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Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans Windmills Tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction. This is not the venue's website.
- Delve into Dutch culture with this guided tour of Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam, along with cheese-tasting, with transfers aboard an AC bus.
- Explore the streets of Zaanse Schans along with an experienced, multilingual guide, and marvel at the iconic windmills that date back to the 18th century.
- Witness live demonstrations of artisanal crafts practiced in the Netherlands, like wooden clog making and traditional cheese production.
- Experience the Dutch culinary scene with cheese tasting at a local farm, giving you a distinct flavor of the region's rich agricultural heritage.
- Elevate your experience by opting for the Amsterdam Canal Cruise, gliding past historical landmarks for a unique perspective of the city.
- Delve into Dutch culture with this guided tour of Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam, along with cheese-tasting, with transfers aboard an AC bus.
- Explore the streets of Zaanse Schans along with an experienced, multilingual guide, and marvel at the iconic windmills that date back to the 18th century.
- Witness live demonstrations of artisanal crafts practiced in the Netherlands, like wooden clog making and traditional cheese production.
- Experience the Dutch culinary scene with cheese tasting at a local farm, giving you a distinct flavor of the region's rich agricultural heritage.
- Elevate your experience by opting for the Amsterdam Canal Cruise, gliding past historical landmarks for a unique perspective of the city.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Zaanse Schans
- English, German, French or Spanish-speaking guide
- Round-trip transfers from Amsterdam by AC bus
- Entry to a clog (wooden shoe) shop
- Entry to a cheese-weighing house
- Local cheese tasting
- Amsterdam Canal Cruise (optional)
Exclusions
- Entry to the windmills at the Zaanse Schans
- Tip: Don’t forget to check out the small artisan shops in the village, they sell unique handmade souvenirs.
- It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore 3 of the most scenic attractions of the Dutch countryside, Zaanse Schans, and Volendam, on this half-day guided tour.
- Enjoy the views as you sit comfortably on a luxury bus while your English-speaking guide points out stunning sights as you drive through the country.
- Marvel at Zaanse Schans's quaint charm, with its windmills and wooden houses, and witness artisans demonstrating wooden shoe-making.
- Revel in the vibrant fishing village of Volendam, famous for its Dutch music scene, and watch the fascinating art of cheese-making.
- Select your preferred language – English, German, French, or Spanish – for a richer understanding of Dutch culture during the tour.
- Explore 3 of the most scenic attractions of the Dutch countryside, Zaanse Schans, and Volendam, on this half-day guided tour.
- Enjoy the views as you sit comfortably on a luxury bus while your English-speaking guide points out stunning sights as you drive through the country.
- Marvel at Zaanse Schans's quaint charm, with its windmills and wooden houses, and witness artisans demonstrating wooden shoe-making.
- Revel in the vibrant fishing village of Volendam, famous for its Dutch music scene, and watch the fascinating art of cheese-making.
- Select your preferred language – English, German, French, or Spanish – for a richer understanding of Dutch culture during the tour.
Inclusions
- Half-day guided tour of Zaanse Schans, and Volendam
- English/German/French/Spanish-speaking guide (as per the option selected)
- Round-trip transfers from Amsterdam by AC bus
- Cheese-making demonstration
- Clog-making demonstration
- Tip: While visiting the cheese-making experience don't forget to taste some cheese samples.
- Due to venue restrictions, pets cannot tag along for this experience.
- This experience is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Short on time? Explore one of the most beautiful villages in the Netherlands, Zaanse Schans on this convenient half-day tour that lasts 3 hours.
- Discover the fairytale-like charm of the famous Windmill Village at your own pace, taking in the awe-inspiring sights of the magnificent windmills.
- Stroll through the village streets where you can see the charming wooden houses and breathe in the smell of fresh cookies at the Zaanse Schans Bakery Museum.
- Visit a clog-making factory where you'll see craftsmen busy in creating traditional Dutch clogs, and try some delicious cheese at a cheese farm.
- Experience a unique perspective of Zaanse Schans by opting for a boat tour instead, and sail on the River Zaan as you enjoy mesmerizing views.
- Short on time? Explore one of the most beautiful villages in the Netherlands, Zaanse Schans on this convenient half-day tour that lasts 3 hours.
- Discover the fairytale-like charm of the famous Windmill Village at your own pace, taking in the awe-inspiring sights of the magnificent windmills.
- Stroll through the village streets where you can see the charming wooden houses and breathe in the smell of fresh cookies at the Zaanse Schans Bakery Museum.
- Visit a clog-making factory where you'll see craftsmen busy in creating traditional Dutch clogs, and try some delicious cheese at a cheese farm.
- Experience a unique perspective of Zaanse Schans by opting for a boat tour instead, and sail on the River Zaan as you enjoy mesmerizing views.
Inclusions
- 3-hr half day tour of Zaanse Schans
- Multilingual audio guide
- Round-trip transfers from Amsterdam
- Entry to clog-making factory
- Entry to a cheese farm
- River Zaans boat cruise (optional)
- Tip: While at the Zaanse Schans Bakery Museum, don't forget to try some Duivekater, a Zaanse sweet bread.
- It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
- Explore two picturesque Dutch villages on this full-day guided tour - the windmill village of Zaanse Schans and the 'Dutch Venice' Giethoorn.
- Experience authentic Dutch living at Zaanse Schans where you'll get the amazing chance to visit a traditional cheese factory and a clog-making workshop.
- Visit the enchanting canal village of Giethoorn and go on a unique cruise with an intimate group, where you can steer your own small open-top electric boat!
- Enjoy the mesmerizing views from the boat before exploring Giethoorn, a mostly car-free village known for its scenic canals and beautiful bridges.
- Explore two picturesque Dutch villages on this full-day guided tour - the windmill village of Zaanse Schans and the 'Dutch Venice' Giethoorn.
- Experience authentic Dutch living at Zaanse Schans where you'll get the amazing chance to visit a traditional cheese factory and a clog-making workshop.
- Visit the enchanting canal village of Giethoorn and go on a unique cruise with an intimate group, where you can steer your own small open-top electric boat!
- Enjoy the mesmerizing views from the boat before exploring Giethoorn, a mostly car-free village known for its scenic canals and beautiful bridges.
Inclusions
- Guided day tour of Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn
- Entry to clog-making factory at Zaanse Schans
- Entry to cheese-making factory
- 1-hr electric boat tour in Giethoorn
- Professional guide
- Round-trip transfers from Amsterdam
Tip: Don’t miss out on the local cuisine at Giethoorn. Try the Dutch pancakes, they're delicious!
- It's recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
- 09:30am: Pick up from NH Barbizon Hotel Amsterdam, near Amsterdam Centraal Station
- 10:00am: Arrive in Zaanse Schans. Visit clog and cheese factories, traditional windmills (optional to enter with fees), and other sightseeing
- 11:30am: Departure to Giethoorn
- 01:30pm: Arrive in Giethoorn. Group lunch with recommendations
- 02:30pm: 1-hr boat trip (by a guide or drive your own)
- 03:30pm: Walking tour or private time to explore Giethoorn
- 04:45pm: Departure from Giethoorn
- 06:30pm: Return to Amsterdam Centraal Station
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
AmsterdamZaanse Schans Windmills Tours
Top things to do in Amsterdam
Why Experience the Zaanse Schans Tour?
- Enjoy the greenery: Zaanse Schans boasts stunning landscapes adorned with vibrant flowers and traditional wooden houses, making it a picturesque escape.
- Cheese-making magic: Uncover the secrets of Dutch cheese production and savour a tasting, as you become one with the country's most cherished traditions.
- Craftsmanship unveiled: Witness skilled artisans fashioning clogs and other traditional items, providing a glimpse into Dutch heritage and craftsmanship.
- Freedom to explore: Enjoy the flexibility to explore Zaanse Schans at your own pace, strolling through museums, bakeries, and more.
- Canal cruise: Take your adventure to another notch by opting for a canal cruise from Amsterdam, passing iconic landmarks and immersing in the historic waterside charm before reaching this delightful windmill village.
Which Zaanse Schans tour ticket is best for you?
If you are on a budget
Go for: Guided tour
Duration: 3.5 hours to 7 hours
Inclusions: Live guide, transportation, boat trip.
- With these tickets, you will be able to tour Zaanse Schans, Volendam and Marken Village with an expert guide.
- In addition to witnessing the scenic towns, you get to witness a cheese demonstration, a traditional marker house and an operational windmill.
Recommended Tours
If you are a solo traveler
Go for: Sightseeing tour
Duration: 6 hours
Inclusions: Cruise trip, audio guide, menu for food & drinks.
- These tickets give you access to a cruise trip from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans, followed by an excursion to explore the Windmill Village at your own pace.
- Aboard the luxurious ship on River Zaan, you will have food and drinks at your disposal for an enjoyable canal sail.
Recommended Tours
If you want to explore in-depth
Go for: Day trip
Duration: 9 hours
Inclusions: Transfers, guided tour and boat tour in Giethoorn
- If you choose these tickets, you get live commentary on-board, a guided tour and return transfers, all in one.
- From cheese tasting to observing shoe-making, you get to experience the traditional essence of Amsterdam with these tickets.
Recommended Tours
Cancelation policy
All Zaanse Schans tickets can be canceled 24-48 hours before the tour commences.
Highlights of Zaanse Schans Tour
Zaanse Schans Windmills
The Zaanse Schans is renowned for its iconic windmills, which stand as living symbols of Dutch heritage. These meticulously preserved structures showcase the intricate mechanics of 17th-century milling technology. Visitors can explore these working windmills, gaining insight into their historical significance and the vital role they played in shaping the Netherlands.
Volendam Cheese Factory
Volendam, a picturesque Dutch fishing village, is home to a cheese factory where you can witness the art of Dutch cheese-making. Delve into the cheese production process, from milk to the final product, and even sample some of the delectable cheeses. It's a flavorful immersion into one of the country's most cherished culinary traditions.
Scenic Boat Trip on the Marken Lake
Enjoy a tranquil boat journey across the Marken Lake, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding Dutch landscape. As you sail between Marken and Volendam, relish the peacefulness of the water and take in the charming towns of Monnickendam and Katwoude along the way. It's a scenic interlude that adds to the tour's allure.
Village of Marken
Once a remote island, Marken is now a captivating peninsula steeped in Dutch history. Accessible by a scenic boat ride, the village beckons with its charming wooden houses and maritime character. Explore its narrow streets, visit a traditional clog maker's workshop, and try on authentic Dutch wooden clogs—a genuine cultural experience.
Visit a Traditional Clog Maker
At Zaanse Schans, you'll have the opportunity to step inside a traditional clog maker's workshop. Witness skilled craftsmen utilizing a steam engine to create iconic Dutch wooden clogs. Discover the intricate process, from raw wood to the final product, and even try on these quintessential Dutch shoes—a memorable encounter with Dutch craftsmanship.
River Zaan Boat Tour
The boat ride on the River Zaan provides a unique view of Zaanse Schans' historic windmills, wooden houses, and picturesque scenery. Guided tours depart from the village and offer an informative 25-minute journey through the Dutch countryside, accommodating up to 12 passengers.
Plan Your Visit To Zaanse Schans Tour
Timings
Getting There
Facilities
Rules
Eat
Stay
Nearby
Visitor Tips
- Tour timings:
Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken Tour: Only available at 8:45 am
Zaanse Schans & Cheese Tasting Tour: Offered at 10:30am and 2:30pm
Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Tour: You can only enjoy this at 9:30am
Zaanse Schans Half-Day Tour: Available at 10am or 10:30am - Last arrival: Although there isn't a specific last entry rule, it's advisable to arrive 10-15 minutes ahead of time to prevent any potential delays.
- Tour duration: The duration of each tour varies depending on your selected experience, ranging from approximately 3.5 hours to 9 hours.
- Best time to visit: For the best weather, plan your Zaanse Schans trip between May and October. Keep in mind that it gets busier on weekends, school breaks, and holidays. To enjoy a quieter experience, consider going on a weekday or arriving early in the morning.
The meeting points differ for each tour:
- Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken Half-Day Tour:
Address: Amsterdam Central Station: IJ-Hal, De Ruijterkade 34 (Tours & Tickets Departure Point) - Zaanse Schans and Cheese-Tasting Tour
Address: De Ruijterkade 105, 1011 AB Amsterdam, Netherlands - Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Tour with Boat Ride
Address: Prins Hendrikkade 59-72, 1012 AD Amsterdam, Netherlands - Zaanse Schans Half-Day Tour with Audio Guide:
Address: The meeting point will be specified in your final voucher
- On the tour, you will be accompanied by a live guide, available in English, German and Spanish.
- Easy-to-download multilingual audio-guide.
- Transportations are often done in luxury buses equipped with Wi-Fi.
- Wi-Fi is available on the boat.
- A small menu of food and drinks is also available onboard.
- The tours are all wheelchair-accessible.
- Respect the Zaanse Schans property. You're visiting a living museum, so treat it like you're in someone's home or business. Always ask before touching or taking anything.
- Stay aware of your surroundings. Popular tourist destinations like Zaanse Schans can get crowded, especially in summer. Watch your step and be mindful of others around you.
- Keep it quiet. You are visiting a serene village. Keep your voice low, especially during the off-season when residents are more likely to be at home.
- Don't litter! Help maintain the beauty of the house of windmills by disposing of your trash in the designated bins and keeping the area clean for everyone.
- Be mindful of the local customs, culture and traditions. For example, dress modestly when visiting religious sites and show respect for the locals.
- De Hoop op d'Swarte Walvis (500m): Offers an all-day menu with burgers, sandwiches, fish and chips, and 'Dutch Tapas,' including vegetarian and vegan options.
- Restaurant De Kraai (550m): This restaurant serves Dutch pancakes, sandwiches, soup, drinks, and more in a charming 18th-century Zaan granary!
- Het Zaanse hoekje Brasserie Restaurant (3.7 km): Enjoy brasserie-style dining with diverse dishes, including vegetarian options, in a cozy setting, at this eatery.
- Luxury: Valerius Boutique Hotel (4.5 km), Zaan Hotel Amsterdam Zaandam (5.2 km), Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam (5.2 km)
- Mid-Budget: Boutique hotel NO.43 (1.1 km), Manzo's Suites (5 km), Best Western Zaan Inn (5.1 km)
- Low-Budget: City Trip Hostels Amsterdam-Zaandam (4.8 km), easyHotel Amsterdam Zaandam (5.1 km)
- Anne Frank House (15.4 km): The Anne Frank House in Amsterdam is a poignant museum, preserving the secret annexe where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II, sharing her inspiring diary and the history of the Holocaust.
- Rijksmuseum (17.2 km): The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is a treasure trove of Dutch art and history, showcasing iconic works by Rembrandt and Vermeer, as well as an array of historical artefacts.
- Van Gogh Museum (17.4 km): Amsterdam's Van Gogh Museum houses an extensive collection of the Dutch artist's masterpieces, offering an immersive journey through the life and work of Vincent van Gogh.
- Keukenhof Gardens (34.1 km): Keukenhof is a world-renowned garden in the Netherlands, featuring vibrant displays of tulips and spring flowers, creating a mesmerizing floral tapestry that draws visitors from around the globe.
- You will be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes.
- Bring a camera. Zaanse Schans is a very picturesque village, so you will want to take lots of photos!
- Try the local food. The neighbourhood is known for its delicious cheese and stroopwafels, so be sure to try some while you are there.
- Visit the Zaans Museum. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Zaanse Schans.
- A canal cruise is a great way to see Zaanse Schans from a different perspective.
- Volendam is a popular tourist destination, so it can get crowded, especially during the summer months. If you want to avoid the crowds, be sure to get up early and visit before the tour buses arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions about Zaanse Schans tour
Can I get a discount on Zaanse Schans Tour tickets?
Yes, you can get a discount on Zaanse Schans Tour tickets if you buy them online. Usually, discounts are offered for kids up to the age of 13-18.
What is the Zaanse Schans Tour?
The Zaanse Schans Tour is a guided excursion in the Netherlands, taking visitors to the picturesque village of Zaanse Schans to explore its historic windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and artisan workshops.
Where is the Zaanse Schans Tour meeting point?
Zaanse Schans Tour meeting points vary for each experience you choose. Please check your ticket for more information.
What are some of the highlights of the Zaanse Schans Tour?
Highlights of the Zaanse Schans Tour include witnessing working windmills up close, visiting a clog-making workshop, exploring historic homes, and learning about Dutch cheese production.
How to reach Zaanse Schans tour meeting point?
You can reach Zaanse Schans tour meeting point by car, metro and bus.
What are the timings of the Zaanse Schans Tour?
Zaanse Schans Tour is different for each experience but it usually starts in the morning.
Are Zaanse Schans Tours wheelchair accessible?
Yes, Zaanse Schans Tours are wheelchair accessible.
Is photography allowed at Zaanse Schans Tour?
Yes. Photography is allowed at Zaanse Schans Tour.
Are guided tours available at Zaanse Schans?
Yes, guided tours are available and can be booked in advance to enhance your visit and provide detailed information about the site.
Can I see working windmills at Zaanse Schans?
Several windmills at Zaanse Schans are still operational and demonstrate traditional milling processes for oil, paint, and wood.
Is Zaanse Schans suitable for children?
Yes, Zaanse Schans is family-friendly, with educational activities and open spaces for children to explore.
What types of workshops are available at Zaanse Schans?
You can participate in clog, cheese, and traditional Dutch crafts workshops.
Are pets allowed at Zaanse Schans?
Pets are allowed in the outdoor areas of Zaanse Schans but not inside the museums or windmills.