Overview
Enkhuizen is one of the best-preserved historic Dutch harbour towns from the Golden Age, with 370 listed heritage buildings in a town of just 18,500 residents. The city gained city rights in 1355 and flourished as a major VOC trading harbour, reaching a peak population of 25,000 around 1650 before declining due to wars with England, silting of its waters, and the rise of Amsterdam.
Architecture · Day Trips · Family Travel · History · Museums
Before you go
Food
Wednesday market at Westerstraat; harbour area has cafés and restaurants; traditional Dutch herring is a local specialty.
Money
The Netherlands uses the euro (€). Cash and card widely accepted; most shops open on Sundays in summer.
Transport
Enkhuizen station is on the rail line to Amsterdam; trains are both stop and intercity depending on section. Summer ferry to Stavoren costs €10.80-14.50 one-way/return with bike surcharges.
Weather
Best visited May-September for outdoor attractions; the Zuiderzee Museum outdoor section closes in winter.