Alkmaar Cheese Market｜How to Get There and What to Expect
Last Updated on 04/05/2025
The Alkmaar Cheese Market is one of the most iconic markets in the Netherlands, located just 40 minutes by train from Amsterdam – perfect for a day trip. Every Friday morning from April to September, the historic market square comes alive with a traditional cheese-carrying and trading ceremony. In this article, I’ll share how to get to Alkmaar, what to expect during your visit, and practical tips for buying cheese. If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, this is an experience worth adding to your itinerary.
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Is the Alkmaar Cheese Market Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. The Alkmaar Cheese Market is one of the most culturally significant traditional markets in the Netherlands, with over 400 years of history. Held every Friday from April to September, it re-enacts historical cheese trading rituals, including the unique “hand clap” deal-making between farmers and merchants – a fascinating glimpse into the Netherlands’ commercial heritage.
The market retains a strong 16th-century atmosphere, and the surrounding streets are lined with historic buildings and local shops. It’s a great way to experience Dutch culture beyond the big cities. With just a 40-minute train ride from Amsterdam, it makes for an easy and enjoyable day trip.
How to Get to the Alkmaar Cheese Market
Getting to Alkmaar from Amsterdam is quick and straightforward. Simply take a direct train from Amsterdam Central Station to Alkmaar – the journey takes about 40 minutes. From Alkmaar station, it’s around a 15-minute walk to Waagplein (Weighing Square), where the cheese market takes place.
Follow the signs from the station or use Google Maps to guide you. The walk is pleasant and offers a chance to enjoy the quiet charm of the town.
Alkmaar Cheese Market Visitor Information
- Season：Every Friday from April to September, 10:00 – 13:00
- Location：Waagplein
- The Alkmaar Cheese Market is free to visit, but you can choose to participate in：
Highlights of the Alkmaar Cheese Market: Top 3 Experiences
1. Traditional Cheese Auction Ritual
Every Friday morning, farmers and traders dressed in traditional outfits negotiate cheese prices using the historic “hand clap” method. This ritual, still in use today, offers a rare look into Dutch trade traditions – especially fascinating for history and culture lovers.
2. Cheese Carrying Ceremony
Porters in white clothing and wide-brimmed hats transport large round cheeses on specially designed wooden sleds. Their synchronised steps and rhythmic movements make this one of the market’s most visually striking scenes.
3. Interactive Cheese Tasting and Sales
You’ll find friendly locals in traditional dress introducing various cheeses and their origins. It’s more than just shopping – it’s an engaging cultural exchange where you can taste and learn at the same time.
Discovering Alkmaar Beyond Cheese
Beyond the cheese market, Alkmaar itself is a lovely town to explore. Think traditional Dutch architecture, cobbled streets, and peaceful canals – it’s like stepping into a living history book.
Around the market square, you’ll find local craft shops and cosy cafés where you can sip a Dutch beer or pick up a small souvenir. The nearby open-air market also sells fresh produce, flowers, and local snacks – a great way to observe daily life in a smaller Dutch town.
Of course, tasting Dutch cheese is a highlight in itself. From Gouda to Edam, you’ll find a wide range of options at the local market stalls, many of which offer free samples so you can discover the story behind each cheese as you browse.
A One-Day Trip in North Holland: Alkmaar + Zaanse Schans
If time allows, I recommend combining a visit to Alkmaar with the nearby Zaanse Schans windmill village. It’s the perfect way to experience both Dutch market culture and countryside charm in one day. Here’s a suggested itinerary:
Take a morning train from Amsterdam to Alkmaar. After exploring the cheese market around midday, continue by train to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans in the afternoon to see the famous windmills. You can then head directly back to Amsterdam Central Station from Zaandijk, making the route smooth and efficient.
If you’re still planning your trip to the Netherlands, you might also like：Day Trips From Amsterdam – Top 7 Nearby Towns and Attractions
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