Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Windmills & Giethoorn Private Trip

If you’re dreaming of a relaxed day out exploring some of the most iconic sights of the Netherlands, this private trip from Amsterdam might just be your ideal escape. It’s designed to give you a taste of Holland’s traditional charm—think windmills, quaint villages, and cheese farms—without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. We’ve seen this tour reviewed quite positively, with travelers appreciating its personal touch and the comfortable way it showcases some of the country’s best spots.

What really makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and personalized service. The private driver isn’t just a transportation option; they’re also a friendly guide who can help tailor your experience. Plus, the combination of a peaceful canal cruise and visits to classic sites like Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans means you’ll get a well-rounded day filled with memorable views and local flavors. However, keep in mind that this is a full-day experience, so it requires a fair bit of walking and engagement, which might be tiring if you prefer more leisurely or slow-paced outings.

This trip is especially well-suited for travelers who want an authentic, hassle-free way to see the Dutch countryside with a touch of luxury. Families, couples, or small groups looking for a curated experience will appreciate the private nature of this tour. If you’re after an in-depth, guided experience or have specific interests like cycling or visiting multiple villages, it’s worth considering how the itinerary matches your pace and style.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: Personalized service with a private driver makes for a tailored experience.
• Authentic Dutch sights: Windmills, cheese farms, and traditional cottages give a real taste of Holland.
• Comfortable transportation: Travel in a luxurious Mercedes vehicle, making the day smooth and stress-free.
• Variety of activities: Canal cruise, sightseeing, and optional visits to clogs and cheese factories keep things engaging.
• Time-efficient: Fits a lot into 8 hours without feeling overly rushed.
• Value for price: With included tickets and tastings, it offers a comprehensive experience, but the cost of $443 per person is on the higher side for some.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Zaanse Schans, Windmills & Giethoorn Tour

The Private Experience and Transportation

One of the biggest perks of this tour is its private setup. From the moment you’re picked up at your accommodation in Amsterdam, you’ll be traveling comfortably in a luxury Mercedes vehicle. This isn’t just about style—it means you avoid the crowds and rigid schedules of group tours, allowing a more intimate and relaxed outing. The driver isn’t just a chauffeur; they’re a host who can answer questions and customize the experience to some extent.

The timing of the tour is flexible—check availability for the start times that suit your plans. And if you’re worried about cancellations, the policy allows refunds up to 24 hours beforehand, which adds a layer of peace of mind.

The Charm of Giethoorn

Your first major stop is Giethoorn, often called the “Dutch Venice,” and for good reason. This peaceful village is famous for its canals and lack of roads through the center. The tour includes a canal cruise, which we think is the highlight, offering a tranquil way to take in the picturesque scenery. The boat sails through the elongated village, giving you views of thatched-roof cottages, lush greenery, and quiet waterways.

You’ll have about three hours here, which is enough time to stroll around, snap photos, and enjoy a leisurely lunch if you wish—though the tour schedule might be tight for a sit-down meal. The option to drive a small boat yourself adds a fun, interactive element if you’re feeling adventurous. As one reviewer put it, the experience of just wandering and taking in the views “was truly relaxing,” and the boat cruise was “nice and peaceful.”

Exploring Zaanse Schans

Next, after a brief drive, you’ll arrive at Zaanse Schans, one of the most iconic open-air museums in the Netherlands. Here, you get a snapshot of traditional Dutch life with its historic windmills, wooden houses, and barns. Walking past the bakery museum and smelling fresh bread baking is a delightful sensory experience, and you can even peek inside a working windmill.

You’ll have about two hours to explore. The tour includes visiting a windmill of your choice—an opportunity to see how these giants work up close. You might also visit a clogs factory or a cheese farm, depending on your interests. The cheese farm is a highlight for many; you can taste up to 30 different flavors and buy local cheese to take home. The fact that you can buy cheese and clogs on-site is a practical convenience, and the opportunity to indulge in some local treats makes the visit more memorable.

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The Practical Details and Extra Options

The tour offers a variety of ways to spend your time at each stop—cycling, sailing, shopping, or just relaxing with a snack. If weather permits, you might enjoy riding a bike around Zaanse Schans or trying Dutch pancakes at a local restaurant.

The ticket inclusions are comprehensive: guided canal cruise, visit to a windmill, cheese tasting, and the possibility to explore cheese and clog shops. These extras really add value, especially as they’re included in the price of $443 per person. However, keep in mind there’s no official tour guide with commentary—your driver is there for transportation and general assistance, so if you prefer detailed historical narration, you might find this a bit light on that front.

The Overall Experience

Reviewers generally give this trip a 4.8 out of 5, praising the knowledgeable driver and the stunning views throughout. One review simply called it “great,” highlighting how smoothly everything went and how much they enjoyed the sights. The flexibility and private nature are often cited as major advantages, making it feel more like a personalized day out than a crowded tour bus.

That said, a few points to consider: the day is quite packed, so it may not suit travelers looking for a slow, contemplative experience. Also, at $443 per person, it’s not the cheapest option, but for the convenience and inclusions, many find it worthwhile.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience works well for travelers wanting a curated, hassle-free day exploring Holland’s countryside. If you love authentic experiences—seeing windmills up close, sampling local cheese, and drifting along peaceful canals—this tour ticks those boxes. Families or couples who appreciate a private, flexible schedule will find it particularly attractive.

However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed pace, or prefer to explore independently with less organized structure, you might want to consider other options. It’s also ideal for those who value comfort and personalized service over budget.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Amsterdam, transportation in a private Mercedes vehicle, a guided canal cruise ticket, visits to a windmill, cheese farm, and the opportunity to buy cheese and clogs. You can also taste cheese and choose to visit a clog factory.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 8 hours, with stops at Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans. The itinerary includes roughly 3 hours at Giethoorn and 2 hours at Zaanse Schans.

Can I customize what I do at each stop?
You have some flexibility—such as choosing whether to cycle, sail a small boat, browse shops, or relax at a pancake restaurant—depending on your interests.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the activities like boat cruises and strolling through charming villages can appeal to families. Consider your children’s comfort with walking and outdoor activities.

What’s the price per person?
It costs around $443 per person, which includes many attractions and tastings. You’ll want to weigh this cost against the convenience of private transportation and all included activities.

Are there any additional costs?
Optional purchases like extra cheese or souvenirs are not included but are available at the stops. Also, meals are not included unless you choose to dine at the locations.

Is there a tour guide with commentary?
No, the experience is guided by a private driver. While knowledgeable, there’s no dedicated guide providing detailed historical narration during the stops.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if plans change unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This private day trip offers a well-rounded taste of Holland’s most photogenic and traditional sites, all wrapped up in a comfortable, stress-free package. It’s ideal for those who want a curated experience without the fuss of self-planning, and who value personalized service. The scenery, from windmills to quiet canals, is genuinely lovely, and the inclusions like cheese tastings make it feel like a true Dutch indulgence.

If you’re after a day that combines sightseeing with comfort and a touch of luxury, this tour hits the mark. Just be prepared for a full day on your feet and in the outdoors—and remember, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy guided, private adventures in scenic settings.

Enjoy your trip to Holland!

You can check availability for your dates here: