The best day trips from Rotterdam

The ancient city of Dordrecht

Dordrecht is officially a city since 1220, making it the oldest city in the former entity of Holland (not the Netherlands though). Due to its strategic position at the junction of rivers, the city played a key role in the trade of wood, cereals and wine during the Middle-Ages. To this day, you can see lavish mansions, the typical Dordrecht facades, countless monuments, old warehouses and water towers.

Dordrecht can easily be discovered by foot. Monuments like the Great Church and the Augustine monastery ‘Het Hof’ tell the tale of the city’s wealth and history. Stroll around the old inner city harbours, cruise along the rivers’ intersection and visit the ‘Huis van Gijn’, the former mayor’s house, to see its lavish interior, giving a good idea of the key role Dordrecht played back in the day.

Taste scrumptious Stroopwafels and Cheese in Gouda

Gouda is all about tasty foods. Located less than 25 kilometres away from Rotterdam, Gouda is the ideal destination to visit while staying there. Here you can experience from up close how Dutch delights like Stroopwafels and Gouda cheese became favourite foods and treats all around the world.

Learn all about the history of the famous Gouda Cheese at the Gouda Cheese Experience. The fascinating and interactive journey takes you through the golden yellow universe. Every Thursday, you can furthermore witness a traditional cheese market where the cheese briquettes are pulled to the Weigh House by horses and weighed in the original scales in De Goudse Waag. Taste the original Gouda, we promise you won’t be disappointed!

To satisfy your sweet tooth, visit the Kamphuisen Syrup Waffle factory and treat yourself to an original Kamphuisen stroopfwafel, based on the secret recipe from 1810. Once inside, you’ll be mesmerized by the sweet fragrance of freshly baked waffles. Discover the family’s legacy with a guided tour and be the first to taste new syrup flavours.