Walking tour in Alkmaar | An afternoon with bells, churches and canals

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 #Netherlands After visiting the bustling cheese market, I walked to the side alley and came to the towering Grote Kerk St. Bert the Elder Church. The church looks solemn on the outside, but is surprisingly gentle on the inside—the sun shines in through the stained glass, and an impromptu organ rehearsal makes people stop in their tracks. Walk out of the church and take a slow walk along the canal. It’s not as lively as Amsterdam, but it has more of the leisurely feel of the locals: old people chatting on the benches, and the pace of life is just right. I found a riverside coffee shop, ordered a latte, and quietly watched the red brick houses and sky reflected on the water. This kind of Alkmaar is not ostentatious, but very charming 📌 Tips • Grote Kerk often has exhibitions and music events, so it is recommended to check the official website in advance. • Recommended walking route: Grote Kerk → Luttik Oudorp Canal → Voordam Bridge. • Canalside coffee recommendations: Stiel’s or Kowalski, good desserts and nice atmosphere.