Monnickendam is a charming Dutch town that offers plenty of options for visitors looking to experience the local scenery, history, and culture. Its proximity to Amsterdam makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding Waterland area. What makes Monnickendam especially appealing for tours is its authentic vibe—think wooden houses, historic harbors, and peaceful canals—yet it’s still close enough for easy day trips. We particularly love tours that combine scenic outdoor activities like kayaking and cycling with visits to iconic windmills and cheese farms. For instance, the Dutch Countryside: Windmills, Villages, Cheese & Clogs offers a comprehensive look at the region’s highlights.
If you’re looking for a relaxing way to soak up the Dutch landscape, the water-based tours stand out—whether paddling a kayak or whisper boating through the lush waterways. For a more personalized experience, the private ** countryside tour by premium car** provides a full-day tailored exploration. Either way, you’ll get a taste of the real Netherlands, away from the crowds.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of tours in Monnickendam suited for different interests and activity levels. From kayak rentals exploring Waterland’s lakes and canals, to private countryside tours that include windmills, villages, and cheese tastings. You’ll also find self-guided bike rentals, guided cycling tours, and full-day private trips to Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken. Each option offers a balance of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and practical convenience. Now, let’s look at each in detail.
1. Broek in Waterland: Kayak Rental Close to Amsterdam
For travelers eager to see Waterland from the water, this kayak rental is perfect. It’s a simple, affordable way to glide through the small lakes, canals, and village scenes just above Amsterdam. The tour involves renting a single kayak for about 3.5 hours at only $21 per person, making it an excellent value. Easy parking nearby and the availability of free life jackets for kids make this outing convenient for families.
What stands out about this trip is the opportunity to paddle through authentic villages with traditional Dutch houses and quiet waterways. The hosts speak English, German, and French, ensuring smooth communication. The trip is well-suited for those who enjoy outdoor activity and want a flexible, independent experience. The essence of this tour is peaceful exploration—no guide, no fuss, just you, your kayak, and water.
Bottom line: If you want a low-cost, easy way to experience Waterland’s natural beauty and villages, this kayak rental is a top pick.
2. Whisperboat rental in beautiful area close to Amsterdam
At number 2, this whisper boat rental offers a serene way to explore the waterways. For around $80, you and up to four friends can take a quiet electric boat through scenic canals and small lakes—completely self-guided. The boats are easy to operate, with a simple route map and driving directions provided. This means you become your own captain, choosing your adventure at your own pace.
What makes this experience stand out is the peacefulness of the electric motor, which produces no noise or fumes, allowing you to fully enjoy the surroundings. The easy parking adds convenience, and the multilingual hosts are ready to assist if needed. Reviews highlight how beautiful and relaxing the environment is, with visitors mentioning “fantastically beautiful nature” and a “nice staff.”
Ideal for small groups or families who want a self-guided day on water with a touch of independence and tranquility. It’s a flexible option for those who enjoy nature, privacy, and a gentle cruise.
Bottom line: Perfect for a peaceful, customizable boat trip through the Dutch countryside.
3. Dutch Countryside: windmills, villages, cheese & clogs
This private tour offers a comprehensive day exploring iconic Dutch sights—ideal if you want to see volendam, windmills, cheese farms, and traditional villages. Starting from Amsterdam, it includes visits to Volendam, the wooden houses of Broek in Waterland, and the famous Zaanse Schans windmills. For $425 per group, up to 8 people, you get a true customized experience that allows you to take your time at each stop.
The itinerary features a visit to a boutique cheese farm with a chance to see a modern milking robot in action, as well as the quaint harbor of Monnickendam, with its Jewish heritage. You’ll also enjoy guided tours and opportunities to shop for local products. The tour’s personalized nature means you can focus on what interests you most—whether that’s cheese tasting, windmill history, or village walks.
Guests comment on the well-organized itinerary and the chance to see authentic Dutch life. The tour balances scenic drives, cultural insights, and delicious regional foods.
Bottom line: This private tour is ideal for families or small groups wanting an intimate, flexible experience of the Dutch countryside.
$425 per group up to 8
4. Amsterdam & Countryside Private Tour by premium car
For those who prefer ultimate comfort, this full-day private tour in a Lexus LS600hL offers a luxurious way to explore both Amsterdam’s highlights and the Dutch countryside. Priced at $591 for up to 3 people, it’s an investment in a personalized itinerary that covers windmills, cheese tastings, and scenic drives at your own pace.
The tour includes visiting 17th-century windmills, exploring historic villages, and enjoying local cheese at a farm. The guide’s expertise ensures you’ll get rich insights along the way. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, luxury experience with maximum flexibility and minimal hassle.
Guests appreciate the comfortable vehicle and the ability to customize the route. It’s best suited for those who value private, hassle-free touring and are willing to spend a bit more for comfort.
Bottom line: If you prefer a luxury experience with a tailored itinerary, this private car tour is a top choice.
$591 per group up to 3
5. Amsterdam: Road Bike Rental with Self Guided Tour
This self-guided bike rental at just $67 lets you discover Amsterdam and Waterland on your own terms. The bikes are lightweight, premium, and suitable for all fitness levels. You’re free to pick your route using the provided maps and apps, exploring everything from forests and quaint villages to historic sites.
The process is straightforward: pick up your bike at James Wattstraat 127A, set your own pace, and return when finished. This option appeals to travelers who want flexibility and independent exploration. The routes are designed to show off the best countryside scenery and small towns, while the quality bikes make cycling comfortable.
Guests love how easy it is to customize your day and how the bikes make covering more ground than walking. It’s a great choice for active travelers who enjoy cycling and want to explore at their own pace.
Bottom line: Ideal for independent explorers seeking a flexible, active way to see Monnickendam’s surroundings.
$67 per group up to 1
6. From Amsterdam: Countryside Bike Tour with Cheese Tasting
For an immersive experience, this guided bike tour combines cycling through the Dutch countryside with stops at Monnickendam and a cheese farm. Starting from Amsterdam, the 7-hour trip is designed for those who want an active, cultural experience. The tour includes optional electric bikes for an extra charge, making hilly areas easier to handle.
Highlights include cycling through Ransdorpert, visiting the traditional cheese farm, and exploring Zunderdorp, a small village of 400 inhabitants. You’ll also spend time in Monnickendam, a charming town rich with Dutch heritage. The tour balances scenic cycling, local tastings, and historical insights.
Reviewers note the beautiful scenery and the enjoyable cheese tasting experience. It’s well-suited for travelers who want an active day with a taste of local life, combined with educational moments about traditional Dutch crafts.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers looking for a guided cycling adventure that includes regional food and authentic village visits.
$371 per person
7. Private Tour Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Marken & Rural Holland
This full-day private tour offers a deep dive into Dutch heritage with visits to windmills, fishing villages, and islands. It includes exploring Zaanse Schans, taking a boat ride to Marken, and discovering Volendam and Edam. It’s a flexible, personalized experience suited for small groups or couples.
Guests rave about discovering windmills and watching clog making. The boat ride to Marken adds a different perspective, and time spent in Volendam provides excellent photo ops and local shopping. This tour offers a balance of scenic views, cultural insights, and hands-on experiences.
Ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, private day that covers multiple iconic locations comfortably.
Bottom line: A great, all-in-one option for those who want a customizable and full Dutch experience.
8. Zaanse Schans Windmills Volendam Cheese Factory Monnickendam
This day trip combines visits to Zaanse Schans windmills, Monnickendam, and Volendam with a focus on Dutch craftsmanship. Starting from Amsterdam, it lasts about 8 hours and costs $265 per person. Highlights include a guided tour of windmills, a cheese factory, and a clog museum.
It features a visit to the Dike at Volendam with lakeside views, and you’ll see traditional craftsmanship like wooden shoemaking and cheese making. The itinerary also includes a guided tour and free time in Volendam and Monnickendam, so you can explore at your own pace.
Reviewers mention how they loved the windmills, cheese, and dikes, calling it an incredible day. Its balance of guided insight and free exploring makes it excellent for those wanting a comprehensive Dutch experience.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, engaging day trip for those seeking culture, scenery, and hands-on activities.
$265 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Monnickendam
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, activity level, and budget. If you prefer a relaxed water experience, the kayak or whisper boat rentals (Kayak, Whisperboat) offer flexible ways to enjoy Waterland’s scenery. For those who want a personalized, full-day adventure, the private countryside or luxury car tours (Dutch Countryside, Luxury Car) deliver a tailored experience.
Cycling enthusiasts should consider the bike rentals (Self-guided) or guided bike tours (With cheese tasting), which combine active exploration with regional food. If you want a comprehensive tour covering multiple iconic Dutch sites, the full-day private trips (Zaanse Schans & Marken) or the all-in-one day trip (Zaanse Schans with cheese) are excellent options.
Consider your budget, desired comfort level, and whether you prefer guided or independent experiences. Booking early is recommended, especially for private and popular tours, to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
From peaceful paddling and self-guided cycling to full-day private excursions, Monnickendam offers a variety of ways to experience the Netherlands. The water-based options are perfect for serenity lovers, while the full-day private tours suit those eager for deeper cultural insights. Whether you want to paddle through lakes, browse windmills, or sample local cheese, there’s a memorable experience waiting.
For a relaxed, scenic day, the kayak or whisper boat trips are unbeatable. If you want a customized, all-encompassing adventure, the private countryside or luxury car tours are hard to beat. And for active travelers, the self-guided bike rental and guided cycling tours provide a fantastic way to see the countryside at your own pace.
Remember to book early—these tours tend to fill up, especially in peak season. Whatever your preference, Monnickendam’s charm and the surrounding scenery promise an authentic Dutch adventure that’s worth every moment.