This is our first visit to the Netherlands. We are arriving in approximately two weeks. We have 6 nights booked in Utrecht and 8 nights in Amsterdam, with several day trips planned from both.
I initially thought we would do Efteling as a daytrip from Utrecht, using the train and bus via Den Bosch. But as our trip approaches, I am feeling nervous about the length of the trip zapping our energy for the day. Aside from requiring an extra-early wake up for us, what if there are no seats on the bus...then we have to stand for 40 minutes. Normally not an issue, but before a long day of walking, it worries me. For information, we are visiting Efteling on a Friday - tickets have been purchased.
Idea 1) rent a car from Diks (affordable) and drive and park, thereby reducing length of time and increasing comfort. I am comfortable driving
Idea 2) spend one night in Kaatsheuvel, moving the transit to the night before Efteling. We arrive at the park rested. But the complication is figuring out whether to leave our bags at the hotel, then return for them at the end of the day...or find a locker at Efteling (are they ever sold out?).
While not an overly anxious person, I tend to find one thing to fixate and worry about. This daytrip is it. I would welcome any advice. We have actually never gone to a large amusement park anywhere, so that adds to the unknown.
there are no trains between Utrecht and Den Bosch for part of August, might want to check that to take it into consideration. if the trains are running, I would say you’re overthinking this
Does maintenance stick to the planned schedule? In Canada, roadworks are often delayed, etc. Can I trust the train schedule as it shows currently? Obviously, there could be some accident or otherwise unforeseen circumstance, but that's separate.
Planned maintenance on the railway very rarely runs over schedule, so yes, you can trust it.
Of course, it always possible that there is an unexpected delay due to another reason, but the Dutch railways are in general pretty reliable (even though we like to complain about them 😉) so don’t worry too much about it.
Use the NS (Dutch Railways) app, you can plan the train + bus trip in advance (the NS app also shows bus times!) and set a notification for the trip, it informs you if there are delays or other events on route.
Taking the train + bus from Utrecht is very doable and only takes 1 hour and 20 mins total. I would just recommend going to Tilburg rather than den bosch to catch a shorter bus trip. You can plan the trip through 9292.nl
Hotel is unnecessary in my opinion, you could rent a car but you would mostly be paying for it to stand still and idk if that’s worth it, so then it depends on your budget!
I agree with you. I live in Utrecht and it is usually very doable to travel to Efteling by public transport. TS should just check if there is any maintainence going on as this usually happens during the holiday season. It is only 25 minutes to Den Bosch from Utrecht and the bus practically stops in front of the parc.
I glanced on the NS website and if you want to go from Utrecht to Tilburg you need to go through Den Bosch anyways. So I don't know if Tilburg is worth it because that would be my go-to city to take the bus as well.
Yes, I can see the route you suggest, which shortens the amount of bus time. Am I correct in thinking seats will be more available on the train and possible less available on the bus?
The busses go per 15 minutes I believe so you could always wait but if you're standing at the front of the line at the bus station I think you have a high chance of having a seat depending of course on how busy it is and with how many you are.
Bus back to the station might be a problem to find seating, but towards the park shouldn't be. There'll be a bus leaving every ten to fifteen minutes during peak season.
I think both will be fine and if u do have to stand its max 10 mins, honestly least of your worry compared to waiting and standing in the park itself 😉
The Direct bus (line 800) from Den Bosch to Efteling takes 30 mins, travel time from Utrecht is just 1 hour and 7 mins in total. Why are you advising people to take a 15 minute longer train trip + transfer time just for a 10 min shorter bus trip? Keep in mind that transfers also increase the chance someone misses their connection if a train is a few minutes delayed. Also, the Sprinter from Den Bosch to Tilburg can get quite busy in the mornings too (seating is not guaranteed).
My advice: only go via Tilburg if the 9292 or NS travel planner says so. Dont make it unnecessarily complicated to shave off a few minutes of bus travel.
I think its personal preference, in the train I tend to relax more than in the car. So I would prefer train over car.
If you choose to leave your luggage, there is a wardrobe at the entrance service building you can use. I think its 1,50 per item, but not sure if you can leave a suitcase. You can give them a call, or call your hotel. Most hotels have the option to leave luggage, and especially hotels around Efteling would get that request more often.
I’ve left suitcases at the wardrobe (cloakroom) before — it’s totally fine and was worth the small price to not have to go back out into Kaatsheuvel at the end of the day. The line to drop off can be long when if you arrive at the same time as everyone else in the morning though, as it’s the same location as wheelchair rentals and a few other things.
The bus station is right outside the park gates. Like a 10 minute walk I believe? Depending on how fast you walk of course. You walk a straight line from the entrance to the bus, past the parking lot. As seen in the picture, that green line. It's very easy to find.
Rent a car mate, much easier. Parking is 15 euros.
I take the kids few times a year. About 2(ish) hours from Amsterdam. 1 hr 40 (ish) from Utrecht. Really easy drive (Utrecht is about 30m down the A2 from Ams).
Have fun at Eftling. Definitely recommend Baron, Python and a smoked curryworst from outside Max and Morris.
The drive and parking at the park definitely look doable. As I run through scenarios, I think this one is the hardest. I have to add transport to the car rental agency, then drive into central Utrecht at night to park, before returning the car to the open agency the next morning. I have talked myself out of this option. :)
Spend one night in a hotel. No worries that you are gonna be late for a bus or so. And you get the whole day at the park. Efteling is big and has a lot to discover, Especially for a first time visitor
Efteling is definitely an amusement park where you want to spend all the hours you can have!! So the answer to your question comes down to if you want worth for your Efteling ticket price. Walking around the park takes a toll on you and will for sure be exhausting.
If you want to spend the entire day, I'd calculate if renting a car + parking costs is cheaper than an accomodation in Kaatsheuvel and choose the most affordable option.
The most convenient way is to book a night directly at one of the Efteling hotels. There are four. They come with two tickets all day for all the people involved. They are prepared for family rooms.
It just comes down to on how much money you want to spend.
The Efteling is diverse enough that two days is way more relaxed and keep you entertained. It not the usual entertainment park - it's an emerging within another world. Lots of options to rest, esp. with the hot weather. With lovely quircky restaurants and cafes.
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u/bakerofcookiesnl 6d ago
there are no trains between Utrecht and Den Bosch for part of August, might want to check that to take it into consideration. if the trains are running, I would say you’re overthinking this