Efteling – An enchanting Amusement Park in the netherlands – Explore the World with Explorers Almanac

Efteling is a magical fantasy-themed amusement park in Kaatsheuvel, the Netherlands, known for its fairytale-themed attractions and rides. It is one of the oldest theme parks in the world, having opened its doors in 1952.

The park is based on the stories and characters of Dutch and European folklore, with a range of attractions for all ages, from thrilling roller coasters to gentle boat rides. Some of the most popular attractions at Efteling include:

Fairytale Forest: A walk-through attraction where you can meet all your favorite fairytale characters, including Hansel and Gretel, Snow White, and Sleeping Beauty.
Python: A steel roller coaster that takes riders on a twisting and turning journey through the park.
Baron 1898: A mine train roller coaster that plunges riders into a dark and mysterious mine.
Joris en de Draak: A wooden roller coaster that takes riders on a wild ride through a medieval castle.
Droomvlucht: A dark ride that takes riders on a dreamy journey through a magical forest.

Ticket prices for Efteling:

Adult tickets (18+) cost €42.50
child tickets (4-11 years) cost €38.00.
Family tickets (two adults and two children) cost €120.00.
Children under 4 years of age are admitted free of charge.

The park is open 365 days a year, with hours of operation varying seasonally.

During the summer months (April-September), the park is open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
During the winter months (October-March), the park is open from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Efteling is located in Kaatsheuvel, Noord-Brabant, the Netherlands. There are a few ways to get there by car, train, bus, or plane.

By car: The park is easily accessible by car from the A2 motorway. Take the exit for Kaatsheuvel and follow the signs to Efteling. Parking is available for a fee, and there is a dedicated parking lot for coaches and buses.

By train: Efteling is served by the NS train station in Kaatsheuvel. From the station, it is a short walk to the park entrance. There is a bus shuttle service available from the station to the park, which is operated by Connexxion.

By bus: There are several bus routes that stop at the Efteling theme park. The nearest bus stop is called “Efteling Bospad.” From there, it is a short walk to the park entrance.

By plane: The nearest airport to Efteling is Eindhoven Airport, which is located about 40 kilometers (25 miles) away. From the airport, you can take a taxi, bus, or rental car to the park.

Efteling offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, campsites, and self-catering apartments. There are also a number of hotels and guesthouses located near the park.

a carnival sign with a clown and clowns on it

Efteling offers a diverse range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets. From quick bites to sit-down meals, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a roundup of some of the park’s most popular dining options:

Pancakes Polles Keuken: This traditional pancake house is a favorite among Efteling visitors. They offer a wide variety of pancakes, both sweet and savory, as well as other Dutch favorites like poffertjes (miniature pancakes) and stroopwafels (caramel waffles).
Pinokkio’s pizza & pasta restaurant: If you’re craving pizza or pasta, this restaurant is a great option. They also have a children’s menu with smaller portions and kid-friendly favorites.
Het Wapen van Raveleijn: This medieval-themed restaurant offers a special “Heroes’ Dinner” experience, complete with a theatrical performance and a three-course meal.
In den Swarte Kat: This snack bar is a great place to grab a quick bite or a refreshing drink. They have a variety of sandwiches, salads, and snacks, as well as a wide selection of beverages.
Oosterse gerechten Restaurant Kashba: If you’re in the mood for some international cuisine, this restaurant offers a variety of Oriental dishes.
Bäckerei Krümel: This traditional bakery is a great place to pick up a fresh-baked pastry or a sweet treat. They also have a selection of sandwiches and coffee.
‘t Verwende Nest!: This unique restaurant serves chimney cakes, a traditional Hungarian dessert also known as Kürtőskalács.

In addition to these restaurants, there are also several other food stalls throughout the park, offering a variety of quick snacks and drinks. You can also find a number of cafes and restaurants near the park entrance, perfect for grabbing a bite before or after your visit.

a statue of a man sitting on top of a rock

a red and white mushroom sitting on the ground next to a tree

Efteling is committed to making its park accessible to all visitors, regardless of their physical or sensory abilities. The park has a number of facilities and services to cater to the needs of disabled visitors.

Wheelchair Access – the majority of attractions and rides at Efteling are accessible to wheelchair users. Wheelchair ramps and lifts are provided at the entrances and exits of most attractions. In addition, there are designated areas for wheelchair users within the park, such as at restaurants and shows.

Assistance or Guide Dogs – assistance and guide dogs are welcome at Efteling. Assistance dogs must be identifiable as such by wearing a vest and must be registered at the Visitor service centre (on the left at the main entrance) on the day of the visit.

Park Shows -all of the park’s shows are accessible to wheelchair users. There are designated seating areas for wheelchair users within the theaters, and there are also audio descriptions and subtitles available for some shows.

Toilets – there are a number of wheelchair-accessible toilets throughout the park. These toilets are clearly marked with a wheelchair symbol.

Restaurants and Shops – most of the restaurants and shops in the park are accessible to wheelchair users. However, there are a few that are not. It is always best to check with the staff before entering a restaurant or shop to make sure it is wheelchair-accessible.

Care Room – Efteling has a care room that is available for visitors with disabilities. The care room has a quiet space to rest, as well as a bathroom with a shower. The care room also has a baby changing table and a microwave.

Facility Card – Efteling offers a facility card to visitors with disabilities. The facility card provides visitors with access to a number of facilities, such as the care room, the wheelchair-accessible toilets, and the designated seating areas within the theaters. The facility card can be obtained from the Visitor service centre on the day of the visit.

Tips for Visiting Efteling

Purchase your tickets in advance to save time and money.
Arrive early to avoid long queues.
Download the Efteling app to plan your day and see real-time queue times.
Take advantage of the park’s free Wi-Fi.
Bring comfortable shoes and clothing for all weather conditions.
Pack a picnic lunch if you want to save money.
Wear sunscreen and insect repellent.
Be sure to catch one of the park’s many shows and events.
Enjoy your time at Efteling! It’s a magical place that will create lasting memories.

Whether you’re a fan of fairytales, thrill rides, or simply a fun day out, Efteling is sure to make you feel like a child again.