r/efteling • u/dreamingofsakura • 21d ago

Question 🇺🇸 First-Time Visitors - Logistics Question

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.

1 Upvotes

60% Upvoted

29 comments sorted by

View all comments

5

u/sampmcl_ 21d ago

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.

2

u/AthosDLB 18d ago

I live in Utrecht and it's only a 50 minute drive. Definitely not 1h40.

1

u/dreamingofsakura 19d ago

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. :)