Few sights are as Dutch as a dutch cheese market: golden wheels stacked on wooden sleds, carriers in white outfits and straw hats, and traders slapping hands to seal a deal. Several towns still hold traditional markets, mostly as demonstrations for visitors. Dates and times vary by year, so check each town’s website before you go.
How the tradition works
In the past, farmers brought their cheese to the town market, where buyers tested the quality. Cheese was weighed in the local weighing house, an important building in cheese towns. The ritual of bidding, the so-called “handjeklap” or hand-clapping, was how prices were negotiated. Today’s markets reproduce this for tourists, and sometimes trade actual cheese.
Alkmaar
Alkmaar is the most famous cheese market, held on Friday mornings in the warm season in front of the old weighing house. Carriers in guild colours move the wheels around on carts, and an explanation is provided for visitors. Arrive early to find a good viewing spot.
Gouda
Gouda has a weekly cheese market in summer, also in front of a historic weighing house on the main square. The town is also known for its stroopwafels and its town hall, one of the oldest Gothic town halls in the country.
Edam and Woerden
Edam, known for its red-coated cheeses, holds a smaller market in summer. Woerden has its own local tradition, described in our German post on the Käsemarkt Woerden and in the English guide to things to do in Woerden.
What to taste
- Young Gouda: mild and creamy
- Aged Gouda: crunchy crystals and deeper flavour
- Cheese with cumin or herbs
- Goat and sheep cheeses
- Local mustard and bread to go with it
Tips for visitors
Go early, as crowds build. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera. Buy cheese vacuum-packed if you plan to travel; check customs rules for your destination. Cards are accepted at many stalls, but cash is handy.
Getting there
Most cheese towns can be reached by train from Amsterdam within an hour or so, with a bus or short walk at the end. For general rail tips, see our guide to the train from Amsterdam to the Hague.
Pair with wine
Cheese is a perfect partner for wine. Take a look at our article on a wine bar in the Hague for an idea of how to continue your day.
Final thoughts
A cheese market is a lighthearted way to experience a bit of Dutch history. For general background see Dutch cheese on Wikipedia. More guides at invisionfree.com.
