Trip report continued...
Thursday - Had an amazing breakfast at our hotel and headed over to the weekly cheese market in the town square. In addition to the horse carts bringing in cheese to weigh, there were many other market stalls selling hot food, vegetables, clothing, etc. Went inside the Town Hall for a great view of everything. Headed over to the cathedral for their rooftop walk. Highly recommend as the views were fantastic. We then headed to Utrecht by train (20 minutes away) for dinner at Blauw, a well-reviewed Indonesian restaurant with another location in Amsterdam. We loved the meal and wandered through Utrecht's double decker canals eating ice cream. Took the train back to Gouda.
Friday - Took the train and then bus to Keukenhof Gardens (easy to get there). Had an 11:30 entry time, but arrived at 10:45 and they let us in. We stayed until 7 pm and I loved every minute. We saw every square inch and also took the boat ride through the tulip fields. The food was good in the garden. If you want to see my photos, let me know and I'll share my Instagram details. Took the train back to Gouda but got burritos at the train station in Leiden which we ate at our hotel.
Saturday - Visited a dear friend in Den Bosch, so got a personalized tour and family visit. Den Bosch is a lovely historic town with an amazing cathedral (try to find the gargoyle with the mobile phone). Took the train to/from Gouda to Den Bosch. Had dinner in Gouda on the main square - good was forgettable.
Sunday - Checked out of Gouda and went to Amsterdam, again by train. Stayed at The Times Hotel in a loft family room with a view directly on Herrengracht. Did the canal self-guided walking tour from Frommer's in the afternoon and had dinner at the Food Halle (amazing tacos). I should note that we have been to Amsterdam many times in the past, so just really wanted to stroll.
Monday - checked out of our hotel and left the baggage at the front desk. Had brunch (chicken and waffles) at Staring at Jacob (amazing). Spent the rest of the day roaming around the Jordaan, taking pictures of wisteria and almshouses. Made a quick stop at Tony Chocolonley (if you know, you know). Took the train to the airport a 6 pm for our 8 pm flight. Airport requires masks as does the aircraft. Arrived in Vienna late and the authorities were only randomly checking COVID documents (we were not checked).
Some observations - The trains are on time and a great way to get around. We never felt that we needed a car. We loved staying in Gouda and will probably use it as a base again. For me it is always all about the hotel and we were incredibly happy with both of our hotel choices. The food in the Netherlands is not my jam, but we enjoyed eating great tacos and chicken and waffles. I did love the Siroopwaffles from Gouda's Kamphuisen factory. Keukenhof is not to be missed in the Spring.
