Gouda

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Gouda's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Gouda Cheese Tour
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Gouda Cheese Market to see the vibrant atmosphere and learn about cheese production. Sample various Gouda cheeses directly from the vendors.

afternoon
:

Explore the historical Gouda Museum to discover the city’s rich cultural heritage. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, trying some Gouda specialties.

evening
:

Take a stroll along the picturesque canals as the sun sets, capturing beautiful photos. Conclude your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant, savoring local dishes.

day 2
Historic Gouda
morning
:

Visit the St. Janskerk, famous for its stunning stained glass windows, and learn about its historical significance. Spend some time in the adjacent churchyard for a peaceful break.

afternoon
:

Wander through the charming old town, stopping by the town hall and the market square. Indulge in some traditional Dutch pancakes for lunch.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxed evening at a local bar, sampling Dutch beers and enjoying the company of locals. Take in the atmosphere of Gouda as the town lights up at night.

day 3
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with a refreshing bike ride through the lush green fields surrounding Gouda. Enjoy the scenic views and fresh air as you explore the Dutch countryside.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Reeuwijkse Plassen for some serene lake views and a picnic lunch by the water. Engage in activities like kayaking or simply relaxing on the shore.

evening
:

Return to Gouda and dine at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the stunning sunset. Wrap up your day with a leisurely walk through the peaceful streets.

day 4
Art and Culture Day
morning
:

Kick off your day at the Gouda Museum, exploring exhibitions on local art and history. Spend time appreciating the work of local artists and temporary exhibitions.

afternoon
:

Visit the Waag, where you can learn about the history of cheese trading in Gouda. Enjoy lunch at the nearby cafes with a focus on art-inspired dishes.

evening
:

Check if there are any live performances or art events happening and enjoy cultural entertainment. Dine at a trendy restaurant, discovering contemporary cuisine.

day 5
Water Adventures
morning
:

Start your day with a boat tour of Gouda’s beautiful canals, experiencing the city from a new perspective. Take in the sights while learning about its history from your guide.

afternoon
:

After the boat tour, stop for lunch at a canal-side café. Spend the rest of the afternoon visiting local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Enjoy dining at a restaurant with a view of the water, indulging in fresh seafood dishes. End your day with a drink by the canals, reflecting on your experience.

day 6
Active Gouda
morning
:

Begin by hiking in the nearby nature reserves to enjoy the pleasant landscapes and fresh air. Look out for local wildlife as you explore the trails.

afternoon
:

Refuel with a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by nature’s beauty. Try your hand at some sports available in the area, such as cycling or jogging.

evening
:

Return to the city for a hearty dinner at a restaurant specializing in local cuisine. Spend your evening at a fitness center or unwind at your accommodation.

day 7
Shopping and Dining
morning
:

Explore the local boutiques and shops in the city center, hunting for unique gifts and souvenirs. Interact with local artisans and learn about their crafts.

afternoon
:

Take a break at a café, enjoying a cup of coffee with a slice of traditional Dutch cake. Continue shopping or visit any local markets that may be open.

evening
:

Find a trendy restaurant for dinner where you can indulge in international dishes. Consider ending the night with a sweet treat from a local pastry shop.

day 8
Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
morning
:

Take a short train or bus ride to explore nearby towns such as Delft or Utrecht. Experience the local sights and historic landmarks.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local eatery in the nearby town, sampling regional specialties. Spend time visiting museums or parks to soak in the culture.

evening
:

Return to Gouda, stopping at a local bar for drinks and mingling with residents. Have a relaxing dinner, recapping your day's adventures.

day 9
Local Events and Festivals
morning
:

Check if any local events or festivals are happening during your visit. Participate in the festivities and engage with locals.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at food stalls featured at the event, tasting diverse dishes representing Dutch culture. Take part in games or workshops offered at the festival.

evening
:

Experience evening entertainment provided by local artists or musicians. Savor dinner at a nearby restaurant, enjoying a lively atmosphere.

day 10
Photography Day
morning
:

Walk through the picturesque streets of Gouda, capturing its beautiful architecture and vibrant colors. Head to popular spots like the market square for stunning shots.

afternoon
:

Visit some lesser-known areas of the city for unique photography opportunities. Enjoy a lunch break at a café, where you can share your favorite shots so far.

evening
:

End the day by photographing the sunset over the canals, capturing the magical colors of dusk. Conclude with dinner, sharing photos with your dining companions.

Discover Gouda

Read more in our Gouda 2024 Travel Guide.

Gouda Travel Guide