Amsterdam: Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Tour

Experience the Beauty of the Netherlands with a Day Tour to Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans

This day trip from Amsterdam takes you to two of the most photogenic and culturally fascinating spots in North Holland: Giethoorn, often called the “Dutch Venice,” and Zaanse Schans, home to classic windmills and traditional crafts. For just $131 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours exploring these iconic sights with a friendly, knowledgeable guide leading the way.

What we love about this tour is how balanced it is — it mixes scenic boat rides through tranquil waterways, the spectacle of working windmills, and hands-on demonstrations like clog-making and cheese tasting. These authentic experiences elevate the trip beyond just sightseeing. A second highlight is the opportunity to learn stories and facts directly from passionate guides, making history and culture accessible and enjoyable.

A possible consideration is that, at around 10 hours, this is a fairly full day, so it might be a long haul if you’re not used to full-day excursions or if you’re looking for something more relaxed. Also, the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to plan for some snacks or a meal during the day.

This experience suits travelers who aren’t just after pretty pictures — though you’ll get plenty of those — but also want genuine insights, local craftsmanship, and a taste of Dutch tradition. If your ideal day involves exploring charming villages, understanding windmill technology, and sampling local products, this tour is a good fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch villages: Giethoorn’s waterways and Zaanse Schans’s windmills offer a true taste of Dutch life.
• Guided insights: Passionate guides share stories, history, and demonstrations — not just superficial sightseeing.
• Hands-on experiences: Visit a clog-making demonstration and cheese factory for memorable local crafts.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect tranquil canals, picturesque farmhouses, and impressive windmills that are more than just photo ops.
• Value for money: The tour includes transportation, guided commentary, and tastings, making it a comprehensive experience.
• Full-day adventure: About 10 hours from start to finish, suitable for those who want an immersive day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Tour: What to Expect and Why It Matters

When you book the Amsterdam: Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Tour, you’re signing up for a well-rounded experience that blends scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and local craftsmanship. Let’s explore each part of the trip in detail so you can decide if it’s the right fit.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins early in the morning at De Ruijterkade 153, right in front of Aloha Bowling, with a guide holding a white umbrella bearing the DutchTrips logo. The group departs promptly at 8:00 AM, so arriving a little earlier — around 7:45 AM — is recommended. You’ll ride in a luxury minibus with air conditioning, which makes the long day more comfortable, especially on warmer days.

The transportation is one of the tour’s highlights. Traveling in a small, comfortable group allows for better interaction with your guide and fewer crowd-related hassles. The vehicle is described as luxurious and cozy, which makes the roughly 45-minute drive to Giethoorn a pleasure rather than a chore.

Exploring Giethoorn: The Dutch Venice

Giethoorn is the first stop, famous for its canal network and peaceful atmosphere. This car-free village is best experienced from the water, and that’s exactly what you’ll do during the scenic canal cruise. The boat glides smoothly past thatched-roof farmhouses, elegant bridges, and lush greenery — perfect for photography and simply soaking in the tranquility.

What makes Giethoorn stand out is how it feels like stepping into a storybook. The reviews emphasize how stunning and picturesque it is, with travelers describing the boat ride as “soaked up the serenity” and “stunning.” We appreciated how the guide shared stories and facts during the cruise, adding depth to the visual beauty.

Besides the boat ride, there’s time to walk around at your own pace. Many travelers praise the free time to explore and enjoy lunch options. The guide often suggests local eateries or points out places of interest.

Visiting the Cheeses and Clogs

Next, the tour takes you to a cheesefactory for a tasting session, highlighting the Netherlands’ renowned cheese culture. You’ll learn about the cheese-making process and sample various flavors, which many find to be a highlight. Several reviews mention how the cheese tasting was “tasty” and paired with interesting insights about Dutch dairy traditions.

Following that, a clog-making demonstration is another authentic experience. Watching artisans craft traditional wooden shoes offers a glimpse into Dutch craftsmanship and history. This hands-on aspect is highly valued in reviews, with many saying it makes the trip memorable.

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The Windmills of Zaanse Schans

After lunch, the tour heads to Zaanse Schans, a living museum showcasing working windmills and traditional crafts. You’ll get close-up views of these iconic structures and learn how they generate power and shape Dutch history. The guide explains the mechanics behind the windmills, making the visit more than just a photograph stop.

The windmills are stunning in person and often appear in Dutch paintings and postcards. Visitors frequently comment on their breathtaking presence and how the guided tour enhances understanding of their functions and significance.

Along With viewing the windmills, there’s an opportunity to see demonstrations and learn about local industries like pepper mills and paint production. The reviews praise the breathtaking views and the informative explanations.

Final Touches: Sweet and Natural Delights

As a cherry on top, the tour includes a tasty stroopwafel — a traditional Dutch caramel-filled waffle — and bottled water, keeping you refreshed throughout the day. Some reviews describe the stroopwafel as “delicious,” and many appreciate the thoughtful touches like water and snacks included in the price.

The Overall Experience

Throughout the day, the live commentary enriches the journey. Guides like Ibrahim and Jay are lauded for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and friendly demeanor. Many reviews emphasize how guides make the trip fun, humorous, and insightful.

Considering the full-day length, some travelers note the trip’s length as a potential drawback if you prefer more relaxed pacing. However, the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many stating it’s a “great value” given the number of experiences packed into the day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, authentic Dutch experience. It’s perfect if you enjoy scenic boat rides, learning about local crafts, and visiting iconic windmills and villages. The small-group format and passionate guides make it especially suitable for travelers who appreciate personalized attention and engaging storytelling.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re eager to see some of the Netherlands’ most charming sights without the hassle of arranging logistics yourself, this tour delivers a lot of value. It’s a great choice for first-time visitors who want an overview of Dutch culture, as well as seasoned travelers craving a well-organized, authentic day out.

The combination of scenic waterways, tradition-rich windmills, and hands-on crafts makes this experience both visually stunning and educational. The guides are praised for their passion and knowledge, adding warmth and depth to the journey.

However, be prepared for a long day; if you prefer less structured, more relaxed excursions, you might find it a bit tiring. No lunch is included, so bring some snacks or plan to eat during free time.

All in all, this trip is a fantastic value for the price and a sure way to deepen your appreciation of Dutch heritage. Whether you’re into photography, history, or simply scenic beauty, you’ll find plenty to love here.

FAQ: Common Questions About the Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Tour

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting around 8:00 AM and returning around 6:00 PM.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at De Ruijterkade 153, in front of Aloha Bowling, with check-in between 7:45 and 8:00 AM.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll travel in a luxury, air-conditioned minibus that’s comfortable for the full day.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, the tour includes a live English-speaking guide throughout the trip.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, a canal cruise in Giethoorn, guided visits to a cheese factory and clog demonstration, bottled water, and a stroopwafel.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or enjoy local eateries during free time.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How big are the groups?
While the exact size isn’t specified, many reviews suggest it’s a small, intimate group, enhancing personal interaction.

What makes this tour stand out?
Passionate guides, authentic experiences like cheese tasting and clog making, and stunning scenery in both Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans.

Would this tour be suitable for kids or families?
While not explicitly stated, the variety of hands-on activities and scenic sights make it appealing for families with children who enjoy outdoor exploration and crafts.

In summary, this day tour offers an authentic and visually stunning introduction to Dutch culture and scenery — perfect for travelers seeking a balanced mix of education, relaxation, and memorable views. It’s a well-organized, value-packed experience that’s likely to leave you with lasting memories of the Netherlands’ charming traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: