Zaanse Schans Windmills, Volendam and Tulip Greenhouse Tour

Exploring the Netherlands in a Day: Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Tulip Greenhouse Tour

Planning a day trip from Amsterdam can be a great way to see more of the Netherlands beyond the city’s bustling streets. This 8-hour tour takes you through some of the most iconic sights, including the historic windmill village of Zaanse Schans, the picture-perfect fishing town of Volendam, and a vibrant, year-round tulip greenhouse. With comfortable transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and plenty of authentic experiences, it offers a balanced mix of culture, scenery, and fun.

What we love most about this tour are the stunning views of traditional Dutch craftsmanship, the chance to step inside functioning windmills, and the opportunity to bring home fresh tulips. The local guides are praised for their friendliness and insight, making the experience feel personal and engaging. The tulip greenhouse adds a colorful, fragrant touch to the day, perfect for photo lovers.

One aspect to consider is the duration of stops—some guests might wish for a little more free time at certain points. Still, for those wanting a well-organized, rundown of Dutch countryside highlights in one day, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate a cultural, scenic, and food-inclusive experience without the hassle of organizing logistics themselves.

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a full-day, guided excursion that combines iconic sights with authentic local flavor—perfect if you want an overview without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Cultural highlights include windmills, cheese farms, and traditional craftsmanship.
• Authentic local towns like Volendam provide a charming, postcard-perfect backdrop.
• The tulip greenhouse offers a vibrant, colorful look at flower production, plus a chance to take tulips home.
• Efficient logistics include hotel pickup, round-trip transportation, and a well-planned itinerary.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insights and personalized touches.
• Value for money is high considering the inclusions like tickets, local guides, and the greenhouse experience.

A Deep Dive Into the Dutch Countryside Experience

Starting with Zaanse Schans: Windmills and Wooden Shoes

Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel or designated meeting point in Amsterdam, after which you’ll head straight to Zaanse Schans, a beautifully preserved outdoor museum that showcases the Netherlands’ iconic windmills and traditional crafts. This area is a snapshot of 18th- and 19th-century rural life, with wooden homes, shops, and working windmills.

Guests who’ve visited note the “spectacular views of the windmills in action,” and many appreciate the chance to go inside one (ticket included) to see how they operate. You can also explore the Clog Museum, where wooden shoe artisans craft traditional footwear. One review mentions how watching the shoemakers at work adds a touch of old-world craftsmanship that’s fascinating to witness firsthand.

The included windmill visits—either at the oil mill De Bonte Hen or De Zoeker, or the sawmill Het Jonge Schaap—allow you to see how these structures harness natural power for practical purposes. Guests often find the balcony views especially memorable, as they get to feel the wind’s strength and see the Dutch landscape stretch out below.

Exploring Volendam: Picturesque and Flavorful

Next, you’ll visit Volendam, a town famous for its fishing heritage and traditional costumes. Here, your guide will take you to the dike overlooking the lakeside, where panoramic views of the water and boats create an ideal photo backdrop.

Guests repeatedly mention the town’s authentic charm, with narrow streets lined by colorful houses and seafood stalls. The visit includes a guided tour and free time—so you can stroll along the waterfront, sample some Dutch delicacies like haring (herring) or smoked eel, or buy souvenirs.

The break time at Volendam is a great chance to soak in the atmosphere, chat with locals, or simply enjoy the scenic views. As one guest puts it, “It’s the perfect mix of history and lively local culture.”

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Tulip Greenhouse: A Kaleidoscope of Color

The highlight for many flower lovers is the Pronk Tulpenbeleving. This year-round tulip greenhouse is packed with vibrant blossoms of all shades and varieties, making it an excellent photo opportunity.

The owners—Karijn, Colinda, Bas, and Tom—offer a guided tour that reveals how tulips are grown and cultivated using the latest machines and techniques. Guests rave about the behind-the-scenes insights and the personal passion the owners bring to their work.

You’ll enjoy coffee, tea, and treats while taking in the spectacle of endless rows of tulips. Plus, there’s the chance to take home a bouquet of tulips, adding a fragrant, colorful memory to your trip.

Many reviewers mention that the greenhouse feels like stepping into a painting—bright, cheerful, and full of life. It’s an ideal way to end the day, as you head back to Amsterdam, often reflecting on the beauty of Dutch ingenuity and natural landscapes.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses round-trip transportation by van, making it comfortable and hassle-free. You will be picked up and dropped off at your hotel or a specified location in Amsterdam, with small groups or large groups depending on the booking. The duration is about 8 hours, which balances sightseeing with ample free time at key stops.

Tour Timing and Flexibility

Starting times vary depending on availability, so it’s best to check ahead. The tour includes guided commentary in multiple languages—Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish—ensuring clear explanations of each site’s significance.

Ticket Inclusions and Extras

The ticket to one windmill at Zaanse Schans is included, giving you access to see how these iconic structures work. The tulip greenhouse tour also comes with coffee, tea, treats, and tulips to take home, making it a value-packed experience.

Potential Drawbacks

While the tour’s schedule is well-organized, some guests might find the timed stops a little rushed, especially at the towns. If you’re a slow walker or want more time to explore, you might feel slightly limited. Also, food and beverages are not included, so consider bringing snacks or planning accordingly.

Why This Tour Works for You

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of Dutch culture and scenery in a single day, making it ideal for travelers who want an easy, guided experience without worrying about logistics. The combination of historical sites, charming towns, and colorful flowers covers the quintessential Netherlands and provides plenty of memorable photo moments.

It’s particularly suitable for those who appreciate authentic craftsmanship, scenic landscapes, and local flavors. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport help keep the experience relaxed and enjoyable, while the included tickets ensure you get behind-the-scenes access to key attractions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, all-in-one day trip that combines sightseeing with cultural insights, this tour is a good choice. It’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Dutch highlights or anyone short on time but eager to see the countryside.

Travelers who love flowers, traditional crafts, and picturesque towns will find this experience especially rewarding. Keep in mind, if you prefer to explore at your own pace or want to customize your stops, a more flexible option might suit you better.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, guided tours, and free time at each stop.

Are hotel pickups included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Amsterdam, making the experience seamless for travelers.

Is ticket to a windmill included?
Yes, you get access to enter one of the windmills at Zaanse Schans.

Can I take tulips home?
Absolutely. Tulips are included in the greenhouse experience, and you can buy or take some home as a souvenir.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not specifically tailored for kids, the sights and interactive elements like visiting windmills and seeing the craftsmanship can be enjoyable for families.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included, but there are opportunities to buy local snacks and drinks during the stops.

Final Thoughts

This Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Tulip Greenhouse Tour offers a charming, well-organized way to experience some of the Netherlands’ most iconic sights without the hassle of planning. The combination of scenic landscapes, historic craftsmanship, and vibrant floral displays makes for a memorable day.

The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transport are big pluses, ensuring you get the most out of each stop. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone wanting a comprehensive taste of Dutch culture, this tour provides excellent value and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

In short, if you’re after a balanced, authentic, and engaging day trip from Amsterdam, this tour stands out as a solid choice—especially if you love scenery, tradition, and flowers as much as we do.

You can check if your dates are available here: