Exploring the picturesque Dutch landscape beyond the bustling streets of Amsterdam, the Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Tour offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s rich cultural heritage. From gliding along the serene canals of Giethoorn, often referred to as the "Venice of the Netherlands," to immersing oneself in the charming ambiance of Zaanse Schans’ iconic windmills and traditional crafts, this 10-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience. With a passionate local guide leading the way, travelers can indulge in authentic cheese tastings, witness the age-old art of wooden shoe making, and savor a delicious lunch – all while uncovering the unique charms that have made this tour a consistent favorite among visitors to the region.
Key Points

- A 10-hour day tour from Amsterdam that explores the picturesque canals of Giethoorn and the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans for $125.61 per person.
- Includes a scenic canal cruise in Giethoorn, guided visits to Zaanse Schans, hands-on traditional craft experiences, and a complimentary lunch.
- Highly rated tour with exceptional customer feedback, particularly for the transportation, value for money, and overall experience.
- Offers flexibility with a 24-hour cancellation policy and a ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option.
- Showcases the cultural heritage and natural beauty of the Netherlands, with activities such as wooden shoe making, cheese tasting, and stroopwafel baking.
Tour Overview and Details

This day tour from Amsterdam explores the charming village of Giethoorn, known as the ‘Dutch Venice,’ and the historic Zaanse Schans windmill village.
The tour lasts 10 hours and costs $125.61 per person. Visitors can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The meeting point is at De Ruijterkade 153 in front of Aloby Bowling, where check-in is between 7:45 and 8:00 AM.
The tour includes a scenic canal cruise in Giethoorn, a guided visit to Zaanse Schans to see the iconic windmills and learn traditional crafts, and complimentary treats like stroopwafels and bottled water.
Lunch is also included, making this a comprehensive and enjoyable day trip.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Amsterdam.
Experience Highlights

The tour immerses visitors in the picturesque waterways and charming thatched-roof farmhouses of Giethoorn during a scenic canal cruise, offering a unique glimpse into the ‘Dutch Venice.’
Following the tranquil boat ride, the tour moves to Zaanse Schans, where a guided exploration showcases the iconic Dutch windmills and demonstrations of traditional crafts.
Guests can try their hand at wooden shoe making at the clog factory and enjoy a cheese tasting at the local cheese shop.
To cap off the experience, travelers are treated to a stroopwafel and complimentary bottled water, providing a delightful taste of Dutch culture throughout the day.
Tour Inclusions

The day trip from Amsterdam includes transportation in a luxury minibus or touring car with air conditioning, providing a comfortable and efficient means of travel to the tour destinations.
A passionate local guide accompanies participants, offering live commentary in English and Dutch throughout the onboard journey and during the on-site exploration.
The tour also includes a complimentary lunch, as well as the opportunity to enjoy a traditional Dutch stroopwafel and bottled water during the tour.
These inclusions ensure that participants can fully enjoy the cultural and historical experiences without having to worry about meals or refreshments.
The comprehensive package offers great value for money, making the Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Tour an attractive option for visitors to Amsterdam.
Customer Ratings and Reviews

Based on the information provided, the tour receives an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 451 customer reviews, underscoring the high level of satisfaction among participants.
The transportation aspect of the tour is particularly well-received, earning a rating of 4.9 out of 5. Customers also seem to appreciate the value for money, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating in this category.
This positive feedback suggests that the tour delivers an exceptional experience, from the scenic canal cruise in Giethoorn to the guided tour of the iconic windmills at Zaanse Schans.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyBooking and Availability
Customers can check availability for specific dates and starting times when booking the tour.
The booking process allows them to select the desired number of participants, preferred date, and language. The tour can accommodate groups of varying sizes, catering to individual needs.
With the ‘reserve now & pay later‘ option, customers can secure their spot without paying upfront, providing flexibility.
The calendar displays real-time availability, ensuring customers can find the perfect time slot for their visit.
Whether planning a solo adventure or a group outing, the booking system makes it easy to secure a spot on this immersive Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans day tour from Amsterdam.
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Scenic Canal Cruise in Giethoorn
One of the highlights of the Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour is the scenic canal cruise through the charming village of Giethoorn, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’.
During this tranquil cruise, guests glide along the picturesque waterways, passing by quaint thatched-roof farmhouses and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
The tour guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the history and unique features of this remarkable destination.
Visitors can admire the beautiful flower-lined canals and bridges that give Giethoorn its distinctive character.
This peaceful boat ride offers a chance to take in the idyllic Dutch countryside and appreciate the natural beauty that makes Giethoorn such a popular tourist attraction.
Guided Tour of Zaanse Schans
The guided tour of Zaanse Schans offers visitors an immersive experience in the picturesque Dutch countryside, showcasing the region’s iconic windmills and traditional crafts. As part of the tour, guests will explore the historic village, where they can witness the inner workings of the windmills and learn about the intricate processes behind local artisanal products.
| Windmill | Craft | Demonstration |
|---|---|---|
| De Gooyer | Wooden Shoe Making | Visitors can try their hand at making traditional Dutch clogs |
| Het Jonge Schaap | Cheese Making | Guests can sample freshly made Gouda and Edam cheeses |
| De Kat | Stroopwafel Baking | The tour includes a complimentary stroopwafel tasting |
This guided experience provides a unique glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Zaanse Schans region.
Traditional Crafts and Tastings

As part of the guided tour of Zaanse Schans, visitors can enjoy the region’s traditional crafts and indulge in local culinary delights.
At the clog factory, they’ll witness the intricate process of wooden shoe making and even try their hand at creating their own pair of authentic Dutch clogs.
Nearby, the cheese factory offers a chance to sample the renowned Gouda and Edam cheeses that have long been a staple of the Zaanse Schans.
Visitors can also enjoy a freshly baked stroopwafel, a classic Dutch treat, while sipping on complimentary bottled water as they explore the charming windmills and historic buildings that make this open-air museum so captivating.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a complimentary bottled water and a stroopwafel are already included in the tour package. Any additional food or drinks brought by guests are their own responsibility.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions. Participants of all ages can join the tour, though young children may require parental supervision. The tour is suitable for families and individuals alike, catering to a wide range of ages.
How Much Time Is Allocated for Each Activity on the Tour?
The tour allocates approximately 2-3 hours for the scenic canal cruise in Giethoorn, 2-3 hours for the guided tour of Zaanse Schans, and 1 hour each for the clog making demonstration and cheese tasting activities.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour if Needed?
While the tour’s duration is typically 10 hours, you can’t extend it. However, the tour provider offers some flexibility – they allow free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you could rebook for a longer tour.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule the Tour?
The tour has a free cancellation policy – customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This allows flexibility to reschedule the tour if needed without penalty.
Recap
This Amsterdam day tour offers an immersive experience, blending the tranquil charm of Giethoorn’s canals with the rich cultural heritage of Zaanse Schans.
Guests can look forward to a scenic cruise, guided exploration of iconic windmills, and engaging demonstrations of traditional crafts, all while enjoying cheese tastings and a delicious lunch.
With consistently high customer ratings, this tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into the Netherlands’ picturesque landscape and timeless traditions.
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