The Windmills at Schiedam: Historic windmills

Visitor Fee

• General Entry – Free to view the windmills from outside.
• Museum Windmill De Walvisch – €8.50 (Adults), €4.50 (Children 4-12), Free (Children under 4).
• Guided Tours – Prices vary depending on the tour and group size.

Transportation

Schiedam, located near Rotterdam, is easily accessible:

• By Train – Schiedam Centrum Station is a short walk from the windmills.
• By Tram – Tram 21 and 24 connect Schiedam with Rotterdam.
• By Bus – Several local buses stop near the windmills.
• By Bicycle – Cycling routes lead to the windmill district.
• By Car – Paid parking is available in Schiedam’s city center.

Things to Do at the Windmills in Schiedam

1. Visit Museum Windmill De Walvisch – Learn about Schiedam’s windmill history and gin production.
2. Explore the World’s Tallest Traditional Windmills – Some reach heights of over 33 meters (108 feet).
3. Take a Guided Windmill Tour – Learn how these windmills were used for grinding malt for Dutch jenever (gin).
4. Enjoy Scenic Views Along the Canals – Walk or cycle along Schiedam’s historic canal district.
5. Visit the Jenever Museum – Discover the history of Dutch gin-making and taste traditional jenever.
6. Photograph the Iconic Skyline – The tall windmills towering over the city create stunning photo opportunities.
7. Explore the Historic City Center – Walk through Schiedam’s old streets, bridges, and historic buildings.
8. Visit the Nolet Distillery – Home to Ketel One Vodka and traditional Dutch spirits.
9. Enjoy a Boat Tour – Cruise through Schiedam’s canals and learn about its maritime history.
10. Try Local Jenever & Dutch Delicacies – Experience traditional Dutch liquors and local cuisine.

Why People Enjoy Visiting the Windmills at Schiedam

• Home to the World’s Tallest Traditional Windmills – A unique sight in the Netherlands.
• Rich History of Jenever Production – The windmills played a key role in Dutch gin-making.
• Charming Canal District – Offers beautiful walking paths and cycling routes.
• Cultural & Historical Experience – Learn about Dutch industry, windmill engineering, and gin heritage.
• Less Crowded than Kinderdijk – A more relaxed and authentic Dutch experience.

How Old is This Place?

The Schiedam windmills were built in the 18th and early 19th centuries, making them over 200 years old. They were originally constructed to grind grain for the thriving jenever (gin) industry in Schiedam.

List of Activities

• Touring Windmill De Walvisch Museum
• Visiting the Jenever Museum
• Exploring Historic Windmills
• Cycling or Walking Along the Canals
• Taking a Guided Windmill Tour
• Enjoying a Canal Boat Ride
• Visiting Nolet Distillery (Ketel One Vodka)
• Tasting Dutch Jenever & Local Food
• Photography of the Historic Windmills

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. Rotterdam – Just 15 minutes away, offering modern architecture and cultural attractions.
2. Delfshaven (Rotterdam) – A historic harbor district with canals, old breweries, and museums.
3. Kinderdijk – A UNESCO World Heritage site with 19 historic windmills.
4. The Hague – Home to the Dutch Parliament, Peace Palace, and Scheveningen Beach.
5. Delft – A charming town famous for Delft Blue pottery and Johannes Vermeer.

The windmills of Schiedam offer a unique combination of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making them a must-visit for those interested in Dutch heritage and traditional windmills!