Day Trip to the World-Famous Cheese Markets in Edam, Gouda or Alkmaar

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Activity Code- 2120

Overview

Experience the magic of Dutch cheese at the vibrant markets in Edam, Gouda, or Alkmaar on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday respectively. These markets showcase the tradition, taste, and craftsmanship of the area. See the lively cheese trading and traditional handclaps. Sample the rich flavors of cheese from the Gouda, Alkmaar, and Edam cheese markets. Explore stalls offering local treats and handmade crafts while enjoying the charm of these historic towns. Witness the iconic cheese girls appear, surrounded by a crowd showcasing their skill in handling the famous Dutch cheeses. Whether you are a foodie or want to discover the culture of this significant place, these cheese markets promise a memorable experience.

Highlights

Visit the world-famous cheese markets in Gouda, Alkmaar, or Edam, depending on the day of the visit
Witness traditional cheese trading with handclaps between farmers
Explore stalls brimming with local delicacies and artisanal products
Explore a vibrant crafts market that features traditional Dutch craftsmanship
Listen to the lively sounds of cheese traders and farmers as they use handclaps to signal a sale
Mobile Vouchers are accepted, No need to take the printed tickets!

Itinerary

The Netherlands is famous for its cheese. Dutch cheese markets are an important part of the country's culture. Because of this, many people jokingly call the Dutch "cheeseheads." Since medieval times, Dutch cheese farmers have brought their cheese to sell in market squares. Special teams, called vemen, carry the cheese, which can weigh over 160 kg, in barrows. Each team wears a different colored straw hat based on their guild.

Discover the charm of the famous cheese markets in Gouda, Alkmaar, or Edam, where cheese lovers from all over the world gather to celebrate these delicious dairy treats. In the Gouda cheese market, large wheels of cheese are delivered by horse and cart. They are weighed in a special building and then arranged in a neat stack for sale in front of Gouda's city hall. The Alkmaar cheese market is the oldest and largest in the Netherlands. It has always taken place in Waagplein and has been expanded several times, showing how important the cheese trade is to the city. Edam cheese is a famous Dutch cheese known worldwide. It has a round shape with a distinctive red wax coating. Besides looking attractive, Edam cheese has a smooth taste and a not-too-hard texture. It is often a top choice in many dishes. Indulge yourself in delicious cheese treats as we visit the Edam cheese market on Wednesdays, the Gouda cheese market on Thursdays, and the Alkamaar cheese markets on Fridays.

When you arrive, you will notice the lively atmosphere, with cheese traders and farmers using handclaps to sell their products. Surrounded by excited visitors, the famous cheese girls expertly showcase how they skillfully handle the Dutch cheeses, making it even more enjoyable. Taste a range of famous cheeses from the cheese markets, and explore stalls filled with local foods and handmade products. Alongside the lively cheese trading and cheese-making demonstrations, a vibrant crafts market showcases traditional Dutch crafts.

Edam, Gouda, and Alkmaar offer unique experiences that are waiting for you to explore. The energy and charm of these cheese markets create a perfect setting for a day of discovery. Also, enjoy free time exploring the city on your own. Join us to visit the world-famous cheese markets in Edam, Gouda, and Alkmaar, where you will experience this exciting tradition firsthand!

Schedule

Departure Timings: 08:30am (Please reach 15 min prior to the start time)

Duration: 7 Hours (including the tranfers time)

Meeting Point: This is Holland, Overhoeksplein 51

(Please check the calendar to know about availability)

Includes

Transfers from Amsterdam and Return
Transfers by a Luxury Coach
Visit to any 1 Cheese Market (depending on the day of visit)
Free time to explore the city
A map with highlights and tips

Redemption Info

You can show your mobile or printed voucher at the meeting location This is Holland, Overhoeksplein 51

In loss of voucher/ticket, company is not liable for any refund.

Ticket/ Voucher is valid to the travel date you choose.
How to reach to the location: To get to This is Holland, take the free ferry from platform F3 behind Central Station. The ferry shows direction “Buiksloteweg”. It is only a 3-minute ferry ride to the opposite side. When you get off the ferry, turn left. Look up and you will see a round building with the red, white and blue flag of Holland. This building is “This is Holland”. From the ferry, it’s a 3-minute walk.

Know Before You Go

Voucher Information: Mobile or Paper Vouchers both are accepted!
Tour is available from 1st May to 26th September

Animals are not allowed on buses

Reserving a seat is not required with a ticket you have guaranteed seat

You need to check-in even if you have digital tickets. Location: This is Holland, Overhoeksplein 51, Amsterdam

If you are late for your excursion, you are considered a “no-show”

It is not allowed to bring your own food and drinks on board. However, you can bring a bottle of water

If you miss the transport back, you will need to return to Amsterdam using your own transportation or public transport

Strollers are allowed on excursions, but they must be folded for storage on the bus

The buses are not wheelchair-accessible

All tours involve parts where walking is required, guests must be able to climb and descend stairs to get in and out of the bus

Disclaimer: Due to traffic issues, public holidays, weather conditions and unforeseen circumstances, there might be sudden changes in the route or in the schedule. Traffic congestion and road closures - may cause delays and changes to the route. We’ll do all we can to provide a smooth and frequent service! No refund will be offered for any changes or cancelations due to any unforeseen circumstances

Cancellation Policy

You must cancel your booking at least 24 Hours before the start time of the activity/experience to get a complete refund.
If you cancel your booking less than 24 Hours before the start time of the activity/experience, you will not be reimbursed.
Any modifications made less than 24 hours before the start time of the activity/experience will not be allowed.
The cut-off times are determined by the activity/experience's local start time.
This activity/experience is weather dependent. If it is cancelled due to inclement weather, you will be given an alternate date or a full refund.