Visit Amsterdam Countryside with windmills by bike

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and want to step away from the crowded streets into the peaceful, picturesque Dutch landscape, a bike tour to the countryside with windmills might just be your perfect escape. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on the detailed reviews and itinerary, it’s clear this experience offers a genuine and charming look at what makes the Netherlands special.

Two standout features we really appreciate are the small group size—which means personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe—and the variety of stops that combine scenic views with cultural insights. Plus, the inclusion of activities like cheese tasting and clog making adds a fun, hands-on element that makes the day memorable. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the 5-hour duration, which might be long for some, especially if you’re not accustomed to cycling for extended periods.

This tour seems perfectly suited for travelers who love cycling, want an authentic feel of the Dutch countryside, and appreciate a knowledgeable guide sharing local stories. It’s particularly great if you’re after a break from typical Amsterdam sightseeing and want to see a quieter, authentic side of the Netherlands.

Key Points

• Small group experience ensures more personal attention and a friendly atmosphere
• Visiting authentic local sites like windmills, cheese farms, and clog workshops
• Beautiful scenery and birdwatching opportunities in wetlands and meadows
• Includes practical activities like clog making and cheese tasting
• Seamless logistics with bike use, train tickets, and boat transfer included
• Ideal for those comfortable with cycling and looking to explore beyond the city

Discovering the Dutch Countryside on Two Wheels

This guided bike tour offers an inviting way to see the region outside Amsterdam, where locals go about their daily lives and the landscape remains largely untouched by mass tourism. Priced at around $58.11 per person, it offers a lot of value — especially considering everything included: bicycle use, train tickets, and windmill admission.

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, making it a manageable day trip that balances sightseeing with leisure. The group size is capped at 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows your guide to engage more personally with everyone. Typically booked about a month in advance, it’s a popular choice for travelers who want to combine cycling, culture, and nature without the hassle of planning every detail.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Start Point: Streets of Amsterdam

You’ll begin at Stationsplein 14D, just a short hop from central public transportation options. From there, you’ll hop onto your bike, ready to explore the countryside.

Zaanstad: The Heart of Dutch Food & Industry

Our first stop is Zaanstad, often called the “larder” of the Netherlands. It’s fascinating because this area has been a hub for food production and manufacturing for centuries. You might find yourself cycling past stores filled with local favorites—cookies, chocolate, salted snacks from Verkade, or cocoa powder from Cacao de Zaan. As one reviewer noted, the area is lined with stores offering “a whole pile of articles, ‘made in the Zaanstreek,’” which really underscores the region’s food heritage.

Wet Meadows and Birdwatching

Next, you’ll ride along wet meadows that sit just above or below the water table—absolutely prime territory for meadow birds. This part of the landscape is a photographer’s dream, with long ditches, pollard-willows, and cows grazing peacefully. The scenery is so tranquil that many riders find themselves slowing down to soak it all in. One reviewer mentioned, “You cycle on the dikes and look almost beyond the horizon,” capturing just how expansive and open this countryside feels.

Papiermolen De Schoolmeester: The Last Paper Windmill

A highlight of the tour is a visit to Papiermolen De Schoolmeester, the last working paper windmill in the world. This is a real treat because it offers a glimpse into the historic paper-making process, which was once a major Dutch export. The mill’s white, smooth paper was traded as far away as America, and seeing how it’s still produced gives a meaningful connection to the past. When open, you can watch the process firsthand, but note that during weekends it might be closed, replaced by a visit to a working sawmill instead. One reviewer said, “It’s beautiful white, smooth, excellent for writing,” emphasizing the quality of Dutch craftsmanship.

Zaanse Schans: The Iconic Open-Air Museum

The next stop is Zaanse Schans, a living open-air museum filled with traditional wooden houses, working mills, and artisan workshops. It’s a lively place where you can step inside a clog workshop, see cheese being made, and explore various mills that have been part of Dutch life for generations. The cheese dairy is a favorite among visitors, and it’s a fun chance to taste the local product. One review described it as “great adventure,” with the chance to learn about clog making and view the various windmills—both functional and decorative.

The Return: Riverside Cycling and Boat Ride

After exploring Zaanse Schans, you’ll hop back on your bike for a scenic ride along the riverside, heading back toward Zaandam. The final leg involves a relaxed bike ride followed by a boat transfer that takes you back to Amsterdam, wrapping up the day with a different perspective of the landscape.

The Practical Details: What to Expect

What’s Included?

• Use of a bicycle, so you don’t need to bring your own
• Train tickets to and from the countryside
• Admission to the windmill

These inclusions make the tour quite convenient. Instead of worrying about tickets or transportation, you can just relax and enjoy the scenery. Keep in mind, coffee, tea, and snacks are not included, so you might want to bring some water or a small snack for the ride.

What’s Not Included?

Just the drinks and snacks, which allows you to sample local goodies at the stops, such as cheese or perhaps a pastry from a bakery.

Meeting & Ending Point

The tour starts at Stationsplein 14D in Amsterdam and ends back there, so it’s easy to plan the rest of your day afterward. The activity is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 10, ensuring it stays personal and engaging.

Authentic Experiences and Real Feedback

One of the biggest factors that come up in reviews is the guide’s knowledge. Multiple participants praised Hans, describing him as “amazing” and “full of knowledge,” which really enhances the experience. The storytelling, combined with the scenic ride, makes for a day that feels both relaxing and educational.

Another common thread is how much people enjoyed seeing the countryside in a way that’s different from typical tourist spots. Rae_T mentioned, “It was like a Dutch history lesson,” highlighting that this tour offers more than just sightseeing—it’s about understanding the culture and history firsthand.

The scenery also earns high marks. Lauren_R called it a “wonderful day,” and many appreciated the views of old windmills and quiet waterways. The cheese tasting and clog making added a tactile, fun element that made the experience more memorable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, culturally rich way to explore the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam’s bustling streets, this bike tour is a smart pick. It balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and hands-on activities, all within a small-group setting that feels both personal and immersive. The inclusion of transportation and access to key attractions adds value, making it a hassle-free and memorable day out.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers who enjoy cycling, want to learn about Dutch traditions, and cherish authentic experiences. It’s less appropriate if you’re not comfortable on a bike or if you prefer a more structured, indoor-only tour. But for those looking to see a different side of the Netherlands while keeping things relaxed and engaging, this ride through the countryside is a real winner.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, most travelers comfortable on a bike can enjoy this tour. The group is small, and guides typically ensure safety and provide assistance if needed.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers bicycle use, train tickets, and admission to the windmill. Snacks and drinks are not included.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 5 hours, which includes cycling, sightseeing, and some extra activities.

Are the stops at the windmills and Zaanse Schans included?
Yes, admission to the windmill is included, and Zaanse Schans is open to explore the wooden houses, mills, and cheese dairy.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, making it flexible for last-minute adjustments.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, only up to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Do I need to bring my own bike?
No, the tour provides bicycles, so you just need to show up ready to ride.

Will I see wildlife or birds?
Absolutely. Keep an eye out for meadow birds in the wetlands, as the scenery lends itself to birdwatching.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically targeted at children, most ages comfortable on bikes will find it enjoyable. Check your comfort with cycling for the duration.

Where does the tour end?
Back at the starting point in Amsterdam, making it easy to continue exploring the city afterward.

In the end, this bike tour through the Dutch countryside offers a refreshing look at the Netherlands’ traditional side. With scenic views, cultural activities, and a friendly guide, it’s an experience worth considering if you want more than just city sights. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a curious traveler eager to see a different side of Holland, this trip has enough charm and authenticity to leave you with lasting memories.