Historic Center of Gouda

Gouda Historic Center is a delightful Dutch city that offers a peek into the past with its medieval city center, charming canals, and stunning buildings. Famous for its cheese, Gouda is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, culture, and local food.

History

Gouda’s history goes back to the 12th century. Initially settled for its peat resources, the city grew as trade increased. A canal was dug to connect the river Gouwe to the old Rhine, boosting trade and transport. The city got its charter in the late 13th century, leading to more development and the construction of fortified castles. Despite fires, plagues, and wars, Gouda thrived, especially during the industrial revolution with candle-making factories and spinning mills.

How to Get There

Gouda is easily reachable by train from major cities like Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam. The train station is close to the city center, making it easy to explore on foot. For cyclists, there are well-marked bike lanes. Buses and taxis are also available, with taxi ranks at the station and in town.

List of Attractions

1. The Stadhuis (City Hall): This iconic Gothic building, built between 1300 and 1450, is one of the oldest town halls in the Netherlands. Its stunning architecture and historical significance make it a must-see.
2. The Cheese Market: Near the city hall, this historic building was once a cheese trading site. Now, it houses a small museum showcasing Gouda’s cheese history.
3. Museum Gouda: This museum features 16th-century altarpieces, 17th-century militia group portraits, and 19th-century French and Dutch paintings. It also has exhibits on Gouda pottery and the city’s history.
4. Museumhaven (Museum Harbour): Just outside the city center, this museum displays old ships and offers a unique look at Gouda’s maritime history.
5. Gouda Cheese Experience: This interactive journey takes visitors through the cheese-making process, including virtual milking and cheese tasting.
6. Windmills: Gouda has two beautiful windmills, ‘t Slot Mill and De Roode Leeuw (the Red Lion), which are worth seeing during a walk around the city.
7. Visbanken: This former fish market features two covered galleries from 1588 with natural stone columns, offering a glimpse into Gouda’s past.
8. Vrouwetoren: This tower, once part of a demolished church, now stands alone and offers a unique sight in the city.
9. Stroopwafels: Visit the Kamphuisen Siroopwafelfabriek to learn about the production of stroopwafels, a traditional Dutch cookie.
10. Antique Stores: Explore the antique and curiosa shops filled with unique items, including Gouda pottery.
11. Fair Trade Street: The Lange and Korte Groenendaal streets are the first fair trade street in the Netherlands, featuring shops offering sustainable products.
12. Courtyards: Enjoy lunch or high tea at Hofje van Jongkind, Relais & Châteaux Weeshuis Gouda, or Museum Gouda’s Cafe, which offer cozy settings with pleasant atmospheres.

Ticket Information

• Stadhuis (City Hall): Admission to the interior is recommended for its splendid architecture and historical significance. No specific ticket is required, but donations are appreciated.
• Museum Gouda: Tickets are required for entry, and prices vary depending on the exhibition. Check the museum’s website for the latest information.
• Gouda Cheese Experience: Tickets are required for entry, and prices include interactive activities and cheese tasting. Check the attraction’s website for the latest information.

Tips for Visiting

• Explore on Foot: The historic center is compact and easily explored on foot, allowing visitors to discover all the main attractions within a short ten-minute walk from the train station.
• Cheese Market: Visit the cheese market on Saturdays and Thursdays for a lively atmosphere and the opportunity to haggle for cheese.
• Stroopwafels: Try the traditional Dutch cookies at the Kamphuisen Siroopwafelfabriek or at the weekly market on Saturdays.
• Antique Stores: Browse the antique and curiosa shops for unique items, including Gouda pottery.
• Fair Trade Street: Explore the first fair trade street in the Netherlands for sustainable products and a unique shopping experience.
• Canal Tours: Take a SUP or canoe ride to explore Gouda from the water and navigate underneath houses in the oldest part of the city.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy lunch or high tea at one of the cozy cafes or restaurants in the town square, such as Restaurant Gewoon Gouds, which offers a beautiful view of the Stadhuis.
• Seasonal Markets: Check the local market schedules to catch the antique market on Wednesdays and the general market on Saturdays and Thursdays.