Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour Small Group Incl. Boat Ride

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and craving a taste of the Netherlands beyond the city, a small-group day tour to Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans might just be the perfect choice. While Amsterdam itself is vibrant and full of life, stepping outside into the countryside reveals a whole different side of Dutch culture—quaint villages, traditional crafts, and scenic landscapes.

This tour, rated 4.5 out of 5 based on 50 reviews, is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of what makes the Netherlands special. We’re particularly fond of the combination of historical sites and picturesque towns, along with the convenience of guided visits, transportation, and included activities like cheese tastings and boat rides.

One thing to keep in mind is that, as with most group tours, you’ll need to accept the schedule and pacing, which might feel a bit rushed if you prefer exploring at your own speed. Still, for those who want to see a lot in a day without the hassle of planning or driving, this experience offers real value. It’s especially suited for travelers who love photography, local crafts, and scenic cruises, and want a comprehensive, relaxed outing without breaking the bank.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Includes demonstrations of cheese making, wooden shoe crafting, and diamond history, giving you insight into traditional Dutch crafts.
• Scenic Boat Rides: Enjoy a relaxed cruise in Giethoorn, often called the “Green Little Venice,” with options for self-guided boating.
• Small Group: Max 19 travelers, creating a friendly atmosphere and more personalized attention from guides.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Transportation, guided tours, and activities are included, making it straightforward and convenient.
• Flexible Free Time: You get some free time to explore on your own, which many reviews highlight as a positive aspect.
• Value for Money: At $138.17 per person, considering the activities and transport, many find this to be a good deal.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

The tour begins at the ibis Amsterdam Centre at 8:00 am, with hotel pickup offered—an advantage if you prefer to skip the city chaos and head straight to the countryside. The vehicle is air-conditioned and comfortable, which matters on an early start.

Stop 1: Zaanse Schans

The first major stop is the famous Zaanse Schans, known for its collection of authentic windmills, historic houses, and traditional crafts. Here, you’ll get a private guided tour of a Dutch cheese factory, where you’ll learn how Gouda cheese is traditionally made and taste over 26 different flavors. One review praises this part as a “great way to see a couple of places without a car,” especially noting the interesting cheese-making process.

Following that, a live demonstration of wooden shoe crafting will give insight into this iconic craft. You can try on different wooden shoes and take plenty of photos—something many travelers enjoy, as reflected in reviews that mention the fun of seeing and trying on wooden shoes.

Lastly, a Royal Amsterdam Diamond tour rounds out this stop, revealing the history behind diamond cutting and offering a look at the “’Royal Lady’ diamond with 268 facets.” This might sound luxurious, but the tour is designed to be educational and engaging, even if jewelry isn’t your thing.

Stop 2: Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm

The cheese farm visit is a highlight for many. It’s a chance to see traditional cheese-making in action and taste classic Dutch cheeses, especially Gouda. One reviewer called this “a private demonstration,” which adds a personal touch to the experience. The combination of learning and tasting makes this stop both educational and delicious.

Stop 3: Wooden Shoe Workshop

Here, you’ll watch artisans craft wooden shoes and have the opportunity to try on different sizes and styles. The live demonstration is both informative and visually appealing, and you can take plenty of photos. Reviewers have expressed enjoyment, noting the demonstration’s authenticity and the chance to learn about Dutch heritage.

Travel to Giethoorn

After a fulfilling morning, the group heads to Giethoorn, often called the “Green Little Venice,” a peaceful village famous for its canals and thatched-roof houses. The drive from Zaanse Schans to Giethoorn takes approximately four hours, but many reviews suggest the journey is comfortable and scenic.

Free Time and Boat Cruise in Giethoorn

Once in Giethoorn, you’ll enjoy about an hour of boat cruise through the canals, which is often described as relaxing and picturesque. The boat ride is included in the tour fee (€13), offering unobstructed views of the quaint houses and leafy surroundings.

Travelers can choose to cruise on their own if they wish, adding a layer of flexibility. One review highlights that “you could cruise your own boat,” which increases fun, especially with family or friends.

After the cruise, you’re free to explore the village at your own pace for around four hours. You might find small cafes or shops to browse, or just enjoy wandering through the quiet streets and taking photographs. Many reviewers mention how peaceful and charming Giethoorn is; one called it “a wonderful, peaceful place I’d recommend visiting.”

Additional Boat Ride: Bovenwijde

An extra hour boat cruise in Giethoorn takes you around lakes and canals behind the village. This segment is described as a laid-back way to experience the landscape, providing more photo opportunities and a chance to unwind.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Guides

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle, making the early start and long drive more comfortable. Guides like Leidse and Koen are praised for their engagement, helpfulness, and knowledge—one reviewer even calls Leiden “the host with the most,” noting how he handled rainy weather with umbrellas and a friendly attitude.

Duration and Group Size

The entire experience spans around 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning to the meeting point later in the day. The small group limit of 19 travelers helps foster a more intimate atmosphere where guides can provide personalized insights.

Cost and Included Activities

For about $138, you get a substantial amount of value. The price covers all fees and taxes, guided tours of cheese, wooden shoes, and diamond factories, transportation, bottled water, and the boat cruise. Lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to factor in that extra expense, but many find the day’s activities more than enough to justify the cost.

Reviews Highlighting Value

Many travelers consider this a “great day out”. For instance, one quote notes, “Instead of driving all day, we spent a lot of time at each location,” making it feel like a well-balanced trip. Multiple reviews mention that the guides are helpful, informative, and fun, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

What Could Be Improved?

A few reviews point out the importance of flexibility. Some travelers wish they had more independence to explore stops at their own pace or to skip certain parts like the boat ride if they preferred. Remember, since this is a group excursion with set schedules, it’s best suited for those happy to follow the guide and adhere to the timetable.

Plus, one reviewer mentions that the tour feels somewhat touristy and not fully authentic, but most agree that the sights are beautiful and worth the visit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want an overview of Dutch countryside highlights without the hassle of planning. It’s also excellent for those who enjoy guided experiences, scenic boat rides, and local crafts. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a relaxed, educational day with plenty of photo moments, this tour will likely meet your expectations.

However, if you value complete independence or are keen on exploring on your own schedule, you might find the free time and scheduled stops a bit restrictive. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at each stop.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans day tour offers a compelling blend of Dutch traditions, scenic beauty, and cultural insights—all within a manageable, small-group setting. The guides’ helpfulness and the variety of activities keep things engaging, while the included boat rides and demonstrations give a tangible sense of Dutch life.

It’s a wonderful way to experience a slice of the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam, especially if you want a mix of history, crafts, and serenity. Whether you’re a photo enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply after a relaxing day outside the city, this tour makes for a memorable day out.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour begins with hotel pickup from the ibis Amsterdam Centre, making it easy to start your day without extra logistics.

How long is the total tour?
The whole experience takes around 10 hours, from 8:00 am start to later return, giving you plenty of time at each stop.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation, guided tours of cheese, wooden shoe, and diamond factories, bottled water, and a 1-hour boat cruise in Giethoorn are included. Lunch is not provided.

Can I explore the stops on my own?
Yes, you’re given free time at each location to wander and take photos. The guides are happy to accommodate spontaneous explorations if time allows.

Is the boat ride in Giethoorn free?
The boat cruise costs €13 (€13) but is included in the tour price, making it a good value for such a leisurely experience.

How many people are in the group?
The group size is limited to 19 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed atmosphere.

What’s the quality of the guides?
Reviews highlight guides like Leidse and Koen as engaging, helpful, and knowledgeable, making the tour informative and fun.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and some cash or cards for lunch or souvenirs are recommended. Umbrellas might be handy if the weather’s rainy.

Is this suitable for families?
While not specifically advertised as a family tour, the activities are generally family-friendly, especially if traveling with children who enjoy boat rides and outdoor exploration.

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

If you’re after a day that combines Dutch tradition, scenic beauty, and relaxed sightseeing without the hassle, this tour provides a dependable, enjoyable way to experience more of what the Netherlands has to offer.