Things to do in Gouda
Discover the best attractions and experiences Gouda has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore Gouda's enduring architecture from medieval churches to historic civic buildings.
Sint Janskerk (St. John's Church)
A landmark church famous for its centuries-old stained glass.
Gouda City Hall (Stadhuis Gouda)
A Renaissance-era building at Markt that dominates the town square.
Kaaswaag (Cheese Weigh House)
Historic weigh house where the Gouda cheese market takes place.
Museums
Delve into Gouda's culture, history, and craftsmanship through its museums.
Stedelijk Museum Gouda
The city museum presenting Gouda's history and local art.
Kaas Experience Gouda
Interactive cheese-making demonstrations and tasting in Gouda's market area.
Religious Monuments
Historic churches and sacred sites that shape Gouda's skyline.
Sint Janskerk (St. John's Church)
Iconic church famed for its centuries-old stained glass.
Oude Kerk Gouda
Ancient church building offering a glimpse into Gouda's religious history.
National & Theme Parks
Natural escapes and family-friendly fun in the wider Randstad area.
Kinderdijk Windmills
Iconic UNESCO windmills set along a scenic canal.
De Biesbosch National Park
Freshwater tidal wetlands perfect for boat trips and hiking.
Duinrell Theme Park (Wassenaar)
Family-friendly rides and a modern water park near The Hague.
Neighborhoods
Wander Gouda's different quarters and local atmospheres.
Binnenstad (Old Town Gouda)
The historic city center with markets, lanes, and cafés.
Gouda Oost (East Quarter)
A residential area overlooking the surrounding landscapes.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Gouda without spending a euro and still soak up the atmosphere.
Market Square stroll
Take in the Markt square and admire the Stadhuis and church façades.
Canal-side walk
Follow the historic canals for easy, scenic views.
Gouda town lanes
Wander the cobbled streets and peek into small courtyards.
Gastronomy
Taste Gouda’s most famous product and Dutch treats.
Kaasmarkt tasting (Cheese Market)
Watch the cheese market and sample local Gouda cheese.
Cheese shop tasting
Sample a range of Gouda cheeses at a local cheesemonger.
Stroopwafel at a bakery
Try fresh stroopwafels and regional pastries.
Nightlife
Relaxed bars and cozy spots to end an evening in Gouda.
Market-area pubs
Casual bars lining Gouda’s central squares.
Cafés along the canals
Chill cafés with local craft drinks.
Entertainment
Cultural venues and performances in Gouda.
Gouda Theatre / Schouwburg area
Live performances and screenings in the town.
Cinema events at local venues
Seasonal film screenings and arts programs.
Sports
Get active around Gouda with outdoor and indoor options.
Benthuizen golf course
Playable greens near Gouda for a round of golf.
Bike along Gouda-area trails
Flat, scenic rides through windmill landscapes and polders.
Off the Track
Uncover hidden gems and local perspectives beyond the guidebooks.
Visit a traditional cheese farm nearby
See how Gouda-style cheese is made and aged.
Hidden courtyards and street art stroll
Seek out tucked-away courtyards and artistic corners.