Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Cheese Tasting & Volendam Tour

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and want to see a different side of the Netherlands, this tour might just be what you’re looking for. It promises a quick escape from the busy city to explore traditional Dutch sights like windmills, cheese farms, and a picture-perfect fishing village. From what I’ve gathered, it’s designed to give you a taste of authentic Dutch culture without fuss or complications.

What makes this tour appealing? First, it’s very affordable at just $14 per person, making it accessible for most travelers. Second, it’s a balanced mix of sights and free time, so you aren’t just herded from one place to another—you get space to explore at your own pace.

That said, it’s not a full-day deep dive but rather a snapshot. For some, that means missing out on some of the deeper stories or more personalized experiences. But if you’re after a simple, fun introduction to the countryside, this might suit your style. It’s especially good for those who like small groups and a more relaxed pace rather than big tours packed with dozens of strangers.

If you’re curious about seeing some iconic Dutch sights in a nutshell, and don’t want to break the bank, this tour could be a good fit. Just keep in mind that it’s more about sightseeing and less about detailed culture.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $14, it offers great value for a half-day tour packed with highlights.
• Small Group Experience: Max 30 guests, so it’s more personal and less hectic.
• Iconic Sights: Windmills at Zaanse Schans, cheese demonstrations, and the charming town of Volendam.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample opportunity to explore and take photos at your own pace.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a midibus, making for a smooth ride through the countryside.
• Bilingual Guide: An onboard video in English and Spanish adds cultural insights with a friendly tone.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour kicks off at De Ruijterkade 151, near the Aloha Bowling entrance, just behind Amsterdam Central Station. This central location makes it easy to reach, and the driver holding a blue umbrella is a straightforward sign that you’re at the right spot. The ride in a comfortable midibus is about 30 minutes to the first destination, which feels just right—enough to relax after the city’s buzz without losing the scenic momentum.

Zaanse Schans: Step Back in Time

The first major stop is Zaanse Schans, arguably the most famous windmill village in the Netherlands. Here, you’re free to wander through historic windmills and traditional workshops. Many reviews mention how atmospheric this area is—imagine windmills turning slowly against a clear sky, with green wooden houses lining the canals.

You have about 1.5 hours to walk around, with the option to explore independently. Visitors often say that the live demonstrations—like clog-making or cheese crafting—are particularly engaging. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the windmills still function and the opportunity to see artisans at work, which really adds to the authenticity.”

While you’re free to explore, keep in mind that it’s a self-guided experience; so, if you’re looking for a guided, in-depth history lesson, you might find this somewhat basic. Still, the visual beauty and craftsmanship make it worth a relaxed visit.

Cheese Tasting: Savor the Flavors

Next, about 25 minutes are dedicated to a cheese tasting at a traditional Dutch cheese farm. You’ll see a live cheese-making demonstration, which adds a participatory feel to the experience. The variety of cheeses—from soft, young Gouda to more aged, intense types—means there’s something for all.

Guests appreciate the value of the tasting—at just a short 25-minute stop, it’s a delightful peek into Dutch cheese traditions. Several reviews call this a highlight: “The cheese tasting was eye-opening; I never realized how many varieties of Gouda there are, and everything tasted so fresh.”

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Volendam: Picturesque Fishing Village

The last major stop is Volendam, about 1.5 hours of free time. This charming fishing town is famous for its colorful harbor, lively streets, and traditional Dutch costumes people sometimes dress up in for fun photos. It’s a place where you can just stroll, browse local shops, or sample fresh fish from the stalls.

Many visitors comment on how quaint and photogenic Volendam is. One reviewer said, “It’s the kind of place that makes you want to take a hundred photos—every corner looks like a postcard.” If you’re into local food, you’ll enjoy trying some fried fish or stroopwafels while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.

Returning & Overall Flow

The return journey is about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on the day. The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day escape that won’t eat into your sightseeing schedule.

What This Tour Means for You

The value proposition here is pretty compelling. For just $14, you get a taste of what makes Dutch culture unique—windmills, cheese, and a picture-perfect village. The small group size and comfortable transportation make for a relaxed day, not a hectic rush.

The onboard bilingual video guide adds an educational layer, sharing stories and fun facts that deepen your appreciation for what you’re seeing. Many travelers enjoy the humorous tone and the way it makes learning feel like a casual chat.

However, the tour’s self-guided exploration at each stop means it’s ideal for independent-minded travelers who like to set their own pace. If you prefer guided tours with detailed commentary, you might find this a bit light. Plus, since the tour is quite short, it’s best suited for those who want a quick but meaningful glimpse of Dutch countryside life.

The Reality on the Ground

From reviews, the windmills at Zaanse Schans are often praised as a top sight. One guest said, “The view of the windmills turning slowly against the sky is surprisingly calming.” The cheese demonstration is also a favorite, especially for those who love sampling local flavors.

The free time in Volendam usually gets high marks for its atmosphere and photogenic qualities. Visitors often say, “It’s perfect for wandering around, snapping photos, or just sitting by the harbor watching boats come and go.”

A few reviewers mentioned the weather can impact the experience—this is a countryside tour, after all—so dressing appropriately and being prepared for rain or wind is wise.

The tour’s balance of structured visits and free exploration makes it flexible and enjoyable, especially if you’re after an authentic taste of Dutch tradition without the fuss.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is a solid choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a quick, scenic overview of Dutch countryside life. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors looking for iconic sights without a full-day commitment. If you’re traveling with a small group or prefer a more intimate atmosphere, you’ll appreciate the limited number of participants.

Since the tour includes a cheese tasting and visits to traditional workshops, it’s also great for foodies or anyone curious about Dutch craftsmanship. The town of Volendam offers enough free time for casual exploration, making it perfect for those who enjoy wandering and taking photos.

On the downside, if you’re after a deep cultural experience or guided storytelling, this might feel a bit superficial. Also, if you’re traveling with children, this tour’s relaxed pace and visual attractions could still make it enjoyable, but keep in mind that it’s more about sightseeing than family-specific activities.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transportation from and back to Amsterdam in a comfortable midibus.

How long does the tour last?
It runs about 5 hours in total, with stops at Zaanse Schans, cheese farm, and Volendam.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
It’s wheelchair accessible, but some walking is involved at each site. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, water, and your ID or passport. Snacks and souvenirs are extra.

Can I explore independently at each stop?
Absolutely. The stops are free time, so you can walk around, shop, or take photos as you like.

Is food included?
No, but the cheese tasting is included. Other meals or snacks are not covered.

What languages is the guide in?
An onboard video guide is available in English and Spanish, providing insights and fun facts throughout the day.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a cost-effective way to see some of the classic Dutch sights with a relaxed vibe, this tour checks many boxes. It delivers a visual feast of windmills, a cheese experience, and a quaint fishing village—all in a manageable 5-hour window. It’s well-suited for travelers who want to keep things simple but still enjoy a genuine slice of the Netherlands.

While it won’t replace a more immersive or guided experience, it offers enough charm and variety to make your day out worthwhile. Do keep your expectations in check—this is a quick, fun snapshot rather than a deep dive into Dutch culture. If that sounds appealing, you’ll probably enjoy this little adventure.

Enjoy your trip, and may your Dutch countryside visit be full of great sights, tasty cheese, and beautiful photos!

You can check availability for your dates here: