Wheelchair-Friendly Adventures in Delft!

Delft

Why Visit?

Embark on an enchanting wheelchair-accessible tour of Delft, a city renowned for its historic charm and vibrant ceramic tradition. Start your day at the Delft Central Station, which is fully equipped with ramps and lifts to aid mobility.

First, explore the magnificent Markt Square, the heart of Delft. Wheel your way around this spacious area, soaking in the stunning views of the Renaissance-style City Hall and the imposing Nieuwe Kerk. The church, where Dutch royalty is entombed, offers a lift at the side entrance for easy access to its interior and royal crypt. Don"t miss the opportunity to ascend via an accessible elevator to the balcony for a panoramic view of the city.

Next, take a leisurely 5-minute roll to the Vermeer Centrum Delft. This museum presents the life and works of the Dutch master Johannes Vermeer, with all exhibitions fully accessible via ramps and a lift. Discover interactive displays that vividly describe 17th-century Delft and Vermeer’s innovative techniques, all at your own pace.

For lunch, head to the nearby Markt Square and choose from one of the many accessible eateries offering traditional Dutch cuisine. Enjoy a restful view of the bustling market area and the historical buildings.

Post-lunch, visit the Royal Delft, the last remaining Delftware factory from the 17th century, which is about a 10-minute ride by an accessible taxi from the city center. The factory tour is wheelchair friendly, and you can witness the delicate process of making the famed blue and white pottery. Engage with the painting demonstration, and maybe even try your hand at painting a tile — an accessible activity that’s facilitated by helpful staff.

Conclude your day by returning to the center, possibly grabbing a coffee at one of the charming cafés around the Markt Square, reflecting on a day well spent in the captivating city of Delft.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Madurodam

Why Visit?

Welcome to Madurodam, the enchanting miniature park located in The Hague, Netherlands, where Dutch landmarks, historical cities, and major developments are brought to life in tiny, detailed replicas. This guide will ensure wheelchair users and mobile scooter travelers enjoy a smooth and captivating experience.

Getting There

Madurodam is easily accessible by public transportation. From The Hague Central Station, take Tram 9 towards Scheveningen Noorderstrand and alight at the Madurodam stop. The park also offers accessible parking spaces close to the entrance for those arriving by car.

Entrance and Facilities

The park is designed to be fully accessible, featuring wide pathways and ramps where necessary. Accessible restrooms are available throughout the park. Wheelchairs can be borrowed free of charge at the entrance, subject to availability.

Tour Itinerary

Start your visit at the main entrance where a detailed map highlighting wheelchair-friendly routes is available. Begin with the interactive exhibition, "The Waterwolf", where you can learn about the Netherlands’ heroic struggle against the sea. This exhibit is fully accessible and offers tactile components for an engaging experience.

Next, wheel through the park’s highlights like the Binnenhof, the Rijksmuseum, and the delightful replicas of typical Dutch houses. Each model is crafted at a 1:25 scale, complete with tiny moving elements like trains, ships, and even a Schiphol Airport scene!

Make sure to visit the "Zo Groot Is Oranje" exhibit, showcasing the Dutch national football team"s history with accessible viewing platforms.

Dining

The Taste of Holland restaurant offers a menu featuring Dutch classics with accessible seating. The outdoor terrace provides a scenic view of the park, perfect for a relaxing break.

Departure

On your way out, don’t miss the souvenir shop, which is accessible and offers unique miniature-themed gifts to remember your Madurodam adventure by.

Madurodam promises a delightful and hassle-free experience, capturing the essence of the Netherlands in a uniquely accessible way.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Inner Court & Hall of Knights (Binnenhof & Ridderzaal)

Why Visit?

Discover the historic heartbeat of Dutch politics with a wheelchair-friendly tour of The Hague’s Binnenhof & Ridderzaal, a captivating complex of buildings dating back to the 13th century. Nestled in the city center, this iconic site offers a glimpse into the Netherlands" rich history and political heritage.

Getting There

The Hague is well-connected by public transport. If you"re coming from Amsterdam, catch a direct train to Den Haag Centraal Station, which is fully accessible to wheelchair users. From the station, the Binnenhof is a scenic 10-minute roll away through the bustling city streets. Alternatively, tram lines 1, 9, and 16 are equipped with low floors suitable for mobility scooters and wheelchairs, alight at the Binnenhof stop right in front of the complex.

Touring the Binnenhof & Ridderzaal

Begin your tour at the Visitors Centre, located at Hofweg 1. Here, you can join a guided tour specifically designed for visitors with mobility needs. These tours avoid stairs and feature ramps and elevators where necessary, ensuring a comfortable experience. As you navigate through the courtyards and chambers, learn about the Binnenhof’s transformation from a royal residence to the center of Dutch politics.

The highlight is the stunning Ridderzaal or Hall of Knights, known for its Gothic architecture and the annual Prinsjesdag ceremony, where the King addresses Parliament. The hall is equipped with ramps, and strategic viewing areas are designated for wheelchair users, offering a clear view of the medieval tapestries and intricate wooden carvings.

Interesting Facts

- The Binnenhof is one of the oldest Parliament buildings still in use today.

- The Ridderzaal was originally built as a banqueting hall by Count Floris V in the 13th century.

End your tour by rolling around the Hofvijver, a picturesque pond adjacent to the Binnenhof, perfect for reflecting on the day"s historical journey.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of the Peace Palace, The Hague

Morning Arrival

Begin your day with an enriching visit to the iconic Peace Palace in The Hague. The Palace, a symbol of international law and order, houses the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Its grand architecture and lush gardens make it a mesmerizing sight.

Getting There

The Peace Palace is accessible via public transport. Tram 1 from The Hague Central Station stops at "Vredespaleis" right in front of the palace. The tram is equipped with low floors, making it convenient for wheelchair users and mobile scooters.

Peace Palace Visitor Centre

Start your tour at the Visitor Centre, where a specially designed route accommodates wheelchairs, ensuring an informative and comfortable experience. Admission is free, and the centre provides an intriguing glimpse into the functioning of the court through interactive exhibits.

Guided Tour

Due to security reasons, the inside of the Palace is only accessible through guided tours, which are available on weekends. Ensure you book the wheelchair-accessible tour in advance. The guides are knowledgeable and cater to all visitors, ensuring everyone enjoys a comprehensive and engaging tour.

Lunch Break

Enjoy a peaceful lunch at the Visitor Centre café, which offers a variety of refreshments and has accessible seating arrangements. The outdoor terrace overlooks the serene gardens of the Palace, providing a perfect backdrop for a mid-day break.

Gardens and Grounds

Post-lunch, explore the beautifully manicured gardens surrounding the Palace. Paved pathways allow easy navigation for wheelchairs and scooters, offering a close view of the Peace Flame and the impressive statues dotting the landscape.

Interesting Fact

The Peace Palace was largely funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, reflecting his dedication to international peace and justice.

Departure

Conclude your tour with inspiring thoughts of peace and justice, and easy tram ride back to the city center or your accommodation.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.

Grote Kerk

Why Visit?

Wheelchair-Friendly Tour of Grote Kerk

Explore the historical grandeur of Grote Kerk, the iconic church positioned at the heart of The Hague. With its towering presence and rich history, this is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs.

Getting There

Accessible public transport to Grote Kerk is readily available. Tram lines 2, 3, 4, and 6 all stop at the Grote Markt station, just a short, flat walk to the church. For those driving, the nearby Q-Park Grote Markt offers disabled parking spaces, ensuring smooth access to the church.

Start Your Tour

Begin your exploration at the main entrance, which is equipped with ramps and wide doors to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters. Inside, you"ll find that the church"s vast nave is accessible, with plenty of room to maneuver.

Highlights of the Visit

1. Architecture: Admire the stunning Gothic architecture that dates back to the 15th century. The church’s awe-inspiring stained glass windows depict various historical and biblical scenes.

2. Royal Connections: Dive into the church"s royal history where members of the Dutch Royal Family were baptized, including King Willem-Alexander.

3. The Organ: Don"t miss the majestic organ, one of the oldest in the Netherlands, celebrated for its remarkable acoustics and historical significance.

Interactive Experience

Engage with the church"s interactive touchscreen displays, strategically placed at wheelchair-accessible heights, providing fascinating insights into the church’s history and architecture.

Relax and Reflect

Conclude your visit by relaxing in the church’s serene courtyard. This peaceful area is fully accessible, offering a quiet space to reflect on the beauty and tranquillity of your surroundings.

Visitor Information

The church is open to visitors from Monday to Saturday. Entrance is free, although donations are welcomed. For a more in-depth experience, guided tours are available and can be booked in advance.

Embrace the rich history and spiritual ambiance of Grote Kerk, all made accessible for every visitor.

Wheelchair-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to wheelchair-friendly travelers.