2026 Alkmaar Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in September)

Can you guess what it is when you look at the appearance of this building? The answer is the Amsterdam Municipal Museum, it is an art museum! It houses a lot of Mondrian and Stylistic works, and his paintings can be said to be very stunning. I definitely recommend you to come and see them! #OverseasTravel

What can I say about the tours with Antonis! It’s not the first time we’ve chosen him as a guide! This time, he guided us in Alkmaar, where we witnessed the cheese market event, and in Haarlem! We also visited a family-owned cheese farm! A truly wonderful experience! Antonis, a Greek-speaking guide, full of enthusiasm and energy, took us to places a tourist wouldn’t easily discover on their own, and, of course, he knew how to give us all the necessary details!

Alkmaar is a picturesque and historic canal city situated in the province of North Holland in the Netherlands, approximately 40 kilometers from Amsterdam, with a population of around 110,000. Granted city rights in 1254, it successfully withstood a siege by the Spanish army in 1573, giving rise to the famous saying, "Victory begins in Alkmaar." The city is most renowned for its traditional cheese market, which boasts centuries of history. Every spring and summer, cheese carriers dressed in pristine white uniforms transport massive cheese wheels following ancient rituals, drawing visitors from all over the globe. Beyond the cheese market, Alkmaar features a beautifully preserved medieval old town, a network of intersecting canals, the magnificent Great St. Lawrence Church, and the historic Weigh House (Waag). With its convenient transportation, Alkmaar is a popular day-trip destination from Amsterdam and arguably one of the best cities to immerse yourself in Dutch history, culture, and cheese traditions.

#footballmatchfoodmap 🇳🇱⚽ Netherlands Football Match Food Map Guide Watching football in the Netherlands is an unforgettable experience. From the vibrant streets of Amsterdam to the passionate supporters in Rotterdam and Eindhoven, every matchday combines exciting football with delicious Dutch food and a welcoming fan culture. 🏟️ Top Football Cities 🇳🇱 Amsterdam – Historic canals, lively fan zones, and world-famous football atmosphere. ⚓ Rotterdam – Passionate supporters, waterfront views, and modern city vibes. 💡 Eindhoven – A football-loving city with energetic matchday celebrations. 🧀 Alkmaar – Charming old town with a great football tradition. 🍟 Must-Try Matchday Foods 🥔 Patat (Dutch Fries) – Served with a variety of delicious sauces. 🐟 Haring – Traditional Dutch raw herring, a local favourite. 🧀 Gouda Cheese – Fresh Dutch cheese available in markets across the country. 🥩 Bitterballen – Crispy meat-filled snacks, perfect while watching football. 🥞 Dutch Pancakes (Pannenkoeken) – Sweet or savoury, a must-try dish. 🧇 Stroopwafels – Famous caramel-filled waffles for a tasty dessert. 🍺 Dutch Craft Beer – Enjoy a refreshing local drink after the match. 🚆 Getting Around · 🚄 Fast intercity trains connect major football cities. · 🚋 Trams and metro systems make local travel easy. · 🚲 Rent a bicycle to explore like a local. 📍 Top Attractions 🌷 Keukenhof Gardens (seasonal) 🌉 Amsterdam Canals 🌊 Kinderdijk Windmills 🏛️ Rijksmuseum 🏖️ Scheveningen Beach 🏰 Utrecht Old Town 💰 Estimated Daily Budget · 💵 Budget Traveller: US$80–120/day · 🏨 Mid-Range: US$150–220/day · 🌟 Luxury: US$300+/day 📅 Best Time to Visit ⚽ August–May – Domestic football season. 🌷 April–May – Tulip season with pleasant weather. ❤️ Why Football Fans Love the Netherlands The Netherlands offers the perfect mix of passionate football, iconic stadiums, delicious local cuisine, efficient transport, and beautiful historic cities. Whether you're cheering with local supporters or exploring Dutch culture between matches, every trip is a memorable football adventure. Wear your orange jersey, enjoy Dutch food, and experience football the Netherlands way! 🇳🇱⚽🍟 #netherlands #orangearmy #dutchfootball #amsterdam #footballtravel #visitnetherlands #footballculture #johancruyffarena #orangepassion #footballmatchfoodmap

#footballmatchfoodmap While the world-famous cheese market in Alkmaar typically takes a bow after September, the Waagplein (Weigh House Square) remains a vibrant hub year-round. During the 2026 World Cup, the square and its surrounding cafes become a focal point for local fans. Just steps from the historic Waag building, I found a cheese shop that, despite the market being out of season, was more than happy to cater to a hungry football fan. I purchased a wedge of Belegen Kaas (aged cheese, typically 4-8 months old), its flavor robust and crystalline. I paired this with a cone of frites from a nearby stand, thick-cut and golden, smothered in joppiesaus (a beloved Dutch chip seasoning with a curry-onion flavor). I settled into a heated terrace seat overlooking the square, where a large screen had been erected for the occasion. The match was a tense group stage encounter between the Netherlands and a Central European rival like the Czech Republic or Croatia. The air was crisp, the cheese was nutty, and the fries were piping hot. What made this experience special was the setting—surrounded by the monumental weighing house and the guild houses, you feel the weight of history. The locals here are purists; they appreciate good cheese and good football in equal measure. It’s a less frenetic atmosphere than Amsterdam but no less passionate. This combination of dairy and deep-fried potatoes is the bedrock of Dutch casual dining. Mapping this spot on your #footballmatchfoodmap highlights a crucial truth: you don’t need a formal market to enjoy Alkmaar’s finest export. Sometimes, the best way to watch the Oranje is with a hunk of cheese in one hand and a cone of frites in the other, under the watchful eye of the Waag.

The Netherlands has so many dazzling little towns. This time, staying true to my planner (MBTI "J") personality, I managed to conquer two towns in a single day—Alkmaar and Utrecht! Alkmaar is a charming historic city in the province of North Holland. Renowned as one of the world's most famous cheese trading hubs, it hosts a spectacular traditional cheese market with centuries of history every year. (Unfortunately, my visit didn't coincide with the event this time, but I'll definitely be back for it!) Utrecht is the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands and a major railway hub. Located right in the heart of the country, this laid-back, historic university town is famous for its unique bi-level canals and being the hometown of Miffy. ⭐️ One-Day Travel Guide: Both towns are super easy to reach from Amsterdam. I suggest hitting up Alkmaar in the morning when the weather is usually nicer. From there, taking a direct train to Utrecht is perfectly on the way. The direct ride between the two takes about an hour. I highly recommend this route! 💜 Must-Buy: How could you visit Miffy's hometown and not buy a bunny?! As soon as I got to town, I made a beeline for the Miffy flagship store and splurged on three small Miffy bag charms. (I managed to keep my sanity in check and resisted buying the giant plushies.) Staying in Amsterdam makes day trips to these charming towns a breeze. I totally recommend this strategy—I’ve personally tested it, and you can easily check off all the famous towns in about three to four days!

#hellonewyear

This is a beautiful seaside cafe in Qingdao. The moment I rang the doorbell and stepped inside, I was stunned. The first floor felt like an Italian couple's living room; the man was grinding coffee while the woman made gelato. The open kitchen was filled with the aroma of lemons and milk—the scene was as gentle as a movie scene. The 180-degree sea view from the second floor is simply divine! The sofas are so soft, and the tables are vintage suitcases I found at a flea market. Every snapshot has a Southern Italian vacation vibe. 📸 The outdoor terrace is filled with lemon trees; the lemon leaves rustle in the sea breeze. Across the water is Huiquan Bay, making you feel like you're standing on the Amalfi Coast. I ordered lemon gelato and lemon shaved ice. The sweet and sour flavor was just right, and the coffee had a rich, Italian roast. Even the cups were printed with little lemons—a detail-oriented person's delight. The weather was great for taking photos under the blue sky and white clouds; the photos were incredibly photogenic. I absolutely loved it! Spending an afternoon here, watching the sea, eating desserts, and feeling the sea breeze, I felt all my worries being swept away by the lemon-scented sea breeze.

#Canal #Netherlands #alkmaar Alkmaar, while not as famous as Amsterdam, is truly breathtakingly beautiful and unique. What's special is that you can rent a green electric boat to cruise the canals. The boats are completely silent and odorless, making it a truly enjoyable experience, offering a breathtaking view of the entire city.

🧀 [Alkmaar Cheese Market | The Netherlands' Must-See "Yellow Carnival"] . Today, let's take a virtual tour of the Alkmaar Cheese Market in the Netherlands—a "yellow carnival" held every Friday! If you're a cheese lover, this place is pure heaven!🍯 . 🏰 [400 Years of Cheese Legacy] . Every Friday from March to September, Alkmaar's central square transforms into a giant cheese wonderland! This traditional market, with over 400 years of history, is filled with golden cheese wheels, each weighing over a hundred pounds—Dutch locals even use them as "fitness equipment"💪! . 👨‍🍳 [The Cheese Porters' Olympics] . Porters wearing different-colored hats sprint in pairs while carrying cheese wheels—live action speed and excitement! White-coated inspectors and traders clap and bid, and once a deal is made, the cheese is hauled onto a 17th-century antique scale⚖️—full of ceremonial flair! . 🛒 [Cheese-Buying Guide] . 🧀 Cheese Girls' stalls: Traditional-dressed ladies sell 3-piece cheese sets for around €20, perfect for sampling~ . 🛍️ Surrounding stalls: More options! Sample your way through smoked, herb-infused, chili-flavored cheeses… it’ll redefine your cheese experience! . 💰 Tips: Whole wheels too big? Grab vacuum-sealed mini packs as souvenirs~ . 📸 [Photo Spots] . ✔️ Cheese wheel backdrop: Strike a pose with the golden cheese wheels—Instagram fame guaranteed! . ✔️ Antique weighing house: Step back into 17th-century Dutch charm~ . ⏰ [Practical Info] . 📍 Address: Waagplein, Alkmaar city center . 📅 Hours: Every Friday (March–September), 10:00 AM–1:00 PM . 🚆 Transport: 30-minute direct train from Amsterdam . 💛 "Cheese is power!"—You'll leave as a happy carb-lover! . 👉 Follow me for more hidden European gems~

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 #Netherlands After visiting the bustling cheese market, I walked to the side alley and came to the towering Grote Kerk St. Bert the Elder Church. The church looks solemn on the outside, but is surprisingly gentle on the inside—the sun shines in through the stained glass, and an impromptu organ rehearsal makes people stop in their tracks. Walk out of the church and take a slow walk along the canal. It’s not as lively as Amsterdam, but it has more of the leisurely feel of the locals: old people chatting on the benches, and the pace of life is just right. I found a riverside coffee shop, ordered a latte, and quietly watched the red brick houses and sky reflected on the water. This kind of Alkmaar is not ostentatious, but very charming 📌 Tips · Grote Kerk often has exhibitions and music events, so it is recommended to check the official website in advance. · Recommended walking route: Grote Kerk → Luttik Oudorp Canal → Voordam Bridge. · Canalside coffee recommendations: Stiel’s or Kowalski, good desserts and nice atmosphere.

#AprilGoodDestinations2025 #Netherlands I left Amsterdam early in the morning and took the train to Alkmaar. Outside the car window were vast green fields and windmills. About 35 minutes later, I arrived at this small town famous for its cheese. After exiting the train station, follow the signs and walk for about 15 minutes, and the city's old neighborhoods will gradually unfold - quiet canals, brick-red roofs, and old church bell towers standing in the distance. When we arrived at Waagplein Square, it was not yet 10 o'clock, but the area around the square was already crowded with people and the atmosphere was very lively. 📍 Market opening: starts with the ringing of a bell As the bell rang, the cheese market officially began. Several "cheese porters" wearing white uniforms and hats of different colors appeared in the center of the square. They carried large round pieces of orange cheese in unison, forming a queue and moving back and forth in the square - just like a traditional performance show. The tool they use is a special wooden frame that can carry two wheels of cheese at a time, with a total weight of more than 120 kilograms. These ceremonies are like a historical theater, and every detail retains the cheese trading tradition since the 17th century. 🧀 Live experience: aroma, laughter and a little cheese residue In addition to watching, of course you can also "eat" it yourself! There are many stalls around the square offering a variety of Dutch cheese tastings: smoked cheese, spicy cheese, spiced Gouda or Edam. I even saw a vendor demonstrating his cheese-cutting technique with precision and grace. A stall let me try the matured Gundam with black truffle. As soon as I took a bite, the rich milky and truffle aroma burst out instantly. At that moment, I almost wanted to buy half a round and take it home! 📸 Suggested photo locations: · Central area for porters to move · The edge of the square with the clock tower behind (best view, with the building in the frame) · Colorful cheese tarts & handmade products at the stalls

