Must-Visit Windmill Village in the Netherlands: Kinderdijk near Rotterdam

The Netherlands is world-famous for its windmills. Besides the Zaanse Schans Windmill Village north of Amsterdam, the most renowned site is Kinderdijk, located in the suburbs southeast of Rotterdam. Although situated in a suburban area with inconvenient land transportation—requiring a train ride followed by a bus transfer—traveling by water is a more accessible option. Visitors can take a water bus from the city center, which not only offers a more relaxed journey with fewer tourists but also provides stunning views of the scenic riverbanks along the way. Kinderdijk is home to the largest concentration of windmills in the Netherlands. Positioned at the confluence of the Lek and Noord rivers, 19 massive windmills stand majestically along the riverbanks. These windmills are not only impressive in scale but also hold significant historical value, earning them a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list. The long walking trail takes about 25 minutes one way and is divided into pedestrian and cycling paths. It’s also a popular spot for locals to stroll and walk their dogs. At the end of the trail, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of multiple windmills lining the open riverbanks. There’s also a small dock at the end, making it a perfect spot for Instagram-worthy photos.