From Amsterdam: Windmills, Volendam, & Marken Private Tour

Exploring North Holland: A Look at the Windmills, Volendam, & Marken Private Tour

If you’re eyeing a day trip from Amsterdam that combines scenic landscapes, charming villages, and classic Dutch icons, this private tour to windmills, Volendam, and Marken might be just what you need. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve looked into what makes it appealing—and where it might fall short—so you can decide if it’s a good fit for your travel plans.

One thing I really appreciate about this experience is its customized, private setup. Having your own driver means a more relaxed pace, less crowding, and the chance to ask all those little questions that pop into your mind. Plus, the combo of seeing iconic windmills and visiting picture-perfect villages makes it a well-rounded taste of the Dutch countryside. On the flip side, some visitors note that it doesn’t include inside visits to the windmills, which might leave you wanting more in terms of getting up close and personal with those historic structures.

This tour is especially great if you’re looking for a combination of culture and scenic beauty without the hassle of planning multiple transport links yourself. It’s ideal for those who prefer a guided, hassle-free experience but are okay with a fairly full schedule packed into roughly 6.5 hours. If you’re after a relaxed, slow-paced exploration, this might feel a bit rushed, especially during peak seasons.

Key Points

• Private, guided experience offers personalized attention and convenience.
• Includes visits to Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken, covering iconic sights and villages.
• Multiple tasting opportunities—cheese, waffles, and the chance to buy traditional clogs.
• Ferry ride to Marken provides a scenic, authentic touch, but no inside windmill visits.
• Duration is about 6.5 hours, so it’s a full but manageable day trip.
• Cost per person is $376, which offers a lot of value for a private experience, but might be steep for some travelers.

What to Expect on This Tour

From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel, the experience kicks off with a comfortable ride in an air-conditioned Mercedes. Having your own driver and a private group means the trip is flexible and tailored. The first major stop is the Zaanse Schans, a highlight of this tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Zaanse Schans: Windmills and Historic Charm

We loved the way the windmills at Zaanse Schans evoke that classic Dutch vibe—rows of wooden structures turning slowly against the sky. It’s a living museum of sorts, with opportunities to see clog-making workshops, a cheese farm, and a pewter foundry. While you won’t get inside the windmills, you’ll enjoy outdoor viewing, photo ops, and a glimpse into how those iconic structures operate.

One reviewer mentions, “Loved the Zaanse windmills—very cool! Cheese factory with robot cow milking—amazing,” highlighting how interactive and fun these stops can be. You can also explore the shops and perhaps grab a pancake at the local restaurant, making this spot both educational and tasty.

Cheese Tasting at Henri Willig

Next, you visit a cheese farm where you can taste some of the finest Dutch cheeses. You’ll have an hour here, which is enough time to sample a variety of cheeses and even purchase some if you find a favorite. It’s a good opportunity to learn about local cheese-making traditions and sample some fresh flavors.

Reviewers appreciated this stop: “Cheese factory with robot cow milking—amazing,” and some mentioned that it was one of the highlights of the day. It’s an authentic experience that offers a tasty break and a chance to bring home a little bit of Dutch flavor.

Exploring Volendam & Lunch

The charming fishing village of Volendam is next, with its colorful houses, bustling harbor, and lively shops. You’ll have about an hour to walk around, take photos, and possibly enjoy a seafood lunch—many recommend the local seafood restaurants for their fresh catch.

While some visitors mention that Volendam can get quite hot, they still found it worth a quick stroll and maybe a cold beer or some Dutch fries. It’s a lively spot, perfect for wandering and absorbing the local atmosphere.

Marken: A Wooden-Pile Island

Finally, a ferry ride takes you to Marken, an island famous for its wooden houses on stilts. Here, you can snap a few more photos and take in the small-town charm. The reviews say Marken is “cute,” but some felt there wasn’t a lot to do once there, so plan accordingly.

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Back to Amsterdam

After a full day of sightseeing, your driver will take you back to your accommodation, giving you time to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries.

The Value and Who It Suits

With a price tag of $376 per person, this private tour offers excellent value for those who want a personalized, all-in-one day trip. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off, ferry tickets, and cheese tasting adds to the convenience. However, bear in mind that you won’t go inside the windmills, which could be a downside if that’s a must-see for you.

This experience is well-suited for travelers who value comfort, flexibility, and a curated itinerary. It’s also a good choice for those interested in Dutch culture, scenic villages, and local specialties. If you’re traveling with family or a small group who enjoys structured tours with minimal planning, this could be an ideal pick.

Who Should Consider This Tour

If you’re after a comprehensive yet relaxed overview of North Holland’s highlights, this tour checks many boxes. The knowledgeable driver and private setup mean you move at your own pace, with plenty of opportunities for questions and photo stops. It’s particularly appealing if you want to combine scenery, culture, and local food in one go.

On the other hand, if you’re a hardcore windmill enthusiast interested in inside visits, or if you prefer a slower, more in-depth experience of each location, you might want to look for options that include interior tours or longer stays.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it easy to start your day without extra planning.

How long is the entire tour? The tour lasts around 6.5 hours, giving you a full yet manageable day of sightseeing.

Can I buy cheese or clogs? Absolutely. There’s a possibility to buy cheese, traditional clogs, and Dutch waffles at various stops.

Are inside visits to windmills included? No, tickets to see the windmills from inside are not included, so you’ll explore outside only.

Is this tour suitable for families? While not specifically marketed as a family tour, the stops are generally family-friendly, especially for those interested in scenic villages and local culture.

What’s the transportation like? You’ll be traveling in an air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle, which is comfortable and private.

Do I need to pay extra for attractions? Entrance to the windmill park is included, but inside windmill visits are not. Other purchases like cheese and souvenirs are optional.

Is there flexibility in the schedule? Since it’s a private tour, your driver can adjust timing a bit, but the itinerary is generally fixed to fit all stops.

How do reviews rate the overall experience? The tour averages a 4.3/5 based on three reviews, with highlights including knowledgeable guides, lovely views, and enjoyable ferry rides.

Final Thoughts

This private tour to windmills, Volendam, and Marken offers a charming, convenient way to soak up some of the best sights in North Holland. It’s tailored for those who want a personalized experience without the stress of self-driving or navigating public transport. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, balancing iconic sights with cultural flavor.

While it may not satisfy those craving inside access or a very slow pace, it’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a well-organized, scenic, and tasty day out in the Dutch countryside. With a knowledgeable driver and a flexible approach, you’ll leave with plenty of photos, stories, and maybe some delicious cheese.

If you’re looking to tick off the classic Dutch sights with comfort and ease, this tour might just be the perfect fit.

Remember: Always check availability and consider your own pace and interests before booking. This tour offers a lot in a half-day, but if you prefer more time in each location or inside the windmills, plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here: