Schiedam The City of Windmills and Wonders

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Schiedam is a charming city located in the province of South Holland, Netherlands, known for its rich history, stunning canals, and as the home of the famous Dutch gin, Jenever. Situated just west of Rotterdam, Schiedam boasts a unique mix of old-world charm and modern urban life, making it a captivating destination for visitors. The city’s history dates back to the 13th century, and it flourished as a center of the Dutch gin industry in the 18th and 19th centuries. Schiedam is home to the tallest windmills in the world, which were historically used to grind grain for the production of Jenever, the traditional Dutch gin. Today, many of these windmills remain as iconic landmarks and offer visitors a glimpse into Schiedam’s industrial past. The city’s picturesque canals and historic buildings, including its charming town center with cobblestone streets, squares, and centuries-old architecture, provide a wonderful backdrop for exploration. Schiedam also offers a rich cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as vibrant local festivals throughout the year.

Canal Cruise Through Schiedam

Experience Schiedam’s charming canals by boat. You can take a guided boat tour through the city’s canals, providing a unique view of the historic buildings, windmills, and beautiful bridges, all while enjoying a relaxing water-based adventure.

Hike in the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen

Located nearby, the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen nature reserve offers a great adventure for hiking and wildlife watching. The dunes, forests, and open fields make for an ideal area to explore on foot, with opportunities to spot birds, deer, and other wildlife.

Jenever Tasting Tour

Schiedam is the birthplace of Jenever, the Dutch gin, and you can take part in a local tasting tour. Visit the city’s distilleries and historic Jenever bars to taste the various types of gin while learning about its centuries-old production process.

Cycling Through the Schiedam Countryside

Schiedam is well-connected to cycling routes that lead through beautiful countryside landscapes, including along the nearby rivers. Rent a bike and explore the area, including the scenic Zuiderpark and the peaceful surroundings of the Schiedam polders.

Stedelijk Museum Schiedam

This museum is a must-see for art and history lovers. Located in a former grain warehouse, it features both contemporary art and historical exhibits, including those focused on the city’s past as a center of gin production.

Jenever Museum

Discover the fascinating history of Schiedam’s most famous product at the Jenever Museum, where you can learn about the distillation process, the cultural significance of Jenever, and taste different varieties of the spirit.

Schiedam City Center

The town center is filled with charming canals, narrow streets, and picturesque squares. Take a stroll through the historic heart of Schiedam, and stop at local shops, cafes, and restaurants, or simply admire the beautiful old buildings, like the Sint-Jan’s Church.

Windmill Park (Molenpark)

Located in the heart of Schiedam, the Molenpark is home to a collection of five historic windmills. This park offers a wonderful setting for a walk, and you can visit the mills to learn more about their history and importance in the city’s gin-making heritage.

Dos and Don’ts in Schiedam

Dos

1. Do Visit the Windmills: Schiedam is famous for its windmills, some of the tallest in the world. Take time to visit De Walvisch and other historic windmills to learn about the city’s gin-making history and enjoy the stunning views from the top.
2. Do Try Local Jenever: Schiedam is the birthplace of Jenever, the Dutch gin, so don’t miss the opportunity to taste different varieties. Visit a local distillery or bar and enjoy a traditional tasting experience.
3. Do Take a Canal Cruise: The canals of Schiedam are beautiful and historic. Take a boat tour to get a unique perspective of the city, its iconic windmills, and charming architecture.

Don’ts

1. Don’t Litter: Schiedam, like the rest of the Netherlands, takes cleanliness seriously. Be sure to dispose of your trash properly in bins or recycling containers. Littering is frowned upon and can lead to fines.
2. Don’t Ignore Local Etiquette: The Dutch value politeness and punctuality. Always greet people with a friendly “Hallo” or “Goedemorgen,” and be on time for appointments or tours. Personal space is also respected, so avoid standing too close to others.
3. Don’t Expect Late-Night Entertainment: While Schiedam has a lively cultural scene, it’s not known for a bustling nightlife. Most shops, restaurants, and cafes close earlier than in larger cities like Rotterdam. If you’re looking for late-night entertainment, you might need to head to Rotterdam.

Best time to reach in Schiedam

The best time to visit Schiedam largely depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and crowd levels. Here’s a breakdown of the ideal times to visit:

1. Spring (April to June)

• Spring in Schiedam is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F).
• The city’s parks, canals, and surrounding countryside come alive with blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.
• Spring is perfect for cycling, walking tours, and canal cruises. The weather is comfortable for outdoor activities, and the crowds are not as large as during the summer months, providing a peaceful experience.

2. Summer (July to August)

• Summer in Schiedam is warm, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F).
• Days are long and sunny, making it perfect for outdoor cafes, boat tours, and visiting nearby attractions like Rotterdam.
•  Summer is great for enjoying outdoor adventures, including canal cruises, windmill visits, and walking tours through Schiedam’s historic city center.

3. Autumn (September to November)

• Autumn brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The landscape is filled with autumn colors, making it a picturesque time to visit the city and the nearby countryside.
• This is a quieter season to visit Schiedam. With fewer tourists, you can enjoy a more relaxed experience.
• It’s also perfect for enjoying nature walks, cycling in the countryside, and exploring museums and galleries without the summer crowds.

4. Winter (December to February)

• Winter in Schiedam can be cold, with temperatures between 0°C and 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Snow is rare but possible, and the weather can be damp. However, the city has a cozy, festive atmosphere during the holiday season.
• Winter is a peaceful time to visit Schiedam, with fewer tourists and a charming holiday atmosphere.
• You can enjoy indoor activities like museum visits, Jenever tastings, and cozy cafes. If you’re lucky, you might experience snow, which makes the city’s canals and historic windmills even more picturesque.