Have you ever dreamed of walking beside iconic windmills in a dreamy Dutch landscape? Welcome to Kinderdijk, one of the most enchanting villages in the Netherlands, where we can explore 19 historic windmills surrounded by canals, reeds, and quiet countryside charm.
As Lykkers who love beautiful places with stories, we’ll find Kinderdijk not just scenic but full of history and surprises.
Where Is Kinderdijk?
Kinderdijk is located in South Holland, just 15 kilometers (about 9 miles) east of Rotterdam. It's nestled where the Lek and Noord rivers meet, and it's a perfect day trip for anyone staying in Rotterdam, The Hague, or even Amsterdam.
The Windmill Story: Why Are There So Many?
Kinderdijk's 19 windmills were built around 1740 to manage water levels in a region constantly threatened by flooding. The area lies below sea level, and the Dutch created this smart windmill system to pump excess water into reservoirs. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of how people learned to live with water.
How to Get to Kinderdijk
- By Waterbus (from Rotterdam): Take the Waterbus 20 from Erasmusbrug (Rotterdam) to Ridderkerk, then transfer to a smaller ferry to Kinderdijk. The trip takes about 40-60 minutes and offers stunning river views. A one-way ticket costs around $6–$10.
- By Car: There is paid parking near the entrance, about $8 per day.
- By Public Transport: From Rotterdam, take Metro Line D/E to Rotterdam Zuidplein, then Bus 90 towards Utrecht and get off at Kinderdijk Molenkade.
Opening Hours and Tickets
Opening hours:
- Summer (April–October): 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Winter (November–March): 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Ticket prices (for the full visitor experience):
- Adults: $11
- Children (4–12): $5.50
- Under 4: Free
- Ticket includes entry to two museum windmills, the pumping station, the visitor center, and a film screening.
You can also walk or cycle the levee area for free, but visiting inside the windmills requires tickets.
Best Time to Visit Kinderdijk
Spring and early autumn are ideal—think April to June or September to early October. The skies are clear, the reeds are green, and the crowds are not overwhelming. Sunrise and sunset hours bring the most magical photos with golden light reflecting off the canals.
What to Do in Kinderdijk
- Visit the museum windmills: Step inside and see how millers lived centuries ago.
- Watch the multimedia show: Learn how the Dutch fight water using historic and modern technology.
- Cycle along the embankments: Rent a bike and enjoy the scenic views.
- Take a canal cruise: For around $7–$10, hop on a boat to view the windmills from the water.
Travel Tips for Kinderdijk Visitors
1. Book tickets online in advance during peak season to avoid lines.
2. Bring snacks and water, especially if you plan to walk the full windmill route.
3. Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll walk on stone paths, grass, and sometimes muddy trails.
4. Photography tip: Use a wide-angle lens and try to visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
5. Avoid weekends if you want fewer tourists and better photo opportunities.
Where to Eat Nearby?
While Kinderdijk itself is quiet, there’s a small café at the visitor center offering sandwiches, drinks, and pastries. For more dining options, we can head to Nieuw-Lekkerland (10 minutes away) or Alblasserdam, where you’ll find more choices including bakeries and family restaurants.
End with a Story: Why Is It Called “Kinderdijk”?
Kinderdijk means “Children’s Levee.” According to legend, during a great flood in 1421, a cradle floated on the waters with a baby inside. A cat balanced on top, keeping the cradle steady. When the waters calmed, both the cat and the baby were safe. This heartwarming tale gave the village its name and magical reputation.
Let’s Make It Happen!
Kinderdijk offers more than just iconic windmills. It’s a place where history comes alive, where we can breathe in the quiet charm of Dutch countryside and witness how people shaped their world with clever design and resilience. Walking along the canals, surrounded by timeless views and gentle breezes, feels like stepping into a painting. So Lykkers, how about making this fairytale part of our own story? Let’s go see it for ourselves!
Visiting Kinderdijk: Exploring The Historic Windmills [4K]
Video by ViaTravelers
