By Anastasia Zoldak
The Gouda city hall towers over the renowned city of cheese
For over 800 years, Gouda has been famous as a cheese-making city. Its moist climate is ideal for making the soft and flavorful cheese that carries the Gouda name. Located about 15 miles northeast of Rotterdam, Gouda has long been making cheese as well as pottery and has become one of the most interesting tourist destinations in the Netherlands.
Spring
Signs of spring begin to show around the end of March, when the average temperature in Gouda rises to 55 degrees F (13 degrees C). By April, the weather is warm enough for daffodils. In May, tulip season is on its way. Visitors to the Gouda in the spring can expect scattered showers which, at times, become violent storms.
Summer
Visitors to Gouda in the summer can expect comfortable temperatures throughout the season. The Netherlands are located along the southern shores of the North Sea, where the temperatures average around 68 degrees F (20 degrees C) during the summer. This average does not mean that summer temperatures are constant in Gouda. Temperatures can range from about 90 degrees F (32 degrees C) down to the much cooler 60s F.
Autumn/Winter
Autumn is a very changeable season in Gouda, with temperatures varying from warm to quite cool. Rain is quite common in the fall. By early winter, air temperatures drop to an average of 40 degrees F (4 degrees C) to 30 degrees F (-1 degree C). It is not unheard of to see the canals frozen at this time of year. Travelers can try the Dutch custom of skating on the canals, is a popular winter pastime.
Precipitation
The rainfall in the Netherlands is so common that there is even a term for it, "Dutch Drizzle." It rains regularly in Gouda, but visitors should be aware that the month of July is the wettest month with rainfall averaging around 2 inches (5 cm). Travelers to Gouda should expect rain and bring a light jacket and an umbrella.
Best Time to Travel
The best time to visit Gouda is during the summer months, when temperatures are not too hot and one can visit the outdoor Cheese Market in comfort. Bicycle trips through the countryside, or a canal-boat trip, all require warmer temperatures. Expect rain on your trip and pack accordingly during any season. Flower enthusiasts should consider visiting in the spring, when the bulb flowers bloom even in cooler temperatures.
About the Author:
Anastasia Zoldak is an experienced freelance writer and researcher based in Chicago. She has been a professional writer since 2007. Zoldak has an undergraduate degree in business, which she has used in a variety of industries, including retail, sales and recruiting. Prior to becoming a writer, she ran a successful business.
Photo Credits:
gouda cityhall image by Jeroen de Haan from
Fotolia.com