Last updated: May 2026
If you’re looking for a hidden gem in the Netherlands that combines charm, history, and a slice of Dutch countryside, let me introduce you to Schagen. Located in the heart of North Holland, between Alkmaar and Den Helder, this beautiful town may not be on every tourist’s radar, but that’s exactly what makes it so special. On my recent visit, I found myself fascinated by its cozy atmosphere, beautiful historic buildings, and the warm, welcoming vibe of the locals. Schagen makes you want to slow down and wander the quiet streets, have a drink at the market square, admire the old facades. It’s a town where you go spend an afternoon and you come back calmer.
This article is part of “Discover the Netherlands” project. You can read all the articles from this project here: The Complete Guide to the Dutch Provinces.
Schagen History
Schagen’s history is rich with stories that date back to medieval times. This town, which received its city rights in 1415, has roots that dig deep into the past, with its origins as a small settlement by the water – the first mentions of Schagen date from 975. Over the centuries, Schagen grew from a modest fishing village into a bustling market town, although it never developed as much as other cities in the region (like Alkmaar, Hoorn, Medemblik).
In 1463 the city received rights to hold a cattle market and since 1603 started hosting an annual horse market. The construction of the railroad between Alkmaar and Den Helder in 1865 brought further prosperity to Schagen.
Walking through the town today, you can still sense the echoes of its storied past. The 15th-century Grote Kerk (Great Church) stands as a testament to Schagen’s long-standing importance, while the remnants of its castle—once home to the lords of Schagen—tell tales of nobility and medieval life. The town’s traditional West Frisian market, held every summer, is another nod to its history, bringing the past to life with costumes, crafts, and celebrations that transport you back in time.
✨Day-trip suitability
International visitors: ● ● ● ○ ○ — Best for curious explorers
NL-based day-trippers: ● ● ● ○ ○ — Nice, especially if you’re nearby
● Circles indicate suitability, not quality. Some subjectivity included. How to read these ratings 📜
Day trip to Schagen
Schagen is a great place for a day trip or just a few-hours-stop on your way to another destination in the area. There’s much to do in the area surrounding Schagen: in the spring, the fields between the city and the sea are covered in tulips and other spring flowers, and they make for beautiful biking routes. There are a few gorgeous beaches close-by: Petten, Callantsoog and Sint Maartenszee and many walking routes through beautiful nature, like the ones in the Zwanenwater reservation. Or you can visit the nearby Alkmaar.
The central point of the town is the main square with the Grote Kerk (the church) and the restaurants. I visited Schagen on an overcast day, but I can imagine how lively the square is in summer, when all the restaurants are open and people are coming here for a bit of chilling.
Schagen is famous in the area for its weekly market with local produce, on Thursdays, and for the Westfriese Folklore parade, organised also on Thursdays (on this occasion you can have a taste of the West-Frisian folklore, the traditional clothes and traditional occupations).
What to see and do in Schagen
- Grote Kerk. The church that dominates the square is not as old as it looks. The medieval church that once stood here was lost, and the present Grote Kerk, a tall, confident Neo-Gothic building, was completed in 1897. It is still in use by the Protestant community, and on the West-Friese Folklore Thursdays it opens up and fills with organ music.
- The national monument Slot Schagen Kasteeltoren. Only the two towers remained from the original Schagen castle (and they are also rebuilt). The former castle of Schagen is now a cosy hotel and events location.
- Museum Vreeburg. This is a farm museum (a 17th century urban farm house that was completely restored in the old style) and a carriage museum. It is run by volunteers.
- Zijper Museum. On the edge of town, this cultural-history museum keeps alive the story of the Zijpe polder — the reclaimed land that shaped this whole corner of North Holland. It is small and specific, easy to reach and easy to like.
And now, for the photo tour:
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