Amsterdam: Giethoorn, Zaandam & Zaanse Schans Tour

Amsterdam: Giethoorn, Zaandam & Zaanse Schans Tour
Location: North Holland, Netherlands
Country: Netherlands
Rating: 4.6 (520 reviews)
Price: $162 per person
Supplier: Cherry Travel & Tours
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Imagine a day where you escape the bustling streets of Amsterdam to wander through quaint villages, glide along peaceful canals, and marvel at iconic windmills—all in one smooth, well-organized trip. Led by friendly and knowledgeable guides, this tour whisks you to three very different but equally captivating destinations: the “Venice of the Netherlands,” Giethoorn, the vibrant Zaandam with its Lego-inspired architecture, and the traditional Zaanse Schans windmill village. For $162, you get almost a full day of authentic Dutch sights, sounds, and flavors—plus a rare opportunity to drive your own electric boat in Giethoorn.

What especially stands out for us are two key features: first, the personalized boat experience in Giethoorn, where you’re at the helm of a small, silent electric whisper boat—think of it as steering through a fairy-tale landscape. Second, the insider access to windmill demonstrations, cheese tastings, and wooden shoe workshops that tell you more than just their story—they let you see and feel Dutch traditions firsthand.

On the flip side, the tour’s tight schedule means you might feel a bit rushed, especially at Zaanse Schans, where there’s a lot to see, from windmills to clog workshops. If you’re someone who loves to linger, this might be a day you’d want to customize with extra time at each spot.

This tour is great for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable overview of Dutch countryside gems near Amsterdam, especially if you appreciate engaging guides and authentic activities.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: Experience a mix of charming villages, industrial heritage, and modern attractions in one day.
• Unique Boat Ride: Drive your own electric boat through Giethoorn’s peaceful canals—an experience few tours offer.
• Authentic Cultural Demos: See cheese-making, clog carving, and windmill grinding demonstrations firsthand.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Cherry, Veronica, and Mukti bring local stories to life with enthusiasm and knowledge.
• Small Group Intimacy: The tour keeps numbers manageable, making it easier to ask questions and connect with the guide.
• Value for Money: For under $200, you get transportation, guided visits, and a boat ride—covering more than you’d see on your own.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Dutch Countryside in One Day: What You Can Expect

This guided tour offers you a well-rounded glimpse into Dutch heritage and scenery, all packed into a single, full-day experience. From the moment you meet at the canal-side pickup point, you’re in for a treat that balances structured activities with free time for your own discoveries.

Zaandam and Zaanse Schans: Windmills, Clogs, and Cheese

Your journey kicks off with a comfortable coach or Mercedes minivan ride through the landscape of North Holland. You’ll pass by Flevoland, the largest artificial province, built on land reclaimed from the sea, and travel across the IJsselmeer, a vast man-made lake created by the Afsluitdijk, a dam that separated the Zuiderzee from the North Sea back in 1932. This gives you a sense of how Dutch ingenuity continues to shape its environment.

Once in Zaanse Schans, you’re immersed in an open-air museum packed with traditional Dutch architecture and working windmills. Your guide provides a guided tour, which is especially helpful because there’s quite a bit to take in—think working windmills, a cheese farm with tastings, and a clog workshop where you’ll see how wooden shoes are made and even try them on. Reviewers emphasize the value of these demonstrations, with one noting how “cheese tasting” and “wooden shoe making” create a lively, hands-on experience.

Giethoorn: The Venice of the Netherlands

After Zaanse Schans, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive to Giethoorn, a village famous for its serene canals and thatched-roof cottages. Passing through Flevoland and the large IJsselmeer, you’ll see how this area is a marvel of Dutch water management and land reclamation.

The highlight here is your small electric boat ride—the “whisper boat” experience you get to operate yourself. This isn’t just a sightseeing cruise; your guide will tell you stories about the village’s history and architecture while you glide past centuries-old houses connected by charming wooden arch bridges. Several reviews mention how “the boat ride was beautiful and peaceful,” with one guest describing it as “an experience you’d never get on a large tour boat.”

After the boat, you’ll have time for a scenic walk through the narrow paved streets, which feel more like a storybook setting than a typical tourist town. The small group size makes this walk feel more intimate, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and snap those perfect photos.

Authentic Dutch Flavors and Crafts

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy tastings at cheese farms and see clog-making demonstrations—both staples of Dutch culture. The cheese tasting is particularly praised for its quality, giving you insight into the Dutch love for cheese and how it’s made. The clog workshop, with its demonstration, offers a tactile connection to traditional craftsmanship.

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Practical Details & Considerations

The entire day is designed for ease of travel and comfort. Transportation is by a comfortable coach or Mercedes minivan, with pickup at the canal side of the Double Tree by Hilton. The tour is suitable for those who are comfortable with walking and small boat rides, but it’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or large luggage, as large bags aren’t allowed.

The tour lasts around a full day, with some reviews noting it’s quite packed. If you’re someone who loves a relaxed pace or wishes to spend more time exploring each stop, you might find this schedule a little tight. Still, the guided nature means you’ll get plenty of context and stories along the way.

What Do the Reviews Say?

Feedback consistently highlights the expertise and friendliness of guides like Cherry and Veronica, who go above and beyond to make the day memorable. Reviewers mention how “Cherry was very receptive to questions” and “made the trip feel like exploring with friends,” which adds a personal touch you’ll likely appreciate.

The boat ride in Giethoorn receives high praise, with travelers describing it as “an unforgettable experience” and “like a fairy tale come alive.” The windmill and cheese demonstrations also garner positive remarks for their authenticity and entertainment value.

Some reviews mention the tight schedule, with a few wishing they had more time at Zaanse Schans. Others highlight how well-organized everything was, and that even rainy days didn’t spoil the experience—thanks to the guides’ flexibility and the covered areas.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re eager to see a mix of quaint villages, windmills, and cultural traditions without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for travelers who love hands-on experiences, like steering a boat or watching craftsmen at work. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge help bring the sights to life, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

However, if you prefer lingering longer at each location or are traveling with mobility challenges, you might find the schedule a bit rushed. The tour’s focus on quality over quantity means you’ll get a well-rounded taste of Dutch heritage, perfect for those visiting Amsterdam who want a day out in the countryside.

This experience strikes a good balance between must-see sights and authentic activities—delivering a memorable glimpse of Dutch rural charm in just one day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 are not recommended, and those under 12 should have car seats or arrangements made with the tour operator. The activities are generally family-friendly, but the schedule may be tiring for very young kids.

How long is the boat ride in Giethoorn?
The boat trip lasts about 1 hour, during which you drive your own electric boat through the canals, giving you a peaceful, scenic experience.

Are meals included in the tour price?
No, lunch is not included. You might find some options available during free time, but it’s best to bring snacks or plan to purchase food en route.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing, as weather can be unpredictable. Large luggage is not allowed on the tour.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the tour takes place rain or shine. It’s wise to prepare for possible rain with waterproof clothing.

How large are the tour groups?
The groups are kept small, making the experience more personal and allowing more interaction with guides.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

Are there any accessibility issues?
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to walking and boat requirements.

What happens if I’m late or want to cancel?
Arrive on time at the meeting point; cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated day of Dutch culture, history, and scenery—perfect for travelers seeking a manageable, engaging escape from city life. Whether you’re a camera enthusiast, a culture lover, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, you’ll likely find this experience worth every euro.

You can check availability for your dates here: