Top 10 best things to do in waddinxveen

  1. Stroll along the Gouwe River The Gouwe River flows gracefully through Waddinxveen, offering stunning views and peaceful walking paths. Grab a coffee from a nearby café and take in the sights of charming boats gliding by. If you’re lucky, you might spot traditional Dutch barges still in use!
  2. Visit the Brugkerk This iconic church, with its striking architecture, is a must-see. The Brugkerk dates back to the 17th century and is perched right next to a historic drawbridge. Step inside to admire its serene interior and learn about its fascinating history.
  3. Discover Coenecoop College Windmill Waddinxveen is home to several windmills, but the Coenecoop College Windmill stands out for its unique placement near a modern school. It’s a perfect spot for a photo and a reminder of how tradition and modernity coexist in the Netherlands.
  4. Explore the Reeuwijkse Plassen Just a stone’s throw from Waddinxveen, these beautiful lakes are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the scenery. The network of lakes is surrounded by quaint cottages and birdlife, making it a nature lover’s paradise.
  5. Cycle through the Green Heart Rent a bike and embark on a scenic ride through the lush fields, canals, and quaint villages of the Green Heart. The flat terrain makes cycling here accessible for everyone, and you’ll find plenty of picturesque spots for a picnic.
  6. Shop at Gouweplein Gouweplein is the vibrant shopping hub of Waddinxveen. Here, you’ll find everything from local boutiques to cozy cafes. Don’t miss the opportunity to try fresh stroopwafels at one of the bakeries.
  7. Take a boat tour See Waddinxveen from a different perspective by hopping on a boat tour. Glide through its waterways, hear local stories, and admire the beauty of the town from the water.
  8. Relax at park Triangel This urban park is ideal for families and travelers looking to unwind. With playgrounds, walking trails, and picnic spots, it’s a lovely place to spend an afternoon.
  9. Taste local cuisine Stop by one of Waddinxveen’s eateries for authentic Dutch cuisine. Many restaurants offer seasonal menus featuring fresh ingredients from nearby farms. Don’t leave without trying a plate of bitterballen or some creamy Dutch cheese.
  10. Experience the weekly market Every Friday, Waddinxveen comes alive with its weekly market. Browse stalls brimming with fresh produce, flowers, and traditional Dutch snacks. It’s a lively spot to mingle with locals and enjoy the community vibe.

Best places to stay

You probably want to stay in Gouda as it’s adjacent to Waddinxveen and gives you much more options. The best places to stay are Relais & Châteaux Weeshuis Gouda (very charming) and Betty Blue Bed & Breakfast for travellers and for business visits Campanile Hotel & Restaurant Gouda. For those traveling with family, renting a holiday home near the Reeuwijkse Plassen provides both space and stunning natural surroundings.

Food and local specialties

While Waddinxveen itself is a quiet town, it benefits from its proximity to famous Dutch culinary traditions. Some must-try specialties include:

  • Stroopwafels – A delicious Dutch caramel waffle, often found at local markets.
  • Gouda cheese – Waddinxveen is right next to Gouda, the world-famous cheese capital. Be sure to visit a local cheesemonger.
  • Dutch pancakes (Pannenkoeken) – Try a traditional Dutch pancake restaurant for a sweet or savory treat.
  • Bitterballen – These deep-fried meat snacks pair perfectly with a local beer at one of the town’s cozy cafés.

Events and festivals

Waddinxveen has a lively community that hosts various events throughout the year, including:

  • Waddinxveen’s Summer Fair – A mix of food stalls, live music, and funfair attractions.
  • Waddinxveen Run – A popular running event that attracts participants from all over the country.
  • Christmas Market in Gouweplein – A cozy market with festive lights, seasonal treats, and local crafts.

A bit of history

Waddinxveen dates back to the 13th century when it was established as a peat farming settlement. The town grew significantly during the industrial revolution, benefiting from its strategic location along the Gouwe River. Today, Waddinxveen is a modern town with a strong connection to its historical roots, visible in its iconic bridges and well-preserved polder landscape.

Things to do in the area

  • Visit Gouda – Just 10 minutes away, famous for its cheese market and historic center.
  • Explore the Reeuwijkse Plassen – A beautiful lake area for boating and swimming.
  • Leiden – The historic city Leiden with canals, museums, and vibrant nightlife, just 25 minutes away.
  • Rotterdam – A modern city with world-famous architecture, shopping, and culture, just 20 minutes away.

How to get there from Amsterdam

Getting to Waddinxveen from Amsterdam is a breeze. Hop on a train from Amsterdam Central Station to Gouda (also a fun city to visit with a nice cheese market), and from there, it’s a quick 10-minute train ride to Waddinxveen. The total journey takes about an hour, making it a perfect day trip or weekend escape. If you prefer to drive, the trip takes roughly 45 minutes via the A12 highway. Either way, the journey through the Dutch countryside is as enjoyable as the destination itself.