Say Cheese! Discover the magic of the Gouda Cheese Market
Every Thursday between April and August, something special happens in Gouda's market square. While the medieval town hall stands proudly in the middle of the square, dozens of golden yellow cheeses roll to their places for a centuries-old tradition: the world-famous Gouda Cheese Market. Whether you are a true cheese lover or just curious about typical Dutch history - this market is an absolute must-see!
Rewind to the past
The history of the Gouda Cheese Market dates back to 1198. Gouda then received the so-called 'staple right' to cheese, which meant that all cheese from the region had to be traded in Gouda. Soon Gouda grew into the cheese city of the Netherlands. Today, hundreds of years later, this rich tradition still lives on in exactly the same place.
The Cheese Market starts at 10.00 am with the ringing of a bell, after which the spectacle begins. In traditional costume, farmers and traders still negotiate the same way as in the past: with the famous clapping of hands. With each clap, they shout a price until they shake hands and a deal is done. The lively atmosphere, the laughter and cheers of the crowd, and the shouting of prices make the traditional Cheese Market an unforgettable experience.
A colourful spectacle
The cheese girls, dressed in cheerful blue dresses and white hats, welcome visitors with a broad smile. All over the square, round cheeses are neatly arranged, waiting to be weighed in the historic Gouda Weigh House. This scale dates back to 1668 and was used for centuries to officially weigh cheeses before they were sold. On market days, this ritual revives, complete with cheese carriers deftly placing the heavy cheeses from the cart onto the scales.
Not only cheese lovers are in for a treat; around the market you will find various stalls with traditional Dutch crafts. Watch a clog maker make a pair of wooden shoes from a single block of wood, or admire how a candle maker dips candles. Moreover, you can taste delicious local specialities such as farmers' cheese, stroopwafels and many more delicacies from the region.
Dive even deeper into the cheese adventure
Did your visit to the Cheese Market make you curious about the fascinating world of cheese? Then dive even deeper into the history of this typically Dutch product at the Gouda Cheese Experience, an interactive cheese experience in the heart of Gouda. Here you will playfully discover the complete story behind Gouda cheese: from cow to cheeseboard. Experience how cheese is made and matured, and of course taste what it tastes like. Do not wait any longer and buy your tickets today, because there is nothing better than experiencing for yourself why Gouda and cheese are inseparable!
Double the fun with cheese and syrup waffles!
Want to get even more out of your day in Gouda? Then choose a combined ticket with the Kamphuisen Siroopwaffle Factory. In addition to the Cheese Experience, you will then also gain access to Gouda's tastiest factory. Watch how the famous syrup waffles are baked and, of course, taste a freshly baked warm syrup waffle yourself. Double your enjoyment of two authentic Gouda specialities at an attractive price - that sounds irresistible, doesn't it? Book your combi ticket now and make a wonderful day of it!
