This is why the world melts for Gouda cheese

From Dutch meadows to global fame

The story of Gouda cheese begins centuries ago in the polders around the city. Farmers were already making cheese here in the Middle Ages, selling their wheels at the famous cheese market. Thanks to Dutch trading ships, Gouda traveled to ports in England, Scandinavia, and beyond. Its mild, creamy flavor quickly won hearts everywhere, and its reputation has only grown stronger through the centuries.

Today, the name “Gouda” appears on cheese across every continent, sometimes even on products made thousands of kilometers away from the Netherlands. Tasty? Perhaps. Authentic? That’s another question.

Why Gouda feels different in… Gouda

Walking through Gouda, you notice quickly that cheese here is so much more than just a product. At the monumental Waag, where cheeses were weighed and traded, you still sense history in every brick. But at the Gouda Cheese Experience, the story truly comes alive.

Here you don’t just look at exhibits, you step into an entire world. You can virtually milk a cow, press curds yourself, and discover in just 90 minutes how local farmers’ cheeses grew into a global icon. As international visitors often say, the best part is that you get to do things, not just watch.

The taste of authenticity

One of the biggest surprises for international guests is the tasting. While you may buy Gouda anywhere, a young or aged slice here tastes completely different. The secret lies in the blend of centuries-old tradition and modern craftsmanship. At the Gouda Cheese Experience, you taste multiple varieties side by side, uncovering just how diverse “Gouda” really is.

That’s the contrast that amazes so many visitors. Abroad, you often encounter only one type of Gouda, but here you explore the full spectrum: from mild and creamy young cheese to strong, aged wheels. Only then do you realize why this cheese is truly unique.

The lively tradition of the cheese market

If you want to go right back to the roots of Gouda, the historic cheese market is unmissable. Since the 14th century, farmers and traders have gathered here to weigh and sell their cheeses. Buyers and sellers sealed the price with the famous handclap ritual, a lively spectacle that’s still re-enacted today.

During the summer markets, the tradition continues. Stroll through Gouda’s historic center, see the wheels piled high on the square, and watch musicians, cheese carriers, and market criers bring history to life. For a moment, you’re part of the past.

A perfect day in Gouda

The Gouda Cheese Experience is an interactive attraction that fits perfectly into a day out in Gouda. Afterward, you can wander the city’s canals, visit the cheese market, or enjoy the cozy courtyards. It’s the ideal blend of taste and culture.

And if you’d like to prepare your visit, you’ll find answers to all your questions about the Gouda Cheese Experience.

Ready to taste the origin yourself?

Whether you’re from Brazil, Japan, the US, or Belgium, Gouda is worth the journey. Here you’ll experience the full story of this legendary cheese. And of course, you can take home a piece of real Gouda, a delicious contrast to what you find elsewhere.

Curious? Book your tickets for the Gouda Cheese Experience today and discover with your own eyes, hands, and taste buds why this cheese conquered the world and why you can only truly experience its origins here.

Do you still have questions or want to reach our team directly? Get in touch with us and we’ll be happy to help!