Amsterdam: Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk and Zaanse Schans Day Trip

If you’re looking for a well-organized, authentic taste of the Netherlands beyond the bustling streets of Amsterdam, this day trip offers a fantastic glimpse into the country’s scenic countryside and traditional crafts. Although we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a balanced blend of picturesque sights, engaging local demonstrations, and comfortable travel—perfect for those wanting a deeper, more relaxed look at Dutch culture.

What we love about this experience is the way it combines natural beauty with cultural craftsmanship—think windmills, traditional cheese, wooden clogs, and tranquil canals. Plus, the scenic drive along the Afsluitdijk, a remarkable feat of engineering, gives a sense of Dutch ingenuity. On the downside, some travelers may find the day a bit packed or wish for more time at each stop, but that’s a small trade-off for such a rundown.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, immersive day outside the city, especially those interested in Dutch traditions, engineering marvels, and picture-perfect villages. It’s suited for curious minds and those seeking a practical, value-packed experience that offers both sightseeing and authentic local encounters.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences: Wooden shoe demonstrations, cheese tasting, and diamond showcases highlight local crafts.
• Spectacular scenery: Windmills, the Afsluitdijk, and Giethoorn’s canals offer picture-perfect moments.
• Comfort and convenience: Hotel pickup, luxury minivan transport, and small group size enhance the experience.
• Variety of sights: From cultural workshops to engineering marvels, this trip covers many facets of Dutch life.
• Balanced pace: Sufficient time at each stop allows for exploration without feeling hurried.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to make each visitor feel valued.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting from Amsterdam: Easy Pickup and Smooth Transport

The journey begins with a hotel pickup within the A10 highway ring, excluding the north side of the IJ River. This convenience means you can relax rather than worry about navigating public transport, especially if you’re staying centrally. The use of a luxury minivan ensures a comfortable ride and a chance to chat with your guide or fellow travelers, setting a friendly, small-group tone for the day.

Zaanse Schans: Windmills, Wooden Shoes, and Cheese

First stop is Zaanse Schans, a classic Dutch postcard—think traditional windmills, historic wooden houses, and bustling craft workshops. This site is famous for its windmills, which have been part of the landscape since the 18th century. Here, you’ll take a guided tour and enjoy free time to explore at your own pace.

One highlight is visiting a clog-making workshop, where you see the traditional craft in action and possibly even try your hand at it. The cheese factory offers tastings, and as one reviewer put it, the experience is “so amazing along with the local cheese tasting.” Keep in mind, some visitors felt the cheese demo could be more engaging with a real demonstration or video, but overall, the cheese and crafts are well worth the time.

The diamond demonstration adds a touch of sparkle—an interesting insight into Dutch craftsmanship, especially if you’re into jewelry or want a glimpse of the luxury trade.

The Awe-Inspiring Afsluitdijk: Engineering Marvel and Photo Stop

Next, you’ll make a brief 40-minute drive to the Afsluitdijk, one of the world’s longest dams and an essential part of Dutch flood protection. It’s not just functional but also scenic, offering great photo opportunities of this impressive structure. A quick guided visit provides context about its importance—it’s a symbol of Dutch innovation in managing water and land.

Giethoorn: The Venice of the North

In the afternoon, the trip takes you to Giethoorn, a peaceful, car-free village famed for its canals and thatched-roof cottages. The boat cruise through the narrow waterways is the highlight, allowing you to glide past charming bridges, lush scenery, and quaint homes.

Traveling on the water offers a different perspective—quiet, scenic, and reminiscent of a living painting. Bruges or Venice may be more famous, but Giethoorn’s charm lies in its simplicity and tranquility. One reviewer called it “a great trip,” with guides making sure everyone’s questions are answered, and the boat ride is described as “a completely delightful, worry and stress-free” experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Free Time

You’ll have some free time for lunch in Giethoorn, which allows you to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. Many travelers appreciated the flexible schedule, which provides enough time to enjoy a leisurely meal or explore the village further.

Returning to Amsterdam

After a full day, you’ll board the van for a 1.5-hour drive back to your hotel. The return trip wraps up a diverse journey through Dutch landscapes and traditions, leaving many travelers feeling satisfied yet eager to recommend it to friends.

Knowledgeable guides are consistently praised, with reviewers highlighting their friendliness, professionalism, and insights. Whether it’s explaining the history of windmills or the engineering behind the Afsluitdijk, guides make each stop more meaningful.

The balance of activities—from interactive workshops to scenic boat rides—prevents the day from feeling monotonous. The small group size fosters a more intimate atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and take photos without crowds.

Authentic experiences like cheese tastings, wooden shoe demonstrations, and the diamond showcase give travelers a taste of Dutch craftsmanship and culture, often described as “amazing” or “helpful” by past visitors.

The scenic stops—particularly Giethoorn and the windmill village—offer countless opportunities for stunning photos, making this a favorite for travelers wanting picturesque memories.

The tour’s 10-hour length is well-spent, giving you a full day of sightseeing without feeling overly rushed. The price includes many highlights: guided tours, museum demonstrations, a boat cruise, water bottles, and pickup service—adding up to significant value for what’s included.

Lunch isn’t included, so budget for a casual meal in Giethoorn or pack snacks if you prefer. The flexibility of optional small groups or private tours may also affect the price but can enhance the experience if you seek a more personalized touch.

The tour’s timing, with some stops around 30 to 40 minutes, strikes a good balance—enough to appreciate each site, but not so long that you lose interest or feel exhausted. The guides’ expertise ensures you understand what you’re seeing, making the experience more enriching.

This trip is perfect for those who want to see a variety of Dutch highlights in one day—historic windmills, scenic canals, impressive water engineering, and traditional crafts. It’s ideal for travelers who value guided insights combined with free time for personal exploration, especially if they prefer small groups for a more intimate experience.

It’s well-suited for those interested in culture and photo opportunities, as well as families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a relaxed but comprehensive taste of Holland’s countryside and traditions.

This day trip offers a well-curated look at some of Holland’s most iconic and picturesque sites, all delivered with knowledgeable guides and a comfortable setup. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Dutch culture, engineering, and scenic beauty—all within a manageable, full-day itinerary.

While the schedule is tight, the variety of stops ensures there’s something for all: the historic windmills, the tranquil canals of Giethoorn, and the impressive Afsluitdijk make this a well-rounded experience. Plus, the glowing reviews about the guides and the authentic local demonstrations suggest that you will not just see, but experience the Netherlands.

If you’re after a practical, value-friendly way to explore beyond Amsterdam, this trip is a reliable choice. Perfect for curious travelers eager for insight, scenic beauty, and a taste of traditional Dutch craftsmanship, it’s a day well spent.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from hotels within the Amsterdam highway ring A10, excluding the north side of the IJ River. You can also take a free ferry bus to the central station if staying in North Amsterdam.

How long is the boat cruise in Giethoorn?
The boat cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, providing a relaxing way to explore the village’s scenic canals.

What crafts will I see during the tour?
You’ll visit a cheese factory, a wooden shoe workshop, and see a diamond demonstration—each offering insights into traditional Dutch craftsmanship.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price, so plan to buy something during your free time in Giethoorn.

How long is the whole tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, from pickup in the morning to return in the late afternoon.

Are small groups available?
Yes, private or small group options are available for a more personalized experience.

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

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s not recommended for people over 220 lbs (100 kg), but generally, it’s accessible to most travelers looking for a scenic, cultural day trip.

This comprehensive tour review aims to help you decide if this Dutch adventure is right for your travel plans. Whether you’re captivated by windmills, enchanted by canals, or curious about Dutch innovations, this trip offers a practical, authentic taste of the Netherlands.

You can check availability for your dates here: