De Riekermolen (1636)

Quick Reference Guide

Why De Riekermolen Should Be on Your Amsterdam Itinerary

When planning your Amsterdam adventure, you might fill your schedule with canal cruises, Van Gogh Museum visits, and Rijksmuseum tours. But venture just 5 kilometers beyond the city center, and you’ll discover one of Amsterdam’s most authentic experiences: De Riekermolen windmill.

As a travel journalist who has explored Amsterdam countless times, I’ve found this historic windmill delivers something increasingly rare in popular destinations—a genuine connection to local heritage without overwhelming crowds. The windmill’s picturesque setting along the Amstel River creates that perfect “I’m really in the Netherlands” moment that transforms an ordinary city break into an unforgettable Dutch experience.

Built during the Dutch Golden Age in 1636, De Riekermolen isn’t just a pretty photo opportunity. It represents the ingenious water management systems that literally shaped the Netherlands, transforming wetlands into the livable, farmable country we see today. Originally constructed to drain the Riekerpolder area, this windmill showcases the engineering prowess that helped the Dutch claim their country from the sea.

This experience is particularly special because it combines cultural exploration with natural beauty. The windmill’s location along the scenic Amstel River creates a perfect backdrop for photography, especially during golden hour when the structure stands silhouetted against a canvas of orange, pink, and purple sky. And unlike the commercial windmill attractions outside Amsterdam, De Riekermolen remains refreshingly authentic.

The Rich History of De Riekermolen

The story of De Riekermolen intertwines with the Netherlands’ existential battle against water. During the 17th century, while most European powers expanded through conquest, the Dutch embarked on ambitious land reclamation projects—literally expanding their nation by engineering land from the sea.

De Riekermolen was originally built in 1636 to drain water from the Riekerpolder, a low-lying area near the village of Sloten. Its sophisticated engineering employed an Archimedes’ screw mechanism to lift water and manage the region’s water levels—technology so effective that the system received an update rather than a replacement in 1871.

Perhaps most fascinatingly, the windmill you see today isn’t in its original location. In 1956, when threatened by the expansion of a sand extraction mine and the enlargement of the Nieuwe Meer, De Riekermolen wasn’t demolished but carefully relocated to its current picturesque spot along the Amstel River. This preservation effort reveals how deeply the Dutch value these historic structures—not mere tourist attractions but vital links to their national identity and engineering heritage.

The windmill also boasts a prestigious artistic connection that elevates its cultural significance. The celebrated Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn found inspiration in this landscape, immortalizing the windmill and serene river views in his sketches. Today, a bronze statue depicting Rembrandt stands near the windmill, creating a tangible connection to Dutch artistic heritage and a perfect photo opportunity for art enthusiasts. Standing where Rembrandt once stood, seeing what inspired his creative vision, creates a powerful connection across centuries.

Best Time to Visit De Riekermolen

Your timing can transform a simple windmill visit into an unforgettable Dutch experience. Each season at De Riekermolen delivers its distinctive charm:

Spring (March-May) – Most Recommended

Spring transforms the surroundings into a painter’s palette as famous Dutch tulips burst into bloom across nearby fields. Mild 15-18°C (59-64°F) temperatures create perfect conditions for a leisurely bike ride along the Amstel, with De Riekermolen waiting as your picturesque destination. For photographers, capturing the contrast between the weathered wooden windmill and vibrant spring flowers produces truly Instagram-worthy images that embody the essence of the Netherlands.

Summer (June-August) – Best for Active Windmill

During summer, De Riekermolen awakens from its static pose. The massive sails often turn on weekends from May through September (weather permitting), transforming this historic structure from monument to working machine. Summer’s extended daylight hours (sun sets around 10 PM in June) create golden opportunities for early morning or late evening visits when crowds thin and lighting softens, perfect for both photography and peaceful appreciation. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the riverbank as the windmill’s silhouette reflects in the Amstel’s calm waters.

Fall (September-November) – Best for Peaceful Atmosphere

As summer crowds dissipate, fall brings a tranquil atmosphere to De Riekermolen. The changing foliage creates a breathtaking backdrop as trees along the Amstel River transform into a canvas of amber, crimson, and gold. Temperatures cooling to 10-15°C (50-59°F) make for comfortable exploration of the surrounding area, while the slanting autumn light bathes the windmill in a warm glow that photographers dream about. This is the perfect season for contemplative visits and experiencing the windmill in relative solitude.

Winter (December-February) – Best for Unique Photography

While less popular with tourists, winter offers the most uniquely magical experience at De Riekermolen. After a snowfall, the windmill stands against a pristine white landscape, creating a postcard-perfect winter wonderland that few visitors ever witness. The stark contrast between the dark wooden structure and snow-covered surroundings produces hauntingly beautiful photographs, unlike any summer snapshot. Just be prepared for temperatures hovering around 2-6°C (35-43°F) and bundle up against those notorious Dutch winds that once powered this very windmill!

The Magic Hour – Best for Photography

Regardless of season, sunset transforms De Riekermolen into a photographer’s dream. As the fading light casts long shadows across the landscape and the windmill creates a dramatic silhouette against Amsterdam’s colorful sky, the scene becomes quintessentially Dutch. This golden hour (check local sunset times as they vary significantly by season) presents unparalleled opportunities to capture that perfect Netherlands countryside image that stands apart from typical Amsterdam canal photos.

Pro Tip: Check the local weather forecast and wind conditions before your visit. The windmill is most impressive on slightly windy days (8-12 km/h) when the sails might be turning (typically weekends from May to September). Use a weather app that shows wind speed predictions to time your visit perfectly.

How to Get to De Riekermolen

The journey to De Riekermolen becomes part of the adventure, offering a glimpse into Amsterdam beyond the tourist-packed center. Located just 5 kilometers south of central Amsterdam, the windmill is accessible via several transportation options, each offering a different perspective on the city:

By Bicycle (Most Authentic & Recommended)

Experiencing De Riekermolen by bicycle delivers the most quintessentially Dutch adventure. From central Amsterdam, follow these simple directions:

1. Rent a bike from numerous shops near Leidseplein or Centraal Station (€10-15 daily rate)
2. Head south along the Amstel River bike path
3. Follow the clearly marked cycling route for approximately 30 minutes (5 kilometers)
4. Look for the distinctive windmill silhouette on your right along the riverbank

This route follows well-maintained, dedicated bike paths the entire way, making it manageable even for casual cyclists. You’ll pedal past charming riverfront homes, scenic viewpoints, and local hangouts far from tourist crowds. Plus, the freedom of having your own transportation allows you to explore the surrounding Amstelpark and riverfront at your leisure.

Insider Tip: Download the Fietsroute app (free) before your ride, which shows Amsterdam’s extensive bike path network with windmill points of interest clearly marked.

By Public Transportation (Easiest Option)

For those preferring Amsterdam’s excellent public transit network, reaching De Riekermolen is straightforward:

Option 1: By Tram (Fastest)

• Take tram number 5 from central Amsterdam toward Amstelveen
• Exit at Amstelpark stop (approximately 15-20 minutes from center)
• Walk 10 minutes toward the Amstel River (well-signposted)

Option 2: By Metro + Walking (Most scenic)

• Take metro line 52 to RAI station
• Walk through beautiful Amstelpark (approximately 15 minutes)
• Exit the park’s western side to find De Riekermolen

Purchase an OV-chipkaart at any station (€7.50 for the card plus journey fare) or buy a 1-day GVB pass (€8.50) for unlimited public transport. Both options work on all Amsterdam trams, buses, and metros.

Accessibility Note: Both the tram and metro options are fully wheelchair accessible, though the final approach to the windmill involves a gravel path that may present challenges for those with mobility issues.

By Walking (Most Immersive)

For enthusiastic walkers and those seeking a deeper connection with Amsterdam’s southern reaches, De Riekermolen makes for an excellent destination on a half-day urban hike:

1. Start from Amstelplein or Frederiksplein in central Amsterdam
2. Follow the eastern bank of the Amstel River southward
3. Pass Martin Luther King Park and continue along the riverfront path
4. Arrive at De Riekermolen after approximately 5 kilometers (1-1.5 hours at a leisurely pace)

This riverside route offers continuous scenic views and plenty of charming cafés to rest at. The path is well-maintained and flat, making it accessible for most fitness levels. Walking allows you to pause at various points of interest that might be missed at cycling speed.

Smart Walking Tip: Download the route to your phone using AllTrails or Google Maps’ offline feature, as mobile reception can be spotty along parts of the river.

By Canal Tour (Unique Perspective)

Several specialized canal tour operators offer routes that include views of De Riekermolen from the water—a perspective few visitors experience:

• Those Dam Boat Guys – Offers small-group tours (max 12 people) that travel further south than standard canal tours, passing De Riekermolen (€35 per person, 2-hour tour)
• Stromma Countryside Cruise – Larger boat option with multilingual audio guide, passes the windmill during its “Hidden Gems” route (€29.50, 1.5-hour tour)

While you won’t be able to disembark at the windmill itself with these options, they provide a unique vantage point of the structure from the Amstel River, plus historical commentary you’d miss exploring independently.

Navigation Tip: Use Google Maps or the local 9292 app to plan your journey to De Riekermolen. Simply enter “De Riekermolen” as your destination for accurate directions from your starting point. Both apps work offline if you download the Amsterdam area map in advance.

