Private Tour to Giethoorn, Zaanse Schans and Dutch Windmills

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and want to venture beyond the city’s bustling streets into some quintessential Dutch scenery, a private tour covering Giethoorn, Zaanse Schans, and traditional windmills might just be what you’re looking for. While I haven’t taken this exact tour myself, the details suggest it offers a pretty comprehensive glimpse into the Netherlands’ picturesque countryside — with the bonus of a personalized touch.

What really catches the eye here is the small group setting—just 2 to 4 people—which means you can tailor parts of the day to your interests. Add to that a knowledgeable guide (the highlighted praise in the reviews), comfortable transportation, and thoughtfully included experiences like a canal cruise and entry to a windmill, and you’ve got a package that promises both beauty and a bit of insight into local life. On the downside, the day’s structure is quite full, so if you’re not keen on long stretches of travel or tight schedules, it’s worth considering.

This tour is especially suited for those who love scenic drives, charming villages, and a mix of cultural spots. Families with moderate physical fitness levels? Likely fine, but keep in mind the walking and boat rides. Solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a personalized experience without the hassle of planning every detail will find it appealing as well.

Key Points

• Private, small-group setting ensures a personalized experience and flexibility.
• Includes a scenic canal cruise in Giethoorn, which is a highlight for many.
• Visits iconic sites like windmills at Zaanse Schans, with entry to one windmill included.
• Travel time between stops is manageable, allowing more time to enjoy each location.
• Food and dining options are flexible, with suggestions for lunch, but not included.
• Cost around $300 per person, offers a good value considering the bespoke nature and included experiences.

Discovering Giethoorn: The Dutch Venice

Your day kicks off with an approximately 1.5-hour drive from Amsterdam, during which your guide will take you through quiet Dutch villages and countryside. This drive alone is worth it if you’re after a glimpse of the Netherlands away from the tourist hotspots. The scenery is peaceful, with small farms, quaint houses, and patchwork fields.

Once in Giethoorn, the real magic begins. The highlight? The 1-hour canal cruise included in the ticket, which is a charming way to see the village. Imagine gliding through narrow waterways lined with thatched-roof houses, with swans and ducks often paddling nearby. The boat ride is a real treat, especially if you love taking photos or simply enjoy slow-paced, scenic views.

After the cruise, you’ll have about 2.5 hours to walk around on your own. The streets are narrow and lined with greenery, making it perfect for a leisurely stroll. Many visitors appreciate the chance to explore at their own pace, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. You’ll also have the opportunity to grab lunch at a local restaurant—your guide can suggest options or help you find a spot that suits your taste.

One reviewer mentioned, “Alan was a fantastic guide — extremely knowledgeable,” which hints that your guide will likely be well-informed and helpful. Given this is a private tour, you can ask questions, take your time, or even adjust the pace of your visit.

Zaanse Schans: A Snapshot of Dutch Windmill Heritage

After soaking up Giethoorn’s peaceful charm, your journey continues with a drive of around 1.5 hours to Zaanse Schans. This is one of the most recognizable Dutch sights, famous for its traditional windmills and historic crafts. The visit lasts about 1.5 hours, offering a condensed but enriching look at Dutch industrial history.

Here, you can peek inside a cheese factory, watch a wooden shoe-making demonstration, and tour the interior of an authentic windmill. The experience is quite visual—seeing the windmills turn and learning how they once powered local industries adds context to what you see in photos. The tour includes entry to one windmill, which is enough to get a sense of the engineering marvels that dots the landscape here.

While you might be tempted to explore more windmills or visit additional craft shops, be aware that the tour includes only one windmill visit. If you’re particularly interested in windmill technology or Dutch crafts, you might want to plan extra time or explore on your own afterward.

One of the best parts? The guide’s insight—one review notes that Alan “went above and beyond,” making the cultural highlights more meaningful. The short duration means you get a taste, but not a deep dive, which suits travelers who prefer a quick but quality overview.

The Journey Back and Practicalities

After Zaanse Schans, your driver will take you back to your starting point, usually arriving within 45 minutes to an hour. This flexible timing helps keep the day comfortable, without long stretches in the car.

Included in the tour are bottled water, snacks, parking fees, and the admission fee to a windmill—little details that add to the convenience. However, lunch is not included, giving you the freedom to choose where and what to eat, whether you prefer a cozy café or a quick bite.

The tour is priced at about $300.23 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you factor in the private setting, personalized service, and several key experiences, it becomes more understandable. Plus, the small group setting enhances the overall enjoyment, avoiding the chaos often found in larger tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for travelers who appreciate a more intimate, flexible approach to exploring iconic Dutch sites. Given the mention of “moderate physical fitness” in the details, it’s probably best for those comfortable walking and sitting during boat rides. It’s a good fit for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who value a tailored experience over a generic bus tour.

If you’re looking for a blend of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and comfort, this tour hits those marks. Families with older children should be fine, but keep in mind the walking and boat rides. It’s definitely not designed for those with mobility issues or very young children, given the focus on walking and standing.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a personalized, scenic escape from Amsterdam’s city buzz, this private tour offers a thoughtful way to see some of the Netherlands’ most picturesque spots. The inclusion of a canal cruise in Giethoorn is a definite highlight, especially since it’s part of a manageable schedule. The visit to Zaanse Schans adds a touch of windmill nostalgia and Dutch craftsmanship, rounding out the day nicely.

The knowledgeable guide, “Alan,” received praise for his attentiveness and expertise, which can make a big difference if you want more than just a sightseeing bus ride. The flexibility to choose where to eat and tailor the pace makes it a good pick for those who prefer a more relaxed, personalized trip.

However, remember the cost and packed schedule—if you’re someone who prefers slow mornings or wants to explore at your own pace without guided structure, this might feel a bit rushed. But if you’re eager to tick off classic Dutch sights with a small, friendly group, this tour offers solid value and memorable views.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the moderate walking and boat ride could appeal to older children. Just consider their comfort with walking and sitting during boat rides.

How long is the total tour?
The experience lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, including travel time between stops and the scenic activities.

What’s included in the price?
You get a private guide, bottled water, snacks, parking fees, a 1-hour canal cruise in Giethoorn, and entry to one windmill at Zaanse Schans.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you can discuss your preferences with the guide beforehand, especially for lunch options or time spent at each location.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, along with some snacks or extra water if you’re hungry, and a camera for all the charming views.

What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and personalized service. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the iconic Dutch countryside without the rush or crowds. If you’re after a flexible, intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide, this could be just what you need for an authentic taste of the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam.