From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Day Trip

If you’re looking to escape the busy streets of Amsterdam for a day and indulge in some quintessential Dutch scenery, this tour might just be your ticket. It promises visits to two of Holland’s most iconic spots—Zaanse Schans, with its working windmills and traditional crafts, and Giethoorn, often called the Venice of the North for its peaceful canals and charming bridges.

What we love about this trip is how it offers a seamless mix of history, scenery, and authentic experiences—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. The guided boat tour through Giethoorn’s canals is a highlight, offering a peaceful perspective on a village that feels like a fairy tale. Plus, the stops at a clog shop and cheese factory give a hands-on sense of Dutch culture.

However, it’s worth noting that the day is quite full, and some might find the 10-hour schedule a bit packed if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Also, this tour is best suited for those comfortable with a fair bit of walking and some boat riding. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see Holland’s picturesque countryside and learn about its traditional crafts.

Who This Tour Is Perfect For:

• Lovers of scenic villages and historic windmills
• Travelers interested in authentic Dutch crafts like cheese and clogs
• Visitors wanting a guided, well-structured day with minimal planning
• Those who enjoy boat rides and picturesque walking routes

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch Experience: Combines iconic windmills, cheese factories, and traditional crafts
• Beautiful Scenery: Stunning views of Dutch polders and the tranquil canals of Giethoorn
• Guided Convenience: Expert guides provide insight and make navigating easy
• Flexible Exploration: Time to explore Giethoorn on foot, by boat, or by bike
• Valuable for All: Includes transportation, visits, and a boat tour, offering excellent value for the price
• Limited Flexibility: Full-day schedule may feel rushed if you prefer leisure over structure

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at a central meeting point in Amsterdam (look for a white umbrella, making it easy to spot). After gathering, you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned bus for the approximately 30-minute drive to Zaanse Schans. The bus ride itself sets the tone, giving you a glimpse of the Dutch countryside before you arrive at your first stop.

Zaanse Schans: Windmills, Clogs, and Cheese

Once at Zaanse Schans, the guide takes you on a 2.5-hour walking tour of this open-air museum. Here, you’ll see original working windmills that have powered Holland’s industries for centuries. This isn’t just a static display; some windmills are still operating, offering an authentic glimpse into Dutch ingenuity.

A highlight is visiting a clog shop, where you can see how traditional wooden shoes are made—a craft that’s been part of Dutch culture for generations. You’ll also visit a cheese factory, where fresh Dutch cheese is produced. Many visitors find these stops both educational and delicious, adding flavor to their understanding of Dutch rural life.

The guide shares stories about the history of windmills and their role in Holland’s Golden Age, making this stop as informative as it is picturesque. Diego, one of the reviewers, mentioned: “Our guide was very friendly, attentive, and made our day very enjoyable with his explanation and pleasant manner.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Transition Through Polders and Reclaimed Land

After exploring Zaanse Schans, you’ll board the bus again for a roughly 1.5-hour ride through the Dutch polders—land reclaimed from the sea, showcasing the country’s impressive water management skills. This part of the trip offers striking views of flat, green landscapes dotted with farms and windmills, giving you a true sense of Dutch rural life.

Giethoorn: The Venice of the North

Arriving in Giethoorn, you’re greeted with what many consider a storybook setting. This fairy-tale village is famous for its canal network and absence of roads, making it uniquely peaceful and charming.

You’ll take a guided boat tour lasting about an hour. As the captain navigates under arched bridges and past quaint farmhouses, you’ll hear about the village’s history and its reputation as the “Venice of the North.” Martina, another reviewer, described it as an “amazing experience” with friendly guides who made the visit even more memorable.

After the boat ride, you have about 3.5 hours to explore on your own. You might stroll the quiet streets at your own pace, rent a bike, or even hop into another boat if you prefer. There’s also time to enjoy a meal—many local cafes serve traditional Dutch fare, perfect for a relaxed lunch or snack before heading back.

Return Journey

The bus will pick you up after your free exploration, making a roughly 1.5-hour return trip to Amsterdam. The full day wraps up back at the starting point, leaving you with a treasure trove of memories and images of Holland’s most iconic sights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included:

• Comfortable, air-conditioned transportation
• Guided tour of Zaanse Schans, including a clog shop visit and cheese factory
• Guided boat tour in Giethoorn
• Time to explore the village independently

Not Included:

• Meals (although you’ll have opportunities to buy food locally)
• Bike or private boat rentals (you can rent bikes locally if you wish)
• Additional souvenirs or private experiences

This setup offers great value considering transportation, expert guides, and multiple authentic experiences bundled into one day.

The Experience and the Value

At $131 per person, this tour offers a well-balanced taste of Holland’s culture, scenery, and craftsmanship. The guided elements enrich your understanding, especially if you’re short on time or unfamiliar with Dutch history. The boat ride through Giethoorn’s canals is especially worth it, providing a tranquil, scenic perspective that’s hard to match elsewhere.

The reviews highlight the strength of the guides, with comments like “very friendly, attentive, and made our day very enjoyable.” Such positive feedback suggests that the tour’s success hinges on knowledgeable guides who know how to keep the atmosphere lively without sacrificing depth.

While the day is full, it’s thoughtfully designed to prevent fatigue—each stop is manageable, with enough free time to soak in the atmosphere or snap photos. The pace might be intense if you prefer wandering without a schedule, but for most travelers, it’s an efficient way to see some of Holland’s best-kept secrets.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s some walking involved at Zaanse Schans and in Giethoorn.
• Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views and charming bridges.
• Don’t forget sunscreen and water, especially on sunny days.
• If you’re interested in exploring Giethoorn further, consider renting a bike locally—this isn’t included but can add to your experience.
• The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, due to walking and boat access.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Amsterdam is an excellent way to step outside the city and see two of Holland’s most charming locations. It combines scenic beauty with cultural insight, guided by knowledgeable hosts who make the experience engaging and enjoyable. The boat tour in Giethoorn alone is worth the price, but the added stops at windmills, a clog shop, and cheese factory deepen your understanding of Dutch traditions.

If you’re after an authentic, well-organized day that offers both picturesque views and cultural snippets, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guided experiences, want to avoid the hassle of transportation planning, and love capturing beautiful scenery along the way.

For travelers with a curiosity for Dutch life, or those seeking a peaceful escape from city bustle, this tour provides a genuine taste of Holland’s landscape and heritage—making it a memorable part of your trip.

FAQ

How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts about 10 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free exploration time.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation by an air-conditioned bus, guided visits to Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn, a boat tour in Giethoorn, and time to explore independently.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities to buy food during free time in Giethoorn.

Can I rent a bike in Giethoorn?
Bike rentals are not included in the tour. If you wish to bike around, you can rent one locally during your free time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for most, but be aware that the itinerary involves walking and some boat riding, which may not be ideal for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Are private or small groups available?
Yes, the tour offers options for private or small groups, enhancing the personalized experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, sunscreen, hat, and water are recommended to make the most of your day.

Is there a maximum or minimum group size?
While specifics aren’t given, the tour emphasizes small groups, which usually means a more intimate experience.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change unexpectedly.

This tour strikes a fine balance between guided structure and personal exploration, providing a comprehensive and enjoyable way to see some of Holland’s most scenic spots. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s a day packed with authentic sights, friendly guides, and memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: