When we plan a trip to South Holland, visiting its famous windmills is a highlight not to be missed. South Holland is home to some of the Netherlands' most iconic windmill sites, especially the Kinderdijk windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
To help us make the most of this experience, here is a detailed travel guide covering all the essentials.
Opening Hours and Ticket Prices
The windmill sites in South Holland generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, with some closing slightly earlier during winter months (usually around 4:00 PM from November to February). For Kinderdijk specifically, the visitor center and museum windmills are open daily during these hours.
Ticket prices:
- Adults: Around €16 (about $18) for entry to the Kinderdijk visitor center and guided tours.
- Children (under 12): Usually free or a reduced fee (around €8 / $9).
- Some outdoor areas and walking paths are free to explore if you just want to see the windmills from outside.
- Booking tickets online in advance is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to avoid long queues.
How to Get There: Transportation Options
Getting to the South Holland windmills is straightforward:
- From Rotterdam: Take the waterbus (Waterbus Line 1) from Rotterdam Erasmusbrug to Kinderdijk. This scenic boat ride lasts about 30 minutes and drops you right at the windmills. Waterbus tickets cost about €7-8 ($8-9) one way.
- By car: It takes about 25 minutes to drive from Rotterdam city center to Kinderdijk. There is parking available near the visitor center for a small fee (€5-7 / $6-8).
- Public transport: From Rotterdam Central Station, take bus 90 or 95 to Kinderdijk, which takes about 40 minutes.
For a more flexible visit, renting a bike is highly recommended. There are several bike rental shops in Rotterdam, and cycling from the city to the windmills offers a wonderful way to enjoy Dutch scenery.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit South Holland windmills is during spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is mild, and the surrounding fields are lush and colorful, especially when tulips are in bloom nearby. Avoid weekends in high summer (July-August) if possible, as the sites can get crowded.
Visiting early in the morning right when the site opens or late afternoon before closing time offers a more peaceful experience with fewer tourists.
Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
1. Wear comfortable shoes: Exploring the windmill village involves walking on some uneven paths and bridges.
2. Bring a camera: The windmills and surrounding waterways are incredibly picturesque, perfect for photography.
3. Try a boat tour: Several companies offer small boat tours around the canals of Kinderdijk, providing a unique view of the windmills from the water (tickets cost around €12 / $13).
4. Visit the workshops: Some windmills still function and allow visitors to see traditional crafts like grinding grain or sawing wood—these demonstrations are both educational and fascinating.
5. Check the weather forecast: The Netherlands can be rainy, so bring a light raincoat or umbrella just in case.
6. Combine with nearby attractions: Consider pairing the windmill visit with stops in nearby cities like Rotterdam or Delft for a full-day cultural experience.
Ready to Explore Together?
We hope this detailed guide helps you plan your perfect trip to the South Holland windmills. These timeless landmarks offer more than scenic beauty—they reveal the heart of Dutch tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation. A walk along the canals, a quiet moment near a turning sail, or a visit inside a working windmill can leave a lasting impression.
Are you planning a visit soon, or looking for more inspiration? Let us know what you're excited to see, and let’s discover the magic of South Holland windmills together.
Is Kinderdijk Worth Visiting? | Windmills in South Holland, The Netherlands
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