Gouda Old Town
Explore Gouda Old Town, a historic Dutch gem famous for its world-renowned cheese, stunning architecture, and charming canals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cheese market spectacle
Gouda Old Town
Best Time
Cheese market spectacle
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Gouda Old Town, a historic Dutch gem famous for its world-renowned cheese, stunning architecture, and charming canals.
"A surprisingly good time here, learning all about Gouda, the cheese and the town!"
🎯 Arrive early for the market
Beat the crowds at the Gouda Cheese Market by arriving before 10 AM.
🧀 Take your time at the Experience
Don't rush the Gouda Cheese Experience; engage with exhibits for a richer understanding.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Gouda Cheese Market
Market Square
Witness the traditional cheese trade with handshakes every Thursday morning (April-August).
Gouda Cheese Experience
D'Oude Waag
An interactive journey through cheese making and the history of Gouda's cheese trade.
Sint-Janskerk (St. John's Church)
Achter de Kerk
Marvel at the longest nave in the Netherlands, adorned with 72 stunning stained-glass windows.
Gouda Old Town Hall
Market Square
A magnificent 15th-century Gothic building, still a venue for weddings and civic ceremonies.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Cheese Lovers
Embrace the Gouda Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive early for the market
Beat the crowds at the Gouda Cheese Market by arriving before 10 AM.
🧀 Take your time at the Experience
Don't rush the Gouda Cheese Experience; engage with exhibits for a richer understanding.
✈️ Vacuum-sealed cheese for travel
Buy vacuum-sealed cheese for easier travel outside Europe.
👟 Comfortable shoes are key
Explore the charming cobblestone streets of Gouda's old town with comfortable footwear.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive early for the market
Beat the crowds at the Gouda Cheese Market by arriving before 10 AM.
🧀 Take your time at the Experience
Don't rush the Gouda Cheese Experience; engage with exhibits for a richer understanding.
✈️ Vacuum-sealed cheese for travel
Buy vacuum-sealed cheese for easier travel outside Europe.
👟 Comfortable shoes are key
Explore the charming cobblestone streets of Gouda's old town with comfortable footwear.
📸 Capture historic architecture
Gouda's old town hall and churches offer stunning photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Gouda Old Town for its charming atmosphere, rich history, and, of course, its famous cheese. The Gouda Cheese Experience is highlighted as an engaging and educational activity for all ages, with friendly staff enhancing the visit. While the town is a must-visit for cheese lovers, some find the cheese market can be very crowded.
"We had a surprisingly good time here, learning all about Gouda, the cheese and the town! The exhibits were entertaining, educational, and engaging! Service at the front desk and during the cheese tasting was very professional and friendly. Our whole family highly recommends this experience!"
Brian Baker
"I had a fantastic time at the Gouda Cheese Experience! I actually arrived a little early, and the manager was already there, kindly waiting to open up. Instead of just brushing me off until opening time, he chatted with me for a good ten minutes — we talked about where I was from, world issues, and of course, cheese. He was incredibly friendly and welcoming, which really set the tone for the whole visit.
Inside, the experience is both interactive and informative. The manager encouraged me to fill out the little cheese-themed activity sheet they give you, and I'm glad I did — it made me engage more with the exhibits. I ended up spending about 1.5 hours going through everything and reading all the displays. There was someone who rushed through in like 10 minutes, but honestly, this isn’t something to speed through. You get much more out of it by taking your time. Also, during the tour, if you answer all the answers on your paper, you get to become a "cheese master." 😁
At the end of the tour, there’s a great cheese tasting session, and you also have the chance to buy some cheese. Just a heads-up: if you're flying outside of Europe, you can’t bring back the full cheese wheels due to customs regulations. But the vacuum-sealed cheese is totally fine to bring home. I bought a wheel for myself and ended up snacking on it during my drive across the Netherlands — and it was delicious!
Highly recommend this experience if you're in Gouda. Great staff, great cheese, and a great way to learn about a big part of Dutch culture."
Jay
"Was very cute! Young kids will love it. As a couple hour filler highly recommend. Self guided tour, has audio guidance via a small phone"
Tyler Evans
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Gouda is easily accessible by train from Amsterdam Centraal, with direct trains taking approximately 45-50 minutes. 
Yes, there are parking options available. Some sources mention free overnight motorhome parking near the old town, with a day ticket costing around €8.
Gouda's city center is relatively compact, making it very walkable. Comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring the cobblestone streets.
The Gouda train station is well-connected, and from there, it's a short walk to the historic center.
For a day trip, focus on the Market Square, the Old Town Hall, Sint-Janskerk, and the Gouda Cheese Experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The old town itself is a public area and free to wander. However, specific attractions like the Sint-Janskerk and the Gouda Cheese Experience require tickets.
The traditional Gouda Cheese Market takes place every Thursday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM, running from April through August.
Ticket prices for the Gouda Cheese Experience can vary, but it's generally considered a worthwhile investment for the interactive exhibits and tasting. It's best to check their official website for current pricing.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's always worth checking the Gouda Cheese Experience website for potential family packages or group discounts.
Yes, the Gouda Cheese Market is where you can witness and purchase cheese directly from the producers.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the Market Square with the Old Town Hall, Sint-Janskerk, De Waag (the former weighing house), and the Gouda Cheese Experience.
It's an interactive and educational experience detailing the history of Gouda cheese, with exhibits, activities, and a cheese tasting at the end. Many visitors become 'Cheese Masters' by completing a quiz.
Yes, the Gouda Cheese Experience is particularly engaging for children with its interactive elements and the 'Cheese Master' quiz.
The Saturday market is a more general local market, offering a taste of local life, though it's not as spectacular as the Thursday cheese market.
While the Gouda Cheese Experience offers audio guidance, guided walking tours of the old town can also be found, often focusing on history and architecture.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Gouda Cheese Market is the prime spot for tasting and buying authentic Gouda. The Gouda Cheese Experience also offers a tasting session.
Many local eateries and cafes in Gouda Old Town will feature cheese in their dishes, from cheese boards to fondue or gratins.
Don't miss trying stroopwafels, a Dutch syrup waffle, and perhaps some local Dutch pastries or snacks.
Yes, you can buy cheese to take home. Vacuum-sealed cheese is recommended for international travel, especially if flying outside of Europe.
Gouda Old Town has numerous charming cafes where you can enjoy coffee, tea, and local treats while soaking in the atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
The Market Square with the historic Town Hall, the canals, the Sint-Janskerk, and the charming narrow streets offer excellent photographic opportunities.
It can be crowded, but with patience, you can capture great shots of the cheese wheels, the traders, and the traditional handshake. Early morning is best.
Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and any specific signage within churches or museums.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful light for architectural photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for capturing market activity.
Photography is usually permitted inside churches, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific rules or donation requests. The stained glass is particularly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the Saturday market for a more relaxed local atmosphere, or plan your trip around the Thursday cheese market for a unique spectacle, though it can get crowded. 🧀 Cheese Enthusiasts
+1 The Gouda Cheese Experience provides a comprehensive education on cheese making and history, culminating in a tasting session that allows you to savor different aged Goudas. 🚶♀️ History & Architecture Buffs
+1 Wander through the historic streets, admire the canals, and discover the stories behind buildings like De Waag. +1 The compact nature of the old town makes it perfect for leisurely exploration on foot, allowing you to soak in the medieval atmosphere. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Gouda: The Market Square
+1 The square is also home to De Waag, the former weighing house where cheese was officially traded, now housing the Gouda Cheese Experience. On market days, the square transforms into a lively scene, especially during the famous Thursday cheese market.During the Gouda Cheese Market, held every Thursday from April to August, the square comes alive with traders and buyers. The iconic 'handshake' trade, where deals are sealed with a firm handshake, is a unique spectacle.
+1 Visitors can witness this tradition and also purchase fresh Gouda cheese directly from the producers. +1 Even on Saturdays, the square hosts a local market, offering a more relaxed atmosphere to soak in the local culture and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.Beyond the cheese, the Market Square is surrounded by charming historic buildings, cafes, and shops, making it the perfect starting point for exploring Gouda. It’s a place where history, commerce, and daily life converge, offering a quintessential Dutch experience.
+1A Deeper Dive into Gouda Cheese
The Gouda Cheese Experience offers an in-depth look at this process, making it accessible and engaging for visitors. Through interactive exhibits and informative displays, you can learn about the history of cheese making in Gouda, the different aging processes, and how to identify various types of Gouda.
When purchasing Gouda, especially for travel, consider the aging. A 1-year aged Gouda will have a firmer texture and more pronounced flavor than a young, 4-week-old cheese.
Architectural Gems of Gouda
+1 The church itself is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, inviting quiet contemplation. The Old Town Hall on the Market Square is another architectural marvel. Its intricate Gothic design and imposing presence make it a focal point of the city.
Built in the mid-15th century, it has witnessed centuries of Gouda's history and continues to be a significant civic building. Nearby, De Waag (the weighing house) also showcases historical architecture, serving as a functional building for trade in its time and now housing the Gouda Cheese Experience. Wandering through Gouda's streets reveals charming canals, historic facades, and picturesque bridges, offering a quintessential Dutch urban landscape.
+1 The blend of medieval and later architectural styles creates a unique and visually appealing environment that transports visitors back in time. +1
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