Things To Do
in Reeuwijk

World-famous cheese produced in the region—try young, aged and specialty varieties. Buy at Gouda’s cheese shops or the seasonal cheese market for tastings.

Must-Try!

Salted raw herring often served with onions and pickles from street vendors or fish shops in nearby towns; try the traditional way (by holding the tail) or in a sandwich (broodje haring).

Crispy, savory meat croquettes served in cafés and bars across the Netherlands—perfect with mustard and a local beer.

Small, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and butter—popular at markets and seasonal stalls in nearby towns.

Historic market in nearby Gouda (cheese market on certain mornings in summer) with stalls selling cheese, baked goods, produce and street snacks—excellent for sampling local products.

Regular market offering fresh produce, cheeses, fish and quick bites; a good local alternative to Gouda on market days.

The Dutch value punctuality—arrive on time for appointments and tours.

Expect clear, direct conversation; politeness with frankness is normal. Small talk is reserved for social contexts rather than service interactions.

Cyclists have priority on many paths—always look both ways and follow local cycling rules; avoid walking in cycle lanes.

In villages and residential areas keep noise down, especially evenings; the Dutch appreciate privacy and calm neighborhoods.

Tipping is modest—rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service in restaurants is appreciated but not obligatory. Cafés and casual spots often simply round up; tip taxi drivers and hotel porters a small amount for help.

Cards (contactless, Maestro, Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted; many Dutch shops and restaurants prefer card payments. Cash is still accepted but less common—carry small change for market stalls. Mobile pay (Apple/Google Pay) is increasingly supported.

Mild temperatures, blooming fields and bird migration—ideal for hiking, cycling and photography; some evenings can be chilly and changeable rain showers are possible.

Warmest time for boating, swimming and long daylight hours; lakeside terraces are busy and water sports facilities operate in full; pack sun protection and insect repellent for reed areas.

Crisp air and colorful foliage in woods and reedbeds; quieter crowds and good conditions for birdwatching and reflective lake shots—bring layered clothing for variable conditions.

Cold and damp with short daylight hours; some years the lakes may freeze for traditional skating (weather-dependent). Many outdoor facilities close or reduce hours—dress warmly and expect occasional snow or frost.

Looped walks along the lake edges and between observation points—short to moderate routes with birdwatching hides and scenic benches.

A rich wetland reserve with boardwalks and guided nature trails a short drive away—excellent for longer hikes, canoeing and marshland wildlife viewing.

Recently replanted woodland with networked trails for walking and cycling, offering peaceful forest hikes and seasonal blooms.

Rural walking routes connecting Reeuwijk to Gouda and neighboring villages—combine cultural stops with field and canal-side scenery.

Many households are Dutch families who enjoy village life, commute to nearby cities for work and use local amenities.

Reeuwijk attracts people who commute to Gouda, Rotterdam or The Hague due to its quieter living environment and good transport links.

The lakes and calm atmosphere make the area attractive to retirees and those seeking outdoor recreation.

Day-trippers and weekend visitors increase in summer for boating, picnics and nature activities.

Cycling is both recreation and transport—routes around the lakes and countryside are extremely popular for locals and visitors.

The Reeuwijkse Plassen attract small-sail and rowing clubs, dinghy sailing and leisure boating.

Local amateur football clubs are central to community sports and social life.

When winters are cold enough, frozen waterways and rinks attract skating—this is weather-dependent and not guaranteed every year.

Vegetarian options are widely available—Dutch cafés and restaurants commonly offer salads, egg-based dishes, cheese plates and vegetarian mains; always ask staff and look for clearly marked menu items.

Vegan choices are increasing but still limited in smaller villages—larger towns like Gouda or cities farther afield offer more vegan restaurants and grocery options; bring snacks for day trips.

Many cafés can accommodate gluten-free requests (bread alternatives, salads), but cross-contamination can occur; ask explicitly if you have celiac disease.

Staff are used to food requests; it helps to have key allergy phrases written in Dutch or use translation on your phone when ordering.