Private CUS Tour: giethoorn & Windmill zaanse en//

Imagine wandering through a quiet village where roads give way to canals and the hum of modern traffic is replaced by the gentle lapping of water against wooden boats. That’s exactly what this private tour offers—an opportunity to experience the peaceful, picturesque side of North Holland away from the bustling streets of Amsterdam. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour promises a relaxed pace, authentic sights, and plenty of opportunities to take stunning photos.

Two things we really appreciate about this experience are the flexibility of the itinerary and the personalized guidance. The tour is customizable, allowing you to choose your focus—be it windmills, traditional crafts, or the scenic canals of Giethoorn. Plus, having a private guide means you’ll get tailored insights and answers to your questions. One potential drawback? Since the tour doesn’t include a private boat in Giethoorn, you might find the canal cruise feels a bit more structured than some might prefer. Still, for those who value comfort and privacy, this setup hits the sweet spot.

This experience is ideally suited for travelers who love scenic, authentic sights and prefer a relaxed, private day out. It’s perfect for small groups or families who want personalized attention and a flexible itinerary. If you’re keen on cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and avoiding large crowds, this tour might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Private and customizable tour options cater to different interests and group sizes.
• Comfortable transportation with a 5-seater sedan for small groups or a Mercedes-Benz minivan for larger parties.
• Authentic visits to windmill villages, cheese factories, and clog workshops.
• Canal cruise in Giethoorn provides a peaceful, scenic perspective of this “Venice of the North.”
• Flexible itinerary allows for adjustments based on your preferences.
• Guided tours in English or Chinese make the experience accessible and engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Comfortable, Private Transport to the Dutch Countryside

We loved the way this tour instantly made us feel like VIPs. You’re picked up in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle—either a cozy 5-seater for small groups or a spacious Mercedes-Benz minivan that can comfortably hold up to nine people. The small group size means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and your driver-guide is eager to share insights along the way. The relaxed pace of transportation allows you to sit back, enjoy the scenery, and chat comfortably about the places ahead.

Windmill Village: A Step Back in Time

The journey begins with a visit to Zaanse Schans, a living museum that vividly portrays Dutch life from the 17th and 18th centuries. Here, old houses, shipyards, and, of course, windmills create a scene straight out of a painting. You’ll see how traditional crafts like clog making and cheese production are still part of Dutch culture. The cheese and dairy workshop is especially popular among visitors who want to sample local flavors or pick up authentic souvenirs.

The windmills here aren’t just picturesque—they served real industrial purposes centuries ago. As one reviewer put it, “The old buildings vividly depict Dutch life,” which is exactly what you get to see. Three windmills are open to the public, giving you a chance to understand their historical importance and even step inside to see their mechanisms.

Giethoorn: The “Venice of the North”

The highlight for many is a trip to Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the North” for its network of canals and charming thatched-roof houses. The village is about 5 kilometers southwest of Steenwijk, and it’s surprisingly quiet even during peak season. Since there are no roads in the main part of Giethoorn, the best way to explore is by boat—hence the private cruise included in this tour.

We appreciated that the guide tailored the cruise to our pace, allowing us to enjoy the views of willow trees, old farmhouses, and duck-filled canals. The experience of gliding past narrow waterways lined with lush greenery creates a sense of serenity that’s hard to match. One guest noted, “We loved the way the canals and boats make you feel like you’ve entered a different world.”

You’ll also have time to explore on foot or bike if you wish, and the guide can point out key sights and photo spots. The village’s lack of roads means fewer travelers rushing through, so you can soak in the tranquility.

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Insider Visits to Traditional Workshops

In both windmill and Giethoorn villages, you’ll find clog factories and cheese workshops that give a hands-on feel for Dutch craftsmanship. Watching clog makers shape wooden shoes or cheese makers craft local specialties makes the trip more than just sightseeing—it becomes a cultural lesson. One review expressed satisfaction with these stops, noting they offered a “real taste of Dutch tradition.”

Value for Money and Flexibility

The tour lasts about 10 hours, which is an excellent amount of time to appreciate these sights without feeling rushed. The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Amsterdam, private transportation, all applicable fees, bottled water, and a guide fluent in English or Chinese. Notably, the tour does not include a private boat in Giethoorn, but the cruise provided is private and tailored for your group.

We find the value compelling, especially considering the personalized service and the opportunity to customize your day. For groups of 1-4, the smaller car keeps things intimate, while larger groups benefit from the spacious minivan. If you want to upgrade to a Mercedes-Benz minivan, it’s available for groups larger than five—ideal for families or friends traveling together.

The Perfect Fit

This tour is most suited for travelers who want to experience Dutch culture authentically, enjoy scenic landscapes, and prefer a private, flexible schedule. It’s not designed for those seeking a fast-paced or highly structured tour but rather for visitors who want to enjoy the sights at their own pace.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans provides a well-balanced mix of cultural insight, stunning scenery, and personal comfort. You’ll love the way the quiet villages and historic windmills showcase a different, more relaxed side of the Netherlands. The inclusion of private transport and guided commentary transforms what could be a simple sightseeing day into a memorable, enriching experience.

For those who prefer avoiding crowded tours and want tailored experiences, this tour stands out as a practical, value-packed choice. Whether you’re fascinated by windmills, captivated by canal villages, or simply craving a peaceful escape from the city, you’ll find plenty to love here.

In short, this experience suits travelers seeking authenticity, comfort, and flexibility—those who want a taste of Dutch traditions without the fuss.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, the tour is designed for private groups, with a 5-seater sedan for 1-4 people and a Mercedes-Benz minivan for 5-9 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely. The tour allows for adjustments, and the itinerary can be tailored based on your interests, whether you want more time at windmills or in Giethoorn.

Does the tour include a boat cruise in Giethoorn?
While the cruise is included and private for your group, it does not involve a separate boat rental or commercial boat trip; the cruise is part of the guided experience.

What transport is provided?
A comfortable, air-conditioned luxury vehicle—either a small sedan or a spacious minivan—ensures a smooth ride through the Dutch countryside.

How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is about 10 hours, starting around 9:30 AM, with flexible departure times based on availability.

Are the guides language options available?
Yes, guides speak both English and Chinese, making it accessible for a broad range of travelers.

What is not included in the tour?
The tour price covers most activities, but private boat rides within Giethoorn are not included; the cruise is part of the scheduled experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if done at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, though it’s best to confirm specific needs when booking.

This private tour offers a well-rounded, personalized look at two of North Holland’s most charming and iconic destinations. It combines comfort, authenticity, and flexibility—perfect for travelers who want to see the best of Dutch rural life without the crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: