netherlands windmills tour

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The ultimate guide to Zaanse Schans: visiting the windmills of Holland

In Zaanse Schans, you can experience what life was like back in the 18th and 19th centuries — full of life, windmills, and shops. We all know you’ve come for the windmills, though. 😉

Thinking of a day trip to Zaanse Schans ? Good, because there’s plenty to do here!

When you go to Zaanse Schans, you’ll be greeted by 11 different windmills and people’s beautiful little Dutch houses (yup, people still live there).

Not only that, but also lots of little shops, a bakery, cafes, a cheese factory, souvenir shops, and a clog warehouse. As a result, tourists flock to the area (so, be aware — it gets busy). It’s like a mini traditional Dutch village, a short train ride from Amsterdam .

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What to do in Zaanse Schans

There’s enough to do in Zaanse Schans that you can easily spend a whole day there. You can also combine this top spot with a trip to another iconic Dutch destination, like exploring the canal town of Giethoorn .

However, while you’re in Zaanse Schans, here are the things you won’t want to miss:

The windmills at Zaanse Schans

There are 11 different windmills that you can explore in Zaanse Schans. Here’s a brief outline of what they all are:

• De Huisman : A spice warehouse where you can taste different spices
• De Gekroonde Poelenburg : A centuries-old wood sawmill
• De Kat : A paint mill where you can watch demonstrations
• De Zoeker : An oil, paint, and cocoa mill
• Het Jonge Schaap : A unique wood sawmill replica
• De Bonte Hen : An oil mill which has been running since 1693!
• De Os : A windmill that was later transformed into a diesel-powered mill
• Het Klaverblad : A small wood workshop mill
• De Bleeke Dood : The oldest smock mill in the Netherlands, used to mill flour
• De Ooievaar : An old oil mill that was moved to the Zaan area
• Mini-mills on the Schans : Miniature windmills that were used to pump water from the polder

Your Instagram feed is going to love you! 📸

The museums at Zaanse Schans

An iconic historical destination like Zaanse Schans is naturally jam-packed with incredible, one-of-a-kind museums .

TIP: Want to get the most out of your trip? The Zaanse Schans Card gives you access to nine different attractions in Zaanse Schans, making it the best way to see it all. Find out more.

Zaans Museum and the Verkade Experience

When you first arrive in Zaanse Schans, you’ll notice a large museum. This is the Zaans Museum , which teaches the history of the area, the windmills, and trade.

One of the trades of the area that you can learn all about (and taste) is biscuits and chocolate (yum!) since it’s the spot where famous Verkade girls made their treats.

READ MORE | 16 Haarlem museums that are well worth a visit

It’s a very interactive and modern museum, helping you to truly enjoy learning about the area — and then you can go out and see it for yourself.

You can even operate the chocolate machine in the museum. (Now we’re talking!)

The Zaanse Time Museum 

The museum houses many different Dutch timepieces that tell the story of the Zaanse Schans through beautiful old clocks that’ll chime on the hour, every hour.

Here you’ll learn about Dutch clockwork history from the 16th century. There are plenty of different things to see, as well as learn about their scientific and design history.

The Albert Heijn Museum Shop

It’s hard to believe (we know), but Dutch grocery behemoth Albert Heijn started out as a single, small shop.

Albert Heijn took over the shop from his parents in 1887, when he was just 21 years old. It was nothing like it is today.

In this museum, you can see for yourself the original shop and stock that was around at the time. Discover the roots of the Dutchies’ favourite store, unknown by many today.

Jisper House

This old fisherman’s cottage in the village of Jisp is as it would have been back in the 1850s.

Here you can explore the cute little cottage and even dress up in traditional local costumes and have your photo taken — selfies at the ready!

Learn about how herring came straight out of the fresh Zaan water and onto your plate with onion and pickles.

Bakery Museum de Gecroonde Duyvekater

As you walk through the Zaans Schans, the smell of Dutch treats will tempt you right into the bakery museum. This original bakery has been around since 1658 (yep, wow!).

It’s still in use today, meaning that… you can try out and buy some delicious traditional Dutch baked goods. 🤤

You can taste Duivekater, a famous sweet bread from Zaanse and other originals, as well as more modern baked goods.

If you want an excuse to chow down on some even more delicious Dutch snacks, then here’s your chance. 😉

Windmill museum

If you just can’t get enough of those adorable Dutch windmills, here’s your chance!

At the windmill museum, you’ll be able to interact with the exhibitions and learn all about what life working in a windmill was actually like.

READ MORE | Best windmill site in the Netherlands: Kinderdijk or Zaanse Schans?

From rotating exhibitions, films, and an interactive model with 1,100 windmills — you’ll be sucked into the charming world of the Zaanse Schans for hours.

All this, with a beautiful view over the older. ✨

Honig Breethuis

Jump into the lives of a Dutch merchant family in the 1830s at the Honig Breethuis.

