Amsterdam to Alkmaar
Alkmaar cheese market
Alkmaar is a lovely city to the north of Amsterdam. It is probably most well known for it’s cheese market, but is a very pretty city with canals, a historic city centre and rich cultural scene.
Alkmaar is not too far from Amsterdam, so most visitors will often spend half a day or more exploring. It is also included on some of the day trips from Amsterdam.
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Most people know about Alkmaar through its world famous cheese market. It is only 40 minutes from Amsterdam so is definitely worth visiting.
Amsterdam to Alkmaar
Best way to Alkmaar from Amsterdam
There are plenty of ways to get to Alkmaar from Amsterdam. The train will be the quickest though.
Train
The most convenient way to travel from Amsterdam to Alkmaar is by train. Alkmaar is well-connected to Amsterdam Central Station. There are frequent train services operated by the Dutch National railway company, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS). Trains run approximately every 15 to 30 minutes throughout the day. The journey typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the type of train.
Bus
If you prefer traveling by bus, there are also direct bus services available between Amsterdam and Alkmaar. Bus companies such as Connexxion operate several routes connecting the two cities. However, the bus journey may take longer compared to the train, depending on traffic conditions.
Car
Driving from Amsterdam to Alkmaar is another option, especially if you prefer the flexibility of having your own vehicle. The distance between the two cities is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles), and the journey by car typically takes around 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic. You can take the A9 highway northbound from Amsterdam towards Alkmaar.
Bike
Is cycling really an option? In the Netherlands, cycling anywhere is always an option, but rare is the visitor to Amsterdam who cycles to Alkmaar. The distance is the main sticking point with around a 40km ride which will likely take several hours. Then you have to ride back, if you are staying in Amsterdam. If you are brave you will be rewarded by safe cycle routes through lovely countryside. It might be better to take your bike on the train and just use it around Alkmaar though.
Things to do in Alkmaar
Alkmaar is well worth visiting whilst in Amsterdam. Most people will visit while the Cheese Market is in full swing (Friday mornings in the Summer months). This makes the centre of the city very busy, but adds to the carnival atmosphere.
There are plenty of other things to do in Alkmaar, like cycling, paddle boarding and visiting shops, museums and galleries.
Alkmaar Cheese Market
Alkmaar is famous for its traditional cheese market which has been held since the 16th century. During the summer months (typically from the end of March to September), visitors can experience the lively, one of a kind spectacle of cheese traders in traditional clothing weighing and selling cheese on Waagplein square. There is also an evening market on Tuesdays.
Alkmaar Historic Center
The city’s historic center is characterized by narrow streets, historic buildings and canals lined with picturesque houses. The Waag, a weighing house dating back to the 14th century, is one of the most prominent landmarks in the center.
Culture and Arts
Alkmaar has a rich cultural scene with several museums and galleries showcasing local and international art. The Stedelijk Museum Alkmaar (not to be confused with Amsterdam’s Stedelijk Museum) located on the Canadaplein is renowned for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including works by Pieter Saenredam, Salomon van Ruysdael and Caesar van Everdingen. The museum focuses on the cultural history of Alkmaar and its surrounding area.
If you are not visiting on the Friday of the Cheese market, then you should visit the Dutch Cheese Museum which will give you the history of cheese in the Netherlands, how it is made and all the flavours are created. There is a cheese museum in Amsterdam but it is much smaller.
Canals and Green Spaces
Like many Dutch cities, Alkmaar features some very pretty canals that wrap around its centre. There are also plenty of parks to while away some time in the sunshine.
Bike-Friendly
Alkmaar is very bicycle-friendly, with well-developed cycling infrastructure. Exploring the city by bike is a popular and convenient option for both locals and visitors. As mentioned previously, bring your bike on the train or hire one in Alkmaar and you can easily explore the city at your leisure.
Alkmaar Cheese Market
I’m afraid we’ll talk about the cheese market in Alkmaar one more time. It is after all one of the main reasons visitors come to the city in the summer months. Hopefully, it is not the only reason, but if you are wondering when to come to Alkmaar then a Friday morning is it.
The cheese market in Alkmaar is a centuries-old tradition and a beloved cultural event that attracts visitors from around the world.
Location
The cheese market in Alkmaar takes place in the historic city center, specifically on the Waagplein square. The Waagplein has been the heart of the cheese trade in Alkmaar for centuries and serves as the picturesque backdrop for this vibrant event. As the market grew, houses were removed to make way for a bigger space, it’s that important.
Days and Times
Traditionally, the cheese market in Alkmaar is held on Friday mornings during the summer months, typically from April to September. The market usually starts at 10am and lasts until approximately 1pm. A ringing of the bell, usually by a dignatory, signifies the start of the market.
Please use this as a guide, as sometimes schedules and special events pop up and change things. Use the Cheese Market website to check times.
Activities
- Cheese Weighing: At the cheese market, visitors can witness the age-old tradition of cheese weighing, where cheese carriers (kaasdragers) dressed in traditional attire carry large rounds of cheese on wooden stretchers and weigh them using old-fashioned scales. This process is done with great precision and skill. Have your camera ready.
- Cheese Trading: The cheese market also features lively transactions between cheese sellers and buyers. Visitors can observe as cheese traders negotiate prices and make deals, all while surrounded by the bustling atmosphere of the market.
- Demonstrations: Throughout the market, there are often demonstrations of traditional cheese-making techniques. This will give you live insights into the craftsmanship and artistry behind Dutch cheese production. These demonstrations can include cheese cutting, wrapping and branding.
- Entertainment: In addition to the main cheese market activities, visitors can enjoy live music, cultural performances and street entertainment, creating a festive and vibrant atmosphere for all to enjoy.
- Shopping and Dining: Surrounding the Waagplein square, there are usually stalls and vendors selling a variety of cheese-related products, souvenirs, and local delicacies. You can sample and purchase different types of cheese, along with other Dutch treats and specialties. Additionally, there are often nearby cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a meal or snack after exploring the market.
The cheese market in Alkmaar is not only a unique culinary experience but also a cultural spectacle that offers a memorable taste of Dutch tradition and heritage. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast or simply curious about local customs, the Alkmaar cheese market is a must-visit attraction.
Hotels in Alkmaar
Although most visitors will be staying in Amsterdam and taking the train out to Alkmaar, it is a worthy place to stay for a night or two.
There is plenty to see and do and it’s an even more relaxed vibe than Amsterdam. If you are looking for a two-centre style trip or touring round the northern area of the Netherlands, then Alkmaar is definitely worth adding to your list of places to stay.
Our favouite hotels in Alkmaar include:
Wolf Hotel & Kitchen Bar
This hotel has the advantage of being a stones throw from the Cheese Museum and easy walking distance to many other attractions, being in the city centre. There is a bar and restaurant on site and a good breakfast is available. Rooms are well-equipped and there is even a free airport shuttle. Explore Wolf Hotel & Kitchen Bar
Hotel Luttik
Very nice boutique style hotel set in a typical Dutch House. Rooms are very well appointed, offering double, family rooms and a two bed apartment. There is free Wi-Fi, a great breakfast and it is right in the centre of the old city, so close to restaurants, bars and all the attractions. Explore Hotel Luttik
Grapèlli Boutique Hotel
Lovely boutique style hotel part of a recently renovated dance hall building. The Cheese Museums is steps away and it’s an easy walk to the center of town and the rest of the cities major attractions. Rooms are nicely styled and spacious and very popular for couples and families. Explore Grapèlli Boutique Hotel
