Things To Do
in Edam
Edam is a picturesque Dutch town set along tranquil canals and winding waterways. It is renowned for its historic market square, graceful gabled houses, and a long cheese-making tradition that shaped the region. The town offers a peaceful, village-like atmosphere with easy access to Beemster polder landscapes and the nearby coast.
Visitors often pair Edam with short trips to Volendam, Marken, and Amsterdam for a well-rounded experience of water, history, and Dutch culinary culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Schiphol Airport and take a scenic train ride to Edam, soaking in the beautiful Dutch landscapes along the way. Once you arrive, check into your charming accommodation in the heart of the town, ready for exploration. Stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the picturesque canals that define this historic town.
Visit the renowned Edam Cheese Market, where you can witness traditional cheese trading in action. Taste a variety of locally made cheeses and indulge in some snacks from nearby vendors. Explore the nearby Edam Museum to learn about the town's history and its connection to the Dutch cheese trade.
Enjoy a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant offering traditional Dutch cuisine. Savor dishes like herring or stamppot while enjoying views of the canals. After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk along the water, soaking in the charming atmosphere of Edam by night.
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Grote Kerk, a beautiful medieval church that offers stunning views from its tower. Climb the tower for panoramic views of Edam and its surroundings, making sure to capture the moment with photographs. Later, explore the unique architecture of the town, with its well-preserved 17th-century buildings.
Head to the nearby village of Volendam, just a short bike ride or ferry ride away. Visit the Volendam Museum to gain insights into traditional Dutch fishing life and art. Enjoy lunch at a waterfront café, sampling fresh seafood dishes while watching the boats go by.
Return to Edam and unwind at a cozy bar, sipping on local beer or wine. Engage with locals and learn more about the region’s culture and stories. As the evening progresses, enjoy a scenic canal cruise at sunset, offering a different perspective of Edam's beautiful surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or cafe drink | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $40-70 |
| 🚲Bike rental (full day) | $15-25 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming historic center with photo-worthy canals and gabled houses
- World-class cheese heritage and easy access to Beemster polder
- Safe, walkable town with relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Excellent day trips to Volendam, Marken, and Amsterdam
- Limited nightlife and fewer large-scale attractions within Edam itself
- Market activity is seasonal; some services may be quieter in off-peak months
- Canal-side cobblestones and narrow sidewalks can be bumpy for some travelers
- Beemster and nearby towns require short drives or bike rides for access
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please/Here you go
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Waar is de markt?" - Where is the market?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Edam
Visit one of these nice places.
The historic cheese weigh house on the Market Square with colorful facades and reflections in the canal—great for early-morning or golden-hour photography.
A landmark church overlooking narrow canals and gabled houses; capture the quiet ambience and architectural details.
Open polder landscapes near Edam with distant windmills offering expansive skies and linear dikes for dramatic wide-angle shots.
Food in Edam
Edam Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A platter featuring Edam cheese varieties from nearby dairies, often enjoyed with rustic bread and pickles.
Must-Try!
Seasonal raw herring typically served with onions and pickles; a traditional seaside and coastal-town snack.
A comforting mash of potatoes and vegetables served with smoked sausage; a staple Dutch dish found in local eateries.
Mini fluffy pancakes sprinkled with powdered sugar; commonly found in cafes and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal cheese market on Marktplein where cheese blocks are weighed and sold; a quintessential Edam experience.
Occasional stalls near the water offering Dutch street snacks, cheeses, breads, and fried specialties during market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting someone, and you may be addressed formally as 'u' in unfamiliar situations.
Walkers stay to the right on sidewalks; bicycles have dedicated lanes—signal when turning and ring the bell to pass.
Residential areas are peaceful; keep noise to a minimum during early morning and Sundays.
Safety
Tipping in Edam
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is discretionary in the Netherlands. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still usable, especially in smaller shops and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Canals are lively with cycling activity and blooming trees around the market area; pleasant temperatures for walking tours.
Peak season for the Kaasmarkt and longer days; expect more visitors, especially around the Marktplein; great for photo opportunities and cheese tastings.
Misty mornings and golden light along the canals; harvest flavors appear in menus; fewer crowds than summer.
Chillier with possible frost or light snow; cozy cafes and indoor cheese tastings are common; evenings are quiet and atmospheric.
Edam at Night
Hiking in Edam
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A flat, scenic route through UNESCO-listed Beemster with windmills and waterworks, ideal for easy hikes and long walks.
Coastal-hinterland walk connecting historic towns with dune landscapes and shoreline views.
A network of gentle trails along the Waterland area, offering classic Dutch scenery and farmstead photography opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Edam by plane.
Major international hub about 25-40 minutes by rail or car from Edam; frequent connections to domestic towns and international destinations.
Smaller regional airport serving European routes; typically farther from Edam but accessible by road/train via the rest of the Netherlands.
Regional airport offering limited services; convenient for quick trips within the Netherlands and nearby regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents of Edam and the Beemster area, historically engaged in cheese production, farming, and maritime trades.
Many families live in the town and nearby villages, enjoying a safe, walkable environment and schooling options.
A significant number of retirees and visitors who spend part of the year in the region for its tranquility and lifestyle.
Visitors drawn by cheese culture, canal scenery, and easy day trips to Amsterdam and Marken.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A dominant activity in the Netherlands; flat routes through Edam’s countryside and Beemster polder are popular with locals and visitors alike.
Waterways around the IJsselmeer and nearby canals provide opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and other water sports.
Common in local clubs and community grounds; a popular sport for residents of all ages.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Edam.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Dutch restaurants offer vegetarian options such as cheese platters, vegetable stamppot, soups, and salads. Communicate dietary needs in Dutch or English; most places can customize dishes than with meat-free preparations.