Northern Highlights Tour: Visit 4 Magnificent Places From Amsterdam

The Northern Highlights Tour takes travelers on a captivating journey from Amsterdam to four magnificent destinations. Guests can enjoy Dutch history and culture, from the iconic Zaanse Schans windmills to the picturesque market town. With personalized attention, stunning landscapes, and knowledgeable guides, this intimate tour promises an unforgettable experience. But what surprises await visitors along the way? Discover the hidden gems that make this tour a must-do for anyone seeking to explore the heart of the Netherlands.

Key Points

• The Northern Highlights Tour offers a personalized experience visiting four iconic Dutch destinations, including the Zaanse Schans windmills, Muiderslot castle, and a traditional market town.
• Visitors can enjoy Dutch culture by witnessing windmills in action, exploring a medieval castle, and engaging with local markets and produce.
• The tour includes complimentary snacks and is rated 5.0 based on 4 reviews, providing a high-quality and enjoyable sightseeing experience.
• Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned van/minibus, with a centrally located meeting point in Amsterdam for convenience.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.

Tour Overview

The Northern Highlights Tour from Amsterdam offers a captivating exploration of the region’s most iconic sights. Priced from $133.36 per person, this tour accommodates a maximum of 8 travelers for a personalized experience.

A captivating exploration of the region’s most iconic sights, accommodating a maximum of 8 travelers for a personalized experience, priced from $133.36 per person.

Rated 5.0 based on 4 glowing reviews, the tour showcases destinations like the famous Zaanse Schans windmills and tulip fields, a medieval castle, and a traditional market town.

Travelers can optionally rent bikes, visit museums, and take cruises at Zaanse Schans. A complimentary snack-pack is provided during the journey.

The air-conditioned van/minibus departs at 9:00 AM from a centrally located meeting point in Amsterdam.

Zaanse Schans: Windmills and Tulips

Although famed for its historic windmills, Zaanse Schans offers visitors much more than just picturesque sights.

This open-air museum showcases the region’s traditional architecture, crafts, and way of life. Visitors can explore:

1. Windmills in action, providing a glimpse into the Dutch engineering that made the country’s expansion possible.

2. Charming wooden houses, cheese factories, and workshops where artisans demonstrate their skills.

3. Tulip fields that burst with color during the spring, creating a quintessential Dutch landscape.

With its immersive experiences and scenic beauty, Zaanse Schans is a must-visit destination on the Northern Highlights Tour.

Muiderslot: Discovering a Medieval Castle

Beyond the iconic windmills and tulips, the Northern Highlights Tour ventures to the captivating Muiderslot, a medieval castle steeped in Dutch history.

Participants explore the grand fortress, learning about its strategic importance along the Vecht River. The castle’s intricate architecture and well-preserved interiors transport visitors back to the 13th century.

The grand Muiderslot fortress reveals its strategic role along the Vecht River, its 13th-century architecture immersing visitors in Dutch history.

Highlights include the impressive knight’s hall, the armory, and the serene castle gardens. With expert guides providing fascinating insights, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the castle’s role in the Netherlands’ rich past.

This stop on the tour offers a unique historical perspective away from the bustling city.

Exploring a Traditional Market Town

Where does the Northern Highlights Tour venture after the captivating Muiderslot? The tour makes its way to a charming traditional market town, where visitors can enjoy local culture and history.

The highlights include:

1. Browsing the lively outdoor market, where vendors sell fresh produce, artisanal goods, and traditional Dutch delicacies.

2. Exploring the quaint streets lined with historic buildings, some dating back to the 17th century.

3. Visiting a local cheese shop to sample renowned Dutch cheeses and learn about the cheesemaking process.

The market town provides a glimpse into the daily life of the Dutch, offering a truly authentic and engaging experience.

Activities and Attractions at Zaanse Schans

The Northern Highlights Tour takes visitors to the captivating Zaanse Schans, a living museum showcasing the region’s rich industrial heritage.

Visitors can explore historic windmills, including the iconic De Gooyer windmill, and learn about traditional crafts like wooden shoemaking. An optional bike rental allows guests to freely navigate the picturesque tulip fields and canals.

Visitors can explore historic windmills, including the iconic De Gooyer windmill, and learn about traditional crafts like wooden shoemaking. An optional bike rental allows guests to freely navigate the picturesque tulip fields and canals.

The tour also includes entry to museums highlighting the area’s storied past, from the Zaans Museum to the Weavers House.

With ample free time, travelers can savor local delicacies and browse the charming shops, seeing Zaanse Schans’ timeless allure.

Transportation and Meeting Details

The Northern Highlights Tour provides an air-conditioned van or minibus to transport guests from the meeting point at De Ruijterkade 5, 1013 AA Amsterdam, which is opposite the Chamber of Commerce.

The tour departs promptly at 9:00 AM and returns to the same meeting point at the end of the day.

Key transportation and meeting details include:

1. Meeting Point: De Ruijterkade 5, 1013 AA Amsterdam, opposite Chamber of Commerce

2. Start Time: 9:00 AM

3. End Point: Returns to the meeting point

The tour’s convenient location near public transportation makes it easily accessible for visitors.

Accessibility and Customer Feedback

Although the Northern Highlights Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are allowed.

The tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible to those using buses or trains.

Customers have praised the tour guides, Jan and Simon, for their exceptional knowledge and engaging personalities.

Tour guides Jan and Simon are praised for their exceptional knowledge and engaging personalities.

The tour’s structure is well-organized, allowing participants to avoid crowds and experience the highlights at the perfect times.

Non-native English speakers have also been accommodated, as the guides are fluent in multiple languages.

With a 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews, the Northern Highlights Tour provides a highly satisfactory experience.

FAQ

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour’s dress code is casual and comfortable. Guests are advised to wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes, as the itinerary involves outdoor activities and some walking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a complimentary snack-pack is provided during the journey. Consuming personal items should be done respectfully without disrupting the group experience.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. However, travelers can opt for the free snack-pack provided during the journey to keep costs down. The operator give you a high-quality experience at a fair price.

Can I Leave the Tour Group at Any Time?

Participants can leave the tour group at any time, but they would need to arrange their own transportation and cover any additional costs. The tour guide give you a structured experience, so leaving may impact the group’s activities.

Is Photography Allowed Throughout the Tour?

Yes, photography is permitted throughout the tour. Guests are encouraged to capture the picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, and cultural experiences at each destination, allowing them to create lasting memories of their Northern Highlights adventure.

Sum Up

The Northern Highlights Tour offers a captivating exploration of Dutch history and culture, showcasing iconic windmills, a medieval castle, and a charming market town. With a maximum of 8 travelers, this intimate experience provides personalized attention and the opportunity to take in the country’s picturesque landscapes and delightful local delicacies, all while being guided by knowledgeable experts.