Traveling through the Netherlands offers so many moments of charm, but few tours manage to blend culture, history, and authentic local life quite like this one. For around $162 per person, you get a full day exploring South Holland’s hidden gems, from a quiet cheese farm to the postcard-worthy fishing village of Volendam, and the medieval streets of Delft. Led by a friendly guide, this small-group experience promises a relaxed pace, personal attention, and a chance to see the Netherlands beyond the crowded tourist spots.
What we love about this tour is how it combines hands-on demonstrations—such as cheese-making and clog carving—with visits to less touristy locations that still showcase Dutch tradition. We also appreciate the inclusion of a pottery factory visit, giving a well-rounded taste of local craftsmanship. The fact that you bypass the busier Zaanse Schans makes it more intimate and authentic.
One thing to consider is that the tour involves walking through medieval Delft and potentially uneven terrain at windmills, so it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues. Also, since it starts early and includes several stops, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a full day of exploration without feeling rushed. If you’re after a deep dive into Dutch culture with fewer crowds, this tour offers excellent value.
This experience works best for curious travelers who want more than just a quick photo op. It’s ideal if you love artisan demonstrations, local food, and picturesque towns — especially those who enjoy discovering the less obvious sides of the Netherlands.
Key Points
- Authentic Experiences: Visit a real, uncrowded cheese farm and watch traditional clog making.
- Less Tourist Crowds: Skip Zaanse Schans for a quieter, more personal encounter with Dutch crafts.
- Cultural Highlights: Explore the historic fishing village of Volendam and the medieval streets of Delft.
- Local Culinary Tastes: Sample Dutch treats like herring, stroopwafels, and seafood during your day.
- Unique Photo Opportunities: Enjoy picturesque windmill views at a hidden spot nicknamed ‘Little Kinderdijk.’
- Well-Rounded Tour: Includes a pottery factory visit, adding a crafts dimension to your Dutch experience.
A Thorough Review of the Delft and Volendam: Cheese, Clogs & Windmills Tour
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How the Tour Begins: A Quiet Cheese Farm
We start early, meeting our guide outside a hotel facing a canal—a fitting Dutch scene. The first stop is a local cheese farm, deliberately chosen away from the crowds of Zaanse Schans. Here, a cheese expert leads a detailed demonstration on how Dutch cheese is made, giving us a real sense of artisan craftsmanship. Unlike the mass-produced cheese found in supermarkets, this farm produces cheese in small batches, and you get to taste the difference.
Guests consistently remark on how engaging and informative the demonstration is. One reviewer mentioned, “It was fascinating to see the process up close and personal, and the cheese was delicious.” The quiet setting allows for better interaction and a more relaxed experience, unlike more touristy spots that can feel rushed or crowded.
Traditional Clogs: Personal, Private, and Photogenic
Next, we move on to a private demonstration of clog making. Here, the artisan crafts shoes from raw wood in front of us, explaining each step with patience and humor. Unlike busy workshops, our group enjoys personal attention, and there’s ample opportunity to try on the finished clogs and take photos. This demonstration is a highlight for many, especially for those who love crafts and want a tangible souvenir.
Several travelers appreciated the intimacy of this part of the tour, with one noting, “It felt like a private lesson in Dutch tradition, and I loved trying on the clogs myself.” It’s a rare chance to see how these iconic shoes are made by hand, without the crowds typical of bigger tourist factories.
Exploring Volendam: A Historic Fishing Village
After a scenic drive, the tour visits Volendam, a fishing village with a story to tell. We get a guided walk through its narrow streets, lined with colorful houses and lively seafood restaurants. Learning about the reclaimed land and man-made lakes gives context to this unique Dutch settlement.
The town is lively but not overwhelming, and we have time to wander, take photos, and sample classic Dutch treats. Tasting herring, kibbelings, stroopwafels, and poffertjes is a particular delight. Several reviews celebrate the local food, with one person sharing, “The seafood was fresh, and the stroopwafel was the perfect sweet ending.”
More Great Tours NearbyWindmills: Hidden Gems and Iconic Photos
Before heading to Delft, we stop at a hidden location nicknamed ‘Little Kinderdijk’, where you can see traditional windmills up close, away from the crowds of Zaanse Schans. This photo stop is especially popular among those who want authentic windmill views and a quieter setting.
Our guide explains the history and significance of windmills in Dutch water management, adding educational value. The scenery is picturesque—perfect for photos or just soaking in the peaceful countryside. Multiple reviewers say this stop offers some of the best windmill views without the tourist hype.
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Delft: A Walk Through History
Our final stop is Delft, often called ‘Little Amsterdam’ due to its charming canals and medieval architecture. Our guide takes us through the historic center, pointing out marvellous buildings, the New Church, and the Delft Blue pottery shops.
The town’s artistic and cultural significance is evident in its well-preserved streets and buildings. We learn about famous Delft-born artists and its role in Dutch history. Several visitors mention how much they appreciated the guided walking tour, which brought the town’s stories to life.
Cultural and Craftsmanship Highlights
The tour includes a visit to a local pottery factory, where artisans demonstrate the traditional Delft Blue pottery-making process. It’s a fascinating look at a craft that has become a symbol of Dutch craftsmanship. You can browse through the factory’s shop for authentic souvenirs.
Practical Details and Value
The entire day is designed for a relaxed experience—no rushing through highlights, plenty of time at each stop, and a small-group setting that encourages conversation. The price of $162 includes all entrance fees for the cheese farm, pottery factory, and demonstrations, as well as guided tours of Volendam and Delft.
While meals and the Royal Delft museum entrance are not included, the tour’s focus on hands-on experiences and authentic locations** make it a good value for those wanting a genuine taste of Dutch life.
Transportation and Logistics
Transportation is provided in a comfortable vehicle, and the tour begins early to maximize daylight hours. The group size is small, which means more personal attention and fewer crowds. The guide is friendly and knowledgeable, offering insights and answering questions throughout the day.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience suits curious travelers eager to see authentic Dutch crafts and towns. It’s perfect for those who enjoy artisan demonstrations, local food, and escaping tourist-heavy areas. However, it’s not suitable for individuals with mobility issues due to walking and uneven terrain at windmills. If you’re looking for a comprehensive, relaxed day of cultural discovery, this tour hits the mark.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 12 need a car seat, and you should inform the tour operator if you require one. This tour can be enjoyed by families, especially those interested in crafts and local culture.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended since you’ll be walking quite a bit, especially through Delft and at windmill stops.
Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but plenty of local food samples are available at Volendam, and your guide can recommend places to eat.
Can I bring large luggage or strollers?
Luggage and large bags are not allowed, and non-folding strollers are not permitted, mainly due to space and terrain considerations.
What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility before your trip.
Is this tour offered in languages other than English?
No, the tour is conducted in English only.
Does the tour cover the Zaanse Schans windmills?
No, the guide intentionally takes you to a less crowded, more authentic windmill location, avoiding the busy Zaanse Schans.
Final Thoughts
This small-group tour from Delft and Volendam offers a well-balanced mix of culture, craftsmanship, and scenic beauty. It’s best suited for travelers who want to connect with Dutch traditions, sample local foods, and avoid the crowds typically found in major tourist spots. The focus on hands-on demonstrations, such as cheese making and clog carving, makes it engaging and memorable.
If you’re after a personalized experience that combines authentic towns, local crafts, and iconic windmill views, this tour is a solid choice. It provides a genuine taste of the Netherlands—less commercial, more local—making it ideal for those seeking a meaningful, relaxed day out.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler eager to see a different side of Dutch life, this tour has the ingredients for an enriching adventure that balances fun, learning, and beautiful scenery.
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