It’s not just about the canals.
Amsterdam also tells its story through its iconic windmills. While the city’s buzzing with all things modern, these windmills are like quiet keepers of history.
Ready to explore? Let Trainline be your guide to these Dutch treasures.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Tu xa Ha Noi. Image Location: Zaanse Schans, Netherlands
Windmills: Amsterdam’s historical spokes
Windmills in Holland, especially the ones around Amsterdam, were the engineering marvels back in their day. They played a key role in handling water and all the milling work.
These days, though, they’re not just old tech structures. They’ve turned into charming, historic landmarks that really catch your eye. By the way, Amsterdam’s windmills are so captivating, they even pop up in some of the coolest modern TV shows!
The best windmills in and around Amsterdam
De Gooyer: an urban windmill icon
In the heart of Amsterdam, De Gooyer stands proud and tall. It’s not fighting the elements anymore and you can’t go inside, but it still offers a cool peek into Dutch history, right in the middle of the city’s hustle and bustle.
Zaanse Schans: a windmill wonderland
Hop on a short train ride and you’ll find Zaanse Schans, a village dotted with windmills spinning against the sky. Each one’s got its own story and job—like De Huisman, storing spices, De Gekroonde Poelenburg sawing wood, or De Kat grinding paint.
Image Credit: Getty Images, dennisvdw. Image Location: De Riekermolen, Amsterdam, Netherlands
A nod to pop culture: Ted Lasso’s windmill location
Fans of Ted Lasso might recall the beautiful windmill in the “Sunflowers” episode. That beauty is De Riekermolen, a slice of history from 1636, perched on the banks of Amsterdam’s Amstel River. Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll find a statue of Rembrandt, paying homage to the sketches he created in this picturesque spot.
But there’s more! De Riekermolen, which used to play a key role in draining land, still spins its blades with the wind every weekend from May to September (as long as the weather plays nice). While you can’t go inside for a tour, just seeing it from the outside is a treat. It’s got this charm that you can’t miss, dancing with the wind like it’s still living its glory days. Definitely a must-see!
From screen to scenery. Fancy an inspirational trip to the De Riekermolen windmill? There’s a bike path right by the Amstel River, popular with cyclists and runners. It’s the perfect route to take in the view and appreciate this piece of history.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Prasit Rodphan. Image Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Journey to the windmills: easy as a breeze with Trainline
Trainline offers an eco-friendly and efficient way to get from Amsterdam to windmill-rich places.
Which village has windmills near Amsterdam?
Zaanse Schans, renowned for its historic windmills, is a quaint village near Amsterdam.
Where is the best place to see windmills in Amsterdam?
The Zaanse Schans is a delightful open-air museum perfect for visitors of all ages. It's a free outdoor park open year-round, featuring a charming collection of historic windmills. Although you can visit any time of year, most windmills are open to the public from April to October.
How to get from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans by train?
Zaanse Schans is about 9 to 12 mi northwest of Amsterdam. By train, it’s about a 15-minute journey from Amsterdam Centraal station to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station, followed by a 15-minute walk to the windmills.
Related: The best day trip from Amsterdam by train
Image Credit: Getty Images, jenifoto. Image Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Where near Amsterdam can you go inside a windmill?
- Zaanse Schans. Several windmills here, including De Kat, a functioning dye mill, allow visitors to explore inside. You can learn about their history and mechanisms and enjoy stunning views.
- Molen van Sloten. Located in Amsterdam, this fully operational polder-draining windmill offers guided tours, allowing visitors to step inside and discover its workings. It’s the only working windmill in Amsterdam open daily to curious explorers like you.
- Molen de Adriaan in Haarlem. About 11 miles from Amsterdam, this windmill in Haarlem offers tours. Visitors can explore the interior and learn about its history and operation, as well as enjoy views of the Spaarne River. The journey between Amsterdam and Haarlem by train takes around 17 minutes.
What is the best time to see windmills in Amsterdam?
Spring and early summer are the sweet spots for checking out these awesome windmills. The weather’s just right—not too hot, not too cold.
Tips for windmill enthusiasts
- Dress for windmill weather. The Netherlands can be breezy. Layer up and wear a windbreaker.
- Follow photography etiquette. Capture the beauty without trespassing on private property.
Amsterdam’s windmills are like time machines against the quaint Dutch scenery. And with the Trainline app, you’re there before you know it, easy and smooth. Why wait? Jump into a train journey to Amsterdam, packed with captivating stories and stunning sights!
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, jenifoto. Image Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands