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Every bit as charming as the traditional fishing village of Volendam in Holland is another beautiful city in the Dutch countryside called Edam.
Edam, as some of you may already have guessed by now, is home to the famous cheese of the same name—the Edam Cheese, a semi-hard variety with pale yellow insides and a coat of red paraffin wax on the outside.
Edam is a quaint Dutch town renowned for its charming cheese market! Picture cobblestone streets, colorful stalls, and the aroma of delicious cheese wafting through the air—it’s a cheese lover’s paradise!
Location
Edam lies north of Volendam and is just a few minutes away from the latter. It is also one of the stops of the buses that ply the Waterland area route, which you can take at the Amsterdam Centraal station if you’re coming from there.
While Edam is a bit smaller than Volendam and more compact, it isn’t, however, in any way less attractive. It is, in fact, lovely.
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Cheese Market Edam
So, here’s the scoop: Edam’s cheese market is no ordinary affair. It’s steeped in history, tracing back to the 14th century when farmers and traders would gather to swap goods. And you guessed it, Edam cheese stole the show with its iconic round shape and that classic red wax coating.
Fast forward to today, and the market is still buzzing with activity, albeit with a bit more flair for the tourists. From late April to early September, visitors flock to witness the age-old traditions in action. Think costumed cheese carriers haggling over prices and traders meticulously testing and weighing each wheel of cheese.
While the market is a major draw for tourists, Edam cheese remains a serious business for the locals. Produced in nearby farms and dairies using time-honored methods, it’s a taste of tradition in every bite.
Exploring Edam
But it’s not just about the market—Edam itself is a gem waiting to be explored. Wander through its picturesque streets, soak in the sight of historic buildings, and maybe even enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
The old town is made up of charming narrow stone streets and gabled brick structures. Smaller canals also abound in just the right number. There’s even an interesting-looking drawbridge that has been in the area for so long already.
Some streets are lined with shops selling the town’s delicacies like cheeses, chocolates, souvenir items, and other bits and pieces. We didn’t pass up the cheese-tasting offerings of the cheese shops and went ahead and tried some. And then more, heh. There were restaurants and cafes, and a few hotels as well.
Other areas are residential and dotted with cute little brick houses with terra cotta roofs. These places are the quiet ones with nary a soul in sight.
The town hall, which also houses the tourist office, is an imposing structure in the middle of the city. We were lucky to witness a wedding scene during our visit, which was just like any other wedding ceremony—solemn and sweet.
An imposing old church sits in the center of town.
Why visit Edam?
Edam is worth visiting for its iconic cheese market, where centuries-old traditions come alive. Beyond cheese, its picturesque streets, historic buildings, and scenic canals offer charm and beauty. Conveniently located near Amsterdam and Volendam, it’s perfect for a day trip or as part of a broader Dutch itinerary.
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Book Activities
For a richer experience, try booking these guided activities in Edam and nearby.
Where to Stay
For the best places to stay in Edam, shop by clicking the image below:
Wrap Up
All in all, Edam is a lovely small Dutch town that makes a worthwhile trip while you’re in Amsterdam. Grab some Edam cheese as a souvenir of your trip while you’re at it. Exploring the area takes just a few hours and can be done on foot.
So, whether you’re a cheese aficionado or just looking for a delightful day out, Edam’s cheese market promises an unforgettable experience. Come for the cheese, stay for the charm—it’s a slice of Dutch culture you won’t want to miss!
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