Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Day Trip with Cruise

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and craving a broader taste of the Netherlands beyond the city buzz, this Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn day trip offers a fantastic way to do just that. From windmills and traditional crafts to tranquil waterways, the experience promises a genuine feel of Dutch rural life—all packed into a well-organized 10-hour journey.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is its balance of guided visits and free time—giving you plenty of chances to soak in the scenery or snap photos at your own pace. Plus, the inclusion of local experiences like cheese tasting and a wooden shoe workshop adds authentic flavor. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the full-day commitment; it’s a long ride with several stops, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a full schedule and a bit of travel time.

This trip is perfect for curious travelers eager to understand Dutch culture firsthand without sacrificing comfort. If you love scenic landscapes, quaint villages, and local craftsmanship, this could be your ideal day out. It’s also a good choice if you want a hassle-free way to explore outside the city, thanks to hotel pickup and small-group settings.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transport: Travel in a Mercedes minivan with thoughtful extras like a power bank and umbrella.
• Authentic Experiences: Cheese tasting, wooden shoe-making, and windmill views bring the Dutch way of life to you.
• Beautiful Scenery: From the windmills of Zaanse Schans to the waterways of Giethoorn, you’ll enjoy some truly picturesque locations.
• Flexible Itinerary: The schedule balances guided visits with free time, giving you room to explore or relax.
• Expert Guides: Multiple reviews highlight friendly, knowledgeable guides who make the trip engaging.
• Value for Money: At $135, the tour offers a full day of experiences, transportation, and local insights, making it a worthwhile splurge.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What to Expect on This Tour

Starting with pickup from your Amsterdam hotel, you’ll find the day kicks off comfortably and efficiently. The use of a private Mercedes minivan means you’re traveling in style and convenience, and the thoughtful touch of a complimentary water bottle, a power bank, and an umbrella prepares you for the weather and keeps your devices charged for photos.

First Stop: Zaanse Schans – Windmills and Crafts

Your journey begins with a scenic 30-minute drive into the Dutch countryside. The first major highlight is Zaanse Schans, a village famous for its iconic windmills and traditional crafts. This site offers a great glimpse of Dutch heritage, and you’ll get a guided tour that explains how these historic mills work and their role in Dutch history.

A standout feature here is the wooden shoe demonstration. Visitors often find this workshop both entertaining and educational, as you watch artisans craft traditional clogs using age-old techniques. One reviewer praised this part of the trip, mentioning that it was a “family-fun workshop,” giving a tangible connection to Dutch craftsmanship.

Plus, there’s the opportunity to sample fresh gouda cheese at a local factory. The tour includes a cheese tasting that lets you indulge in some of the best Dutch dairy products, which many say is a highlight. As one reviewer noted, “wonderful places, great guide, amazing atmosphere,” capturing the overall positive vibe.

Second Stop: Giethoorn – The Village of Canals

After a roughly 1.5-hour drive, you arrive at Giethoorn, often called the “Dutch Venice” for its network of peaceful waterways. Here, you’ll take an 1-hour boat cruise that offers a tranquil escape into the village’s serene atmosphere. Many reviews praise the boat ride, emphasizing the calmness of drifting through the streams and the beauty of the car-free community.

You’ll have free time to wander around, take photos, or enjoy lunch (though meals are not included, so packing snacks or eating beforehand could make sense). The village is known for its thatched-roof cottages, scenic bridges, and quiet streets—all accessible only by foot or boat, which makes for a uniquely Dutch experience.

The guided tour in Giethoorn also includes scenic walks, giving you options to explore on your own or with the group. Travelers have expressed particular appreciation for the well-paced itinerary and the friendliness of guides. One review mentioned that “Leidse, our guide, was very professional and explained everything about the tour plus local history very well.”

Final Return and Reflection

After your last boat cruise, the group heads back to Amsterdam, with a roughly 1.5-hour drive. During the return trip, you can relax and reflect on the day’s sights and experiences, already planning which parts you might want to revisit someday.

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Why This Tour Works Well

One of the biggest strengths of this day trip is the combination of guided insights and free exploration. You’re not just rushed from one site to another; instead, the tour offers a comprehensive look at Dutch traditions, landscapes, and craftsmanship, all with the comfort of hotel pickup and small-group intimacy.

The guides, frequently praised for their friendliness and knowledge, help bring each location to life. Several reviews specifically mention guides like Leidse, Kai, Eric, and Reinier, highlighting their professionalism, humor, and passion. This personal touch makes the experience more engaging and memorable.

The scenic variety—from windmills to waterways—keeps the day interesting and visually stunning. The boat cruise in Giethoorn is particularly relaxing and offers a perspective rarely seen in big cities. Plus, the cheese tasting gives you a delicious taste of Dutch culture, not just in scenery but in flavor too.

The Value of the Price

At $135 per person, this tour provides a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and authentic local experiences. For travelers who want to see a few highlights without the hassle of planning separate visits, this is quite a good deal. The inclusion of extras like a power bank and umbrella adds a layer of convenience often overlooked but appreciated, especially if weather turns or your device needs a charge.

Of course, lunch and boat rentals in Giethoorn are not included, so you might want to budget extra for meals or snacks. Still, considering the transportation, guided tours, and the boat cruise, many feel it’s good value given the comprehensive experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and small-group tours. If you’re someone who values knowledgeable guides and authentic local experiences, you’ll likely find this trip rewarding. It’s also ideal if you want a structured, worry-free day that covers key highlights without the stress of organizing transportation or tickets.

Because it’s a full-day tour with extensive travel and sightseeing, it might be less suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children, unless they’re particularly adaptable. Still, the gentle pace and beautiful scenery make it a rewarding outing for most.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided for hotels within the A10 Highway Ring in Amsterdam, excluding the north part of the river. There’s also a free ferry from North Amsterdam to the central station if needed.

How long is the total tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including travel time, guided visits, free time, and the boat cruise.

What’s the size of the group?
The tour offers private or small-group options, providing a more personalized experience and a chance to ask questions or move at your own pace.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll want to plan your own meal or bring snacks for the day.

Is the boat cruise in Giethoorn included?
Yes, the cruise lasts about an hour and is part of the package.

What kind of transportation is used?
A Mercedes minivan ensures comfort and style, and amenities like a power bank and umbrella are provided for your convenience.

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

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is generally relaxed, it mainly involves walking and boat rides, which can suit families with children. However, check your group’s mobility and interests before booking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to step outside the city limits of Amsterdam and want a thoughtfully organized day to explore traditional Dutch villages, this tour ticks many boxes. From the windmill sights of Zaanse Schans to the peaceful waterways of Giethoorn, it offers a taste of the Netherlands that’s both scenic and authentic.

The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through in positive reviews, helping to turn a sightseeing trip into a memorable cultural snapshot. The combination of scenic views, craft demonstrations, and local delicacies make it a well-rounded experience.

While it’s a longer day and doesn’t include meals, the value lies in the ease and depth of the exploration. It’s suited best for those who appreciate comfort, storytelling, and a chance to see some of the Netherlands’ most charming spots without the hassle of detailed planning.

If this sounds like your kind of Dutch adventure, it’s definitely worth considering for your Amsterdam itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: