Alkmaar

The Cheese Market

The traditional cheese market on Waagplein in Alkmaar is a must-see experience. It is not just another market; it is a lively event that begins as early as 7 a.m. when the first trucks full of cheeses arrive. These cheeses are neatly displayed in rows, ready to be tasted and sold once the market opens at 10 a.m. During the market, the cheeses are inspected, tasted and traded as the characteristic cheese carriers proudly complete each sale. It is a fascinating experience not to be missed, and you may want to combine it with a visit to the Cheese Museum, where you will learn all about cheese making and the history of the cheese market.

Courtyards

If you are planning a city walk, be sure to visit Alkmaar's eight hofjes - a characteristic feature of the city. The oldest hofje, the Hof van Zessen, dates back to 1511 and housed - as its name suggests - six poor, elderly Roman Catholic men. In the Wildemanshofje, in addition to the houses formerly intended for Christian women, several statues by Alkmaar sculptor Jacob van der Beek can be admired.