Woerden is a small town in the province of Utrecht, and it doesn’t appear in many guidebooks. That is exactly why the things to do in woerden make a good day out: it is quiet, easy to walk and full of Dutch detail. Here is what to see and how to spend a few hours.
The castle
Woerden Castle, in the heart of the town, is surrounded by a moat and stands beside a bridge and cafés. It has a long history as part of regional defences. Parts of the building are open for visits and exhibitions at set times, so check before you go. Even from outside it makes a lovely backdrop for a walk.
Wander the old town
The old centre is small and pleasant. Walk the canal-side streets, browse small shops and visit the town square. Look for historic houses and bridges, and stop for coffee in a café by the water.
Cheese market
Cheese is part of local identity. If you can, time your visit for the market; our German post on the Käsemarkt Woerden tells you more, and the Dutch cheese market article compares it with larger markets.
Cycle the countryside
The landscape around Woerden is a typical Dutch polder, with meadows, ditches and farms. Cycling routes link villages and are well signposted. Rental bikes are available in the area; ask at the station or tourist information.
Eat and drink
- Coffee and apple pie in a canal-side café
- Cheese sandwiches and local snacks
- Pancakes at a lunch spot
- Dinner at a restaurant with regional produce
- Local beer or a glass of wine on a terrace
Getting there
By train it takes about half an hour from Utrecht and slightly longer from Leiden or The Hague, usually with a change. If you are coming from Amsterdam, plan about an hour or so depending on the connection, and check the journey planner. See also our train from Amsterdam to the Hague post for general rail tips.
When to go
Spring and summer are best, when terraces are open and the fields are green. Autumn is quiet and pretty. In winter, expect short days but cosy cafés.
Combine with other trips
Woerden fits well into a day with Utrecht, Gouda or Leiden. If you like history, read about pilgrims in Leiden. For a German-language overview, see Woerden Niederlande.
Summary
Woerden is easy, calm and genuine. See Woerden on Wikipedia for background. More guides on invisionfree.com.
