Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage List since 1997, the windmills of Kinderdijk are the most popular Dutch tourist destination. Visit the only location in the world that houses 19 perfectly functioning windmills, which have been controlling the waters for over 1000 years.

The windmills of Kinderdijk were first built at the end of the fifteenth century. However, the nineteen we admire today all date from around 1740. The windmills of Kinderdijk form a complex water pumping system that prevents flooding in the surrounding low-lying land.

Visit the Museummolens (museum mills) and watch the multiscreen movie at the ‘Hulpgemaal De Fabriek’ (auxiliary pumping station). In Nederwaard Museum Mill, discover the life of its former occupants, then enter the Blokweer Museum Mill located inside the oldest mill in Kinderdijk. Finally, explore the area from the water and pass by the mills on a boat tour reaching the Museum Mill Overwaard.

The windmills of Kinderdijk are open daily with the exception of January 1 and December 25. From cities such as Rotterdam, Dordrecht and Utrecht, Kinderdijk is easy to reach by public transportation. Visit the visitor center for more information and lunch, coffee break or snack.

During the national day of the mills (the second Saturday of May) view, Kinderdijk is beautifully illuminated at night for a truly unique experience.