Amsterdam: Giethoorn, Zaandam & Zaanse Schans Tour w/ Pickup

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and want to see more than just the city’s famous canals and museums, this guided tour of Giethoorn, Zaandam, and Zaanse Schans offers a fantastic way to experience the Netherlands’ countryside and traditional villages. It’s a well-curated day that hits many of the highlights, especially if you’re eager to see windmills, taste Dutch cheese, and explore a peaceful village built on canals.

What we really like about this experience is the small group size—limited to just 8 participants—making it feel more personal and engaging. Plus, the hotel pickup and drop-off service takes away the hassle of city transit, letting you relax from start to finish. Another standout feature is the electric boat ride through Giethoorn, which offers a peaceful, almost fairy-tale experience that’s hard to match elsewhere.

However, a potential downside is the long travel times between stops—the drive to Giethoorn takes about 1.5 hours—so if you’re sensitive to spending a good chunk of the day on a bus, this might feel a bit taxing. Still, for many, the comfort of a guided, organized day outweighs this minor inconvenience. This tour best suits travelers who enjoy sightseeing at a relaxed pace and are curious about Dutch culture beyond Amsterdam’s city limits.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, well-reviewed day trip that balances scenic views, cultural insights, and a bit of adventure, this tour definitely has a lot to offer.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Small group size ensures more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Unique boat ride: The electric boat in Giethoorn is a highlight, offering a peaceful cruise through the “Dutch Venice.”
• Rich cultural stops: Windmills, cheese, and clogs at Zaanse Schans give a hands-on feel for Dutch traditions.
• Well-organized itinerary: It combines multiple attractions efficiently, with enough time to enjoy each.
• Expert guides: The reviews consistently praise guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills.
• Comfortable transportation: Hotel pickup and a comfortable coach make the long drives more pleasant.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at the DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station, a convenient and recognizable meeting spot. From there, you’ll hop on a bus for about 30 minutes to reach your first stop. The transition from city to countryside is smooth, and the guide’s introduction sets a friendly tone, making you feel like you’re about to spend a day with knowledgeable friends rather than a large, impersonal group.

Zaandam & Zaanse Schans: Dutch Heritage in a Nutshell

Your first major stop is Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam for a quick photo op—here you’ll get a chance to snap some eye-catching photos of the hotel’s distinctive, traditional Zaanse architecture. Many reviews mention how this stop is a great photo opportunity and a taste of the famous Zaanse style.

Next, you’ll explore Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum that showcases Dutch windmills, cheese farms, and clog workshops. You’ll have plenty of time to wander, ask questions, and soak in the sights. The guided tour includes a visit to a cheese farm where you can witness cheese being made and enjoy tastings—an experience many reviewers rave about. The clog-making demonstration is another highlight, giving a hands-on look at traditional Dutch craftsmanship.

Reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable guides enhance this part of the trip. One reviewer says, “Cherry was a wonderful host guide! We loved our very intimate tour of Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans,” emphasizing how guides make the experience more enriching. Visitors appreciate the interactive aspects like cheese tasting and clog demonstrations, which make the stops more engaging.

Transition to Giethoorn: The “Venice of the Netherlands”

After about 1.5 hours of driving passing through Flevoland—a reclaimed land from the Zuiderzee—you’ll arrive at Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the Netherlands” due to its network of canals and quaint houses. This village is picturesque and feels like stepping into a storybook.

The electric boat cruise is almost universally praised. Described as “peaceful,” “intimate,” and “exclusive,” it’s a chance to glide quietly through narrow canals and admire centuries-old thatched-roof houses built on peat islands. During reviews, many mention how the boat ride makes the village come alive in a way that walking alone can’t match. One reviewer notes, “The ride was very comfortable and the electric boat is impressive and exclusive for the group,” adding that it’s a unique, memorable part of the day.

Your guide provides engaging commentary about Giethoorn’s history and architecture, adding context to the tranquil surroundings. After the cruise, you’ll have free time to stroll along the narrow paved paths and soak up the tranquil atmosphere. Many travelers find this part to be the highlight of their trip.

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Lunch and Free Time

You’ll have approximately an hour for lunch, where options may include local eateries or a picnic-style meal depending on your group’s arrangements. The reviews hint that the pace is flexible, allowing you to enjoy the village at your leisure.

Long Drive Back: The Journey Matters

After the village visit, it’s back on the coach for about 1 hour and 35 minutes to return to Amsterdam. Many reviewers mention that the drive is comfortable and well-managed, with guides sharing interesting facts along the way. The final leg also includes passing the IJsselmeer, adding to the scenic views.

End of the Day

Back at your starting point, you’ll feel satisfied having explored three very different but equally charming parts of North Holland. The entire tour lasts about 9 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re eager to see the Dutch countryside without the hassle of organizing multiple trips yourself. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it suitable for travelers who appreciate storytelling and authentic insights. The electric boat ride adds a special touch that’s often cited as a highlight.

Given the length and travel time, it’s better suited for those comfortable with long bus rides, but the comfort and organization help keep it enjoyable. It’s not aimed at families with very young children or those with mobility issues, as walking and boat boarding are involved, and some stops have limited accessibility.

Reviewers consistently say the guides make the experience memorable, with many noting how friendly, professional, and attentive they are. If you’re someone who values insider knowledge and a relaxed pace, this tour will resonate.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a rare glimpse into the Netherlands’ pastoral side, combining scenic boat rides, windmill visits, Dutch cheese, and the peaceful beauty of Giethoorn. It’s a well-rounded day that balances cultural insights with stunning landscapes, all in a small-group setting that feels intimate and personal.

While the long drives might be a drawback for some, the overall experience is praised for its value, organization, and the expert guides. It’s perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxing day outside Amsterdam’s bustling streets.

If you’re curious about Dutch traditions, love picturesque scenery, or simply want to escape the city for a day, this tour is worth considering. It’s a good choice whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or even with a small group of friends.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers a convenient hotel pickup service for two or more participants, making the start of your day smooth and stress-free.

How long is the drive to Giethoorn?
It’s approximately 1.5 hours each way, passing through the reclaimed lands of Flevoland and the IJsselmeer. Expect some travel time but comfortable transportation.

What is the boat ride like in Giethoorn?
The boat is electric and open, providing a quiet, intimate way to see the canals. Many reviewers describe it as peaceful and exclusive, perfect for photos and relaxing sightseeing.

Are there any specific requirements for participants?
You should bring a passport or ID, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for weather—warm clothes and waterproofs are recommended. Luggage or large bags are not allowed.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 or for those with mobility issues due to walking and boatboarding activities.

How much time do I get at each stop?
You’ll have around 30 minutes at Zaandam, 1.5 hours at Zaanse Schans including cheese tasting and clog demonstrations, and about 3 hours in Giethoorn, including boat cruise and free time.

What languages are guides available in?
The tour is conducted in English, with guides known for their knowledge and friendliness.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your trip planning.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it takes place rain or shine. Be sure to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

To sum it up, this guided day trip offers a practical and scenic way to explore some of the Netherlands’ most iconic villages and landscapes. It’s best for travelers who value comfort, personalized attention, and authentic experiences, without worrying about the logistics of transportation or timing. If that sounds like your kind of adventure, this tour could be a perfect addition to your Amsterdam itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: