How to Get to Efteling from the UK

“Sometimes the journey is part of the magic, not simply the way to get there.”

Ever wondered what it would be like to replace the familiar streets of the UK with a fairytale land where castles soar above the tree tops, storybook characters come alive and every corner is a dream come true?

Your fairytale adventure begins in the enchanting world of Efteling

Located in a rural area in the Netherlands, Efteling is one of the most magical theme parks in Europe. It’s a place where kids can dream as they please, and grown-ups can share in the magic as well. Before the fairytale adventure begins, however, there’s one important question to be addressed: how does one get to Efteling from the UK?

Luckily, there are some options.

You can fly from the UK and continue by train or bus, take the Eurostar from London to the Netherlands, or drive through Europe if you prefer the freedom of a road trip. Your choice will depend on your budget, departure city, travelling companions and available travel time.

In this guide, I’ll help you find the most convenient way to get to Efteling, explain what to expect along the way and share a few tips to make your journey smoother.

Where Is Efteling?

Knowing where the park is located is important before you start to plan for how to get there from the UK: how to get to Efteling from the UK.

Efteling is close to the town of Kaatsheuvel in the province of North Brabant in the Netherlands. It is 100 kilometres south of Amsterdam and 80 kilometres from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

Not everything is “in the middle of nowhere” but this is part of the charm of the park. Rather, it’s nestled in woodland and quiet Dutch countryside.

This means your journey doesn’t end when you arrive by plane or train. You’ll still need to make the final connection to Kaatsheuvel and Efteling.

But don’t worry. When done properly, the trip is relatively easy.

How to Get to Efteling from the UK

There are three routes to reach Efteling from the UK:

• Fly from the UK to the Netherlands
• Take the Eurostar to the Netherlands
• Drive from the UK to Efteling

Most visitors from the UK opt for transportation by public means after arriving in the country. If you don’t want to fly, a train journey called Eurostar may be a nice option instead.

Families who have a lot of bags and are looking to explore more of the Netherlands may find driving to be very helpful.

Now let’s dive into each one of them.

1. Fly to the Netherlands from the UK

If you want to reach the Netherlands quickly, flying may be the simplest option.

There are several airports located in the UK offering flights to the Dutch airports, including Amsterdam Schiphol, which is the most convenient airport for many travellers to the Efteling.

In some parts of the UK, it may be possible to fly to other airports like Eindhoven as well.

Once you arrive in the Netherlands, you can continue to Efteling by road or public transport.

Efteling is around 1 hour and 15 minutes from Amsterdam by car, although the exact journey time from Schiphol Airport depends on traffic and your onward transport.

Schiphol is also well connected to the Dutch rail network and thus is a convenient arrival airport.

A popular way to get there is by train from Schiphol to ‘s-Hertogenbosch or Den Bosch. Then you can head on to the Efteling area using the local bus.

If you’re travelling with young children, lots of luggage or a larger group, you could also consider a private transfer or taxi.

Eindhoven Airport is another option to consider, particularly if you find a suitable direct flight from your departure airport.

Also, consider flying into Eindhoven Airport as it is closer to Efteling than Amsterdam is.

Airport transfer services to and from Schiphol, however, may differ from those to and from other airports so please check the onward travel before you rent your car.

One of the little travel tips for families: Do not judge flights by just the cost of the ticket.

A lower cost flight might require more transit or changes and extra transportation fees. The true price is the cost of the total trip.

2. Take the Eurostar from the UK

Now for something different.

If you enjoy watching the scenery change outside the window, travelling by train can make the journey part of the experience.

Eurostar trains run between London and the rest of Europe, such as the Netherlands. From London St Pancras International station, you can get to Amsterdam, then head on to the Dutch railway network from there.

The experience can feel more relaxed. Rather than get to the airport ahead of time, go through airport security and then wait for the plane, you can go straight to your seat, and start to see Britain slowly fade out of view behind you.

Take the train from Amsterdam to the Efteling area, typically using ‘s-Hertogenbosch or other convenient Dutch train connection to get to Kaatsheuvel.

Why choose Eurostar?

Travelling by train can be particularly attractive when:

• You are travelling from London or nearby
• You do not like travelling by airplane
• You want to enjoy a European rail journey
• You are travelling with older children
• You want to carry more luggage without dealing with airport-style restrictions

It can take longer than travelling by air, but not necessarily.

For some people travelling, the slower pace is part of the experience.

3. Drive from the UK to Efteling

Road-trip lovers, this one is for you.

Driving can be a great option if you enjoy the freedom of travelling by car.

You can pack what you want, stop when you want, and add on additional destinations to your trip.

Typically includes ferry or Channel Tunnel travel from the UK to mainland Europe, then France, Belgium and finally the Netherlands.

Once you reach the Netherlands, continue towards Kaatsheuvel and Efteling.

Should you take the time to drive to Efteling?

Driving is convenient for a family or group as you’re not forced to deal with multiple train changes and packing and unpacking children’s bags.

That can also be the case if Efteling is only a component of a longer European holiday.

You may mix up your theme park experience with cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Brussels or Bruges, depending on your travel plans.

But keep in mind, when driving, you must also take into account how much fuel costs, road tolls (where applicable), parking, insurance and ferry/tunnel fees.

Upon departure from the UK, it is advisable to review the current driving regulations as well.

Which Airport Is Best for Efteling?

This is one of those questions that there can be no definitive answer unless you provide the full picture of your trip.

Amsterdam Schiphol is a great option as it has huge international connections, and the rail links are great.

If you can find a direct flight from or to Eindhoven Airport, it may be a convenient alternative if you prefer to begin your trip nearer to Efteling.

Do not just compare the departure and arrival times when comparing flights.

Consider the trek to the door.

For instance, a longer flight might be better, if it provides a much easier onward connection.

This is one of my favourite ways to plan European theme-park trips: consider the whole trip instead of the flight being the main mode of transport.

Getting from Amsterdam to Efteling

After you have made it to Amsterdam, it is quite easy to organise the rest of your trip.

The Dutch railway can take you to ‘s-Hertogenbosch (Den Bosch), from where you can continue by bus to Efteling.

If it’s convenience that you’re after, you can also opt for a taxi or private transfer.

Sometimes it’s worthwhile for families with sleep-deprived children to choose a direct transfer.

After all, it is quite different to arrive at your hotel feeling like you are excited about the trip than it is to arrive knowing you’ve made several changes and are tired.

A little planning tip

Plan your trip offline before you go; and find out the latest public transport updates.

In the Netherlands, public transport is very well connected, but services, platforms and timetables can change.

Don’t rush through all the connections, allow for some extra time.

Your holiday at the Efteling should be magical, not a race against time!

Can You Stay Near Efteling?

Absolutely.

Being nearby can make all the difference in the world to an outing.

Rather than heading back into a big city after a day of rides and attractions, you can head back to your local hotel and unwind.

There are themed accommodation options at Efteling itself, but also hotels, holiday parks and more at the surrounding locations.

It is particularly convenient for families to be close by.

While the park is open during the day, you can come back to your accommodation, enjoy a meal and get ready for the next day without having to make a long journey.

If you are planning your trip around the park, I would definitely take into consideration the location of your room as well as the price.

The cost of a slightly higher hotel room sometimes means you will save money and time on travel every day.

Efteling Package Holidays with Flights

If arranging flights, hotel and transportation is too much hassle, there is another alternative.

Efteling package holidays with flights can make planning your trip simpler, especially if you prefer to arrange your flights and accommodation together.

This might be helpful for families that would like just one booking instead of multiple bookings.

Depending on the package you choose, you may be able to package up flights, hotel and your stay at the Efteling together as a holiday package.

The most obvious benefit is the ease of use.

You don’t need to log on to one website to look up flights, another to check hotels and then make all the connections yourself, you can look up the trip as a whole holiday.

Always inquire about what is included when booking Efteling package holidays with flights.

Look at:

• Flights and baggage allowance
• Hotel accommodation
• Theme-park tickets
• Airport transfers
• Meals, if included
• Travel dates
• Cancellation and amendment conditions
• Any local transport you may still need

Packaging may be especially appealing when travelling with kids, as less preparation means less to keep track of.

Efteling from the UK: Which Route Should You Choose?

There is no single route that works perfectly for every traveller.

Your choice can depend on where you live, who you are travelling with and what you want from the journey.

The key is to think beyond the ticket price.

The right route for you will depend on your budget, travel time, comfort and who you are travelling with.

How Long Should You Spend at Efteling?

A question I get asked a lot when I’m planning on a theme park getaway is, ” Is one day sufficient?

Yes, you can visit Efteling in a day, especially if you do have some ideas of what you want to see.

Two days, however, will grant a much more relaxed experience.

Efteling is not just about rides. The park boasts of themed areas, woodland paths, restaurants, shows and beautifully designed details.

When travelling with children, more time can also translate to less rushed moments.

Rather than holding up the day, you can stop for lunch, take in the view and return to your favourite landmarks and sights.

My tips for a smoother Efteling journey

A little preparation can make a surprisingly big difference.

• Plan all aspects of your journey before you travel.
• Avoid the lowest price ticket first, without knowing how to get to the park when you get there.
• Space between connections
• If you’re travelling with children or luggage, allow extra time for connections.
• Check luggage rules
• Baggage allowance is the subject of differing airline policies, and train travel can offer another experience.
• Download your important travel information
• Have booking info and transport details, accommodation address, and other details stored offline.
• Consider arrival time

• While a late night flight will save on money, it will also make the first day tired.
• Consider staying nearby
• If you’re going there on holiday primarily to see Efteling, you can make it easier if you stay near the park.
• Check travel requirements

Please make sure you have up to date entry, passport, insurance and transport documentation for the Netherlands prior to departure from the UK.

A Little Efteling Magic Before You Arrive

When you travel to a place you have imagined yourself in your head then there is something special about that.

You may have come across pictures of Efteling’s buildings that make up fairytales. Perhaps your kids have picked out their favourite attractions already. Or maybe you’re the grown man or woman who is more thrilled than anyone else.

That is perfectly fine.

Travel from the UK may be an element of the adventure.

Sit in the train and get a view of Europe. Soar and savour the thrill of a new destination. Or hit the road and make your Efteling visit part of a wider European adventure.

Whatever route you choose, don’t think of the journey as something you simply need to get through.

Consider this to be the first chapter in your Efteling story.

Final Thoughts: Start Your Efteling Adventure

So, how to get to Efteling from the UK?

It is possible to fly to the Netherlands and then be transferred by train/bus/taxi/car. It is possible to get to the Netherlands by train from London through the Eurostar service. Otherwise, you can travel from the UK if you prefer to take your own road trip.

For a family getaway, flying can be a straightforward option when combined with a convenient onward transfer. Eurostar is a wonderful option for the rail enthusiast. If flexibility is what you’re seeking, the trip can be an extended European adventure by car.

Of course, if you want to have the main areas of your holiday organised together then Efteling package holidays with flights can also make planning the trip easier.

Most of all, select the route and journey according to the overall experience, and not only based on the lowest ticket price.

The magic doesn’t start at the gates.

It starts from the moment you make up your mind to leave, filling the air with those magical world holiday vibes.

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