Zaandijk is a wonderful place for exploring Dutch traditions and craftsmanship. Its close proximity to the Zaanse Schans makes it ideal for those wanting to combine authentic activities with the iconic windmills and wooden houses. What makes Zaandijk stand out are the hands-on experiences like the Zaanse Schans: Brewery HOOP Tour and Tasting, which offers an intimate look at craft beer brewing, and the Chocolate making demonstration, perfect for sweet tooth travelers. Both experiences are highly rated and provide authentic, local insights. For travelers who enjoy creative pursuits, the paint a Dutch windmill workshop allows you to create your own piece of Dutch art in a cozy setting. These options demonstrate Zaandijk’s appeal for those seeking both cultural and culinary adventures.
Below, you’ll find a quick overview of the diverse tours available in the area, followed by detailed descriptions of each one to help you decide which might best suit your interests and schedule.
1. Zaanse Schans: Brewery HOOP Tour and Tasting
At number one on our list is the Brewery HOOP Tour and Tasting. This experience offers a fascinating peek into the craft of Dutch brewing. Over about an hour, you’ll join a guided tour of Brouwerij HOOP, a local brewery admired for its passion and authenticity. The guide shares insights into the brewing process and the philosophy behind their beers. Following the tour, you’ll sample 4 different craft beers, paired with bitterballen and nuts, providing a delicious taste of the brewery’s unique character.
What makes this tour stand out is its intimate feel — only a few reviews mention how personal and passionate the guide is, making the experience feel less like a commercial visit and more like a visit to a friend’s cozy cellar. The brewery’s location just outside the main tourist hub makes it an excellent addition to a day at Zaanse Schans, especially if you’re interested in local craftsmanship rather than mass-produced options. The reviews praise it as a “great local brewery experience” and highlight its authenticity and flavor-rich beers.
Bottom line: This is perfect for beer lovers or anyone wanting to see a traditional Dutch brewery, with enough time to enjoy the tasting and learn about brewing secrets.
2. Zaandam: paint a Dutch windmill in a cosy atelier
Number two is the Paint a Dutch windmill workshop. For around $108, you’ll spend 2 relaxing hours in a charming atelier near Zaandam, inspired by the iconic Dutch windmills and scenery. All painting materials are included, along with a drink, making it ideal for those wanting a creative break during their trip.
This workshop is a wonderful way to connect with Dutch culture through art, especially if you enjoy hands-on activities. The instructor guides you through creating your own windmill scene, with plenty of space for personal style and interpretation. It’s a good choice for beginners or those who want a peaceful, artistic experience in a cozy setting. The reviews are glowing, emphasizing the relaxed atmosphere and the opportunity to take home a personal souvenir of your Dutch adventure.
Bottom line: This is suited for anyone wanting a fun, creative activity in a friendly environment, and it offers a tangible memory of Zaandijk’s iconic scenery.
$108 per person
3. Zaandijk: Chocolate making demonstration & tasting
A sweet highlight is the Chocolate making demonstration & tasting. For just $20, you’ll spend about 35 minutes at a small artisanal chocolate producer in Zaandijk, witnessing the entire process from cacao bean to finished chocolate. The hosts explain each step with enthusiasm, allowing you to see, smell, and taste along the way.
What sets this apart is the opportunity to make your own chocolate bar with added ingredients like nuts, salt, and raspberry flakes. It’s an engaging, sensory experience that appeals to all ages. Reviews reflect this excitement, with comments about the enthusiastic hosts and the delicious final product. The demonstration also includes a tasting of intermediate and finished chocolates, as well as a cup of melted chocolate milk to finish things off.
Bottom line: Perfect for chocolate lovers and families, this experience offers an intimate look at chocolate craft with a sweet treat to take home.
$20 per person
4. Zaandijk: Dutch Traditional 2 course Lunch including drink
Number four on our list is the Dutch traditional 2 course lunch at Proeflokaal De Kruis. For just $23, you’ll enjoy a hearty, authentic meal next to the Windmillvillage ‘Zaanse Schans.’ The lunch includes two traditional Dutch courses and a drink of your choice — soft drink, wine, or Heineken beer.
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, local meal with a view. The restaurant guarantees a table reservation, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot during busy times. The reviews show high satisfaction, especially praising the quality of the food and the friendly service. It’s a great way to refuel after exploring the area’s outdoor sights or shops.
Bottom line: Suitable for those wanting a taste of Dutch cuisine without the fuss, and perfect for a quick, satisfying break.
$23 per person
5. Zaanse Schans: Beer Tasting Experience at Brewery HOOP
The Beer Tasting Experience is another highlight at Brouwerij HOOP, offering a full-day immersion. For about an hour, you’ll savor 4 signature beers paired with a curated tasting plank and light snacks, including HOOP’s bitterballen. The guide explains the brewing ingredients and unique flavors for each beer, making it perfect for those who want a deeper dive into craft brewing.
Guests consistently praise the experience for its flavorful beers and the opportunity to take home a 10% discount on beers bought at the brewery shop. The one-day duration makes it suitable for an afternoon or early evening stop. The personalized tasting and relaxed atmosphere make this a great choice for beer enthusiasts who appreciate detailed descriptions and pairing suggestions.
Bottom line: This is ideal for beer fans who want to learn more about Dutch craft beers and enjoy a leisurely tasting with snacks.
6. Zaanse Schans: Wine Tasting with Chateau Amsterdam
Rounding out the list is the Wine Tasting with Chateau Amsterdam. Conducted at Café de Slager, this experience introduces you to 4 wines from the first and largest urban winery in the Netherlands. The tasting lasts about an hour, with an expert explaining each wine’s background and production process.
What makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to discover Dutch urban winemaking and sample a special blend created for Amsterdam’s 750th anniversary. The white wine with floral and creamy notes is a highlight. Perfect for wine enthusiasts or those curious about alternative wine regions, this experience offers a sophisticated and educational glimpse into Dutch viniculture.
Bottom line: Suitable for wine lovers who want to explore something different from traditional European wine regions, with expert insights into urban winemaking.
How to Choose
When selecting the best tour in Zaandijk, consider your interests and schedule. Want to sample local beers? The Brewery HOOP Tours and Beer Tasting Experience are ideal. Looking for a creative or sweet activity? The painting workshop and chocolate demo fit the bill. For a hearty meal, the Dutch lunch offers local flavor, while the wine tasting provides a more refined experience.
Think about your budget, time constraints, and whether you prefer hands-on activities or tasting experiences. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular workshops and tastings, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Zaandijk offers a variety of experiences that appeal to different interests. If you’re passionate about craft beer, the brewery tours provide genuine insights and flavorful tastings. For those with a sweet tooth or love for arts, the chocolate demo or windmill painting make perfect choices. Food lovers will enjoy the traditional Dutch lunch, and wine enthusiasts can explore the urban wines of Château Amsterdam.
With options spanning from just 35-minute chocolate demos to full-day beer tastings, there’s something for every traveler. For a balanced trip, consider combining a brewery visit with a creative workshop or a nice lunch. Be sure to book in advance to guarantee your place in these popular experiences. Exploring Zaandijk’s authentic crafts and tastes will surely enrich your Dutch adventure.