Things To Do
in Goes
Goes is a compact Dutch town in Zeeland at coordinates 51.5, 3.8833, where a maze of canals and gabled houses frames a welcoming center. The historic town center is walkable and lively, with a strong maritime and cultural heritage that shines through its markets and museums. It serves as a convenient base for exploring Zeeland’s coast, islands, and nature reserves, while offering excellent seafood and regional specialties.
Easy connections by road, rail, and bicycle paths make it a practical and charming stop for a Zeeland itinerary.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Goes. Visit the historic buildings and boutique shops that line the main square, soaking in the local atmosphere. Don’t forget to grab a traditional Dutch breakfast at a nearby café.
In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour to learn about the rich history of Goes. Visit the St. Jacobskerk, a stunning church known for its intricate architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows. As you explore, enjoy a light lunch at one of the many eateries offering local delicacies.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to indulge in an authentic Dutch dinner. Try local seafood dishes and pair them with a glass of regional wine or beer. After dinner, take a quiet evening walk around the illuminated city center, experiencing the nightlife.
Begin your day at the Goes Museum to discover the city's art and cultural heritage. Explore the diverse exhibitions showcasing local artists and historical artifacts. Spend a couple of hours getting lost in the stories of Goes' past.
After your museum visit, head to the nearby parks for a relaxing afternoon picnic. Grab some local snacks from the market and find a tranquil spot to enjoy the scenery. Take some time to walk the trails or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Spend your evening in a local brewery, tasting some of the finest craft beers that the region has to offer. Many breweries offer tours, so you can learn about the brewing process while enjoying samples. End the night with some live music for a true local experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $7-12 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $70-140 |
| 🧀Local snack or cheese purchase | $4-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to Zeeland’s coast
- Excellent seafood and regional specialties
- Good public transport connections and cycling routes
- Charming historic center with canals and markets
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Weather can be windy and changeable
- Smaller selection of international dining options
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik wil dit graag" - I would like this
- "Een kaartje alstublieft" - One ticket please
- "Kunt u de rekening brengen, alstublieft?" - Could I get the bill, please?
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Goes
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square with gabled facades, a bustling atmosphere, and seasonal market activity.
Picturesque waterfront with pastel houses, boats, and reflections along the canals.
Medieval church tower and architecture that frame classic Dutch skylines.
Old bridges and remaining ramparts offer vantage points for sweeping town and water views.
Golden-hour shots with boats and silhouettes against the river horizon.
Food in Goes
Goes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh Zeeland mussels cooked in white wine and herbs, a staple at harbor eateries.
Must-Try!
Battered fish bites served with garlic sauce or tartar sauce.
Fresh raw herring served with onions and pickles at fish stalls.
Sweet braided bread pastry commonly enjoyed with coffee.
Local Zeeland cheese, often found in market stalls and shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and local snacks.
Stalls by the harbor where you can sample mosselen, kibbeling, and other seafood treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a courteous 'Hallo' and a handshake; use 'u' (formal you) with strangers or elders in more formal settings.
Be punctual for meetings and reservations; keep conversations polite and respectful in public spaces.
Yield to pedestrians, signal when turning, and ring the bell when passing along shared paths.
Safety
Tipping in Goes
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still usable, and ATMs are common in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with pleasant temperatures; outdoor terraces, markets, and harbor activities are in full swing. Expect crowds near peak coastal routes but plenty of sunshine for outdoor photography.
Milder days with colorful foliage along canals and quiet streets; ideal for moody river shots and cozy cafe scenes.
Often chilly and windy with possible rain; festive lights and fewer tourists create a tranquil atmosphere—great for atmospheric street photography and warm indoor moments.
Blooming gardens and greener landscapes; waterways come alive with migratory birds—perfect for nature walks and bright city scenes.
Goes at Night
Hiking in Goes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal paths along the estuary with tidal flats, birdlife, and panoramic water views.
Lakeside paths around the Grevelingenmeer offering serene waterway hikes and sunset vistas.
Airports
How to reach Goes by plane.
Closest major airport with domestic and European connections; transfers to Goes by train or car.
Large international hub about a couple hours' drive or rail journey from Goes; many flight options.
Belgian airport within reach for short trips; good connections to the region.
Coastal option in Belgium; useful for occasional trips and easy access to Zeeland.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Dutch families and older adults, reflecting Zeeland’s regional character. A growing tourist presence year-round.
Seasonal influxes, especially in warmer months, attracted by seafood and coastal scenery.
Small international community drawn to Zeeland’s relaxed pace and natural beauty.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Zeeland’s coastal geography makes sailing and other watersports popular among locals and visitors.
Flat terrain and scenic routes make cycling a favorite pastime for residents and travelers alike.
Local clubs and school teams keep football a staple sport in the community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Goes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable dishes, dairy-based options, and eats featuring seasonal produce; many places can adapt seafood-focused dishes to be vegetarian.
Ask for gluten-free bread or pasta options; many restaurants can accommodate with notice or simple substitutions.