Discover the best cheese market in the Netherlands: Alkmaar's Cheese Market
Welcome to the ultimate guide to visiting the renowned Alkmaar Cheese Market, one of the oldest and most celebrated cheese markets in the Netherlands. This page is designed especially for tourists and expats who may not be familiar with Alkmaar but are eager to experience a traditional Dutch cheese market. From its historical significance to practical travel tips, this page has everything you need to plan your visit.
The Cheese Market in Alkmaar is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Netherlands. Dating back to 1365, this market has been a crucial part of Alkmaar's economy and culture. Today, it continues to draw crowds with its lively atmosphere and traditional cheese trading rituals. The Alkmaar Cheese Market stands out as the best in the Netherlands due to its rich history, vibrant traditions, and the immersive experience it offers visitors.
Why is the Alkmaar Cheese Market the best in the Netherlands?
Alkmaar's Cheese Market is widely regarded as the best in the Netherlands due to its rich historical significance, authentic experience, vibrant atmosphere and diverse offerings. With origins dating back to 1365, it is one of the oldest cheese markets in the country, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries-old cheese trading practices preserved over time. The market maintains traditional methods, including iconic cheese weighing and trading rituals performed by kaasdragers (cheese carriers), providing a unique and educational experience. The lively ambiance is enhanced by the bustling activity of vendors, cheese carriers, and tourists, with the ceremonial ringing of the cheese bell by a celebrity or notable figure adding to the festive mood.
In addition to cheese, the market features a variety of local delicacies and handcrafted items at the surrounding art and craft market, where visitors can enjoy traditional Dutch treats like poffertjes and herring. The cheese market is also seamlessly integrated into the cultural fabric of Alkmaar, with nearby historical sites, museums, and scenic canals enhancing the overall experience.
When is the cheese market in Alkmaar? Every Friday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM
The Alkmaar Cheese Market takes place from March 29th until September 27th, 2024. It is held every Friday from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Waagplein. Additionally, evening cheese markets are held on Tuesdays in July and August from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Program Schedule for the cheese market
- 7:00 AM - Placing the cheeses: Trucks loaded with 30,000 kilos of Gouda and Edam cheese arrive at Waagplein. Setters arrange the cheeses in long rows under the market master’s supervision.
- 9:30 AM - Arrival of the cheese carriers: Cheese carriers arrive at the Waaggebouw. Latecomers face a fine, with proceeds benefiting a school in Alkmaar, Suriname.
- 9:45 AM - Cheese father’s roll call: The head of the cheese carriers, the cheese father, conducts a roll call and assigns tasks.
- 10:00 AM - Ringing of the cheese bell: A well-known Dutch celebrity or municipal relation rings the cheese bell, officially opening the market.
- From 10:00 AM - Inspecting the cheeses: Inspectors examine the cheeses by tapping, tasting, and feeling them. A special cheese bore is used to take samples for quality assessment.
- From 10:00 AM - The random sample: Inspectors use a cheese bore to take random samples, tasting them to ensure quality.
- From 10:00 AM - Weighing the cheese: Sold cheese is carried to the Weigh House and weighed by the tasman, who bills the buyer and stamps the berrie.
- From 10:00 AM - Carrying the cheese away: Cheese carriers transport the cheese to buyers’ trucks using a berrie, maintaining a steady rhythm to keep the load balanced.
- 12:30 PM - Throwing the cheese: Ingooiers load the last cheeses onto carts, clearing Waagplein for the setup of cozy terraces.
Tours and Excursions from Amsterdam to the cheese market in Alkmaar
Interested in exploring Alkmaar and its famous cheese market with a Dutch guide? Join us on our "Cheese - Windmill Tour" and dive into the heart of Dutch culture. This tour is perfect for anyone looking to experience the traditional Dutch cheese market and more! Enjoy a luxury day tour from Amsterdam to the Alkmaar Cheese Market, including a visit to a functional old Dutch windmill. The price per person is €64,50 and includes a professional guide, transportation, and a visit to the cheese market and windmill.
Book a tour to the Alkmaar Cheese Market
How to get to the cheese market in Alkmaar
Directions by Car: The Cheese Market is in the town center of Alkmaar. Use the Parking Route Information System (PRIS) for directions to the car parks.
Directions by Train: There is a direct connection to Alkmaar from Amsterdam Centraal Station, with trains departing four times an hour.
Additional attractions in Alkmaar
The cheese market is surrounded by a lively art and craft market, offering traditional Dutch treats like poffertjes, herring, farm cheese, and handcrafted items. It’s a vibrant area perfect for exploring before or after visiting the cheese market.
Other cheese markets around Amsterdam
In the Netherlands, there are several other cheese markets that are worth visiting. Here are a few notable ones:
- Cheese Market Edam: Wednesday mornings in July and August.
- Cheese Market Gouda: Thursday mornings from April to August.
Visiting the Alkmaar Cheese Market is an unforgettable experience, offering a glimpse into Dutch culture and history. Whether you're a cheese lover or just looking to explore a unique tradition, this market is a highlight of any trip to the Netherlands. Plan your visit, explore the market, and enjoy everything Alkmaar has to offer.
