I visited Amsterdam and this hidden gem 20 minutes away was the highlight (Image: Sophie Harris)
With endless canals, museums and eateries, I’ve visited around six times now because it has a rich history and stunning architecture, a perfect .
I’ve explored outside of the city centre a few times to nearby villages and towns including Volendam and Marken which help you to see how locals live.
Whilst Amsterdam central is stunning and a must-visit, it’s Edam which particularly stands out for me, with every visit I make.
An ultimately Dutch city, only a 20-minute bus trip away from Amsterdam, Edam is an area lined by canals and traditional Dutch houses.
Edam is also famously known across the globe for its cheese covered in red or yellow wax.
Edam has some gorgeous shops (Image: Sophie Harris)
Much quieter but just as pretty as the city centre of Amsterdam, there is lots to explore in Edam, especially if you’re after quiet sightseeing.
This includes the Edam Museum, set in a beautiful house from the 16th century, offering a glimpse into the life of a Golden Age merchant.
Every Wednesday throughout the summer there is also a traditional cheese market, including a museum about Edam cheese.
This offers visitors another insight into local life as local residents flood the streets to pick up their produce.
Edam is the perfect Dutch city (Image: Sophie Harris)
Edam is a typical canal village, home to lots of traditional bridges including the must-see see-saw bridge.
Wandering through the town, visitors can see dozens of traditional bridges. Boat trips also run through the city to see traditional houses, bridges and cheese warehouses up close.
There are also lots of tasty restaurants in Edam, including traditional Dutch cuisine or Italian food from La Galera.
It would also be unfortunate not to pick up a traditional stroopwafel or some cheese while visiting.
If you have the day to explore traditional Dutch villages and towns, Marken and Volendam are also extremely popular.
Volendam is one of the most picturesque places in the Netherlands, known for its colourful houses and old fishing boats in the harbour.
Marken is extremely idyllic with well-kept gardens, farm animals, and plenty of bridges and canals.
Zaanse Schans, home to a collection of historic windmills and wooden houses, is also well worth the visit but I did find it to be very busy and a popular tourist spot.