Hoofddorp is strategically located and has something to do for everyone. Combine a day of shopping in Amsterdam with a relaxing afternoon at the beach in Zandvoort and dinner in Haarlem.
Hoofddorp is built on what was the Haarlemmermeer, a lake, until the middle of the 19th century. Because the lake kept expanding and was starting to encroach on Amsterdam, it was decided to reclaim it in 1850. Two villages were established on the new land, Venneperdorp and Kruisdorp, which were later named Hoofddorp.
If you want to go shopping, Hoofddorp has plenty of shops but it's also just a stone’s throw to Amsterdam's Kalverstraat and De 9 Stratjes. Spend a fun evening in the Jordaan before returning to your accommodation in Hoofddorp.
Nature lovers can go to the beach at Zandvoort or bird watching and walking in National Park Zuid-Kennemerland. If you want to stay closer to Hoofddorp, hire a bicycle and head for the Westeinderplassen and tour the lake on a boat.
Hoofddorp is a small town, making it easy to explore on foot. The area is also perfect for a day of cycling or walking.
Take public transport for day trips that are a bit farther away. The town has a train station and a good regional bus service. It's best to leave your car in Hoofddorp and take public transport because parking fees in cities such as Haarlem and Amsterdam are very high.
Hoofddorp is in the middle of the Randstad, making it easy to reach by both public transport and car. The drive from Calais to Hoofddorp takes about 4 hours depending on traffic. You can also fly into Amsterdam and take a 5 minute train journey to Hoofddorp from Schiphol Airport.
Whatever you want to experience on your holiday, staying in Hoofddorp gives you access to a lot of cultural and fun activities.
