which includes equipment and instruction. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a memorable, interactive experience that combines sightseeing with physical activity.
While it’s a bit more physically involved, many find the experience enchanting, especially at sunset or evening when the city lights shimmer on the water. Keep in mind that this tour requires a reasonable level of fitness and comfort on a paddleboard.
Bottom Line: A unique, scenic way to experience Alkmaar’s beauty from the canals—great for active travelers and water lovers.
$40.72 per person
4. e-Scavenger Hunt Alkmaar: Explore the city at your own pace
If you’d rather explore Alkmaar independently but with some guidance, the e-Scavenger Hunt offers a fun, flexible way to see the city. For $35.72 per group (up to six people), you’ll follow clues and riddles on your smartphone while passing top sights, including the famous cheese market. This activity takes about three hours, but you can go at your own pace, making it perfect for families, friends, or couples who want a personalized adventure.
This scavenger hunt combines sightseeing, learning, and a bit of competitive fun. It’s especially good for those who enjoy solving puzzles and discovering a city from a local’s perspective. Many reviewers appreciate the interactive format and the chance to learn about Alkmaar’s culture, cuisine, and history in an engaging way.
Since it’s a self-guided activity, it offers flexibility—whether you want to linger at certain spots or rush through some clues. The main drawback could be that it requires a bit of tech-savviness and motivation to complete the trail.
Bottom Line: An entertaining, educational way to explore Alkmaar at your own pace, suitable for families or groups who enjoy puzzles and city adventures.
How to Choose
Deciding between these tours depends on your interests and travel style. If you prefer a personalized, in-depth walk with a friendly guide, the Small Group Alkmaar City Walking Tour (link) is perfect. For those fascinated by history and heritage, the Alkmaar: Small Group City Walking Tour (link) offers a storytelling-heavy experience along the city walls and landmarks.
If you’re seeking something active and scenic, the City Sup Tour (link) provides an enchanting water-based perspective. Meanwhile, families or groups wanting independent fun with a touch of challenge will enjoy the e-Scavenger Hunt (link).
Consider your budget, time, and physical ability when choosing. Book early, especially in the peak summer months, to secure your preferred time slot and make sure you don’t miss out on the best experiences.
Final Thoughts
Alkmaar offers a wonderful variety of ways to explore its streets, canals, and history. For a cozy, guided introduction, the Small Group Alkmaar City Walking Tour is a standout. If you want a more active adventure, the City Sup Tour delivers a memorable perspective from the water. And if you prefer flexibility and fun puzzles, the e-Scavenger Hunt makes sightseeing feel like a game.
Each of these options brings something unique to the table, whether it’s learning about the city’s resilience, enjoying a paddleboard adventure, or solving riddles in your own time. For most travelers, combining a walking tour with a water or puzzle experience can give a well-rounded visit. Remember to book ahead, especially in busy seasons, and enjoy exploring this charming Dutch city at your own pace.