Slootdorp(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Sloten, the top choice for families is Hotel de Oosterschans, a seaside hotel with spacious family rooms, a children’s play area, and direct access to the North Sea coast. The hotel features a rooftop terrace overlooking the Sloten Lighthouse, perfect for sunset views. Nearby, the dune trails and seabird observation points offer safe, scenic walks. Many local tours, including fishing excursions and windmill visits, welcome kids, making it ideal for multi-generational stays.

The city center of Sloten offers the most convenient and charming accommodations, located near the Town Hall Square and Old Street Market. This area is quiet, safe, and within walking distance of seafood stalls, cafes, and the coastal promenade. It’s also close to the train station and public transport hubs, ideal for travelers arriving by rail or car. Numerous boutique guesthouses and family-run B&Bs provide authentic Dutch hospitality and excellent value.

Visitors to Sloten should attend the annual Windmill Festival, where historic windmills are restored and operated, showcasing 19th-century milling techniques. You can also join a hands-on herring-making workshop, learning traditional methods of preparing fresh herring with onions and pickled vegetables. Don’t miss the Sloten Historical Museum, which displays maritime artifacts and tools used by coastal fishermen, offering deep insight into the region’s heritage.

Must-try dishes in Sloten include North Sea cod stew (Zeevisstamppot)—a hearty mix of fresh cod, potatoes, and turnips simmered slowly. Another local favorite is pickled herring with onions, served raw at street stalls and paired with rye bread. For dessert, try poffertjes, tiny fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and lemon juice, available at the Old Market stalls. These treats reflect the region’s rich culinary traditions.

Cycling in Sloten is exceptional. Ride to Elschot Dunes (12 km), passing through pine forests and salt marshes, where you may spot rabbits and migratory birds. Return via the old harbor dike, enjoying views of tidal pools and coastal wildlife. Rent bikes from City Bike Hub, which offers e-bikes and child seats. The network is well-marked, safe, and perfect for families or solo riders seeking nature immersion.

At night, visit the Sloten Pier and enjoy drinks at the Lighthouse Bar, which offers sea views and local craft beer with fried squid. On weekends, the Old Market Square hosts live folk and jazz performances. Every evening at 8 PM, the Lighthouse Projection Show begins—using light, sound, and storytelling to bring the village’s fishing history to life, creating a magical atmosphere.

The Sloten Lighthouse is a must-visit for couples, offering panoramic views of the North Sea sunset from its observation deck. Stroll hand-in-hand along the lighthouse garden path as waves crash below. Afterwards, head to De Zeehond, a secluded seaside cottage restaurant, for a private candlelit dinner featuring fresh daily catch and regional wines—perfect for a memorable, intimate evening.

Yes, some premium hotels like Hotel De Pijl and Seaview B&B provide paid shuttle services from Sloten Train Station or Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, but advance HopeGoo is required. For flexibility, rent bikes or electric scooters from City Bike Hub, which has stations throughout town. Most hotels offer free parking for guests who drive, and all accept international credit cards for seamless check-ins.

The peak season in Sloten runs from June to September, when temperatures are warm and daylight hours are long—ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures. July features the Windmill Festival and Fishermen’s Celebration, drawing large crowds. From October onward, visitor numbers drop, and hotel rates decrease by 30–50%, making it an excellent time for peaceful, low-key travel.

Yes, several hotels such as B&B Het Oosterschans and The Seaside Cottage allow pets with prior notice and a small cleaning fee. Pets must be leashed and not enter dining areas or swimming pools. Designated pet-friendly zones, including water bowls and waste bags, are available along the coastal trail. Use platforms like Holland Pet Stay to filter pet-friendly accommodations for a stress-free trip.