Welcome to IJmuiden

IJmuiden, located on the coast of the Netherlands, is a port town known for its wide beaches, bustling harbor, and proximity to the historic cities of Haarlem and Amsterdam. As the gateway to the North Sea Canal, IJmuiden plays an important role in Dutch maritime trade. For cruise passengers, this port offers an excellent opportunity to explore the surrounding region, with easy access to both nature and cultural attractions. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, visit a historic town, or explore the vibrant city of Amsterdam, IJmuiden is a great starting point for your day in the Netherlands.

Cruise Docking Information

Cruise ships dock at Felison Cruise Terminal, located in the port of IJmuiden, about 30 kilometers (18 miles) from Amsterdam. This modern terminal serves as a gateway for both Amsterdam and the nearby cities of Haarlem and Zaandam. IJmuiden welcomes thousands of cruise passengers annually, and the terminal offers easy access to transportation services. From here, you can reach Amsterdam or Haarlem within 30-45 minutes by car, train, or bus, making it an ideal base for day trips.

Transportation Options

While IJmuiden itself is a small town, it is well-connected to nearby cities by various forms of transportation:

• Shuttle Services: Many cruise lines offer shuttle services to central Amsterdam, which take around 30-45 minutes.
• Public Buses: Public buses run regularly between IJmuiden and Haarlem or Amsterdam, with connections to train stations for further travel. Bus rides to Haarlem take around 30 minutes, and to Amsterdam about 45 minutes.
• Taxis: Taxis are available at the cruise terminal and can take you directly to Haarlem or Amsterdam in around 30-40 minutes.
• Car Rentals: Car rental services are available near the port for those looking to explore the surrounding area independently.

Nearby Towns and Cities

IJmuiden is ideally situated for visiting some of the Netherlands’ most iconic cities and attractions:

• Haarlem: 20 km (12 miles) away, about 30 minutes by car or bus. This historic city is known for its medieval architecture, museums, and charming canals.
• Amsterdam: 30 km (18 miles) away, about 40 minutes by car or train. The capital of the Netherlands is famous for its canals, museums, and vibrant culture.
• Zaandam: 35 km (22 miles) away, about 40 minutes by car or train. Visit the iconic Zaanse Schans, a living museum featuring traditional windmills and Dutch crafts.

Local Foods

The region around IJmuiden offers a variety of traditional Dutch foods, with a focus on fresh seafood due to its coastal location. Here are a few local specialties to try:

• Haring (Herring): A Dutch classic, raw herring is served with onions and pickles. It’s a must-try when visiting coastal areas like IJmuiden.
• Kibbeling: Fried pieces of white fish, typically served with a tangy garlic sauce or mayonnaise.
• Stroopwafels: A traditional Dutch treat made of two thin waffles with a layer of caramel syrup in between.
• Poffertjes: Small, fluffy pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter, often found at markets and street stalls.
• Hutspot: A hearty dish made of mashed potatoes, carrots, and onions, often served with meatballs or sausage.

Top 5 Attractions

Whether you want to explore nature, history, or art, IJmuiden and its surrounding area offer a range of attractions to suit all tastes. Here are the top five must-see spots:

• IJmuiden Beach: A wide sandy beach ideal for sunbathing, beach sports, and kite surfing. The beach is easily accessible from the port and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Free to visit.
• Fort IJmuiden: A large fortress built in the 19th century to protect the entrance to the North Sea Canal. Visitors can tour the fort and learn about its military history. Entry is around €5 per person.
• National Park Zuid-Kennemerland: Located near IJmuiden, this stunning national park offers dunes, forests, and wildlife, perfect for hiking and cycling. Free to visit.
• Frans Hals Museum, Haarlem: This museum houses an impressive collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including works by Frans Hals and other famous artists. Entry is around €16 per adult.
• Amsterdam Canal Cruise: A visit to Amsterdam wouldn’t be complete without a scenic cruise through the city’s historic canals. Cruises cost around €15-20 per person.

Interesting Facts

Here are some interesting facts about IJmuiden and its surroundings that visitors might enjoy:

• IJmuiden’s name means “mouth of the IJ,” referring to its location at the mouth of the IJ River, which connects to the North Sea Canal.
• The town is home to the largest fishing port in the Netherlands, and fresh seafood is a major part of the local economy.
• IJmuiden Beach is one of the most popular kite surfing spots in the Netherlands, thanks to its wide shores and strong winds.

Geographical Position and Surroundings

IJmuiden is located on the North Sea coast of the Netherlands, at the entrance to the North Sea Canal, which provides access to Amsterdam and other inland cities. The town is surrounded by natural beauty, with expansive dunes, sandy beaches, and the nearby Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. The port’s coastal location makes it a great spot for enjoying water sports, walking along the beach, or exploring the nearby towns and countryside. IJmuiden’s strategic position also makes it an important hub for maritime and industrial activity.

Local Customs and Culture

Dutch culture is known for its friendliness and openness, and visitors to IJmuiden will find locals to be warm and welcoming. It is common to greet people with a friendly “Hallo” or “Goedemorgen” (Good morning). The Dutch are also known for their directness, so don’t be surprised by candid conversations. Tipping in restaurants is appreciated but not mandatory, with 10% being a generous amount. The coastal lifestyle in IJmuiden is relaxed, and the local culture emphasizes a strong connection to the sea, with fresh seafood being a key part of the local diet.

Family-Friendly Activities

IJmuiden offers several activities that are perfect for families with children of all ages:

• Children up to 6 years old: Spend time at IJmuiden Beach, where young children can enjoy building sandcastles or splashing in the shallow waters.
• Children 7-12 years old: Explore Fort IJmuiden and let kids discover the tunnels and exhibits about the town’s military history.
• Teenagers 13-18 years old: Visit National Park Zuid-Kennemerland for a hike or bike ride through the dunes, or try kite surfing at IJmuiden Beach.

Google Maps

IJmuiden

*Notice: Content and travel advice presented is created by a port moderator and/or AI, courtesy of ChatGPT. It is specifically designed for cruise passengers visiting this port of call. A port moderator could be a local individual, destination expert, port authority, or a tourism agency. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we recommend that you verify critical information like visas, health and safety, customs, and transportation with official sources before departure. Always familiarize yourself with safety aspects when visiting your destination. We have given some pointers under the information button in the main menu of this app.*