If you’re dreaming of seeing the Netherlands from a completely new angle, this helicopter tour out of Lelystad Airport offers just that. It promises an hour in the sky that covers some of the most iconic, scenic, and culturally significant spots around Flevoland and beyond. While I haven’t taken this exact flight myself, I’ve researched and spoken with travelers who’ve been, and it’s clear that this experience is a real treat—perfect for those who love panoramic views and want to add a bit of adventure to their trip.
What we really like about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with cultural heritage — flying over wildlife reserves and historic castles, then soaring past modern cities and traditional windmills. Plus, the fact that you get a live pilot commentary adds a personal touch that can really enhance the experience. The only thing to consider is that, since flights depend heavily on weather, you might face rescheduling if the skies aren’t cooperating. Still, for anyone with a taste for unique perspectives and memorable vistas, this helicopter tour can be a highlight.
This experience suits travelers who are comfortable with small group settings (either four or three people, depending on the helicopter), and it’s particularly appealing if you’re keen on photography or want to see the Dutch landscape from a fresh vantage point. Whether you’re into nature, history, or just love epic views, this tour offers something special. Keep in mind, it’s not ideal for babies under one year, and good weather is a must for the best experience.
Key Points
- Stunning aerial views of key landmarks and natural reserves
- Live pilot commentary enhances understanding and enjoyment
- Flexible helicopter options with different sizes for comfort
- Short, impactful flight — one hour packed with diverse scenery
- Weather-dependent activity—rescheduling may be necessary
- Ideal for photography buffs and landscape lovers
A Closer Look at the Experience
This helicopter tour offers a pretty rare way to see the Netherlands beyond the usual sightseeing routes. Starting from Lelystad Airport, it’s a straightforward check-in process—just arrive about 15 minutes early with your ID and camera in hand. The actual flight lasts around an hour, but that time feels packed with sights that are hard to capture from the ground.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the routes are carefully chosen to showcase both the natural environment and man-made marvels. You’ll glide over the Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve, a vast and protected wilderness teeming with wildlife. Seeing this vast landscape from above underscores just how big the protected areas are and how they serve as a sanctuary for birds and animals alike.
Next, the flight brings you over Almere, a city designed with modern architecture and thoughtful planning. We loved the way the city’s layout appears from above—it’s a glimpse into the future of urban living in the Netherlands. Then, flying over Naarden Vesting, the star-shaped fortress town, offers a peek into Dutch military history and unique town planning. Many reviews highlight how beautiful and well-preserved Naarden is, making it a highlight for architecture fans.
Muiderslot Castle is another must-see along this route. This 13th-century fortress sits surrounded by water, with gardens that look lush from above. Seeing a centuries-old castle like this from the air really emphasizes the scale and beauty of these historic structures.
From there, the tour crosses over Amsterdam’s iconic Canal Belt, giving you a spectacular view of the city’s historic waterways, bridges, and rooftops. Many travelers mention how surreal it feels to see such a famous city from above, especially with the bustling cityscape contrasted against the calm countryside.
Next up are the windmills of Zaanse Schans, one of the most photographed Dutch sights. Flying over these traditional windmills, with their green wooden houses, is a treat—much more striking than just visiting on foot, since you get to see the entire village in a sweeping view.
Finally, the flight takes you over the harbor towns of Hoorn and Enkhuizen, picturesque spots full of history and maritime charm. You’ll also fly over the Houtribdijk, a remarkable engineering feat that cuts through the water, connecting land and sea.
Planning more time in Lelystad? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Helicopter Options and Comfort
You can choose between the larger, faster EC-120 helicopter, which seats up to four people, or the smaller R44, with a maximum of three passengers. This flexibility is nice—if you’re traveling with a small group or prefer a more intimate experience, the R44 might be preferable. Keep in mind, larger helicopters can feel a bit more stable, but the smaller ones tend to be more agile and offer a closer view.
Practical Details
The tour is quite straightforward: it begins and ends at Emoeweg 12 at Lelystad Airport. The check-in process is smooth, and the pilot provides a pre-flight briefing along with live commentary in English and Dutch. Bring your passport or ID, a camera, and dress comfortably—though it’s worth noting that they specify no smoking, and you’ll want to be prepared for weather variability, since flights can be canceled or rescheduled if the weather isn’t suitable.
What Travelers Say
People love the breathtaking views and the way the flight combines different landscapes seamlessly. One reviewer mentioned, “Seeing the windmills from above was a real highlight, and the pilot’s narration made it even more special.” Others appreciated how accessible and professional the experience felt, with some noting that the pilot was friendly and informative.
However, you should be aware that this tour isn’t suitable for babies under one year and that weather can impact your plans. Some reviews mention that rescheduling was necessary due to weather, so flexibility is key if you’re planning on a specific day.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Should Consider This Tour?
This helicopter experience is perfect for travelers craving a unique perspective on the Netherlands’ landscapes and architecture. If you’re into photography, history, or simply want a memorable story to tell, this flight offers the perfect mix. It’s especially suited to those comfortable with small groups and who aren’t afraid of heights (or at least are okay with flying for an hour).
It’s a great choice for couples, friends, or solo travelers looking to add a wow factor to their trip. It’s less ideal if you’re traveling with very young children or if weather conditions are unfavorable during your planned dates.
Final Thoughts
All in all, this helicopter tour provides an impressive way to see the Netherlands from a different vantage point. The views of wildlife reserves, historic sites, and cityscapes combine to create a memorable experience that’s both scenic and educational. The professionalism of the pilot and the comfort of the helicopter make it a smooth ride, and the flexibility of the options means you can pick what suits your style best.
While it’s not the cheapest activity, the chance to soar over iconic Dutch landmarks and capture stunning photos makes it worthwhile for many. Just remember to check the weather forecast before your booked date, and be prepared for some rescheduling if needed.
If you’re someone who loves views, appreciates history and architecture, and wants to see the Netherlands from above, this tour is definitely worth considering.
Lelystad Airport: the Ultimate Holland Tour
FAQ
How long does the helicopter tour last? The flight itself lasts about 60 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.
Where does the tour start and end? It begins and ends at Lelystad Airport, specifically at Emoeweg 12.
Is the tour suitable for families or children? It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year, but older children who are comfortable with flying might enjoy it. Always check with the provider if unsure.
Do I need to bring anything? Yes, bring your passport or ID, a camera for photos, and dress comfortably. The experience is outdoors and can involve variable weather.
What helicopter options are available? You can choose between the larger EC-120 (up to 4 passengers) or the smaller R44 (up to 3 passengers), depending on your preference.
Is this activity weather-dependent? Yes, flights are subject to weather conditions and may be rescheduled or canceled if the weather isn’t suitable.
Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time, especially since flights are limited to specific times and depend on availability.
Are there any additional costs? No, the tour cost includes the flight, pre-flight briefing, live pilot commentary, and photo opportunities. Hotel pickup is not included.
Can I pay later? Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, which offers flexibility if your plans aren’t set yet.
Is the tour private? Yes, it’s organized as a private group experience, ensuring a more personalized and intimate ride.
If you’re looking for a memorable way to see the Dutch landscapes, this helicopter tour from Lelystad offers a fantastic blend of natural beauty, historic sites, and cityscapes—all from the sky. Perfect for a special occasion or just to tick off an extraordinary experience on your Dutch trip.
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