Beautifully painted wallpapers and old-fashioned furniture will tell you all about the lives of the former inhabitants of the impressive traditional Dutch home.

Besides the wood detailing of the furniture and the gold accents on the walls, keep an eye out for special gems — like the old ornate fireplace.

Here are a few ways you can see Zaanse Schans

Cycling at zaanse schans.

Cycling at Zaanse Schans is possible (we’re in the Netherlands after all), so it’s good news if you’re wanting to take your omafiets for a spin.

No bike? No worries! You can rent bicycles at Zaanse Schans if you’re bike-less.

READ MORE | From omafiets, to mamafiets, and bakfiets — Dutch bikes, explained

There are bike tours and different cycling routes you can take throughout the area, so it’s the perfect place to go on a sunny day.

In the height of summer, it gets really busy along these routes, though, so beware of grandmas zooming down the paths on their e-bikes.

Going for a walk at Zaanse Schans

Just looking for somewhere nice to go for a walk in Holland ? Well, Zaansche Schans is the perfect place!

Strolling around and exploring most of the windmill area is completely free — ideal for getting those all-important Insta-worthy shots.

There are also theatrical walks if you’re looking for something a bit different. A guide in Zaan costume will show you around the area, where you will learn all about the history, food, and culture.

They may even let you in on some of the 1850s gossip. And thankfully, these tours are also available in English if your Dutch isn’t up to scratch.

Hop on a boat through the Zaanse Schans

Really want to get the most out of your visit to the Zaanse Schans? Hop in on one of the many boats that sail on the River Zaan or take a boat tour !

Feel the wind in your hair and smell the freshness of the water, all while learning from a guide about the beautiful sights around you.

Other things to do at Zaanse Schans

There are more things to do!? Yup.

There are plenty of typical Dutch shops and handicrafts, gift shops, and Dutch delicacies.

Have you ever been to Zaanse Schans? Tell us in the comments below! 

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in February 2019, and was fully updated in July 2023 for your reading pleasure.

Liked it? Try these on for size:

A guide to 12 breathtaking castles and palaces in the netherlands, surfing in the netherlands: where to go and what to know in 2024, esims in the netherlands: the ultimate 2024 guide + the best options, what do you think.

Thank you for sharing! Zaanse Schans sounds so lovely. I was wondering which windmills you would recommend for someone who is looking to visit only one or two? I’m eyeing De Bleeke Dood and De Huisman.

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• Zaanse Schans Tour
• Walking Tours
• Audio guide
• Groups allowed
• Tour guides

Description

Zaanse schans tour from amsterdam.

Explore true Holland with this amazing tour through  Zaanse Schans , Volendam , Marken and Edam . Historical pearls dotted across the countryside of the Netherlands.

Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Marken Tour

Your journey starts off at the Zaanse Schans where you’ll see plethora of beautifully preserved Dutch windmills. You’ll have ample time for taking pictures. The stops are located in the so called Waterland area. Where you get to explore some of Holland’s most  picturesque villages: Volendam, Edam & Marken.

Volendam, Edam & Marken Tour

Walk past historic locations in the centre of Edam such as the world famous Cheese Market square. After Edam taste some locally produced typical Dutch cheese at an actual cheese producer close to Volendam. At this location the local cheese master shows you how those famous Gouda en Edam cheeses are actually produced.

Next to the cheese producer stands a little clog factory. Here you’ll learn everything about those famous wooden Dutch shoes. The last stop of this wide-ranging Zaanse Schans Tour is a intimate fishermen town called Marken.

Feel like you’re walking in the 17th century is you explore the harbor and the Protestant church. This wide-ranging tour is something that you simply cannot afford to miss during your short stay in Amsterdam or the Netherlands.

Windmill Village  Zaanse Schans Tour

Zaanse Schans is a working and inhabited neighbourhood in the Dutch city Zaandam which also functions as an open air windmill museum. Between 1961 and 1974 old structures from all over the Zaanstreek region were transported to this little  picturesque  neighbourhood. It has the best preserved collection of historic houses and windmills.

The windmills are in complete original state and are operated by the locals with passion and enthusiasm. At the Zaanse Schans you can explore the insides of the windmills at will where you can see the impressive massive rotating parts first hand. Besides being a real educational experience this is the perfect place to shoot some scenic Dutch windmill pictures!

Edam Cheese Market Square

During the Middle Ages in the Netherlands, the Edam cheese market functioned as the city hub. It was here that local farmers brought their freshly produced cheeses. They were weighed at this location and sold and would then be exported globally.

Back in in 1520 Edam was bestowed the rights to organising this type of market and after 50 years they also managed to get the rights to cheese weighing for all time. Those all times rights however ended in 1922 as cheese was then produced on an industrial scale in factories. However, Edam holds a historic reenactment of this famous market every Wednesday during the summer.

In the 13th century, the small fishing town of Marken got completely separated from the Dutch mainland. What followed was centuries of isolation of the local inhabitants. They survived by fishing from the Zuider-sea and eating bread. The harbour of Marken was constructed in the 19th century to the Marken fleet of typical fishing boats; the botters.

Only as recent as 1959 Marken was finally reconnected with the Dutch mainland by building an embankment. Since then Marken has been a peninsula. Even though it has been reconnected Marken hasn’t lost its authentic quality and spirit. This Dutch town is beautifully preserved.

The tides and frequent flooding forced the local inhabitants to build their wooden houses in clusters. Because Marken was flooded on a regular basis in the past all the homes there were built on earth mounds (werfs) and then on social mounds called “terpen” in Dutch.

People also built houses on poles: these have now been closed to form under-houses. This is the only place in the world where you get to see these beautiful historic little houses.

Visitors can explore the Marken Museum, which is housed in a traditional Marken home, or take a stroll through the Marken Heritage Park. There are also several churches and windmills to see, and the Marken Lighthouse offers stunning views of the surrounding area. In addition, Marken has a number of excellent restaurants and cafes, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the Dutch culture.

What’s Included In The Zaanse Schans Tour

• Bus with air-conditioning
• Audio tour guide in 16 different languages
• In person guide in either English, German or Spanish on extended tour
• See a demonstration of the milling process
• Explore Marken, a traditional Dutch fishing town
• See authentic windmills
• See a demonstration by an actual wooden shoe maker
• Visit an old Dutch bakery and cheese factory close to Volendam
• See the IJsselmeer during a boat trip
• Extra: includes a free canal cruise through Amsterdam

Why Should You See It?

Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken are villages located in the Netherlands that are known for their traditional Dutch architecture, picturesque landscapes, and rich history. Here’s why you should visit these villages:

• Zaanse Schans: This picturesque village is famous for its historic windmills and traditional Dutch houses. You can learn about the traditional Dutch way of life, including the production of cheese, oil, and paint, and visit the Zaanse Schans Museum to learn about the history of windmills.
• Edam: This village is famous for its cheese, which has been produced there for over 700 years. You can visit cheese factories and taste the famous Edam cheese, as well as see the traditional Dutch houses and windmills.
• Volendam: This charming fishing village is famous for its traditional Dutch costumes and folklore. You can visit the Volendam Museum, learn about the history of the village, and see a collection of traditional costumes.
• Marken: This small island is famous for its traditional wooden houses and beautiful landscapes. You can walk through the narrow streets, visit the Marken Museum, and enjoy the scenic views of the sea and surrounding countryside.

In conclusion , visiting Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken is a must-do for anyone interested in traditional Dutch architecture, history, and culture. These villages offer a unique glimpse into the past and a chance to experience traditional Dutch life in a beautiful and picturesque setting.

Zaanse Schans Tour Tickets:

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The Best Places to See Windmills in the Netherlands

The Dutch landscape is pretty much unimaginable without windmills and that’s why when visiting the Netherlands, windmills should be on your bucket list. Read further to find out which are the best places to see windmills in the Netherlands.

The first windmills in the Netherlands appeared somewhere in the 12th century along the coast. They were used for grinding grain. Later on, in the 15th century there appeared the first polder mills that were used to drain the water from marshlands or lakes so that land could be reclaimed. Much later on, there appeared saw mills, oil-production mills, paper mills, and dye mills among others.

Today, there only about 1000 windmills left in the Netherlands, but in the heyday of the windmills in the 19th century, there were about 9 000 windmills in the country.

Fun facts about the Dutch windmills

1. the kinderdijk windmills, 2. zaanse schans windmill village, 3. de schermer windmills, 4. de adriaan in haarlem, 5. the keukenhof windmill, 6. the windmills in heusden, 7. the windmills in wemeldinge, 1. de gooyer, 2. de otter, 3. the mill of sloten (molen van sloten), 4. de riekermolen, 5. d’admiraal, 6. other windmills in amsterdam, windmill tours from amsterdam to kinderdijk, windmill tours from amsterdam to zaanse schans, final words.

DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of those links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost for you.

• The oldest existing windmill in the Netherlands is the Grafelijke Korenmolen (Countship’s grainmill) in Zeddam (Gelderland). This tower mill was built somewhere around 1440.
• The oldest historical record about windmills in the Netherlands is from 1221 and it’s about the windmill in Willemskerke, a small village that does not exist anymore.
• The tallest windmills in the world are the Windmills of Schiedam . Once, there were about 20 windmills in this Dutch city, but today there are only 6 left. The tallest non-historical windmill is De Nolet (42,5 m). It was built in 2005 in the spirit of the traditional windmills, but in fact it is a wind turbine in disguise. The tallest historical windmill is De Noord – 33,3 m.

• The biggest concentration of windmills in the Netherlands is in Kinderdijk – 19 windmills, Zaanse Schans – 15 windmills, De Schermer – 11 windmills. All three places are touristic attractions and Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Every 2nd weekend in May the Dutch are celebrating National Windmill Day . On this day a lot of windmills, which otherwise are closed, are open for the public.

Where to see windmills in the Netherlands?

When you travel in the Netherlands, you will spot for sure a windmill or two, but there are two places that are famous for their windmills: Kinderdijk , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the windmill village of Zaanse Schans . At least one of these places should be on your bucketlist.

Here is map with the best places in the Netherlands where you can see windmills:

I won’t exaggerate if I say that Kinderdijk is perhaps the most popular and most visited attraction in the Netherlands after Amsterdam, of course. Contrary to what most would think, Kinderdijk is not that close to Amsterdam. It’s closer to another lovely Dutch city – Rotterdam . Still, with an hour and 15 minutes from Amsterdam, the windmills at Kinderdijk make it a great day trip from the Dutch capital.

Kinderdijk is the place to go to admire the outstanding water-management skills of the Dutch. This is also why Kinderdijk is included on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list . The system of 19 windmills built in the beginning of the 18th century has been used to pump out water from what once was a bog.

Prepare for your trip: Read here why the windmills at Kinderdijk are one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The post contains practical tips about visiting Kinderdijk.

Practical info

Address: Nederwaard 1, 2961 AS Kinderdijk Parking address: Marineweg 3, Alblasserdam (a fee applies) Admission fee: adults: 18,50 EUR (weekdays – 16 EUR); children (4-12 yoa): 6,75 EUR (weekdays – 5,75 EUR); parking fee: 7,50 EUR Opening times: high season: daily, from 9:30 am till 5:30 pm; low season: daily, from 10:30 am till 4 pm How to visit: Tours from Amsterdam , Tours from Rotterdam

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Zaanse Schans is a small open-air museum village , where one can see how life was in the 18th and 19th centuries in the Low Lands. The village was created in the 1960s-70s, when lots of historical buildings and windmills have been transported there from other parts of the Zaan area.

At only 20 km from Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans is the easiest day trip from Amsterdam to see windmills. Each museum/windmill has its own paid entry, but you can buy a Zaanse Schans Card for 23,50 EUR, which will give you access to most of the attractions.

Address: Schansend 7, 1509 AW Zaandam Admission fee: adults: 23,50 EUR; children (4-17 yoa): 16 EUR; parking fee: 12 EUR Opening times: daily, from 9:00 am till 5:00 pm (opening times vary per attraction) How to visit: Tours from Amsterdam , Tours from Rotterdam

The 11 remaining polder windmills in the Schermer ( De Schermer ) area are part of one of the greatest projects of the Dutch to reclaim land from the water . For 3 years the Scher Lake ( Schermeer ) was pumped out with he help of 52 polder mills and in 1635 the lake disappeared completely.

Today, you can visit The Museum Mill in Schermerhorn , which is a part of a complex of 3 polder windmills. The polder mills could pump out up to 60 000 l of water per minute, which is absolutely amazing. You can visit the miller’s home in the mill and climb all the way up to the ridge to see from very close how the mill is actually working.

The Museum Mill is only 40 km from Amsterdam.

Practical info: De Schermer Molens Address: Noordervaart 2, 1636 VL Schermerhorn Admission fee: adults: 5 EUR; children (4-12 yoa): 3,50 EUR Opening times: April – October from 9 am till 4:30 pm; March on Sundays, from 12 am till 4 pm

This is perhaps the most famous single windmill in the Netherlands. The cityscape of Haarlem is absolutely unthinkable without De Adriaan . The foundation of the mill was part of the old city defense wall, but the mill was built in 1778. It was used to produce cement from tuff stone.

In 1932 the icon of Haarlem burned down in a fire and it took 70 years to restore it in its complete glory. The windmill was open again in 2002. Today there’s a museum in the windmill and you can visit it with a guided tour.

Practical info: De Adriaan Museummolens Address: Papentorenvest 1-A, 2011 AV Haarlem Admission fee: adults: 7,50 EUR; children (5-12 yoa): 3,50 EUR Opening times: March – November, from 1 pm till 5 pm; November – March, from 1 pm till 4:30 pm

Where else in the Netherlands can you see two of the absolute Dutch icons together: tulips and windmills ? At Keukenhof , of course. Although the windmill is not the main attraction in the biggest tulip garden in the world, it’s absolutely lovely.

From the top of the mill, there’s amazing view to the tulip fields and the park. You won’t learn much about the windmills in general but you’ll have a gorgeous view.

One of my favorite places to see windmills in the Netherlands, is the little town of Heusden . Located in North Brabant, close to Den Bosch, Heusden looks as if the time has stopped a few centuries ago. Completely restored, according to a map of 1649, Heusden is a perfect example of a fortified town .

There are three windmills in Heusden. Most people don’t know that, but the windmills haven’t been there all the time. Although they were put there in the 1970s, they organically blend with the landscape and today Heusden is unthinkable without its windmills.

