Landmark

Kinderdijk windmills

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Kinderdijk is one of the Netherlands' most famous landmarks, showcasing 19 well-preserved windmills built around 1740 to drain the Alblasserwaard polder. Visitors can walk or cycle along the canals, marveling at the majestic brick and thatched mills that still function as part of the water management system. The site offers a glimpse into Dutch ingenuity: the mills lift water from low-lying land into the river Lek. Inside the Museummolen (museum mill), you can see how millers lived and worked, with period furnishings and interactive exhibits. The flat, open landscape dotted with mills creates a quintessentially Dutch scene, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset. A boat tour along the canals provides a unique perspective, while the visitor center explains the history of water control. Kinderdijk is a must-visit for anyone interested in engineering, history, or simply beautiful scenery.

Don't miss

  • Walk or cycle the network of paths connecting all 19 windmills
  • Visit the Museummolen to see a fully furnished mill interior
  • Take a guided boat tour along the canals for a different view
  • Watch the mills in action during windy days (some still operate)
  • Explore the visitor center for interactive exhibits on water management

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Kinderdijk windmills

You can usually visit on your own. A tour is worth it for transport, a guide, or combining nearby sights into one day.

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