From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Edam, & Marken Full-Day Trip

Enjoy the captivating Dutch heritage on this guided tour from Amsterdam. You’ll explore iconic landmarks like the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans, the quaint cheese market in Edam, and the picturesque village of Volendam. Indulge in authentic cheese tastings, witness traditional clog-making, and gain invaluable insights from knowledgeable guides. With a duration of 6.5 to 7.5 hours, this tour promises an unforgettable day filled with stunning scenery and cultural discoveries. Uncover the charm that lies beyond Amsterdam’s city limits.

Key Points

• This full-day trip from Amsterdam covers the historic towns of Zaanse Schans, Edam, and Marken, showcasing iconic Dutch windmills, cheese markets, and traditional wooden shoe-making.
• The tour includes an English or Spanish-speaking guide, transportation, and entry to attractions, with a price starting from $37.45 per person.
• Highlights of the itinerary include visiting the windmills of Zaanse Schans, exploring the cheese-making traditions of Edam, and witnessing the production of wooden clogs.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible and involves a significant amount of walking, with the option of an additional canal cruise on select tours.
• With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from over 3,000 reviews, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and beautiful scenery, though some reviews mention rushed demonstrations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Edam, & Marken Full-Day Trip is a popular tour that allows visitors to explore the picturesque Dutch countryside outside of Amsterdam.

Lasting 6.5 to 7.5 hours, the tour covers several historic towns and villages, including the renowned windmill village of Zaanse Schans, the charming cheese town of Edam, and the fishing community of Marken.

Priced from $37.45 per person, the tour includes a knowledgeable guide, transportation, and entry to various attractions.

With a rating of 4.8/5 from over 3,000 reviews, it’s an excursion that’s sure to delight travelers seeking an authentic Dutch experience.

Highlights of the Itinerary

Starting from multiple convenient locations in Amsterdam, the tour whisks visitors away to explore the highlights of the Dutch countryside.

The first stop is Zaanse Schans, where travelers can admire the iconic Dutch windmills and learn about their historical significance and modern-day use.

Next, the tour takes guests to the charming town of Edam, famous for its traditional cheese market and historical sites.

Finally, the tour visits Volendam, where travelers can enjoy a cheese tasting at a local producer and witness the craftsmanship of traditional Dutch wooden shoe-making at a clog factory.

Tour Inclusions

This full-day tour from Amsterdam includes several key elements to provide travelers with a comprehensive cultural experience.

An English or Spanish-speaking guide accompanies the group throughout the day, sharing insights about the destinations.

Transportation by bus allows for easy travel between the different sites. Visitors will explore the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans, the charming town of Edam, and the fishing village of Volendam, where they’ll enjoy a cheese tasting.

The tour also includes a stop at a clog workshop to learn about traditional Dutch wooden shoe production.

An optional canal cruise is available on select tours.

Accessibility and Restrictions

Although the tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience, it may not be suitable for all travelers.

There are a few key accessibility and restriction considerations:

1. The tour bus isn’t wheelchair accessible, so it isn’t recommended for wheelchair users.

2. Pets aren’t allowed on the tour.

3. Babies require their own Maxi-Cosi car seats, which must be provided by the traveler.

Plus, the tour includes a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

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What to Bring and Expect

When preparing for this full-day adventure, travelers should bring comfortable walking shoes. The tour involves a significant amount of walking, so proper footwear is essential.

Plus, visitors may want to pack a light jacket or sweater, as the weather can be unpredictable, especially at the coastal destinations.

Travelers should pack a light jacket or sweater, as the weather can be unpredictable, especially at the coastal destinations.

While the bus provides storage for luggage, it’s best to travel light, as the day will involve hopping on and off transportation.

Sunscreen and a camera are also recommended to fully capture the picturesque Dutch landscapes and historic sites along the way.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour starts from multiple convenient locations in Amsterdam, including the central train station.

Transportation is provided by a private bus, allowing for comfortable travel between the different destinations.

The itinerary includes:

1. A 30-minute bus transfer from the starting point to the first stop, Zaanse Schans.

2. Additional bus transfers between Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken, enabling visitors to explore each location thoroughly.

3. The bus is equipped with storage space for any luggage or belongings, ensuring a hassle-free journey.

The tour guide accompanies the group throughout the day, providing insights and facilitating a seamless experience.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Reviewers have largely praised the tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on over 3,000 reviews. Guests frequently commend the knowledgeable and entertaining tour guides, who provide valuable cultural insights. The early start time is also a highlight, allowing for fewer crowds at attractions. While some reviews mention the demonstrations feeling rushed, the majority of feedback emphasizes the tour’s enjoyable experience and beautiful scenery.

| Positive Feedback | Constructive Criticism |

| — | — |

| Informative and entertaining guides | Rushed demonstrations |

| Fewer crowds at early start time | – |

| Enjoyable experience and scenery | – |

| Valuable cultural insights | – |

| – | – |

Booking and Availability Information

Although the tour’s popularity means it’s likely to sell out, customers can check availability for starting times.

The tour offers multiple starting points, including Amsterdam Central Station. The tour is 6.5 – 7.5 hours long and is priced at $37.45 per person.

Plus, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the tour is available in English and Spanish with a live guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The average group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, the tour is described as a popular option that is likely to sell out, suggesting it may accommodate a moderately large group size to meet demand.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Lunch or Are Meals Provided?

This full-day tour doesn’t include any meals, so you’ll need to bring your own lunch. However, there’s an optional cheese tasting included, and you’ll have time to purchase food at local shops and markets along the way.

Can I Leave the Tour Group to Explore on My Own?

Participants generally cannot leave the tour group to explore on their own. The tour is structured to follow a specific itinerary, and the guide is responsible for managing the group’s movements and activities throughout the day.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?

The tour operator does not currently offer any discounts for students or seniors. However, you may want to check their website or contact them directly to inquire about any promotional offers or special pricing available.

How Much Free Time Is Allocated at Each Destination?

The tour allocates approximately 1-1.5 hours of free time at each destination, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. The schedule is designed to provide a balance between guided experiences and independent exploration.

The Sum Up

This full-day trip from Amsterdam offers a delightful exploration of Dutch heritage. Visitors will experience the charming windmills of Zaanse Schans, the quaint cheese market in Edam, and the picturesque village of Volendam. With guided tours, cheese tastings, and traditional clog-making demonstrations, the tour provides an immersive cultural experience. Priced affordably, it’s an excellent way to discover the Netherlands’ iconic sights and traditions in a single day.

You can check availability for your dates here: