Private Tour to Giethoorn, Zaanse Schans and Dutch Windmills

Exploring the Best of Holland: A Review of the Private Tour to Giethoorn, Zaanse Schans, and Windmills

Traveling through the Netherlands offers so many opportunities to see charming villages, iconic windmills, and peaceful canals. This private tour, offered by MyWeekendTrip, aims to give small groups a personalized, authentic taste of these highlights. It’s a carefully curated experience designed for those who want to go beyond the usual tourist spots, with the flexibility and intimacy that come from a private guide.

What we especially like about this tour is the small group size, which allows for a more relaxed and tailored experience, and the inclusion of a canal cruise in Giethoorn, which is often the highlight for visitors. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this tour is quite full-day, so it’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a bit of a schedule and enjoy exploring the countryside by car.

This experience tends to appeal most to travelers who value authentic encounters, scenic beauty, and a guided, stress-free day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want an immersive day away from the city hustle, this private tour offers a blend of serenity, culture, and Dutch charm.

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures personalized attention and flexibility
• Includes a scenic canal cruise in Giethoorn, a highlight for many
• Visit iconic windmills and cheese factories at Zaanse Schans
• All transportation and entry fees are included, simplifying logistics
• Customizable with options for lunch and additional exploration
• Ideal for travelers seeking authentic, quiet Dutch villages away from crowds

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Journey to Giethoorn

The tour kicks off early at 9:00 am, with pickup arranged from your preferred location in Amsterdam. From there, you’ll enjoy a roughly 1.5-hour drive through the Dutch countryside, which is an experience in itself. Along the way, the guide will point out quaint villages and patchwork fields, giving you a glimpse of authentic rural life—an often overlooked aspect of Dutch travel.

Giethoorn: The Venice of the North

Once you arrive in Giethoorn, you’ll immediately see why it’s called the “Venice of the North.” This peaceful village has no roads through the center—only canals and footpaths—making it a photographer’s paradise. The 2.5-hour stop includes a 1-hour canal cruise, which is a perfect way to appreciate the narrow waterways and thatched-roof houses from a unique perspective. Many reviewers highlight this as the tour’s best feature, with one stating, “Alan was a fantastic guide—extremely knowledgeable,” and describing how the boat ride revealed a peaceful, storybook setting.

After cruising, you can stroll the charming streets, soaking in the tranquility and picturesque scenery. The tour offers plenty of flexibility later, allowing you to enjoy lunch at your own pace, with suggestions or drop-offs to restaurants of your choice.

Zaanse Schans: Windmills and Wooden Shoes

From Giethoorn, the journey continues with a 1.5-hour drive to Zaanse Schans. This open-air museum showcases historic windmills, cheese farms, and traditional wooden shoe factories—perfect for those interested in Dutch craftsmanship. The 1.5-hour visit allows for an inside look at a windmill (with entry included), a visit to a cheese factory, and a glimpse of the craft of making wooden clogs.

What makes Zaanse Schans special is how it offers a tangible connection to the Netherlands’ industrial and artisanal roots. Many travelers appreciate the interactive nature of this stop, and the guided insight helps make the visit both educational and fun.

Return Trip and Flexibility

After your time at Zaanse Schans, the group will head back to Amsterdam, with an estimated 45-minute to 1-hour drive. This allows for a relaxed wrap-up of your day, possibly with time to reflect on the scenic landscapes and cultural insights gained.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s included features are quite comprehensive. Bottled water and snacks make the long day comfortable, while parking fees and entry to one windmill are covered, ensuring no surprise costs. The 1-hour canal cruise in Giethoorn and the entry fee to a windmill at Zaanse Schans provide authentic touches that elevate the experience.

However, the tour does not include lunch, giving you the freedom to choose from local cafes or restaurants. Also, visiting additional windmills at Zaanse Schans is at your own expense, so if you’re particularly interested in seeing more, you might want to budget extra.

Price and Value

At around $300 per person, this private experience offers good value for those seeking a personalized, hassle-free day. The small group size, private guide, and included activities make it a more intimate and flexible alternative to larger, bus-based tours. Many travelers find that the quality of the guide and the relaxed pace justify the cost, especially considering the included entrance fees and cruise.

Authentic Experiences and the Guide’s Role

According to reviews, the guide—Alan—goes above and beyond in sharing knowledge and making the day special. One reviewer mentions, “He was extremely knowledgeable,” emphasizing how much a good guide can enhance the experience. Expect personalized attention, stories about local life, and helpful tips for exploring on your own afterward.

The tour’s flexibility is another perk. You can choose where to eat, how long to linger at each stop, and even ask to see additional sites if time permits. This ability to tailor the day is particularly appealing for independent travelers or those celebrating a special occasion.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes: Expect to walk around Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans.
• Bring a camera: The scenery is picture-perfect at every turn.
• Plan for lunch: While the tour provides flexibility, you might want to explore local eateries for an authentic Dutch meal.
• Weather considerations: Since the day involves outdoor elements, check the forecast and dress accordingly.
• Book early: This tour is popular, often booked 89 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your preferred date.

Who Would Benefit Most from This Tour?

This private tour is well-suited for travelers seeking an intimate, flexible experience away from large crowds. It’s perfect for those who love scenic drives, historical craftsmanship, and quiet villages. Couples, small families, or friends traveling together will find the personalized service a real plus. If you’re interested in Dutch culture, picturesque canals, and windmills, this tour offers a satisfying, well-rounded glimpse of the country’s charming rural side.

The Sum Up

In a country renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural icons, this private tour to Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans offers a balanced mix of outdoor exploration, cultural insight, and personalized service. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll enjoy the tranquility of Giethoorn’s waterways, the historic charm of windmills, and the chance to sample authentic Dutch crafts and food.

For travelers who prefer a more relaxed, boutique experience that allows for customization and deeper engagement, this tour delivers a lot of value. It’s particularly suited for those who want to avoid crowded buses and prefer a more intimate look at Dutch life, all while enjoying stunning scenery and cultural highlights.

FAQ

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time, sightseeing, and optional lunch.

Does the tour include transportation?
Transportation is provided as part of the tour, with a private guide driving you between sites. Parking fees are included.

Can I customize my lunch?
While lunch is not included, the tour guide can help you find a restaurant or café of your choice in Giethoorn, allowing for a flexible dining experience.

Are additional windmills at Zaanse Schans included?
No, the tour includes entry to one windmill. Visiting other windmills at the site is at your own expense.

What is the group size?
The tour is private, accommodating between 2 to 4 people, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is this tour suitable for all physical fitness levels?
Yes, but travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as some walking and outdoor activity are involved.

This private tour combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and personalized attention, making it an ideal choice for travelers wanting to discover the Dutch countryside in a relaxed and authentic way.