The best things are right here!
From the stroopwafel baker around the corner, to the local brewer, and the chocolate artisan with a studio tucked away in a side street. Get to know them: the artisanal makers and entrepreneurs of Gouda who truly know their craft. Discover how traditional techniques are still very much alive, with a passion for craftsmanship and purity in every local product.
Siroopwafels: Crispy waffles from Gouda
A legendary treat, that’s the siroopwafel: crispy, sticky, and irresistible. With every bite of a stroopwafel at Kamphuisen Siroopwafelfabriek, you can taste Gouda. Here you can buy traditional stroopwafels made according to a centuries-old recipe, and children can discover stroopwafel secrets. Or stroll past the Markus stroopwafel wall and grab a warm waffle on the go. Finally, there’s Berg’s Bakery, known for authentic Van Vliet stroopwafels, stroopwafel liqueur, and the unmissable stroopwafel workshop during the Gouda Cheese Market.
Gouda Cheese: the most aromatic cheese shops in
Gouda cheese is world-famous, and naturally, Gouda is home to authentic cheese shops and cheese houses, with shelves full of unique farm cheeses and flavorful varieties. Visit Kaaswinkel Gouda on the Markt for a top selection of farm cheeses from farms in the Gouda area. Or step inside ’t Kaaswinkeltje, housed in a charming little Gouda building and selling dozens of types of regional cheeses. Say Cheese Gouda is also ready to serve you with unique cheeses and local specialties. Just like the Gouds Kaashuis, a classic cheese shop in the city center offering Gouda cheeses, complementary products, and gift sets.
Chocolate made with love in Gouda
Small chocolate shops where artisans hand-fill bonbons and carefully assemble bars. You’ll find them in Gouda! Chocoladeatelier PUUR on Naaierstraat, for example, demonstrates that cacao from afar pairs perfectly with local craftsmanship. PUUR uses Valrhona chocolate as its base—the Rolls Royce of the chocolate market—for bonbons and chocolate art. Olala Chocola is also known for its artisanal chocolate creations, refined bonbons, and the best whipped cream truffles. Both chocolate makers host sweet workshops.
The best bakeries for artisanal bread, pastries, and cakes
Freshly baked stone-oven bread, crispy croissants, and richly filled cakes: Gouda is full of bakeries that know what true craftsmanship is all about. For those with a real sweet tooth, Banketbakkerij Van Dijk is a must-visit, known for its famous bear’s paws filled with creamy whipped cream. Banketbakkerij De Vlaam also offers an extensive selection, from cherry pastries to festive themed cakes. Those who want to enjoy pastries with coffee in a cozy setting should head to Banketbakkerij Tearoom Herfst, while Lente Vegan Patisserie conjures up refined vegan creations from the oven. And your mouth will surely water at the sight of Bakery Nour’s display case, featuring colorful macarons and the most delicious Moroccan treats.
, a traditionally brewed Gouda beer. As far back as the Middle Ages, Gouda was known for its beer. When clean drinking water was scarce, beer was brewed and consumed daily. Millions of liters. That rich beer culture is still alive today. You can see it at Bunniks Beer Brewery, where beer is brewed using traditional methods; you can taste it during tastings and buy it. Such as the Black Bounty, Blondje, or Goudse Kuit beer, a historic Dutch beer. You can also buy Goudse Kuit beer at Slijterij Den Gouwen Aar, a store stocked with no fewer than 1,000 different beers and featuring a tasting room. Cheers!
Artisanal ice cream made in Gouda
Gouda is home to gelaterias and ice cream shops where Italian craftsmanship blends with local flavors. David’s Gelato offers more than 300 flavors made with 100% organic milk from farmer Anton in Reeuwijk. Of course, there’s stroopwafel ice cream. Another ice-cold, great tip is IJssalon Luciano on Agnietenstraat, which has mastered the art of ice cream making to perfection. And if you’re hopping on your bike toward the Reeuwijkse Plassen? Then stop by Opa Antonio, a local favorite for a summer scoop of ice cream.
Delicatessens & artisanal eateries
Feeling the Mediterranean vibe?Adriatika Delicatessen will delight you with 800 products that will make you long for the warm south. Meat products, cheeses, tapas, sandwiches—everything is equally delicious. For classic Italian delicacies, head to the Deli Megusto shop and tasting room, beloved for itsfreshpastas, olive oils, the finest balsamic vinegar, and stuffed ravioli featuring ingredients like lime zest and ricotta.
Whether you’re looking for luxurious culinary experiences, fun food outings with friends, or sustainable, local products, Gouda is the place to be. Plan a tasty exploration of the city center, starting at the Markt, and let yourself be tempted by artisanal spots in the surrounding medieval streets!
