Sam
Embark on a journey through the enchanting region of South Holland, where vibrant cities, historic charm, and coastal beauty converge to create the perfect canvas for an unforgettable family adventure. Nestled in the heart of the Netherlands, South Holland offers a unique blend of cultural richness, outdoor escapades, and a warm embrace of the Dutch way of life. In this Mini-Guide, we unveil the secrets to making your family trip to South Holland a magical experience filled with laughter, exploration, and cherished moments.
South Holland With Kids – My Mini Guide
Contents
How to Get There
By Air:
South Holland is well-connected internationally through Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport (AMS). Considered one of the world’s busiest airports, it serves as a gateway to the region.
By Train:
The Netherlands has an efficient railway system, and major cities in South Holland, including Rotterdam and The Hague, are easily accessible by train.
By Car:
For those seeking flexibility, renting a car provides the freedom to explore South Holland’s hidden gems at your own pace. You can also get a ferry from a number of locations in the UK to Holland. We travelled from Hull to Rotterdam. However, you can also catch a ferry from Newcastle too!
Getting around
Public Transportation:
South Holland boasts a reliable and extensive public transportation network. Trains, trams, and buses make it easy to navigate between cities and attractions.
Cycling:
Embrace the Dutch way of life and explore South Holland on two wheels. Rental bikes are readily available, and the region’s flat terrain makes it family-friendly.
Where to stay
We stayed at Duinrell near Wassenaar. However, there are plenty of hotels, B&Bs and other campsites in different locations in the surrounding area which you will find.
Rotterdam:
For a modern and vibrant atmosphere, consider staying in Rotterdam. Family-friendly hotels like the nhow Rotterdam provide stunning views of the city skyline.
The Hague:
Opt for The Hague if you prefer a mix of culture and seaside relaxation. The Kurhaus Hotel on Scheveningen Beach offers a luxurious yet family-friendly experience.
Leiden:
For a charming and historical setting, Leiden is a fantastic choice. Boutique hotels like the Huys van Leyden provide a cozy atmosphere for families.
Where to eat
Jo from Kiddie Holidays suggested if you love Ice Cream then to check out Lucianos which is only 5 mins from Duinrell. It has many awards for its homemade ice cream.
Pancake Houses:
Indulge in Dutch delights at pancake houses like Pannekoekenrestaurant Oudt Leyden, offering a variety of sweet and savory pancakes. Pannenkoekenhuis is also another Pancake house which is just outside the Duinrell entrance.
Seafood by the Beach:
Savor fresh seafood at beachside restaurants in Scheveningen, such as Catch by Simonis, where kids can enjoy the sea breeze.
Food Markets:
Explore local food markets like Markthal in Rotterdam, offering a diverse range of culinary delights and snacks.
What to Do
South Holland is packed with family-friendly activities, and even after our visit, there’s still so much more to explore! We visited several fantastic places, but there are plenty of attractions left on our list for next time.
Below, I’ve put together a list of the top things to do in Holland if you’re traveling with kids. Be sure to check out my Holland section for more details on our adventures and additional suggestions to help you plan the perfect family trip!
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is not too far to travel from Duinrell. You could drive or take the train. Unfortunately, we never made it to Amsterdam on our recent trip to Holland. However, when we go back in the future we are planning to try and fit it in. It looks a beautiful city to explore and there seem to be lots of things to do. Travel With Bender has a great article for their top 10 things to do in Amsterdam with Kids. Alternatively, if you are staying in Amsterdam and looking for a day trip from the capital then you could check out a day trip to Haarlem as a possible adventure.
Visiting Windmills in Holland with Kids
A trip to Holland wouldn’t be complete without visiting at least one windmill! If you want to see multiple windmills in one place, Kinderdijk is the perfect destination. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to 19 traditional windmills, offering a fascinating glimpse into Dutch history and water management.
It’s a great spot for families, with scenic walking and cycling paths, boat tours, and interactive exhibits. Whether you’re just admiring the iconic views or learning about how these windmills helped shape the Netherlands, Kinderdijk is a must-visit!
Cycling in Holland with Kids
Cycling is a way of life in Holland, so why not join in? With plenty of bike rental shops around, it’s easy to hire one, or you could even bring your own. One of the best things about cycling here is the well-designed cycle paths and lanes, meaning you rarely have to ride on busy roads.
This makes it an ideal activity for families, as kids can cycle safely while enjoying the scenery. Whether you’re exploring city streets, countryside routes, or iconic windmill sites like Kinderdijk, cycling is a fun and easy way to see the Netherlands at your own pace!
Beaches in South Holland with Kids
South Holland has some fantastic beaches that are perfect for a family day out. If you’re staying at Duinrell, Wassenaar Beach is a great option, and you can even cycle there for a fun and active trip.
Another popular spot is Scheveningen Beach, which features a large promenade perfect for strolling, exploring, and enjoying the seaside atmosphere. With plenty of cafés, restaurants, and attractions nearby, it’s a great place to spend the day with kids. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand, take a dip in the sea, or just enjoy a scenic walk, South Holland’s beaches have something for everyone!
Is Holland Family Friendly?
Absolutely! South Holland is a haven for families, offering a perfect blend of cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and seaside relaxation. From interactive museums to iconic windmills and family bike rides, there’s something for every age group.
Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities, cycling through scenic landscapes, or building sandcastles on the beach, South Holland promises a memorable family vacation. Embrace the Dutch hospitality, immerse yourself in the rich culture, and create lasting memories with your loved ones in this enchanting region.
Have you been to South Holland? Let me know your thoughts!
Had a great time in Holland this summer travelling by train. Kinderdijk, Dordrecht, Amsterdam and Haarlem were all hits which I’ve blogged about on my website.