3 Tips for Visiting Kinderdijk

On our recent trip in The Netherlands visiting family and friends – my husband and I made a detour one day to visit Kinderdijk. Can you believe my husband lived 50 years in The Netherlands and hadn’t been there before?! 😉 I was a bit apprehensive to visit… wondering if this was an overrated tourist trap – and I’ve seen plenty of Dutch windmills over the years!

I’m happy to report that Kinderdijk exceeded my expectations and is definitely worthy of its UNESCO designation! This area is quintessential Dutch with the 19 windmills and gorgeous landscape. 

Getting There

Kinderdijk is the perfect day trip from Amsterdam as it’s about an hour away (15 minutes from Rotterdam). Driving is the easiest way to visit, but there are also train and public transportation options. I also recommend visiting Kinderdijk as an organized tour – there are numerous choices from many Dutch cities. If you’re embarking on a river cruise – it’s also a popular first stop if you’re departing from Amsterdam.

As you enter the village of Kinderdijk… you’ll see signs for the parking area. Make sure you follow these and park in the designated lot and take the shuttle to the entrance. The only other parking allowed in the town is by permit only.

What to See/Do

The best way to take in the gorgeous scenery and views of the windmills is from the water. You can purchase tickets for the hop on/hop off water boat at the visitor center (this ticket also gives you access to touring inside two of the windmills).

I also highly recommend you tour the Nederwaard Museum Mill. It’s like a step back in time as you walk through the daily life of living and working in a windmill. It also provides great views from higher up! You can access this area by walking from the visitor center along the public bike and walking path.

Facilities

Inside the visitor center and entrance to buy tickets there are also public restrooms (no charge!). There is a quick service restaurant serving small bites – with a lovely outside area to enjoy the Dutch landscape. If you’re in need of souvenirs there’s also a shop with a nice selection. During the warm summer month vendors sell ice cream (ijs in Dutch!) and drinks along the cycling and walking trail.

Hope you’ve enjoyed our visit to Kinderdijk! Being mostly under sea level, it’s a fascinating look into how the Dutch have managed the water all these years! 

Until the next adventure – bon voyage!

Kris