Walking & Cycling Routes

The windmill serves as an excellent centerpiece for longer explorations of southern Amsterdam. Consider these three route options:

1. Amstel River North Route (5km, 1 hour walking/20 minutes cycling)
   • Follow the Amstel River path north toward central Amsterdam
   • Pass historic mansions and houseboats along Amsterdam’s famous waterway
   • End at Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) for another iconic photo opportunity
2. Southern Discovery Route (7km, 1.5 hours walking/30 minutes cycling)
   • Head south along the river toward the charming village of Ouderkerk aan de Amstel
   • Discover rural Dutch landscapes just outside the city
   • Reward yourself with traditional apple pie at Loetje aan de Amstel riverside restaurant
3. Amstelpark Loop (3km, 45 minutes walking/15 minutes cycling)
   • Combine your windmill visit with a leisurely circuit through neighboring Amstelpark
   • Explore diverse gardens, a petting zoo, and recreational facilities
   • Visit the Glazen Huis gallery for contemporary art exhibitions
   • Refresh at Park Café Amstelpark before returning to the windmill

Trail App Recommendation: Download the Komoot app to access these and other curated routes around De Riekermolen with turn-by-turn navigation.

Cultural Appreciation

Take time to appreciate the historical significance of the structure:

• Observe the classic Dutch architectural elements and engineering features
• Notice how the windmill’s design responds to the ever-present challenge of water management
• Reflect on how structures like De Riekermolen shaped the Dutch landscape and national identity

Nearby Refreshments

After your visit, consider stopping at:

• Klein Kalfje, a riverside restaurant offering traditional Dutch cuisine with views of the Amstel
• Various cafes in Amstelpark for a quick coffee or snack
• Pack a picnic to enjoy along the riverbank with De Riekermolen as your backdrop

Essential Travel Tips for Visiting De Riekermolen

Best Photography Times

• Visit during the golden hour (1 hour before sunset) for optimal lighting
• Early mornings offer tranquility and soft light
• Slightly cloudy days provide even lighting without harsh shadows

Avoiding Crowds

• Weekday visits, especially in the morning, offer the most peaceful experience
• During peak tourist season (summer), aim to visit before 10 AM or after 5 PM
• Winter months see significantly fewer visitors but equally beautiful views

Practical Considerations

• Wear appropriate footwear, especially after rain when the area can become muddy
• Bring a windproof jacket, as the open area around the windmill can be quite breezy
• Consider packing binoculars to appreciate details of the windmill’s structure
• Respect the privacy of residents by keeping a respectful distance from the building itself

Combining With Other Attractions

Make the most of your journey to this part of Amsterdam by visiting these nearby attractions:

Amstelpark This expansive park features diverse gardens, a petting zoo, and recreational facilities. Its proximity to De Riekermolen makes it an ideal combination for a half-day excursion.

Rembrandt Statue Located near the windmill, this bronze tribute to the famous Dutch painter commemorates his artistic connection to this very landscape.

Amstel River Cruise Several tour operators offer specialized small-boat cruises along this section of the Amstel, providing unique perspectives of De Riekermolen from the water.

Other Historic Windmills For windmill enthusiasts, consider extending your journey to visit:

• Molen van Sloten (offers interior tours)
• De Gooyer (with a brewery at its base)
• Or take a day trip to the famous Zaanse Schans for multiple windmills in one location

Where to Stay Near De Riekermolen

While De Riekermolen is easily accessible from anywhere in Amsterdam, staying in these nearby neighborhoods can enhance your experience:

Amsterdam Zuid

This upscale residential area offers proximity to De Riekermolen while providing a more relaxed atmosphere than the city center. You’ll find several boutique hotels and vacation rentals at more reasonable prices than central Amsterdam.

Recommended Properties:

• Apollo Hotel Amsterdam (4-star riverside property)
• Citizen M Amsterdam South (stylish budget-friendly option)
• Hotel Okura Amsterdam (luxury experience with Japanese influence)

Rivierenbuurt

This charming neighborhood between the city center and De Riekermolen offers authentic Amsterdam living without the tourist crowds.

Recommended Properties:

• Sir Albert Hotel (boutique hotel in a former diamond factory)
• Hotel Pestana Amsterdam Riverside (elegant property in a historic building)
• Various well-appointed Airbnb options for family travelers

Transportation Considerations

When choosing accommodation, look for properties with:

• Bicycle rental services or nearby rental shops
• Proximity to tram line 5 for easy access to De Riekermolen
• Good connections to central Amsterdam attractions

Have you visited De Riekermolen? Share your experience in the comments below.