If you were going to choose a cheese capital, this enchanting town, established in 939, would win hands down. On the world famous Cheese market you’ll witness the traditional weighing of cheeses. But there's more to Alkmaar than just cheese. 

Historical ambiance and great shopping

Alkmaar has around 400 monuments. The Waag, dating back in its earliest form to the 14th century, the 16th century town-hall, Grote St. Laurens Church and the many courtyards, facades and canals give the town an ambience all of its own. With the past as a setting, the town has a modern stock of shops offering a wide choice. Besides the predominantly small shops in the old centre, the Noorder Arcade with large scale shopping facilities stands by the side of the Noord Holland Canal.