Cheese Markets (Alkmaar, Gouda, Edam): Traditional markets

Visitor Fee

• Entry to the cheese markets is free
• Tastings and guided tours may have additional costs

Transportation

These famous Dutch cheese markets are located in different cities but are all easily accessible from Amsterdam:

• By Train – Regular trains from Amsterdam to Alkmaar (35 min), Gouda (50 min), and Edam (40 min by bus).
• By Bus – Buses run from Amsterdam to Edam, while Alkmaar and Gouda are better accessed by train.
• By Car – Each town is within a 30-60 minute drive from Amsterdam.
• By Bicycle – For cycling enthusiasts, Edam and Alkmaar are great destinations for a scenic bike ride.

Things to Do at the Cheese Markets

1. Watch the Traditional Cheese Weighing – Experience how cheese was historically weighed, traded, and transported by cheese porters.
2. Taste Famous Dutch Cheeses – Try Gouda, Edam, and Alkmaar cheeses, each with unique flavors.
3. Explore the Historic Market Squares – The markets are set in beautiful, centuries-old town centers.
4. Visit Local Cheese Museums – Learn about the history of Dutch cheese-making and trade.
5. Take a Guided Tour – Get insights into the tradition, history, and process of cheese production.
6. Watch Cheese Farmers and Traders in Action – See authentic cheese bartering and transport by wooden sleds.
7. Buy Fresh Cheese & Local Delicacies – Purchase authentic Dutch cheese, stroopwafels, and traditional snacks.
8. Enjoy Dutch Folk Music & Performances – Markets often feature live music and traditional Dutch costumes.
9. Take a Canal Tour in Gouda or Edam – Enjoy a scenic boat ride through these historic cheese towns.
10. Wander Through Local Markets – Many cheese towns also have fresh produce, crafts, and souvenir stalls.

Why People Enjoy Visiting the Cheese Markets

• A Unique Cultural Experience – These markets are a living tradition dating back centuries.
• Delicious Cheese Tastings – A must-visit for cheese lovers wanting to sample and buy authentic Dutch cheese.
• Charming Historical Towns – The beautiful architecture, canals, and traditional market squares create a great atmosphere.
• Live Demonstrations & Entertainment – Witness how cheese was historically traded in a fun, interactive way.
• A Great Day Trip from Amsterdam – Perfect for a half-day or full-day excursion to explore Dutch culture.

How Old is This Place?

• Alkmaar Cheese Market – First held in 1593, making it over 430 years old.
• Gouda Cheese Market – Dates back to the 14th century, with over 700 years of history.
• Edam Cheese Market – Started in the 16th century, making it over 400 years old.

List of Activities

• Watching the cheese porters carry large cheese wheels
• Tasting different types of Dutch cheese
• Exploring cheese museums and learning about the cheese-making process
• Shopping for local products at market stalls
• Taking a guided tour of historic cheese towns
• Enjoying traditional Dutch music and performances
• Visiting historical landmarks like the Gouda Weigh House
• Taking a boat tour through Edam or Gouda’s canals
• Exploring charming streets, windmills, and historic buildings
• Photographing the vibrant cheese market scenes

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. The Dutch Cheese Museum (Alkmaar) – Located in the old weighing house, showcasing the history of cheese-making.
2. Gouda’s St. John’s Church – Famous for its stunning stained-glass windows.
3. Edam’s Historic Canals & Windmills – A quaint and picturesque town to explore on foot or by boat.
4. Zaanse Schans – A nearby open-air museum with windmills, wooden houses, and traditional crafts.
5. Beemster Polder – A UNESCO-listed region known for its lush green pastures and cheese farms.

The Dutch cheese markets in Alkmaar, Gouda, and Edam offer a fantastic blend of history, culture, and delicious food, making them a must-visit for anyone exploring the Netherlands!