Zaandam’s walking tours offer practical ways to discover this Dutch town’s fascinating industrial heritage and picturesque landmarks.
The standout option is the Zaanse Schans Walking Tour with Smartphone – it’s wonderfully flexible and includes money-saving local discounts.
I especially love the Smartwalk Zaanse Schans route, which takes you straight to the good stuff: traditional cheese makers and those magnificent windmills that define the landscape.
For history buffs, the Self-Guided Interactive Walking Tour of central Zaandam hits all the right notes, while the audio-guided Zaanse Schans tour works well for international visitors, offering multiple language options.
Let’s explore the top walking tours worth your time and money.
Good To Know
The Self-Guided Interactive Walking Tour in Zaandam is highly rated at 5.0 and offers an engaging experience with questions, challenges, pictures, and videos.
The Zaanse Schans Walking Tour with Smartphone provides a 2.5-hour self-guided tour with interactive questions and discounts at local restaurants and shops.
The Smartwalk Zaanse Schans Walking Tour offers historical information and key landmarks like cheese farms and windmills, but has outdated attraction prices and limited opening hours.
The Zaanse Schans: Self-Guided City Walking Tour with Audio Guide provides a 2-3 hour immersive experience covering 2.8 km across 30 stops with GPS guidance and flexible booking.
All walking tours are accessible via public transport and suitable for wheelchair users, except for the Zaanse Schans Walking Tour, which is not recommended for children under 10.
Zaanse Schans Walking Tour With Your Smartphone
For those seeking an immersive experience, the Zaanse Schans & Zaandijk Walking Tour with your smartphone offers a unique and flexible way to explore the historic Zaanse Schans and old Zaandijk. Priced at just $15.88 for up to 4 participants, the 2.5-hour self-guided tour can be started at your convenience.
Along the way, you’ll earn points by answering interactive questions about the area’s history, and receive discounts at local restaurants and shops.
The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and available in both Dutch and English. While not suitable for children under 10 or those with mobility issues, the tour includes entrance fees to museums and attractions.
Participants can park at the Zaans Museum for €11 or start at the Zaanse Schans station. With an overall rating of 3.7/5 from 9 reviews, the tour has received mixed feedback, with some finding it informative and others feeling the entry fees were unnecessary.
Nonetheless, it provides a novel way to discover the charming Zaanse Schans and Zaandijk at your own pace.
Read our full review: Zaanse Schans Walking Tour With Your Smartphone Review
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Smartwalk Zaanse Schans Walking Tour With Your Smartphone
Frequently, the Smartwalk Zaanse Schans Walking Tour with Your Smartphone provides visitors an immersive and self-guided exploration of the historic Zaanse Schans and old Zaandijk in Zaandam, Netherlands.
Priced at $21.63 for up to 4 people, the tour delivers a walking route with historical information and questions about key landmarks. Participants can expect to see a cheese farm, clog maker, and iconic windmills, which have received praise for their engaging visits and explanations.
While the tour offers convenient access via car or public transport, users have noted some downsides, such as outdated information on attraction prices and limited opening hours, with most sites closing by 5 PM.
Plus, the lack of guided directions has resulted in some participants relying on Google Maps for navigation.
Read our full review: Smartwalk Zaanse Schans Walking Tour With Your Smartphone Review
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Self-Guided Interactive Walking Tour in the Centre of Zaandam
This self-guided interactive walking tour in the centre of Zaandam provides visitors an engaging and informative exploration of the city’s historic landmarks.
With a total of 7 reviews and an impressive 5.0 overall rating, this tour offers a unique experience that allows travelers to chat with questions, challenges, pictures, and videos about the tour at their own pace.
The tour starts at the Stadhuisplein and ends at Dam Square, both of which are conveniently located just 1 km from the central station, close to bars, restaurants, and other activities.
Boasting wheelchair and stroller accessibility, as well as proximity to public transportation, this tour is accessible to most travelers.
Upon purchase, the tour automatically begins, eliminating the need for a tour guide.
Offering confirmation at the time of booking and additional information available upon request, this self-guided interactive walking tour in the centre of Zaandam promises a delightful and informative experience for visitors exploring the charming city.
Read our full review: Self-Guided Interactive Walking Tour in the Centre of Zaandam Review
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Zaanse Schans: Self-Guided City Walking Tour With Audio Guide
Travelers exploring the picturesque Zaanse Schans can embark on a self-guided city walking tour with an informative audio guide. This 2-3 hour walking tour covers a distance of 2.8 km across 30 stops and stories. Accessible via the City App Tour, the audio guide is available in 7 languages, providing an immersive experience.
The tour includes GPS guidance and instructions for activation sent via email after booking. No fixed meeting point is required, as participants can download the CityAppTour app for navigation. The activity ends back at the starting point, and most travelers can participate, though it’s not wheelchair accessible.
Booking is flexible, with a confirmation received immediately and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Prices start from $7.22 per person, with a reserve now and pay later option available.
Whether exploring the charming windmills or discovering the region’s rich history, this self-guided walking tour offers an engaging and convenient way to experience the Zaanse Schans.
Read our full review: Zaanse Schans: Self-Guided City Walking Tour With Audio Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
Questions About Staying Here
What Is the Best Time of Day to Take These Tours?
The best time of day to take these walking tours is typically in the morning or early afternoon. This allows visitors to explore the area when it’s less crowded and the weather is more pleasant.
Are the Tours Accessible for People With Disabilities?
The tours are generally accessible for people with disabilities, though it’s best to check with the tour operators in advance to ensure specific accommodations can be made. Many offer wheelchair-friendly routes and have knowledgeable guides to assist visitors.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tours?
Most walking tour operators in Zaandam don’t allow pets on their tours. However, some may accommodate service animals with advance notice. It’s best to check with the specific tour company about their pet policy before booking.
Do the Tours Include Any Food or Drink Tastings?
Many walking tours in the area offer food and drink tastings as part of the experience. Participants can expect to sample local specialties and learn about the region’s culinary traditions during these tours.
How Long Do the Walking Tours Typically Last?
The walking tours typically last 2-3 hours, depending on the tour and the pace of the group. They provide a rundown of the area, allowing visitors to explore the highlights at a comfortable pace.
Worth The Stay
Zaandam offers a variety of engaging walking tours, catering to diverse preferences. Whether you opt for a smartphone-guided exploration of the picturesque Zaanse Schans or a self-guided tour through the city center, these experiences provide an immersive way to discover Zaandam’s rich history and charming sights. With audio guides and interactive elements, visitors can customize their walking adventures and uncover the unique character of this Dutch destination.