Amsterdam: Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk and Zaanse Schans Day Trip

Discover the Dutch Countryside: Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, and Zaanse Schans Day Trip – A Practical Guide

If you’re looking to step outside the bustling city of Amsterdam and see some of the most picturesque sights the Netherlands has to offer, this day trip to Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, and Zaanse Schans might be just what you need. While it’s not a tour you’d want if you’re after an in-depth cultural deep dive, it covers some of the most Instagram-worthy scenery, along with a taste of Dutch craftsmanship and engineering.

What really caught our eye are two things: the stunning canal cruise through Giethoorn—the so-called “Venice of the North”—and the chance to see the iconic windmills and traditional crafts at Zaanse Schans. The other standout feature is how smoothly the day is organized, especially if you appreciate having everything planned out without feeling rushed.

That said, a quick heads-up — it’s a full 10-hour experience, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a long day of sightseeing. Also, if you’re expecting a deep dive into Dutch history or culture, this tour offers more of a broad overview. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a scenic, relaxed look at some of the Netherlands’ highlights, especially if you enjoy boat rides and charming villages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip works well for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Dutch landscapes and icons, casual travelers who prefer guided ease, and anyone looking for an affordable way to experience several sights in one day. If you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy scenic boat rides and picturesque villages, you’ll likely find this tour quite rewarding.

Key Points

• Convenient all-in-one experience covering major scenic spots in a single day
• Comfortable luxury transportation with hotel pickup inside the highway ring A10
• Expert guidance with knowledgeable guides making the trip engaging
• Balanced schedule providing enough time at each stop without feeling hurried
• Includes boat cruise, cheese tasting, clog-making, and diamond demonstration
• Longer day, so suitable for those prepared for a 10-hour experience

What You Can Expect From the Tour

This is a well-rounded day trip designed to give you a good glimpse of the Dutch countryside, windmill culture, engineering marvels, and charming villages—all in one go. The overall vibe is relaxed but packed enough to make your day feel full and rewarding.

The tour starts with a hotel pickup in Amsterdam, on a comfortable minivan. From there, the journey gets underway, and you’ll quickly start to see how smoothly everything is organized. The itinerary includes visits to historic sites, demonstrations, and stops perfect for photos, all sprinkled with some local storytelling.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

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Stop 1: Zaanse Schans – Windmill Village (2.5 hours)

This first stop is the highlight for many. It’s a classic Dutch postcard scene — rows of colorful wooden houses, traditional windmills, and artisans at work. You’ll be guided through a clog-making workshop, which offers a fascinating peek into this age-old craft. Many reviews mention how engaging and authentic these demonstrations are, with one reviewer even noting, “Eric was an amazing guide, answering all our questions and educating us the entire way.”

You’ll also visit a cheese factory, where you can sample Gouda and other varieties. Although some found the cheese demo a bit underwhelming (more on that later), it’s still worth trying the local flavors. The guided tour here is a great chance to learn about Dutch craftsmanship and see the windmills in action.

Stop 2: Afsluitdijk – Engineering Marvel (30-minute stop)

Next, you’ll head to the Afsluitdijk, the longest dyke in the Netherlands. It’s a major feat of Dutch water management — and a photo opportunity too. You’ll get a brief guided explanation of this important dam and causeway, with time to snap some photos and appreciate the engineering marvel that protects much of the country from flooding. With only half an hour here, don’t expect an exhaustive tour, but it’s enough to give you an appreciation of Dutch water infrastructure.

Stop 3: Giethoorn – The Canal Village (3 hours)

The highlight for many is the visit to Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the North.” This village is famous for its narrow canals and footbridges, with no cars in sight. The boat cruise through these peaceful waterways is a real treat, providing a unique perspective on the town’s quaint charm.

The boat ride lasts about an hour, during which you’ll glide under elegant bridges and pass traditional thatched-roof cottages. Most reviews emphasize how relaxing and photogenic the experience is, with one reviewer praising the guide for helping with photos and making the ride smooth and worry-free. After the cruise, you’ll have some free time to wander, explore, or grab a local snack.

You can also enjoy a lunch break in Giethoorn. While the tour includes some free time, the reviews suggest that the balance of guided and independent exploration is well-judged, letting you soak in the scenery at your own pace.

Transportation and Timing

The transportation is in a luxurious minivan, with hotel pickups arranged within the A10 highway ring. The long day involves some driving — roughly 30-40 minutes between stops — but this helps maximize your time at each location. The itinerary is meticulously timed, ensuring you get the most out of each spot without feeling rushed.

The tour starts with pickup between 8:10 and 9:00 AM, and concludes around 7:00 PM — a full 10 hours filled with sights and stories. That’s a lot of sightseeing, so be prepared for a busy day, but also for a well-paced experience, according to many happy reviews.

Group Size and Guide Quality

Most reviews highlight the small group size and engaging guides. Guests describe guides like Eric and Leidse as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. Many mention that the guides made a point to answer questions and share interesting insights, adding to the overall experience. Some found the guides’ storytelling and humor particularly memorable.

Value for Money

At a glance, the price covers transport, guided tours, cheese tasting, clog-making, diamond demonstration, and the boat cruise — quite a lot for a single day. Critics of similar tours note that such experiences provide a convenient way to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning each stop individually.

While lunch isn’t included, the tour’s timing and included activities seem to justify the cost, especially considering the convenience. For many, the value lies in the expertly managed schedule and the quality of the guided experience.

The Not-So-Great Bits

No tour is perfect, and this one has a couple of considerations. Some reviewers felt that the cheese demonstration could be more interactive or engaging, suggesting that a live or video demo might enhance that experience. Also, because it’s a long day, some travelers might find the extensive driving tiring, especially if you’re not a fan of long bus rides.

Plus, during peak season, the group might be combined with another, which could mean a slightly less intimate experience. But overall, the reviews indicate that the guides are good at managing this.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic overview of Dutch highlights, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s ideal for first-timers, casual travelers, or those who want a hassle-free way to see windmills, charming villages, and iconic canals. It’s particularly suited if you enjoy boat rides, photo opportunities, and learning about Dutch craftsmanship without having to navigate anything yourself.

This experience offers a well-organized, friendly approach to exploring North Holland’s most scenic spots. It’s a full day, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready for a long but fulfilling journey.

While it may not satisfy those seeking in-depth cultural lessons or an active outdoor adventure, it provides a beautiful, manageable sampler of the Netherlands’ countryside and historic sites.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup within the highway ring A10, excluding the north side of the IJ River. If you’re outside this zone, you’ll need to arrange transportation to the meeting point or use a nearby ferry bus.

How long is the total tour?
It’s approximately 10 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening. The schedule is carefully timed to give you enough time at each stop.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup, guided visits, cheese tasting, wooden shoe workshop, diamond demonstration, and a 1-hour boat cruise in Giethoorn. Lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Are guides available in English?
Yes, the tour is conducted in English, with knowledgeable guides like Eric, Leidse, and Pete making the experience engaging.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind it’s a full day of sightseeing and some walking. It’s not explicitly marketed for kids or families, but families comfortable with a long day should be fine.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a water bottle (it’s included), sunscreen if sunny, and a camera. Wear weather-appropriate clothing, especially since some stops are outdoors.

How busy does the tour get?
During peak season, the group might be combined with another, but many reviews highlight the small-group experience as a plus.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but you’ll have plenty of time to find a local spot or bring a snack to enjoy during free time.

If you’re keen on a day filled with charming scenery, local crafts, and serene boat rides, this trip offers a balanced taste of what makes the Dutch countryside so special. It’s a practical, enjoyable way to tick off several must-see sights without the fuss of planning each one yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here: