Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, Zaanse Schans Day Tour Incl Hotel Pick Up

A Day in the Netherlands: Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, and Zaanse Schans

Imagine exploring three iconic Dutch destinations in one day, without the hassle of public transport or traffic jams. This small-group tour, priced at about $161 per person, offers a well-rounded taste of the Netherlands’ most photogenic spots—Giethoorn, the Afsluitdijk, and Zaanse Schans—with the convenience of hotel pickup and a maximum of just eight travelers. Led by knowledgeable guides, this trip balances sightseeing, cultural insight, and authentic experiences, making it ideal for those who want to see more than just the city.

Two things we particularly love about this tour are the personalized attention that small groups afford—allowing plenty of time for photos and questions—and the chance to drive a boat in Giethoorn, the so-called “Venice of the Netherlands.” On the flip side, a potential consideration is the early start (8:00 am) and the long day’s drive, which might be tiring for some travelers. But if you’re eager to cover a lot of ground in one go, this tour offers impressive value and fun.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate small-group intimacy, authentic local experiences, and a flexible itinerary that covers both cultural highlights and scenic wonders. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Dutch explorer, this tour delivers a comprehensive snapshot of Dutch life and landscapes.

Key Points

• Small-group setting offers personalized attention and ample time for photos and questions.
• Includes expert-guided tours of cheese, wooden shoes, and diamond cutting, providing insight into Dutch craftsmanship.
• Photogenic stops at windmills, canals, and the Afsluitdijk bring iconic landscapes to life.
• Exclusive boat cruise in Giethoorn with optional self-driving upgrade for added fun.
• Convenient hotel pickup saves time and hassle, especially for those staying in Amsterdam.
• Great value, considering all included activities, guided tours, and transportation.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins bright and early at 8:00 am with a hotel pickup—an advantage that means you skip the stress of finding a meeting point and can relax from the start. Traveling in a stylish, air-conditioned Mercedes minibus, you’ll find the ride comfortable and smooth, with bottled water provided. Given that the tour is limited to eight guests, the vehicle remains intimate, making for a friendly atmosphere and the chance to chat with your guides.

This small size isn’t just about comfort; it’s also strategic for avoiding crowds and getting better access to photo spots and attractions. As some reviews highlight, the efficient transport allows you to maximize sightseeing and minimize transit time.

Zaanse Schans: The Heart of Traditional Holland

The day’s first stop is Zaanse Schans, a traditional Dutch village famous for its iconic windmills and artisanal crafts. The highlight here is the private tour of a cheese factory, where you’ll learn how Dutch cheese is traditionally made. Expect to sample more than 26 different cheeses, from aged Gouda to spicy Edam—an indulgent start for your taste buds.

What makes this visit special is the guided experience that goes beyond just tasting; you’ll understand the cheese-making process and the history behind this Dutch staple. Then, you’ll visit a wooden shoe workshop to watch artisans demonstrate clog-making using time-honored techniques. You can try on different colors and styles—a fun photo opportunity and a small taste of Dutch craftsmanship.

Lastly, a diamond-cutting demo offers insight into Holland’s diamond industry, with a focus on 268 cuts and the craftsmanship involved. Although the diamond tour is brief, it adds an unexpected luxury element to the day.

The Afsluitdijk: A Marvel of Engineering

Around noon, the tour pauses at the Afsluitdijk, one of the world’s most impressive dikes. Here, you’ll learn about its construction and purpose, protecting Holland from the North Sea and creating the Ijsselmeer, the largest inland lake. The view of the sea and lake is breathtaking, and although the observation tower is currently under renovation, the scenic landscape still impresses.

Travelers have noted that, due to ongoing renovations, the landscape might not be as spectacular as usual, but the story behind the dike is compelling and adds context to Dutch ingenuity in water management.

Giethoorn: The Quieter, Picturesque Village

In the afternoon, the tour shifts gear to Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the Netherlands”. With about 3-4 hours here, you’ll have plenty of time to explore at your own pace. The centerpiece is a one-hour boat cruise through its peaceful canals. For an extra dose of fun, you can upgrade to rent your own boat (around €10 per person) and pilot it yourself—an experience many reviews highlight as a highlight.

The village’s thatched-roof cottages and narrow waterways make for stunning photos, and the absence of cars keeps the atmosphere tranquil. Some travelers mentioned that early visits help avoid crowds, making the experience even more charming. The free time allows for wandering, shopping for souvenirs, or just soaking in the scenery.

End of the Day and Return

After a full day of sightseeing, your driver will return you to your hotel in Amsterdam, likely around 6:00 pm. The long, well-paced day is designed to give you a genuine feel for Dutch life—without rushing through the highlights.

Analyzing the Value

Considering all components—guided tours, private visits, boat cruise, transportation, and hotel pickup—the per-person price of $161 offers good value. Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides who enrich each stop with stories and insights, making the experience more meaningful. The small group size means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which many travelers find especially rewarding.

The inclusion of all fees and taxes simplifies planning, and the quality of transportation makes the long day comfortable. The option to upgrade the boat ride adds a fun, customizable element, appealing to families or couples wanting a bit more involvement.

What Travelers Love

Reviewers consistently mention Leidse, Eric, and Kai as guides who go above and beyond, sharing interesting facts and personal stories. The stunning scenery—windmills, canal villages, and the impressive dike—resonates strongly with visitors. The cheese tasting and wooden shoes tours are called out as authentic and engaging, not just touristy.

Possible Drawbacks

A few reviews note that the early start and the long driving hours might be tiring, especially if you prefer more leisurely mornings or are sensitive to long bus rides. Some found the crowds at popular spots like Zaanse Schans a bit overwhelming, but arriving early can mitigate this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see a diverse range of Dutch highlights in one day—small groups, authentic crafts, and spectacular scenery. It’s especially suited for those who value guided storytelling and convenience over a DIY approach. If you’re interested in local craftsmanship and iconic landscapes, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the Netherlands’ cultural and natural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup, making the start of your day stress-free.
How long is the tour? Expect approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the evening.
What’s included in the price? Guided tours of cheese, wooden shoe, and diamond craftsmanship, a boat cruise in Giethoorn, all fees, taxes, bottled water, and transportation.
Can I drive a boat in Giethoorn? Yes, you can upgrade to rent and pilot your own boat, which many travelers find adds fun to the day.
Is this tour suitable for children? The tour size and activities are generally family-friendly, but children should be comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some long drives.
Are meals included? No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food during free time.
What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
How many people are in the group? The maximum is 8 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and fewer crowds.
Can I cancel if plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time.

To sum it up, this small-group tour offers a well-rounded Dutch experience, combining cultural insights, scenic beauty, and fun activities in a comfortable setting. It’s an excellent choice for curious travelers eager to see more than just the city, especially if they appreciate guided stories, authentic crafts, and picturesque villages. A full day of Dutch highlights, with the intimacy of a small group and the convenience of hotel pickup—truly a memorable way to spend a day in the Netherlands.