#amsterdamtrips Visiting Amsterdam in the spring was like stepping into a painting. The city bloomed with tulips and the soft light reflected beautifully off the canals. I started my day with a peaceful walk through the Jordaan district, filled with charming houses, boutique shops, and friendly cafés. The Anne Frank House was a moving and powerful experience, offering deep historical insight. Later, I rented a bike to feel like a local and explored Vondelpark, where people were lounging and enjoying the sunshine. The Van Gogh Museum was a highlight — seeing his brushstrokes up close added a new dimension to the art I’ve known for years. As the day faded, I enjoyed a quiet moment by the canals with stroopwafel in hand, watching boats glide by. Amsterdam’s relaxed energy, rich culture, and timeless beauty make it a city I could return to again and again. #travel #thingstodo #myitinerary #citydaytours #amsterdam

Hotel Alkmaar recommend, great customer service 24/7... Rooms are spacious and comfy

#August2024 I didn't stay in this hotel, I just went to its restaurant for lunch I think the restaurant environment is comfortable and the waiters are warm and polite. The portion is not large, but the food is exquisite, the presentation is good, and the taste is ok. And after we were full, we could sit in the restaurant and chat without any pressure, which was great Restaurant 't Fnidsen Fnidsen 107-109, 1811 NE Alkmaar, Netherlands

#August2024 The Dutch Cheese Market is really nostalgic. I thought the Alkmaar Cheese Market was lively. It is very interesting to see cheese porters in traditional costumes carrying round cheeses on their shoulders. In the market, all kinds of fragrant cheese exuded an attractive smell. I tasted several kinds and especially liked Gouda cheese, which had a delicate taste and good flavor. I bought some to take away and was very happy ❤️ #100 Ways to Travel #Europe Travel #Holland Travel #Dutch Cheese Market

Access: About 30 minutes by train from Amsterdam to Alkmaar🚆 Tourist attraction: Alkmaar Cheese Market🧀 Date and time: Every Friday Hotel: Kings Inn City Hostel is the closest, but there are many other hotels in Alkmaar! Meals & Restaurants: There are many restaurants around the cheese market🍷 Shopping: Souvenirs and food are sold inside the Holland Cheese Museum! (Cheese souvenirs, traditional Dutch crafts, etc.) Speaking of the Netherlands! Cheese🧀 The traditional cheese market is still held every Friday in Alkmaar!! It is mainly a place for shopkeepers to buy cheese, but cheese and snack sets are also sold to the general public. It is very fresh because the vendors wearing traditional shoes and clothes sell it directly☺️ There are also several other stalls, and it's fun like a festival! I think the charm of the cheese market is that you can see so many large cheeses at once😆 #Holland #CheeseMarket #Cheese

Windmills around Alkmaar, North Holland 🇳🇱 📍Location: North Holland 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: Windmill museum, souvenir shop, restrooms The other day, I went to see a windmill in the Netherlands. The windmill here recreates the way people lived in the past, and we were given a one-on-one explanation by someone who still lives in the windmill, such as, "People used to sleep sitting down!" "Smoke from the kitchen would accumulate inside the windmill, so only men could go up to the top of the windmill!" When I went, we were the only ones there, and we were able to take our time to see the underground part of the windmill😆 It's in an inconvenient location without a car or bicycle, but I think it's worth going! #Netherlands #windmill

Alkmaar, about half an hour from Amsterdam by train, is a very beautiful town. There is a cheese trading event on site from 10:00 to 12:00 every Friday morning, and there are many stalls around where you can taste the food. The restaurant with a river view is very comfortable. A beautiful town full of life. Don't miss it if you go to Amsterdam

This is the most symbolistic church of Alkmaar. The history of cheese The Waag (balance scale) building has an interesting history dating back to the 14th century. In that period it was built as a chapel for the adjacent Holy Spirit hospital where poor travelers could get free accommodation for three days and nights. Also the sick were nursed in this hospital. In 1566 the Bishop of Haarlem gave permission to the Holy Spirit hospital to re-purpose the hospital building for weighing. In 1582, the weighing activities were moved to the larger Holy Spirit Chapel, which by then was no longer being used for divine services.#cherryblossom2024

A fun daytrip to #alkmaar in North Holland & a Cat Cafe (meow) with rescue cats from #crete Check it out!

#passionpassport

Alkmaar Alkmaar has many intriguing museums and lots of medieval architecture worth checking out, but most travelers flock here for one reason: cheese. The town is known for its traditional cheese market, which takes place on Friday mornings from April to early September. #holidays #trip #tripaway #netherlands