Discover the enchanting beauty of the Dutch countryside with a guided tour that takes you from the vibrant city of Amsterdam to the charming villages of Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn. This immersive experience offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural wonders, allowing you to witness the iconic windmills, explore a wooden shoe workshop, and embark on a tranquil boat cruise through Giethoorn’s picturesque canals. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, this tour promises to leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the idyllic landscapes that make the Netherlands truly unique.
Key Points
- This 9-hour tour from Amsterdam takes visitors to the picturesque villages of Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn, including a guided tour and boat cruise.
- The tour is priced at €138 per person and includes transportation, guided tours, and a boat cruise through the canals of Giethoorn.
- Highlights of the tour include exploring Zaanse Schans’ wooden shoe workshop, cheese farm, and historic windmills, as well as a guided tour and boat cruise in Giethoorn.
- The tour departs from the Hotel NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace and is led by a multilingual guide fluent in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
- The tour is not suitable for children under 6 or individuals with mobility impairments, and participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and bring their passports or ID.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary Highlights
- Starting Point: Hotel NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace
- Zaanse Schans
- Journey to Giethoorn
- Experience and Activities
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Important Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Book the Tour for a Group of More Than 10 People?
- Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?
- Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour in Different Languages?
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Cruise?
- How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Amsterdam
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Amsterdam
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Tour Overview and Pricing
This day-long Giethoorn & Zaanse Schans tour from Amsterdam offers an immersive glimpse into Dutch countryside life, priced at €138 per person.
The tour lasts 9 hours and explores two picturesque locations – the open-air museum of Zaanse Schans and the charming village of Giethoorn.
Travelers will enjoy a guided tour, free time to explore, and a boat cruise through Giethoorn’s scenic canals.
The tour also includes transportation from Amsterdam and a knowledgeable guide who can provide commentary in English, Spanish, or Chinese.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and a ‘reserve now, pay later’ option, this tour makes it easy to discover the natural beauty and cultural highlights beyond Amsterdam.
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Itinerary Highlights
The tour begins with a 30-minute bus ride from Amsterdam to the open-air museum of Zaanse Schans.
Travelers will have the opportunity to capture picturesque photos, join a guided tour, and explore the area freely for about 1.5 hours. During this time, visitors can visit the Wooden Shoe Workshop, spend 25 minutes at the optional Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm for a cheese tasting, and discover the World of Windmills.
After the Zaanse Schans exploration, the journey continues, passing by the scenic IJsselmeer for 5 minutes before arriving in the charming village of Giethoorn.
Here, you will enjoy a photo stop, guided tour, 1-hour boat cruise, lunch, and free time to wander the unique canal-lined streets.
Starting Point: Hotel NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace
The tour begins at the main entrance of the Hotel NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace, conveniently located in the heart of Amsterdam’s city center. This is the designated starting point for the Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans tour.
From here, you will meet their professional tour guide, who’ll be fluent in English, Spanish, and Chinese. They will receive a detailed overview of the day’s itinerary and activities.
Next, everyone will get on the air-conditioned bus that will transport them to the first stop, Zaanse Schans. This is also the opportunity for participants to ask any final questions or clarify any details before the tour commences.
Plus, recommendations for nearby cafes or restaurants will be provided for those who wish to enjoy a meal before or after the tour.
Zaanse Schans
From the starting point in Amsterdam, the tour heads to Zaanse Schans, a 30-minute bus journey away. Visitors can expect a photo stop, guided tour, and free time to explore this open-air museum showcasing the region’s history and craftsmanship.
During the 1.5-hour visit, travelers can watch a demonstration at the Wooden Shoe Workshop and opt to visit the Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm for cheese tasting or the World of Windmills. The tour also allows for additional free time to wander the charming grounds and appreciate the iconic windmills, historic houses, and quaint shops that make Zaanse Schans a beloved Dutch destination.
| Activity | Duration |
|---|---|
| Photo stop | – |
| Guided tour | 25 mins |
| Free time | 25 mins |
| Wooden Shoe Workshop | 25 mins |
| Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm (optional) | 25 mins |
| World of Windmills (optional) | 25 mins |
| Additional free time | 25 mins |
Journey to Giethoorn
On the journey from Zaanse Schans to Giethoorn, travelers pass by the renowned IJsselmeer, a scenic 5-minute stretch, before arriving at their next destination.
Once in Giethoorn, the tour takes a delightful turn as guests are treated to:
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A photo stop to capture the quaint, picturesque village
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A guided tour to learn about the town’s unique history and culture
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A 1-hour boat cruise through Giethoorn’s charming canals
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A lunch break to savor the local cuisine
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Additional free time to explore the town’s winding paths and tranquil waterways at their own pace
This journey to Giethoorn promises an immersive experience, blending history, nature, and the quintessential Dutch countryside lifestyle.
Experience and Activities
Visitors frequently enjoy the open-air museum of Zaanse Schans, exploring the cheese farm, clog factory, and iconic windmills that exemplify Dutch countryside culture. They’ll learn about the traditional Dutch lifestyle, history, and craftsmanship through guided tours.
The highlight of the tour is the boat cruise through Giethoorn’s charming canals, where visitors marvel at the quaint thatched-roof houses and peaceful waterways. For the adventurous, there’s an option to operate the whisper boats, silently gliding through the tranquil canals.
Throughout the day, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the Netherlands’ stunning countryside, its enduring traditions, and the unique character of these picturesque destinations.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes a professional guide who provides commentary in English, Spanish, and Chinese, as well as guided tours at Zaanse Schans and the boat cruise through Giethoorn’s canals. However, it excludes entrance fees for any optional attractions, lunch, and gratuities.
To get the most out of this experience, visitors should:
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Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and shoes
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Bring a camera to capture the picturesque scenery
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Consider packing a light snack or drink for the journey
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Have their passport or ID ready for the meeting point
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Review the tour’s important information and policies carefully
Important Information
This tour is not suitable for children under 6 years old, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. Visitors must meet at the main entrance of the Hotel NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace, and should bring their passport or ID, wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing and shoes, and consider packing a light snack or drink for the journey. Based on 439 reviews, the tour has an overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, with high marks for the guide (4.7), transportation (4.7), value (4.4), and service (4.5).
| Key Information | |
|---|---|
| Suitable For | Adults |
| Meeting Point | Hotel Entrance |
| Recommended | Passport, Comfort |
| Overall Rating | 4.6 out of 5 stars |
| Top Ratings | Guide, Transport |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book the Tour for a Group of More Than 10 People?
Yes, the tour can accommodate groups of more than 10 people. The tour operator offers group discounts and can provide additional transportation if needed. Customers should inquire about group rates and availability when booking the tour.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Senior Citizens or Students?
The tour provider offers discounts for seniors (over 65) and students. Seniors receive a 5% discount, while students get a 10% discount off the standard tour price. Discounts must be requested at the time of booking.
Are Audio Guides Available for the Tour in Different Languages?
Audio guides are available in multiple languages for this tour, including English, Spanish, and Chinese. Travelers can use the provided audio guides to learn about the sights and history at their own pace during the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Cruise?
Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat cruise. However, they should be mindful of any rules or restrictions set by the tour operator to maintain cleanliness and enjoyment for all participants.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. It involves significant walking, boat rides, and accessing attractions that may not be fully accessible. Travelers with disabilities should contact the tour operator for more information on accessibility accommodations.
From Amsterdam: Giethoorn & Zaanse Schans Tour W/ Small Boat
“the tour guide Veronica from Argentina was great.Very well organized tour.”
Recap
This guided tour offers an enchanting journey through the Dutch countryside, showcasing the iconic windmills of Zaanse Schans and the charming canals of Giethoorn.
Travelers can enjoy the region’s cultural heritage, explore traditional workshops, and enjoy a delightful boat cruise, creating unforgettable memories.
With convenient transportation and inclusions, this tour provides a comprehensive and seamless experience for those seeking to discover the natural beauty and rich history of the Netherlands.
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