Small group tour to Kinderdijk windmills and Delft from Amsterdam

Exploring the Netherlands’ iconic sights becomes effortless with the small group tour to Kinderdijk windmills and Delft. Priced at $288.10 per person, this 8 to 9-hour journey offers an intimate experience with up to 16 travelers, guided by friendly experts Eva and Sarah. The tour starts from AlohaDe Ruijterkade 151 in Amsterdam at 8:00 am, making it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive day trip.

This tour combines two of the country’s most celebrated sites: the UNESCO-listed Kinderdijk windmills, which have kept the land dry for over 700 years, and the picturesque city of Delft, renowned for its Delft Blue pottery and royal connections. Highlights include a boat tour, a visit inside a working windmill, and free time in Delft to explore the charming canals and historic churches.

While the tour is filled with engaging sights and expert guidance, keep in mind that lunch is not included, so packing a snack or planning to dine in Delft is recommended. The convenient meeting point and small group size ensure a relaxed, personalized experience—perfect for travelers who appreciate in-depth visits without the crowds.

Key Points

• Small group size limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Includes visits to UNESCO World Heritage site Kinderdijk, with a boat tour and windmill entry.
• Time in Delft to explore the canals, churches, and the Vermeer Center at your own pace.
• Visit to the Royal Delft factory with ample opportunity to purchase souvenirs.
• Guides Eva and Sarah are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentive hosting.
• Tour departs at 8:00 am from Amsterdam and lasts around 8 to 9 hours.

The UNESCO World Heritage Windmills of Kinderdijk

The tour begins at Kinderdijk, home to 19 original windmills that have been draining water from the polder for over 700 years. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, Kinderdijk showcases the ingenuity behind Dutch water management. The system of windmills and pumps has evolved over centuries, combining human effort, technology, and nature to keep the land dry.

Along With admiring the windmills from outside, visitors can enter a working mill to learn about the personal stories of millers and gain insight into traditional Dutch craftsmanship. The boat tour provides a different perspective, offering scenic views of the windmills and the surrounding landscape. The admission to the mills and the boat cruise are included in the tour, making this a well-rounded experience without extra costs.

While the crowds are carefully avoided, the quiet, historical environment makes it easy to appreciate the windmills’ beauty and history in peace. This stop is a highlight for anyone interested in Dutch engineering and heritage.

Visiting Delft: A Picturesque Gem

After Kinderdijk, the tour moves to Delft, a small, charming city famed for its canals, gabled houses, and iconic towers. Delft’s less touristy atmosphere lets visitors stroll at leisure through its quaint streets, with the option to join the guide for a deeper dive into the town’s history.

The market square hosts beautiful churches, including the “new” and “old” churches, where the graves of William of Orange and other royals lie. The Vermeer Center offers insight into the life and works of Johannes Vermeer, one of the city’s most famous residents. Visitors have plenty of time to explore Delft’s shops and cafes or simply enjoy the scenery.

Included in the visit is a chance to see Delft Blue pottery being made at the Royal Delft factory. This famous porcelain has been crafted here for centuries. Guests can watch painters at work, learn about the production process, and shop for authentic souvenirs in the flagship store.

The Royal Delft Factory and Souvenir Shopping

A dedicated hour is spent at the Royal Delft factory and its flagship store, where the famous blue and white pottery is produced by skilled artisans. Visitors see painters decorating the delicate porcelain and have plenty of time to buy beautiful souvenirs before heading back to Amsterdam.

This visit offers insight into the craftsmanship behind Delft’s iconic pottery, with the opportunity to purchase authentic, high-quality pieces directly from the source. The factory visit is a key highlight for those interested in Dutch arts and craftsmanship.

Convenient Transportation and Group Size

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride between the stops, with all fees and taxes included. The tour’s small group size enhances personalization, allowing guides to tailor the experience and answer questions freely.

Starting at 8:00 am from a central Amsterdam location, the tour ends back at the meeting point, making logistics straightforward. The maximum of 16 travelers helps maintain an intimate atmosphere, avoiding the overwhelming crowds often encountered in larger tours.

Expert Guides Eva and Sarah

The guides Eva and Sarah earn high praise for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and hosting skills. Reviews mention Eva’s storytelling and Sarah’s personable approach as key reasons for a memorable experience.

Guests appreciate how the guides manage pacing, avoid crowds, and provide insightful commentary throughout the day. Their flexibility, such as offering customized options and hotel drop-offs, adds extra value to the tour.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour starts at 8:00 am from AlohaDe Ruijterkade 151 in Amsterdam. It includes bottled water, snacks, and cold drinks, but lunch is not included, so plan accordingly. Confirmation is received at booking, and service animals are allowed.

Booking in advance is recommended, as the tour is often booked 52 days ahead. A full cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This small group tour suits those interested in Dutch heritage, windmill engineering, and craftsmanship. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides, without the crowds of larger bus tours.

The 8 to 9-hour duration makes it perfect for a full yet manageable day trip, especially for those who want to combine cultural sights with scenic landscapes. Those eager to buy authentic souvenirs and learn about local traditions will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there is plenty of free time in Delft to enjoy local cafes or bring your own snacks.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a small-group experience.

Are the tickets for Kinderdijk and the boat cruise included?
Yes, all admission fees and the boat tour are included in the price.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, guides Eva and Sarah are known for their flexibility and can tailor parts of the experience to your interests.

Is the tour suitable for all physical levels?
The tour involves walking around Delft and entering windmills, but overall it is manageable for most travelers.

What do I need to bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle, and a camera. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially if you plan to enjoy the boat ride.

This small group tour to Kinderdijk windmills and Delft offers a balanced mix of history, craftsmanship, and scenic beauty, all guided by engaging experts. It’s a practical choice for those seeking an in-depth, relaxed day exploring some of the Netherlands’ most iconic locations.