In the lovely fishing village of Wemeldinge in Zeeland, you can find two windmills: De Hoop (1866) and Aeolus (1869). De Hoop was built as a grain mill and the miller lived there until 1900. During WW2 the mill was significantly damaged and it wasn’t until 1980s when it was completely restored to its previous glory. Today, the windmill can be visited on Saturdays (1 pm – 4 pm), and sometimes it’s put into operation by a volunteer-miller.

Aeolus , named after the Keeper of the Winds from the Odyssey , is the 2nd grain windmill in the village. It was functioning until 1963 using only the wind as a driving force. Most of the windmills in those days were driven also with the help of motors. The mill can be visited the last Saturday in the month, from 10 am till 3 pm.

Where to see windmills in Amsterdam?

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to leave Amsterdam in order to see windmills. There are 8 windmills in Amsterdam itself! Check out the map above for the exact locations of all windmills in Amsterdam.

This is the easiest windmill to see in Amsterdam. It’s located not very far from the city centre. The windmill was built in the beginning of the 19th century at the place of a windmill from the 16th century. It was a part of series of corn mills on Singelgracht (the waterway that encircles the centre of the city) and it’s the only one which has survived till the present day. De Gooyer windmill cannot be visited, but next to the mill is the local ‘t IJ Brewery , where you can taste some of the best craft beer in Amsterdam.

Address: Funenkade 5, 1018 AL Amsterdam

De Otter is a saw mill located not very far from the city centre. The saw mill was built in 1631 and was part of group of saw mills in what today is the Western part of Amsterdam is. De Otter was recently completely renovated and since 2019 is working again. Built around 1631, it’s the oldest windmill in Amsterdam , that hasn’t been moved around.

Address: Gillis van Ledenberchstraat 78, 1052 VK Amsterdam

This polder windmill is located actually just outside of Amsterdam in the village of Sloten , which is part of the Municipality of Amsterdam. The Mill of Sloten is a working one and can be visited daily. Actually the original windmill of Sloten was the one that was moved to the banks of Amstel River – the Rieker Mill ( De Riekermolen ). The current Mill of Sloten was placed there in 1991. The Mill of Sloten is open for guided visits.

Practical info: Molen van Sloten Address: Akersluis 10, 1066 EZ Amsterdam Admission fee: adults: 7,50 EUR; children (4-12 yoa): 4 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: daily from 10 am till 5 pm with a guided visit (45 min)

The Rieker Mill is just outside of the city centre, at the southern end of the Amstel Park on the Amstel River. This polder mill stood originally in the village of Sloten and was moved to its present place in the 1960s. You can see the mill working on the weekends in the summer.

Address: De Borcht 10, 1083 AC Amsterdam

D’Admiraal is the last remaining chalk mill in the Netherlands. It was built in 1793 and it’s still working. The Chalk Mill d’Admiraal is open for visits every second Saturday of the month in the summer. The entry is free of charge.

Address: Noordhollandschkanaaldijk 21, 1034 ZL Amsterdam

• De 1100 Roe (also called De Ookmeermolen ), originally built in 1674, it was moved to its current place in 1965, where it’s still working as a polder mill. Address: Herman Bonpad 6, 1067 SN Amsterdam)
• De 1200 Roe was built in 1632 and it still stands on its original place. Address: Haarlemmerweg 701, 1063 LG Amsterdam
• De Bloem – a corn mill built 1768 and moved to its current place in 1878. Address: Haarlemmerweg 465, 1055 PK Amsterdam

The best windmill tours from Amsterdam

If you are not travelling by car in the Netherlands, the best way to visit the windmills will be an organized day tour from Amsterdam. However, you can easily visit Zaanse Schans and Haarlem by public transport from Amsterdam. If you are staying in Rotterdam, Kinderdijk can be even visited with the water bus .

Here is my selection of tours from Amsterdam.

At Exploring the Netherlands , we love windmills and even the logo of the website is a windmill, but you should have already noticed this by now. So, when travelling in the Netherlands, make sure you visit at least one attraction that includes a windmill, as there isn’t anything more Dutchy than a windmill in the middle of a polder. However, you won’t need to go far, if you stay in Amsterdam, to see a windmill, as there are windmills even in Amsterdam. For the most fairy-tale-like experience, a visit to Kinderdijk or Zaanse Schans is highly recommended.

Do you need some extra help to plan your trip to the Netherlands? Join the dedicated Exploring the Netherlands Facebook Group , where you can get tips from other travellers and locals. Or perhaps you have questions or comments? Join the group and I’ll be happy to answer them.

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The Kinderdijk windmills

Discover the beautiful Kinderdijk windmills and see how the Dutch have been managing the water for over 1000 years. A truly unique spectacle.

• Visit the iconic Kinderdijk windmills.
• Take beautiful pictures of this 18th century part of the Netherlands.
• Explore the area from the water and watch the special multiscreen film.

History of Kinderdijk

In the beautiful, water-rich area near Dordrecht you will find the windmills of Kinderdijk. Built around 1740, these 19 magnificent windmills stand here as part of a larger water management system to prevent flooding.

Today they symbolize Dutch water management and in 1997 they were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Why? The Kinderdijk windmills were built to keep the low-lying land of the Alblasserwaard dry. Arranged opposite each other, they form an iconic Dutch image that is popular with many photographers. If you plan to send a typical postcard with a windmill to friends or family back home, chances are the image is of Kinderdijk.

Once there, you can admire the many waterways, dikes, mills, and locks and discover how the Dutch have been using the water to their advantage for over 1000 years. Without exaggeration, Kinderdijk is an absolute must if you would like to know the history of Dutch windmills and waterways.

Watch this video

The story of Kinderdijk

Anyone visiting Kinderdijk should definitely take a look inside the three Museum Mills and watch the multiscreen film in De Fabriek Auxiliary Pumping Station. It tells the story of the mill complex on various screens and you’ll find out how Kinderdijk got its name…

Explore the area from the water b y sailing along the mills in one of the boats. Stop by the mill workshop to learn more about the operation and maintenance of the mills.

The Kinderdijk windmills are located not far from the port city of Rotterdam and the Netherlands' oldest city, Dordrecht . Also recommended in the area is National Park De Biesbosch ; a unique freshwater tidal area with remarkable flora and fauna.

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Location Kinderdijk

The Kinderdijk windmills are not far from Rotterdam and about an hour and a half drive from the capital Amsterdam and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Kinderdijk is also easily accessible by public transport. If you are traveling by car, pay close attention to where you can and cannot park. It is also possible to cycle from Rotterdam to Kinderdijk. A beautiful route of just over 15 kilometers, depending on where you start in Rotterdam.

Finally, Kinderdijk is also easily accessible by Waterbus. The boat trip gives you a nice impression of the area and you can take your bike on board for free. The Waterbus to Kinderdijk departs from both the historic city center of Dordrecht and the center of Rotterdam .

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The Ultimate Day Trip Kinderdijk Windmills Guide 2023: Tips from a Local

• Updated on: April 13, 2022

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Table of Contents

A short history of the windmills of kinderdijk.

Dutch windmills are famous around the world because they are so important to the Netherlands’ history and culture. Our Dutch ancestors reclaimed the Netherlands lowlands from the sea using windmills to pump water into rivers held back by dikes.

Quick Fact: Around 25% of the Netherlands is actually at or below sea level!

Wait, did the Dutch invent windmills? Uhmmm… That’s hard to say. The first windmills in the Netherlands appeared around 1200AD and were used to grind corn and to pump water. But there is evidence of windmill-like structures in China as far back as around 25AD and in Greece and Persia before they appeared in the Netherlands. 

There are around 1000 windmills in the Netherlands. Every year, our country hosts National Mill Day when around 600 windmills open their doors, most of which don’t usually open to the public. This celebration is always held on the second Saturday in May and is the best time to see windmills in the Netherlands. Visitors come from all over the world to see authentic, historic windmills, pumping water as they did hundreds of years ago. 

The best place to see windmills in the Netherlands is Kinderdijk! At 19, Kinderdijk has the largest collection of functioning historic Dutch windmills in the Netherlands. Zaanse Schans is another popular choice. Located in the town of Zaandam, Zaanse Schans is close to Amsterdam and has a more family-friendly, touristy vibe than Kinderdijk. Find out more about this place in our post “ The best day trips from Amsterdam by train “.

You’ve been to the Netherlands? Show us your Dutch windmill photos to prove it! Or… have a look at this post to prepare yourself for an incredible and typical Dutch day trip to the Kinderdijk where you can take those iconic Dutch windmill photos!

The windmills at Kinderdijk are so important to Dutch history that the entire region is a UNESCO world heritage site. But Kinderdijk is no museum. A fun destination where you can cycle, hike, and kayak, Kinderdijk has working windmills and some that are even family homes.

In this guide, we explore day-tripping to Kinderdijk and reveal the best way to get around once you’re there. Spoiler: It’s in a kayak!

How many windmills are there in Kinderdijk?

Kinderdijk is a group of 19 monumental windmills located in the Alblasserwaard polder, in the province of South Holland. Dates back to 1738 – 1740 with the function of keeping the water out of the polder.

Can I visit Kinderdijk without ticket?

Yes, you can visit Kinderdijk all year around without paying an entrance fee. During high season (March – October) Kinderdijk is open from 9am till 5.30pm and in winter time from 10am to 4pm.

Check out: 13 Best Outdoor Activities in the Netherlands for Real Adventure

Video: Kinderdijk Day Trip Inspiration

Best time to visit Kinderdijk

While each season in the Netherlands nature offers something unique, autumn (September-November) is our favorite time of year. The trees transform into a kaleidoscope of autumn colors, and it’s a spectacular sight to witness. Moorlands reach full bloom to create purple landscapes, and the leaves dazzle with shades of orange, red, and yellow. 

And the weather provides the perfect temperature to unwind without being drenched in sweat or clutching heavy winter gear. Autumn is a magical time to go hiking in Utrecht due to the breathtaking spectacle produced by Mother Nature. Check out my Best Time To Visit The Netherlands Guide for more detailed weather information.

Is it worth taking a day trip to Kinderdijk?

Kinderdijk is definitely worth visiting. The landscape at Kinderdijk is so unique that you won’t see anything like it anywhere else in the world. Once completely submerged in water, this area is now a network of reservoirs and canals kept in check by 19 historic windmills. You can walk or cycle straight over the seabed in places or throw down a blanket and enjoy a picnic.

Kinderdijk is surrounded by charming Dutch villages and historic sites so there are lots of options to fill a day or more. The regions surrounding Kinderdijk in South Holland also have some of the best hiking trails in the country. We should know – we both grew up in South Holland! 

How do you get to Kinderdijk windmills?

Kinderdijk is well-connected to other parts of the Netherlands. Many visitors day trip to Kinderdijk from Amsterdam via Rotterdam or Utrecht. You can also reach Kinderdijk from Dordrecht. 

The best way to get to Kinderdijk is by public transport. As we’ve already covered in our post on how to get around in the Netherlands , the Dutch public transport system makes travel quick, fun, and affordable. We’ve also created a post on the best day trips from Amsterdam by train for more travel inspiration.

Kinderdijk also offers a FREE mobile app, with audio guides and interactive maps available to get the most out of your trip. Click here to download the Kinderdijk app.

Here’s how to get to Kinderdijk:

• Waterbus – Take a 30-minute waterbus from Rotterdam or Dordrecht and arrive in Kinderdijk with your sea legs ready to go! (Only available between April to October). Click here for tickets and timetable information.
• Bus – Take the bus from Rotterdam (pick up at Rotterdam Zuidplein or Rotterdam Kralingse Zoom), Dordrecht central train station, or Utrecht central station. (See the Kinderdijk official tourism page for details.)
• Train – To get to Rotterdam or Utrecht, take an NS train from Amsterdam Central or Schiphol Airport.
• Car – Drive to Kinderdijk from Amsterdam via Rotterdam or Utrecht. For both routes, leave the A15 at exit 22. 

Must Read: Things to do Amsterdam

Things to do in kinderdijk

There are tons of things to see and do in Kinderdijk besides kayaking. Keep your feet dry and take a boat tour, join a guided tour of a historic windmill, or cycle the canal paths !

Boat tour Kinderdijk

The Kinderdijk visitor center offers tours of the Kinderdijk. You can choose to take the Cruiser or Hopper. Tours are guided, take around 30 minutes, and are available from April to October. Boats are wheelchair accessible and are a good opportunity for those who cannot walk or cycle the canal paths to see Kinderdijk. 

The main difference between the Cruiser and Hopper is that the Hopper allows passengers to “hop-on and hop-off” at various places along the canal.

Tickets for boat tours are sold online at the official Kinderdijk website here . 

Walk or cycle Kinderdijk

• Duration: 3 – 4 hours

If you’d like to walk or cycle around Kinderdijk it’s a good idea to pick up a map. Kinderdijk’s official website offers downloadable maps of bicycle and walking routes. Alternatively, you can pick one up at the visitor’s center. Kinderdijk also offers an FREE mobile app with audioguides and interactive maps so you can get the most out of your trip, download the app here.

Click here to book your Bike Tour Kinderdijk ticket.

Visit an authentic Dutch windmill

All of the windmills in Kinderdijk can be viewed from the land or water for free. But to truly step back in time, visit one of the two windmills that have been turned into museums. Blokweer Museum Mill and Nederwaard Museum Mill are open to the public. For a small fee, you can enter these windmills and see what life was like for the real families who lived here hundreds of years ago.

Usually, these museums are open from April until late October but check full opening times on the Kinderdijk website before you visit. 

Visiting Kinderdijk with a tour group

To keep your day trip to Kinderdijk as simple as possible, join a tour group. There are many group tours available ranging from large tours lasting a few hours to private tours lasting a whole day. 

• Make your own way to Kinderdijk using public transport, then join a World Tourism Kinderdijk Windmills Tours . Leave your guide book at home and let a dedicated tour guide teach you all about the important history of this region.
• Alternatively, join a small group for a one day tour of Kinderdijk and The Hague . This tour is focused on art and heritage and includes a visit to see Vermeer’s famous Girl with a Pearl Earring (1665). 
• Or, take two trips in one and visit both Rotterdam and Kinderdijk in one day . This tour begins and ends in Amsterdam and is a great choice for any visitors who are short on time. Note that this is a private guided tour and has a price tag to match!

Below there are some more incredible tours to do in Kinderdijk. Simply click on one to find out more about it!

Kayaking Kinderdijk

Kayaking Kinderdijk is an adventurous way to enjoy the stunning landscape and explore the history of this area. And you know we love adventure!

The waterways at Kinderdijk are shallow and calm. Even beginner kayakers can take to the water with confidence. 

Bringing your own kayak to Kinderdijk

The waterways at Kinderdijk are open to kayakers all year round – providing they’re not frozen – but we recommend the period between late spring and early fall for the best experience. Especially as most of our favorite activities in the Netherlands are outdoors. Make sure you have the right travel insurance, check here the guide Best Travel Insurance for Adventure and Extreme Sports Guide to get all information you need.

There is no boat launch at the Kinderdijk visitor center or anywhere nearby. It’s best to find somewhere to park and launch your kayak a few kilometers away on the Albas river. Plan a route before you hit the water and factor in stops to rest and to get out and stretch your legs. Remember, this is a round trip and you have to paddle all the way back to your car at the end of the day!

Renting a kayak at Kinderdijk

There are no kayak rental facilities at the Kinderdijk visitor center. To rent a kayak, find a rental company operating somewhere nearby. Here are a few options:

• Kanocentrum Ammerse Boezem
• Kanoverhuur de Molentocht
• Rondvaart Alblasserwaard
• Koninklijke Horeca Nederland

On average, kayak rental for one day (approx. 6 hours) costs between €15 and €20. 

Exploring the area around Kinderdijk

As the Netherlands is a small country with a great public transport system, it’s easy to get to Kinderdijk. It’s also easy to use Kinderdijk as your starting point for a trip exploring the surrounding area.

If you’re day-tripping to Kinderdijk from a city be sure to find time to explore Alblasserwaard, known as the Green Heart region. More peaceful than Kinderdijk, especially in the peak summer season, Alblasserwaard is a rich, green land dotted with old villages. Perfect for a long bike ride or hike. For more hiking inspiration, see our guide to the best hikes in the Netherlands. 

From Kinderdijk you can also explore the cities of Rotterdam and Dordrecht, the Biesbosch marshlands, and the Betuwe orchards. 

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I love to hear from you

I hope you’re inspired to take a day trip to see our wonderful Dutch windmills and even kayak through Kinderdijk. And if you take a great snap with a windmill, send it on to us, as I would love to see it!

For more things to do and see in our small, but promising country, check out our destination page for the Netherlands , or check out our travel tips for more general inspiration!

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Welcome to Molen De Adriaan

In the mill, you will be introduced to the age-old technique of converting wind into productive energy. You will find a lot of information about windmills in general, and about the Adriaan in particular.

About the Mill

Ground floor.

On the ground floor is the reception area with the possibility to buy souvenirs. On the semicircular back-wall you can see the Panorama of Haarlem set around 1800, painted by Chiel Braat recently.

First floor

On the 1st floor, visitors can watch videos about windmills in general, and the Adriaan windmill in particular.

Second floor

You will find our permanent exhibition on the 2nd floor. The story of Dutch windmills is told by means of beautiful, detailed, models.

Third floor

On the 3rd floor you will find a man-sized model of the Adriaan windmill. With a hand mill you can also try to grind grain yourself!

Fourth floor

Here you can go outside onto the large wrap-around balcony. There you can enjoy the beautiful view over the city of Haarlem and the river Spaarne. This floor was used to store the milled flour.

Fifth floor (the millstone floor)

Several times a week the windmill blades turn and then a large vertical wooden shaft with a large gear wheel above your head rotates. Regularly the mill stone set is connected to this main shaft so that flour can be milled.

Molen de Adriaan is looking for volunteers

Like many institutions The Adriaan windmill is also dependent on volunteers. However, there is always some turnover, so there is a regular spot for new energetic volunteers who want to receive and guide the guests.

OUR VISITORS LOVE US

What a great tour we had of the windmill. Loekin our guide was delightful and she seemed to really enjoy telling us about the workings of the windmill and some history. The view from the top is lovely and we were lucky enough to be there when the windmill was running - what a treat.

Brilliant attraction. Staff and guide very friendly and the interior of the mill is well designed as a museum.

We had a guided tour, in English, that proved insightful and interesting. The tour provides insights into windmills across the Netherlands. Be prepared to climb ladders and step out onto the platform on which millers set the windmill's sails. Our visit was one of the highlights of our time in the Netherlands.

I was truly amazed at all the detail of work that goes into designing and building this wonderful structures.Great Euro 3.50 invested in the tour.

We visited Haarlem as a day trip from Amsterdam and whilst there we visited the windmill. The tour is really interesting and undertaken by a really knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide with an obvious passion for the windmill, its workings, and sharing this with her visitors. The tour is also excellent value and if you are in Haarlem I highly recommend...

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