Windmills are one of the most iconic symbols of the Netherlands.
And honestly?
Seeing them in person feels even more magical than the photos.
From UNESCO-listed landscapes to historic villages near Amsterdam, the Netherlands has some incredible windmill spots worth visiting.
If you’re planning a trip, here are some of the best places to experience traditional Dutch windmills — plus unique things to do along the way.
▶︎ Check windmill tours and tickets here >>
- Why Visit Dutch Windmills?
- Kinderdijk – The Most Famous Windmills in the Netherlands
- Zaanse Schans – Easy Day Trip from Amsterdam
- Schiedam – Home to the Tallest Windmills in the World
- Windmills & Dutch Craft Beer
- Buy Freshly Milled Flour
- Stay Overnight in a Windmill
- Travel Tips for Windmill Trips
- Best Windmill Spots in the Netherlands (Quick Summary)
- Final Thoughts
Why Visit Dutch Windmills?
Dutch windmills are more than just tourist attractions.
Historically, they were used for:
- Draining water
- Milling grain
- Sawing wood
- Producing oil and paint
Even today, many windmills are still operating.
And every May, the Netherlands celebrates National Windmill Day (Nationale Molendag), when windmills across the country open to visitors.
Kinderdijk – The Most Famous Windmills in the Netherlands
Kinderdijk is probably the most famous windmill destination in the country.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site features:
- 19 historic windmills
- Beautiful canals
- Walking and cycling paths
- Boat tours
It’s one of those places that truly feels “typically Dutch.”
Sunset is especially beautiful here.
▶︎ Book Kinderdijk tickets and tours here >>
Zaanse Schans – Easy Day Trip from Amsterdam
Zaanse Schans is one of the easiest windmill destinations to visit from Amsterdam.
It’s perfect for first-time visitors because you can combine:
- Windmills
- Cheese tasting
- Wooden clog workshops
- Traditional Dutch houses
Many of the windmills are open to visitors, so you can actually see how they worked inside.
▶︎ Check Zaanse Schans tours and tickets >>
Schiedam – Home to the Tallest Windmills in the World
Schiedam offers a completely different windmill experience.
Instead of rural scenery, these enormous windmills rise above the town itself.
Historically, Schiedam was famous for:
- Gin production
- Grain milling
Some windmills can still be visited today.
Compared to tourist-heavy locations, Schiedam feels quieter and more local.
Windmills & Dutch Craft Beer
Want a more local experience?
Then visit Brouwerij ’t IJ in Amsterdam.
This popular craft brewery sits right next to a traditional windmill.
On sunny days, the terrace is packed with people enjoying Dutch beer beneath the spinning sails.
Honestly, it’s one of the most “Amsterdam” experiences you can have.
Buy Freshly Milled Flour
Many Dutch windmills still produce flour today.
And yes — you can buy it.
Freshly milled flour has a surprisingly rich flavor compared to supermarket versions.
It also makes a unique souvenir if you enjoy baking.
Stay Overnight in a Windmill
Did you know you can actually stay inside a windmill?
Some historic mills have been transformed into:
- Boutique hotels
- Apartments
- Unique countryside stays
It’s a fun way to experience Dutch countryside life beyond typical hotels.
▶︎ Check windmill hotels in the Netherlands >>
Travel Tips for Windmill Trips
Many windmill locations are easy to reach by train.
For travelers staying longer in the Netherlands, NS train subscriptions can sometimes help reduce transportation costs.
▶︎ Check Dutch train travel options >>
Best Windmill Spots in the Netherlands (Quick Summary)
| Place | Best For |
|---|---|
| Kinderdijk | Classic Dutch windmills and UNESCO scenery |
| Zaanse Schans | Easy day trip from Amsterdam |
| Schiedam | The tallest windmills in the world |
| Brouwerij ’t IJ | Craft beer with a windmill view |
Final Thoughts
Windmills are one of the most unique parts of Dutch culture.
Whether you want:
- UNESCO scenery
- Traditional villages
- Boat rides
- Craft beer
- Or even a windmill hotel stay
…the Netherlands has plenty of unforgettable windmill experiences.
▶︎ Compare windmill tours and tickets here >>
▶︎ Find unique windmill hotels in the Netherlands >>