From Amsterdam: Dutch Windmills, Cheese and Wooden Shoes

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and craving a taste of authentic Dutch traditions, this guided day trip to Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and a cheese farm offers an ideal escape. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a well-organized, engaging experience that combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and fun hands-on activities.

What we love about this tour is its affordable price point of $42 per person, its accessible location with central pickup, and the variety of highlights—from windmills and clog-making to seaside strolls. However, one thing to keep in mind is that the itinerary involves a fair amount of walking and standing, which might not suit travelers with mobility issues. Perfect for curious culture-seekers and those wanting a balanced mix of sightseeing and relaxed exploration, this tour can truly broaden your appreciation of Dutch heritage.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Clog-making demos and cheese tastings bring Dutch traditions alive.
• Beautiful Scenery: Windmills, wooden houses, and seaside views create picture-perfect moments.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the journey with interesting stories and cultural insights.
• Good Value: At just $42, it offers a comprehensive taste of the Dutch countryside.
• Comfortable Transport: Modern buses with helpful amenities make the day smooth.
• Flexible Options: Optional canal cruise and flexible booking terms add convenience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

This 5-hour journey kicks off with a short 20-minute drive from central Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans, a hallmark of traditional Dutch industry and architecture. Here, you’ll get to see working windmills, some dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, which still serve as functional symbols of Dutch ingenuity. Photographers will love the classic scenes of windmill blades turning against a peaceful rural backdrop, perfect for capturing those iconic Holland shots.

One of the tour’s standout features is the clog-making demonstration. Guided artisans craft wooden shoes right before your eyes, allowing you to truly appreciate this centuries-old craft. The reviews highlight that guides like Yolanda and Marian are not only knowledgeable but also friendly, making the experience both educational and fun. As one reviewer noted, “Eva, the tour guide, was extremely informative,” which suggests you’ll be in good hands to learn about Dutch traditions from passionate guides.

After exploring Zaanse Schans, the tour heads to Volendam, a charming fishing village with a lively atmosphere. You’ll have time to stroll along the waterfront, admire the vibrant wooden houses, and take in the panoramic views of IJssel lake. Key sights include St. Vincent’s Church and the wooden Stolphoevekerk, both of which add historical charm. Many reviews praise the relaxed pace here, with some wishing for a bit more free time to explore and shop. The busy Fish Auction offers a lively glimpse into the village’s fishing heritage, making it a lively stop that’s perfect for snapping photos and soaking in local life.

The visit to a local cheese farm is another highlight. Here, you’ll observe how large wheels of Dutch cheese are traditionally made, and enjoy tasting some fresh samples. Several reviews rave about the cheese tasting experience, with one guest describing it as “a great value” and praising the guide’s insights into Dutch cheese culture. The farm visit is a perfect way to connect with local food traditions, making this experience more than just sightseeing—it’s a flavorful peek into Dutch culinary heritage.

Finally, there’s an optional Amsterdam Canal Cruise included with some bookings, giving you a chance to see the city from a different perspective. Glide past historic canal houses, the Westerkerk, and the Anne Frank House—each telling stories of Amsterdam’s golden age. Reviewers mention that the boat ride is a relaxing way to wind down the day and offers a panoramic view not easily seen from land.

Transportation and Comfort

Travel is via modern single-deck buses, known for their comfort and air conditioning—especially appreciated on warm days. The buses are praised for cleanliness and punctuality, with some reviews pointing out the importance of punctuality because late arrivals may be left behind. The tour includes central Amsterdam pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics and saves you from hunting down meeting points.

The tour can accommodate infants (free of charge), provided they sit on a guardian’s lap. The only notable restriction is that the tour isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, mainly due to the walking involved at each stop.

The Experience: What You’ll Really Get

While the tour’s core attractions—windmills, cheese, and traditional crafts—are authentic and engaging, reviews reveal additional insights that shape the overall experience. Guides like Yolanda, Marian, and Ingrid are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often making the difference between an average tour and a memorable day. Guests appreciate when guides switch languages seamlessly, making the experience accessible to a diverse crowd.

Many travelers mention how the scenery at Zaanse Schans is stunning, especially in good weather, with windmills turning slowly against a peaceful sky. During rain or wind, the atmosphere shifts but the tour continues, demonstrating its resilience and commitment to delivering the experience regardless of weather.

Cheese tasting is often highlighted as a highlight—fresh, flavorful, and accompanied by interesting stories about Dutch dairy farming. Some reviewers comment on the bread or snacks available at the stop, wishing for a longer lunch or more free time at Volendam, but overall, the experience strikes a good balance.

The seaside stroll in Volendam, complete with panoramic lake views and the chance to explore shops and cafés, offers a laid-back contrast to the windmill tour. Visitors often remark on how charming the village is, with some wishing they had more time for shopping or a longer walk along the dike.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a cultural overview of the Netherlands without the hassle of organizing multiple tickets or transportation. The guided format offers deep insights into Dutch traditions, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those interested in authentic local crafts and food.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy scenic views, historical architecture, and tasting experiences. The tour’s pace and walking requirements mean it’s best for active travelers comfortable with some standing and walking, but it’s not designed for those with mobility constraints.

Families with children tend to enjoy the hands-on activities like clog-making and cheese tasting, although very young children should be aware of the walking involved. The inclusion of a canal cruise adds a relaxing touch, perfect for those who want to see Amsterdam from a different angle.

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Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the price of $42, this tour offers excellent value. It combines several key attractions—windmills, cheese, wooden shoes, and seaside views—into a manageable, well-structured day. The reviews underscore the professionalism of the guides and the quality of the sights, making it a reliable choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive glimpse of Dutch traditions without breaking the bank.

While some wish for more time at each stop, most agree the tour’s balance of guided insight and free exploration is well executed. The included transport, combined with the opportunity to see multiple highlights in just half a day, makes this a convenient way to experience the Dutch countryside.

If you’re after a fun, informative, and scenic day trip that complements your city stay, this tour is likely to meet and even exceed your expectations.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, infants up to age 3 can join for free if they sit on a guardian’s lap. The hands-on activities like cheese tasting and clog-making are often enjoyed by families, but be aware of the walking involved.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Tour Company’s office at De Ruijterkade 105, Amsterdam, just a 6-minute walk from Central Station. The office is inside a restaurant, so look for instructions or use Google Maps.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including travel time, stops, and optional activities.

What’s included in the price?
A multilingual guide, transportation by modern bus, central pickup/drop-off, clog-making demo, cheese tasting, and an optional canal cruise voucher.

Are the windmills open for entry?
Entry to the windmills can be purchased separately at Zaanse Schans, as it’s not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there’s a fair amount of walking and steps involved.

Does the tour run in bad weather?
Yes, it runs regardless of weather. It’s advisable to dress appropriately for rain or wind.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour operated in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is conducted in several languages, including English, Spanish, German, and French.

What if I want to extend my visit at some stops?
You can, but note your time will be limited, especially at Volendam, where many wish for more free time. It’s best to plan accordingly.

To sum it up, this guided Dutch countryside tour from Amsterdam offers a delightful mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and hands-on activities at a very reasonable price. It suits those eager to see windmills, taste cheese, and experience traditional crafts without the fuss of organizing their own day. With friendly guides and a well-paced schedule, you’re sure to come away with lasting memories of Dutch heritage—perfect for first-timers or anyone wanting a compact, authentic experience outside the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: