Beyond Amsterdam
Alkmaar
Historic cheese city famous for its Friday cheese market on the Waagplein.
Why visit
One of the oldest traditions in Holland — porters in white hats carrying cheese wheels.
Best for: Friday cheese market
Suggested duration: Half day
Best time: Cheese market: Fridays April–September, 10:00–13:00.
How to get there: Train Centraal → Alkmaar (35 min).
Tip: Arrive before 9:30 — the square fills fast.
Useful tips
Combine with the Beatles Museum or Alkmaar canals walk.
Suggested plan
Train Centraal → Alkmaar (35 min) · Arrive at Waagplein before 9:30 · Watch the cheese market (Fri Apr–Sep, 10:00–13:00) · Visit the Cheese Museum (Waaggebouw) · Walk the canals · Lunch in a canalside café · Optional: Beatles Museum.
Nearby ideas
Hoorn, Bergen, North Sea coast.