From Amsterdam: Dutch Windmills, Cheese and Wooden Shoes

Experience the Charm of the Dutch Countryside Without Leaving Amsterdam

For just $42, this full-day guided trip takes you out of the busy streets of Amsterdam to explore some of the Netherlands’ most iconic sights. You’ll visit the Zaanse Schans windmill village, walk through the colorful fishing village of Volendam, and see the historic Edam cheese market. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour combines cultural insight with authentic Dutch craftsmanship — from traditional clog-making to cheese tasting, all in roughly 5 hours of sightseeing.

What we love most are the windmills in action—seeing these historic giants turn amidst the countryside is a sight to behold—and the chance to taste fresh Dutch cheese at a local farm. The clog-making demonstration is another highlight, offering a tangible glimpse into Dutch tradition.

A potential drawback? The tour involves quite a bit of walking and standing, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a moderate pace. Also, entry to the windmills at Zaanse Schans isn’t included in the price, so if you want to go inside, you’ll need to purchase tickets separately.

This tour works best for travelers who enjoy learning about local craftsmanship, appreciate scenic views, or want a cost-effective way to see Dutch highlights beyond Amsterdam’s city limits. Families, culture lovers, and curious explorers will find this experience particularly rewarding.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch highlights like windmills, cheese, and wooden shoes
• Well-paced 5-hour itinerary with expert-guided insights
• Affordable price point with included tastings and demonstrations
• Beautiful countryside views and charming villages
• Limited inside access to windmills unless purchased separately
• Good for all ages but involves some walking and standing

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re eager to see what makes the Netherlands so photogenic, this tour delivers. Starting from a convenient location near Amsterdam Central Station, you’re whisked away in a modern, comfortable bus. With a maximum of 60 travelers, the group isn’t too large, allowing for personalized attention from your guide and good opportunities to ask questions.

The Zaanse Schans Windmill Village

Your first stop is Zaanse Schans, a picture-perfect spot famous for its working windmills and traditional Dutch houses. You’re likely to spend around an hour here, walking among the iconic windmills, which have been part of the Dutch landscape since the 18th and 19th centuries.

While the entry to the windmills isn’t included, you can purchase tickets on-site if you wish to go inside. The windmills themselves are still functional, producing everything from oil to paint, making them a living monument to Dutch ingenuity. You’ll also witness a clog-making demonstration, where skilled artisans craft these wooden shoes using techniques passed down for generations. One traveler noted, “The clog-making demo was fascinating, and we loved watching how the shoes are made step by step.”

Cheese Tasting at a Local Farm

Next, the tour takes you to a local farm where you can see how giant Dutch cheese wheels are produced. Tasting fresh cheese directly from the farm is a real treat, and it offers a tangible connection to the country’s cheese-making heritage. Several reviews highlighted the cheese experience as “delicious” and “a highlight of the trip,” emphasizing the quality and freshness of the samples.

The Village of Volendam

The last major stop is Volendam, a charming fishing village with a distinct maritime atmosphere. Wandering its streets, you’ll see colorful houses, visit St. Vincent’s Church, and explore the Stolphoevekerk — a historic wooden church. The Fish Auction is also a vibrant scene, where local fishermen sell their catch directly from the boats.

Travelers have praised the scenic views atop the dike, offering sweeping panoramas of IJssel Lake — perfect for photos. One reviewer shared, “It’s such a picturesque spot, and the view of the lake is breathtaking, especially during sunset.”

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Practical Details & Extras

The tour includes multilingual guides, ensuring clear explanations in several languages, and a modern bus equipped with headsets for better listening. We appreciate this because it helps keep everyone engaged without shouting over background noise.

The tour also offers a voucher for the Amsterdam Canal Cruise if you select that option, adding a relaxing way to see the city from the water after your countryside adventure.

What You Should Know

While the tour is packed with memorable sights, it involves a decent amount of walking, especially at Zaanse Schans and Volendam. Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some steps. Also, be punctual — the guide emphasized that late arrivals might miss the bus.

Weather can vary, and the tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately. Despite occasional rain, reviews indicate that guides like Ingrid and Yolanda kept spirits high, making the day enjoyable regardless of the weather.

Why This Tour Is Worth It

You’re getting a well-organized and value-packed day for just $42, which includes guided commentary, tastings, demonstrations, and transportation. The price doesn’t include the windmill entry fee, but for many, the visual spectacle of the windmills turning outside the museum is enough to justify the visit. Plus, the cheese tasting and clog demonstration offer authentic insights into Dutch craft traditions.

The small group size, friendly guides, and scenic stops balance the busy schedule to give you a taste of Dutch life beyond city sightseeing. It’s a great way to see some of the most photogenic spots without the hassle of planning transportation or managing multiple tickets.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour suits culture enthusiasts, families, and first-time visitors eager to see the iconic windmills and try traditional Dutch products. It’s also ideal for those who want a cost-effective day trip that covers multiple highlights without rushing. If you enjoy learning hands-on about local crafts or want to capture stunning photos, this tour checks those boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves a decent amount of walking and some steps, so it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 5 hours, including transportation, stops, and free time at each location.

Do I need to pay for entry into the windmills?
Yes, entry to the windmills at Zaanse Schans is not included, and you can purchase tickets on-site if desired.

Does the tour run in all weather?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine; just dress appropriately.

Are infants allowed?
Infants from 0 to 3 years old can join for free but must sit on a guardian’s lap, as they won’t have a seat.

What is included in the price?
Guided tour, transportation, clog-making demonstration, cheese tasting, and a canal cruise voucher (if selected). Taxes and fees are covered too.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera for all those scenic views.

To sum it up, this guided tour offers a friendly, affordable way to experience some of the Netherlands’ most charming sights. It balances picturesque scenery with cultural activities, making it ideal for curious travelers who appreciate authentic traditions and want to avoid the hassle of independent day trips. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Dutch craftsmanship and countryside beauty — all from the comfort of a modern bus.

You can check availability for your dates here: