Private Tour of Gouda and Gouda Cheese Tasting
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is a combination of a private walking tour and a Gouda cheese tasting.
During the tour, you will discover the charm of Gouda's old city center, together with our guide. You'll get to know the history of Gouda and hear stories about the city's town hall, churches, canals, old facades and much more.
This tour will end with a cheese tasting of the famous Gouda cheese. You will try four different types of the cheese, paired with good wine (or something else, if you don't like wine!).
If you have a custom request, or special interests, just let us know. Tot ziens!
Available options
Spanish. With pick-up/drop-off
Including 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.<br/>Pickup included
Italian. With pick-up/drop-off
Including 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.<br/>Pickup included
Dutch. With pick-up/drop-off
Including 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.<br/>Pickup included
English. With pick-up/drop-off
Including 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.<br/>Pickup included
English. Start in Gouda
Spanish. Start in Gouda
French. Start in Gouda
French. With pick-up/drop-off
Including 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.<br/>Pickup included
German. Start in Gouda
German. With pick-up/drop-off
Including 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.<br/>Pickup included
Dutch. Start in Gouda
Italian. Start in Gouda
What's included
Gouda Cheese Tasting (with paired wine)
All Fees and Taxes
Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off by car (if the option is booked)
1.5 Hour Private Walking Tour
Detailed itinerary
1
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.
2
And of course, you'll see the charming gothic town hall of Gouda and you'll learn more about its history and significance. If it is open, you can also enter with your guide. This is not every day and it depends on certain events.
3
Stop 3
This is the longest (not tallest!) church of the Netherlands, with the first building phase starting in 1272! Walk around it and learn more about the building, its history its significance.
4
Stop 4
You'll see the former St-Catharine's guest house that now houses Museum Gouda.
5
Right next to the oldest lock of the Netherlands are the Fish banks. This 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.
6
You will end this tour at Gouda's Kaasbar. Here you will get a cheese tasting of 4 different Gouda cheeses, paired with wine.
What's not included
Gratuities (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
NL
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
The tour starts in the middle of Gouda, right in front of Gouda's old cheese weighing house: De Goudse Waag.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
