Gouda Cheese and Delft Blue: Full-Day Private Tour

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About this experience

On this full-day private tour, you’ll explore two quintessentially Dutch towns, each with its own unique story. In Delft, the birthplace of Vermeer and home of Delft Blue pottery, you stroll along tranquil canals and past centuries-old façades as our guide brings the city’s history to life. From William of Orange to the Dutch Golden Age. Visit the Royal Delft Museum and the city’s churches, and enjoy a relaxed lunch on a picturesque square.

In Gouda, you’ll walk through medieval streets and over the lively market square, admire the iconic 15th-century Town Hall, and marvel at the stained-glass masterpieces of St. John’s Church. Learn about the city’s rich mercantile past at the old weighing house, where you’ll also enjoy a cheese tasting of Gouda’s most famous product.

This tour includes lunch, museum and church admissions, a cheese tasting, two short tuk-tuk rides, and transfers between the two cities. You can start in either Delft or Gouda. And as always: you determine the pace.

Available options

English. Pick-up and drop-off

With pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards. Pickup included

German. Start in Delft

Starting point: Hugo Grotius Statue, GW, Markt, 2611 GW Delft, Netherlands

English. Start in Delft

Starting point: Hugo Grotius Statue, GW, Markt, 2611 GW Delft, Netherlands

Spanish. Start in Gouda

Starting point: De Goudse Waag, Markt 35, 2801 JK Gouda, Netherlands

French. Start in Gouda

Starting point: De Goudse Waag, Markt 35, 2801 JK Gouda, Netherlands

German. Start in Gouda

Starting point: De Goudse Waag, Markt 35, 2801 JK Gouda, Netherlands

English. Start in Gouda

Starting point: De Goudse Waag, Markt 35, 2801 JK Gouda, Netherlands

French. Start in Delft

Starting point: Hugo Grotius Statue, GW, Markt, 2611 GW Delft, Netherlands

Dutch. Start in Gouda

Starting point: De Goudse Waag, Markt 35, 2801 JK Gouda, Netherlands

Spanish. Pick-up and drop-off

With pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards. Pickup included

Spanish. Start in Delft

Starting point: Hugo Grotius Statue, GW, Markt, 2611 GW Delft, Netherlands

French. Pick-up and drop-off

With pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards. Pickup included

Italian. Start in Delft

Starting point: Hugo Grotius Statue, GW, Markt, 2611 GW Delft, Netherlands

Italian. Pick-up and drop-off

With pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards. Pickup included

German. Pick-up and drop-off

With pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards. Pickup included

Italian. Start in Gouda

Starting point: De Goudse Waag, Markt 35, 2801 JK Gouda, Netherlands

Dutch. Start in Delft

Starting point: Hugo Grotius Statue, GW, Markt, 2611 GW Delft, Netherlands

What's included

Entrance tickets to Old Church and New Church (when open)

Lunch in Delft is included

2 Private City Tours

Gouda Cheese Tasting is included

Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off by car (if the option is booked)

Entrance tickets to Royal Delft museum / factory

All Fees and Taxes

The short transfer between the cities is done either by train or by car.

Detailed itinerary

The tour starts at the historical weighing house of Gouda. For centuries, this is where farmers from the wide area used to come to get their cheese weighed on market days.

You'll see the charming gothic town hall of Gouda and you';; learn more about its history and significance.

Stop 3

This is the longest (not tallest!) church of the Netherlands, with the first building phase starting in 1272! Learn more about the building, its history and historical significance.

Stop 4

You'll see the former St-Catharine's guest house that now houses Museum Gouda.

De Visbanken is an area in Gouda where fish used to be cleaned and prepared, already from 1588!

Learn about this charming place and enjoy the view.

You and your guide will now enter the Cheese Weighing House and learn all about the building and Gouda's most famous product. This visit also includes a cheese tasting.

On your way yo Station Gouda, you will see some more charming streets, and the city's outer canal

After a transfer of 38 minutes, you will arrive in Delft.

We will first make our way to the Beestenmarkt, a former market square for animal markets. Here you will have lunch with your guide. Two drinks per person are also included.

Here in the center of the city, we will find The second-tallest church of The Netherlands! Do you know who's buried underneath? I'll tell you all about it. Also learn about that statue of a man, and the stunning old town hall.

Stop 11

We are now in the old beer brewing quarter of Delft. Where did the brewers go? We will also see the Old Church, perhaps the most recognizable building of the city. How old is it exactly and why is it so skewed? Who knows.

Stop 12

This place has played a deciding role in Dutch history. The Father of the Fatherland was assassinated here! Let's find out more about it.

On our way down the Oude Delft canal, we will pass by a heavily decorated facade, that of the Gemeenlandshuis. What is this building and why was it so important?

Stop 14

You will make your way to the south of the city. We will pass by a large former weapons Armory of the V.O.C. Let's find out more about Delft's role in the golden days of the Dutch Republic. Also around here, we can take a look at the exact spot where Vermeer was standing when he made his painting 'View of Delft'.

Stop 15

You will be transferred to the Royal Delft Museum/Factory, just outside the city center. Entrance tickets are included.

What's not included

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR NL ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

4 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

If you choose to start in Delft, you will meet your guide next to the statue of Hugo Grotius. This is in front of the New Church, on the central market square. The tour will end in Gouda.

About Gouda

Gouda, a charming city in South Holland, is renowned for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and, of course, its famous cheese. The city's picturesque canals, historic market square, and vibrant cultural scene make it a delightful destination for travelers seeking a blend of tradition and modernity.

Top Attractions

Gouda Cheese Market

The Gouda Cheese Market is a historic and iconic event where cheese traders from around the Netherlands gather to sell and trade Gouda cheese. The market is a lively and colorful spectacle, with traditional costumes, cheese weighings, and cheese tastings.

Cultural 2-3 hours Free to attend, cheese prices vary

Gouda City Hall

Gouda City Hall is a stunning example of Dutch Renaissance architecture, built in the late 15th century. The building is famous for its beautiful stained-glass windows, which depict the coats of arms of the city's former mayors and guilds.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to enter, museum entry fee applies

St. John's Church

St. John's Church is a beautiful Gothic church that dates back to the 15th century. The church is known for its impressive architecture, including a towering spire and intricate carvings. The church also houses a collection of historic organs and a museum dedicated to the church's history.

Historical 1-2 hours Free to enter, tower climb and museum entry fees apply

Canal Tour

A canal tour is a relaxing and scenic way to explore Gouda's historic city center and its charming canals. The tours offer insights into the city's history, architecture, and culture, as well as the opportunity to see some of its most famous landmarks from the water.

Nature 1 hour €10-€15 per person

Museum Gouda

Museum Gouda is a museum dedicated to the city's history and culture. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, paintings, and exhibits that showcase the city's rich past, from its medieval origins to its modern-day identity as a center for cheese and craftsmanship.

Museum 1-2 hours €10-€15 per person

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gouda Cheese

Gouda is famous for its eponymous cheese, which is made from cow's milk and has a rich, nutty flavor. The cheese comes in various varieties, including young, aged, smoked, and flavored with herbs or spices.

Snack Contains dairy, may contain preservatives or additives in flavored varieties

Stroopwafels

Stroopwafels are thin, round waffle cookies filled with a sweet syrup. They are a popular Dutch treat and can be found in various flavors, including caramel, chocolate, and apple.

Dessert Contains wheat, eggs, and dairy, may contain nuts in some varieties

Erwtensoep

Erwtensoep is a hearty pea soup made with smoked sausage, potatoes, and vegetables. It is a traditional Dutch dish that is often enjoyed in the colder months.

Soup Contains meat, wheat, and dairy, may contain gluten

Bitterballen

Bitterballen are deep-fried meatballs made with a mixture of beef or veal, beef broth, and flour. They are typically served with mustard and are a popular Dutch bar snack.

Snack Contains meat, wheat, and dairy, may contain gluten

Popular Activities

Biking Canal Tours Canal-side dining Shopping for local crafts and souvenirs Visiting historic sites and landmarks Attending local festivals and events Ice Skating Christmas Markets

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the peak tourist season with pleasant weather, long daylight hours, and various festivals and events. The city is lively and vibrant, making it the best time to visit for those who enjoy warm weather and outdoor activities.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Gouda is a very safe city with a low crime rate. The city is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any destination, it's important to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas
• Be cautious when using ATMs, and avoid using them at night or in isolated areas
• Be wary of strangers offering services or goods, and always agree on a price before accepting a service

Getting there

By air

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 50 km from Gouda
Rotterdam The Hague Airport • 35 km from Gouda

By train

Gouda Station

By bus

Gouda Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system in Gouda is efficient and covers most parts of the city. Buses are a convenient way to get around, especially for those staying in the city center.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, TaxiApp

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Nieuwe Haven Waal

Day trips

Rotterdam

25 km from Gouda • Full day

Rotterdam is a vibrant and modern city known for its innovative architecture, museums, and maritime history. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the Erasmus Bridge, the Cube Houses, and the Maritime Museum.

The Hague

30 km from Gouda • Full day

The Hague is the political capital of the Netherlands and a city with a rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including the Peace Palace, the Mauritshuis Museum, and the Scheveningen Beach.

Delft

15 km from Gouda • Half day

Delft is a charming and historic town known for its beautiful canals, historic buildings, and famous Delftware pottery. The town is home to a variety of attractions, including the New Church, the Old Church, and the Vermeer Center.

Festivals

Gouda Cheese Market • Thursdays from April to August Gouda Christmas Market • Late November to early December Gouda Light Festival • Late January to early February

Pro tips

Visit the Gouda Cheese Market on a Thursday from April to August to experience the city's most iconic event and sample fresh Gouda cheese
Explore the city's historic sites and landmarks, such as the Gouda City Hall, St. John's Church, and Museum Gouda, to learn about the city's rich history and culture
Take a canal tour or leisurely walk along the canals to admire the city's beautiful architecture and scenic views
Dine at traditional Dutch restaurants and cafes to sample local cuisine and specialties, such as stroopwafels, erwtensoep, and bitterballen
Shop for local crafts, souvenirs, and traditional Dutch products at the various markets and shopping areas in the city center