Private Tour to the Windmills, Cheese and Clogs and Volendam from Amsterdam

An Authentic Slice of Holland: Private Tour to Windmills, Cheese, Clogs, and Volendam from Amsterdam

If you’re craving an escape from the busy streets of Amsterdam to experience the quintessential Dutch countryside, this private tour offers a balanced mix of iconic sights and authentic rural life. For around $319 per person, you’ll spend about five hours exploring Zaanse Schans, a stretch of windmill-dotted landscape, and the picturesque fishing village of Volendam, with added visits to a cheese farm and a historic windmill. The highlight? The flexibility of a private tour with hotel pickup and drop-off, which makes it easy and comfortable to see these highlights without the hassle of large groups or long waits.

Two standout features of this trip are the in-depth visits to working windmills—including the chance to go inside the last paint mill on Earth—and the interactive cheese tasting experience at Jacobs Hoeve. You’ll see Dutch wooden shoe making in action, get a taste of multiple cheese varieties, and walk the vibrant harbor streets of Volendam, a town that seems frozen in time.

A potential drawback? The tour’s schedule is tight, so if you’re a slow traveler or love lingering over each experience, it might feel a bit rushed. Still, the time efficiency is perfect for those who want a condensed but meaningful taste of Holland’s rural traditions.

This experience suits travelers with a curiosity for authentic Dutch crafts and landscapes, those eager to learn about traditional industries like cheese-making and windmill operation, and anyone who prefers a personalized, relaxed pace with the convenience of private transportation.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: Enjoy customized timing and round-trip hotel pickup in a comfortable Mercedes vehicle.
• Authentic Dutch crafts: See windmills, clog-making demonstrations, and cheese production firsthand.
• Historic sights: Visit the last working paint mill and learn about traditional industries.
• Scenic villages: Explore the colorful harbor of Volendam, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a tasty lunch.
• All-inclusive access: Windmill parks, cheese tastings, and admission tickets are included, with no hidden fees.
• Authentic experiences: From seeing how cheese is made to touching baby cows, you’ll get a true feel for rural life.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point: Zaanse Schans

Your journey begins with a convenient hotel pickup and a ride in an air-conditioned Mercedes, whisking you out of the city to the famous windmill landscape. We loved the way the tour included admission to the windmills and parking costs, simplifying logistics. During your 40-minute stop, you’ll get up close to 7 remaining windmills, with a chance to peek inside some of the open-to-visit structures.

One of the most fascinating stops here is the paint mill, Molen De Kat. It’s the last working paint mill on earth, and you can see the process firsthand—a nod to Rembrandt’s era when he bought his paints here. The guide shares insights into the historic importance of these mills, making it more than just sightseeing; it’s a glimpse into Dutch industrial heritage.

Learning about Wooden Shoes and Local Industries

Next, a 30-minute stop at the clog factory immerses you in traditional Dutch craftsmanship. Watching a demonstration of clog-making, you’ll witness how artisans craft these iconic wooden shoes, and you’ll have the chance to buy souvenirs—perfect for a unique gift or memento.

Inside the Last Paint Mill

Another highlight is visiting the interior of the paint mill, a rare opportunity to see the last operational paint mill. The guide explains its historical significance and the process of paint production, tying in a bit of Dutch art history.

The Cheese Farm Experience at Jacobs Hoeve

After exploring windmills, you’ll head to Jacobs Hoeve Cheese Farm, where cows graze and the smell of fresh cheese fills the air. You’ll learn how Gouda cheese is made and see a milk robot in action—a modern twist on traditional farming. The cheese tasting is a definite highlight, with over 30 varieties available. Many travelers, including Lewis, appreciated the “amazing automated milking system” and the chance to taste delicious Dutch cheese. You can buy cheese and souvenirs here, supporting local artisans.

Exploring Volendam

The final leg takes you to Volendam, a charming fishing village with a lively harbor, colorful houses, and a reputation for authentic Dutch culture. You’ll have about an hour to explore, enjoy Dutch waffles, or dine in a renowned seafood restaurant. The village’s quaint streets and lively harbor make it a perfect spot for photos and relaxed wandering.

Flexibility and Comfort

What sets this tour apart is the private, customizable nature. You can choose to spend more time at certain spots or simply enjoy the scenic drive back to Amsterdam. The round-trip transfer ensures you’re not tired from navigating transportation, and the group discounts make it a good value for those traveling with family or friends.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Insights

Why This Tour Stands Out

The guided visits inside windmills make a tangible difference—most travelers only see windmills from the outside. As Lewis praised, “Our driver, Ahmed, was very knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful,” which is a significant bonus. Having an expert guide helps bring the sites to life, adding context and answering questions about Dutch culture, industry, and history.

Value for Money

At roughly $319 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Dutch rural life in a short time frame. The tickets and activities included mean fewer surprises or extra costs, and the private nature guarantees a more relaxed experience. For travelers interested in seeing more than just the usual tourist spots, this private trip is a worthwhile investment.

Drawbacks and Considerations

The main consideration is schedule tightness. If you prefer to linger over each experience or take photos at every turn, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Also, since it’s a private experience, it might be pricier compared to group tours, but the added convenience and personalized service often justify the cost.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best for those seeking an authentic and comfortable introduction to Dutch countryside traditions. It’s ideal if you love cultural crafts, scenic villages, and traditional industries like cheese-making and windmill operation. Perfect for travelers who appreciate guided insights and want to avoid the hassle of public transport, especially if traveling with family or in a small group.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, efficient introduction to the best of rural Holland with a friendly guide, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suitable for those who value personalized attention and want a balanced itinerary that covers history, craftsmanship, and landscapes in a single morning or afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including travel time and all stops, making it a perfect half-day trip.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which adds to the convenience, especially if you’re staying centrally in Amsterdam.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs around $318.62 per person, which includes all entrance fees, cheese tastings, and parking.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Being a private tour, it offers some flexibility, so you can choose to spend more time at certain sites or skip others if you prefer.

What are the main highlights?
You’ll see windmills, a cheese farm, a clog factory, and the harbor of Volendam—offering a good mix of scenic views, traditional crafts, and cultural insights.

Is this suitable for children?
Yes, especially since children can touch baby cows, watch cheese and clog-making, and enjoy the scenic village streets, making it family-friendly.

To sum it up, this private tour to Zaanse Schans and Volendam offers a thoughtfully curated experience that balances culture, tradition, and comfort. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to see iconic Dutch sights with a knowledgeable guide in a relaxed, personalized setting. If you value authenticity and convenience, it’s an excellent choice to deepen your understanding of Holland’s charming rural life.