Cheese Market
Visit on Wednesday mornings during July and August to witness the traditional cheese market reenactments.
North Holland, Netherlands
City·Quaint, Historic, Peaceful
Images coming soon!
Edam is a historic gem in North Holland, offering a step back into the Dutch Golden Age. While globally recognized for its red-waxed cheese, the town itself is a masterpiece of urban preservation, featuring narrow canals, drawbridges, and elegant merchant houses. Visitors can explore the historic cheese market, visit the leaning Carillon tower, or simply wander the quiet, cobblestone streets. Its small scale and proximity to Amsterdam make it an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip focused on history and local culture.
Edam is a historic gem in North Holland, offering a step back into the Dutch Golden Age. While globally recognized for its red-waxed cheese, the town itself is a masterpiece of urban preservation, featuring narrow canals, drawbridges, and elegant merchant houses. Visitors can explore the historic cheese market, visit the leaning Carillon tower, or simply wander the quiet, cobblestone streets. Its small scale and proximity to Amsterdam make it an ideal destination for a relaxing day trip focused on history and local culture.
You might want to ask
Highlights
Traditional summer cheese markets.
Well-preserved 17th-century architecture.
Scenic canals and historic drawbridges.
The leaning Carillon tower.
Before you go: Edam essentials
Quiet atmosphere compared to nearby Volendam.
Limited nightlife as it is primarily a residential and historic town.
Best visited during the summer months for the full market experience.
Getting Around
The town is best explored on foot or by bicycle due to its compact size and narrow streets.
Best For
History buffs and cheese enthusiasts seeking a quiet Dutch escape.
Currency
EUR €
Average Cost
$100-$150 p/day
Languages Spoken
Dutch, English
Transport
Frequent buses run from Amsterdam Central Station, making it an easy 30-minute journey.
Best time to visit Edam
April-September
Best Season
Spring
Spring in Edam is beautiful with mild temperatures and fewer tourists. Ideal for sightseeing.
Best Season
Summer
Summers are lively with the famous cheese markets and sunny canal-side walks.
Best Season
Fall
Fall sees fewer tourists and pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the historic streets.
Winter
Winters are quiet. It's the best time to experience the town's local atmosphere without crowds.
Location
Edam, North Holland, Netherlands