Madurodam is a miniature model of the Netherlands and definitely one of the most exciting experiences I’ve had while living in the country. Upon entering this attraction based in Den Haag (The Hague), you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped into Swift’s novel, Gulliver’s Travels, as a giant towering over villages and cities. Be prepared to be bowled over by the intricate design, fascinating details and overall splendor of the Netherlands in miniature!
Here are 5 good reasons to visit Madurodam:
1. You Get A Good Overview of Top Attractions in the Netherlands
A trip to Madurodam gives you a really good overview of the most beautiful and interesting sights in the Netherlands. In fact, I discovered some places I had never heard about before and have added them to my bucket list.
I also recommend visiting Madurodam early on during your trip to the Netherlands. If you have enough flexibility you can observe the many beautiful sights at this attraction and even change your holiday accordingly since this miniature exhibition is a good indicator of the best the Netherlands has to offer.
2. You Get to Play
Madurodam is for kids, big and small, young and old. Adults also love it not only because of the aesthetic appeal but also because of the interactive exhibits that allow you to play and let loose a bit.
There are a number of interactive displays where you can put out a fire on a Dutch vessel, create energy by powering wind turbines with your hands and you can even stick your finger in a dyke to prevent it from bursting (like the famous Hans Brinker story).
These interactive exhibits really allow you to experience the Netherlands in a completely different way. You also have access to unique and interesting parts of history and Dutch culture.
However, you cannot touch most of the exhibition because it is extremely delicate. So stay on the path and make sure your children do so as well. There are strict rules. Follow them carefully and only partake in the interactive bits when you’re allowed.
3. You Learn A lot!
What I love about this outdoor world is that you get to learn as you go along. Many of the little villages or cities on display have a computer screen whereby you can scan a card (given to you at the entrance) and watch a short video about the history of the building or area you are looking at. These short videos are highly entertaining and well worth taking the time to watch.
4. You’ll Obtain a Fresh Perspective of the Netherlands
If you’re travelling throughout the Netherlands by train, tram, bus or car you’ll have a certain physical perspective of things. However, Madurodam gives one a completely different and refreshing perspective of cities and towns. Now you get to see the detail and utter splendor of buildings from the viewpoint of a giant!
5. Inspiration to Travel!
After visiting Madurodam my bucket list for the Netherlands has got so much longer!! I observed some beautiful little towns and churches I have never been to before and that I now really want to go to. The miniature world of Madurodam has inspired me to see these quaint places in their real life, large form!
Have you been to Madurodam before? What was the best part of your time there?
Elizabeth Joss-Bethlehem
Elizabeth Joss-Bethlehem is the founder and main writer at The Museum Times. She works as a university lecturer by day and is an avid travel blogger and arts and culture enthusiast by night. Elizabeth started The Museum Times out of the need to give smaller, lesser-known museums more exposure.
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