Alkmaar

Written by Felix Schmidt, Lorraine Aust
03/09/2025
Vibrant street scene in Alkmaar, Netherlands, featuring historic architecture and lively shops.
Nikolai Kolosov, Pexels

Alkmaar is a charming historic city in the Netherlands, renowned for its traditional cheese market, picturesque canals, and well-preserved architecture. It offers visitors an authentic Dutch experience, blending cultural heritage with scenic green spaces.

The Waagplein acts as the vibrant heart of Alkmaar, featuring numerous terraces and bars where visitors can socialize. Nearby, the Platte Stenenbrug also offers a selection of cafes and bars for a lively atmosphere.

Top 5 Things to do in Alkmaar

Visitors can engage in cultural spectacles, explore historical sites, and enjoy the scenic natural landscapes surrounding the city.

1. Alkmaar Cheese Market

Experience the traditional Alkmaar Cheese Market, a historic spectacle on Waagplein where cheese carriers in colorful hats transport and weigh large cheese rounds. This market, a tradition since 1365, is a vibrant demonstration of historical cheese trading. It occurs from late March to late September, every Friday morning, and also on Tuesday evenings in July and August. Observing the market is free, but arriving early is recommended for the best views.

Cost: Free to observe the market. Guided walking tours, starting from Alkmaar train station, are available for approximately €26.00 for adults, €13.00 for children aged 9-15, and free for children under 8. Tours from Amsterdam, including transportation and a windmill visit, cost about €64.50 per person.

Transport: The market is centrally located at Waagplein, a short 5-minute walk from Alkmaar train station. Public transport, particularly the train, is highly recommended. If traveling by car, park at one of the P+R lots like Bergermeer or Oudorp and take a bus into the city center, as driving into the center on market mornings is discouraged.

2. Canal Cruise through Alkmaar

Discover Alkmaar's charm from its historic canals on a guided boat tour. These cruises, typically lasting 45 to 75 minutes, offer picturesque views of the city's architecture and provide insight into its rich history. For a more independent exploration, 'whisper boats' can be rented, allowing you to navigate the waterways at your own pace. Alternatively, consider paddleboarding, with options for guided tours that also involve collecting litter, contributing to the city's green initiatives.

Cost: A guided canal cruise costs approximately €9.50 for adults and €7.50 for children up to 10 years old. Private boat tours with a skipper for groups of up to 10 people start from €95 per hour.

Transport: Canal cruises depart from central locations such as the Mient or Waagplein, both of which are within easy walking distance of Alkmaar city center.

3. Visit Grote Sint Laurenskerk

Explore the impressive Grote Sint Laurenskerk, a grand medieval basilica dating from the 15th century. This architectural marvel features Brabantian Gothic style and is home to two world-renowned organs, one of which is the oldest playable in the Netherlands. The church functions primarily as a cultural venue, hosting concerts, exhibitions, and various events throughout the year. Visitors can admire its historical art and grand scale.

Cost: Entry to the Grote Sint Laurenskerk is generally free, though specific events, concerts, or performances held within the church may require a ticket.

Transport: The church is situated in the city center and is easily accessible on foot from all major attractions and the train station.

4. Discover the Holland Cheese Museum

Located within the historic Waaggebouw (Weigh House) on Waagplein, the Holland Cheese Museum offers an engaging journey through the history of cheese making and Alkmaar's role as a prominent cheese city. Interactive exhibits explain the process from cow to cheese and provide insights into local traditions. It is a family-friendly museum with activities designed to entertain children, such as treasure hunts.

Cost: Specific individual entry costs are not consistently advertised in recent reviews. However, combination tickets, such as an e-ticket for the museum paired with a train return ticket to Alkmaar, are sometimes available. Expect a typical museum entry fee.

Transport: The museum is located directly on Waagplein, making it easily walkable from anywhere in the city center.

5. Explore the Schoorlse Duinen and Coastal Beaches

Venture just outside Alkmaar to the breathtaking Schoorlse Duinen, the widest and highest dune area in the Netherlands. This expansive natural reserve provides excellent opportunities for walking, cycling, and enjoying serene landscapes. The nearby coastal towns of Schoorl aan Zee and Bergen aan Zee offer expansive sandy beaches perfect for relaxation or active pursuits. It is an ideal escape for nature lovers and those seeking coastal tranquility.

Cost: Access to the dunes and beaches is generally free. However, a 'dune card' may be required for entry into the Noordhollands Duinreservaat for individuals over 17 years old. Day passes are available at entry points or through a smartphone application, while an annual ticket costs approximately €12.50. Bike rental fees apply if you choose to cycle.

Transport: Regular bus services connect Alkmaar to the coastal areas. To reach Schoorl, take bus line 151 from Alkmaar Station to Schoorl, Frederikslaan (approx. 11-13 minutes, €2-4). For Bergen aan Zee, bus line 166 from Alkmaar Station to Bergen Plein takes about 15-20 minutes and costs around €2. Taxis are also available, with fares to Schoorl ranging from €25-31 and Bergen aan Zee similarly priced.

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