Amsterdam Cheese Tasting Tour (Self Guided), Amsterdam

Cheese has long been woven into the cultural and culinary fabric of the Netherlands, and Amsterdam offers a particularly vivid glimpse into this tradition. Dutch cheesemaking dates back centuries, with records of organized cheese markets appearing as early as the Middle Ages. Farmers in regions such as North Holland and Friesland developed techniques for producing durable, flavorful cheeses—most famously Gouda and Edam—that could be traded across Europe.

As Amsterdam grew into a major trading hub during the Dutch Golden Age at the turn of the 17th century, cheese became one of the many agricultural products moving through its bustling markets and harbor warehouses. Today, the city continues to celebrate this heritage through specialized cheese shops, where visitors can sample and learn about traditional Dutch varieties.

At De Kaaskamer, shelves are packed with wheels of farmhouse cheeses, aged goudas, and flavored specialties, many sourced directly from small Dutch producers. Nearby, Dutch Delicacy - De Mannen Van Kaas focuses on artisanal cheeses and carefully curated tasting selections that highlight regional craftsmanship.

Another well-known stop is Amsterdam Cheese Company, a shop that introduces visitors to a wide range of Dutch cheeses, from creamy young varieties to deeply aged wheels with caramel-like notes. At the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store, the spotlight falls on the famous Old Amsterdam brand, known for its rich, mature flavor developed through a long aging process. Meanwhile, Henri Willig Cheese Shop presents yet another side of Dutch cheesemaking, offering both traditional cheeses and innovative varieties made from cow, goat, and sheep milk.

Collectively, these shops form a small but flavorful journey through the Dutch cheese tradition—one that connects centuries of farming knowledge with the lively food culture of modern Amsterdam.

If you’d like to taste your way through this iconic part of Dutch culture and discover where the best cheese shops are located, join our self-guided tour and explore Amsterdam’s cheese tradition at your own pace.