Amsterdam: Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk and Zaanse Schans Day Trip

The Amsterdam: Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, and Zaanse Schans Day Trip offers a captivating exploration of the Netherlands’ iconic destinations. From the quaint charm of Zaanse Schans to the impressive engineering feat of the Afsluitdijk, this guided excursion immerses travelers in the country’s rich cultural heritage. The highlight, however, lies in the serene boat cruise through the picturesque "Venice of the Netherlands" – Giethoorn. With engaging commentary and opportunities to savor local cuisine, this day trip promises an unforgettable experience. But what truly sets it apart is the chance to uncover the hidden gems that make the Netherlands so enchanting.

Good To Know

• A guided day trip from Amsterdam covering the picturesque villages of Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, and the open-air museum of Zaanse Schans.
• Priced at €118.46 per person for a 10-hour excursion, with inclusions such as a boat cruise, cultural demonstrations, and meals.
• The tour features a flexible cancellation policy and accommodates guests under 220 lbs, with private/small group options available.
• Highlights include exploring the canals of Giethoorn, witnessing the impressive Afsluitdijk, and experiencing traditional Dutch crafts at Zaanse Schans.
• The tour is highly rated by past travelers, with praise for the engaging guide and well-organized itinerary that showcases the best of the Netherlands.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

This day trip from Amsterdam offers visitors the opportunity to explore three iconic Dutch destinations – Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, and Zaanse Schans.

Priced at €118.46 per person, the 10-hour excursion includes a guided tour with an English-speaking guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, a boat cruise in Giethoorn, and various cultural experiences like cheese tasting, a wooden shoe workshop, and a diamond demonstration.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour isn’t suitable for individuals over 220 lbs (100 kg), and private or small group options are available, though group sizes may vary during peak season.

Itinerary Details

The day trip begins with pickup from locations within Amsterdam’s Highway Ring A10, excluding the north side of the IJ River.

The first stop is Zaanse Schans, where guests spend 2.5 hours exploring a cheese factory, clog workshop, and diamond demonstration.

Next, the group makes a 30-minute photo stop at the Afsluitdijk, the longest dyke in the Netherlands.

The final destination is Giethoorn, where travelers enjoy a 3-hour boat cruise through the charming canals and have lunch included.

The tour concludes with the return to Amsterdam.

• Explore Zaanse Schans’ historic windmills and craft demonstrations
• Snap photos at the iconic Afsluitdijk
• Cruise the picturesque canals of Giethoorn
• Enjoy a local lunch during the Giethoorn visit
• Transportation and guide services included throughout the day

Tour Inclusions

The day trip includes a guided tour with a live English-speaking guide.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided, ensuring a seamless start and end to the experience.

Travelers will enjoy a 1-hour boat cruise through the picturesque canals of Giethoorn, taking in the serene waterways and charming village.

Plus, the tour includes cheese tasting, a wooden shoe workshop, and a diamond demonstration, offering insights into Dutch cultural traditions.

A water bottle per guest, parking fees, and fuel are also included, making this a comprehensive and worry-free day trip.

Participant Information

Individuals over 220 lbs (100 kg) may find the day trip unsuitable. However, the organizers offer flexible options to accommodate different group sizes, with private and small group tours available. This ensures an enjoyable experience for all participants.

Some key details to consider:

• Private or small group tours can be arranged to cater to individual preferences.
• Group sizes may fluctuate during peak travel seasons.
• The boat cruise in Giethoorn is suitable for a wide range of guests.
• Parking fees and fuel are included, making the trip hassle-free.
• Travelers have praised the professionalism and attentiveness of the guide.

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Customer Feedback

Travelers have consistently praised the exceptional service and insightful experiences provided by this day trip, earning it an impressive overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 based on 36 reviews.

Highlights of the tour include the professionalism and attentiveness of the guide, Eric, who’s been singled out for his ability to provide engaging commentary and ensure a seamless experience.

Reviewers have been particularly impressed by the well-organized itinerary, which allows them to efficiently explore the unique Dutch landmarks of Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, and Zaanse Schans.

The combination of guided tours, cultural demonstrations, and scenic boat rides has consistently delighted travelers, cementing this day trip as a must-do activity for visitors to Amsterdam.

Exploring Zaanse Schans

This day trip begins with a visit to the renowned Zaanse Schans, a captivating open-air museum that showcases the rich heritage and traditional craftsmanship of the Netherlands.

Guests will:

• Explore a collection of authentic 18th and 19th-century windmills, some of which are still operational.
• Watch a demonstration at a clog workshop and learn the intricate process of making these iconic Dutch shoes.
• Visit a cheese factory and sample the region’s renowned Gouda and Edam cheeses.
• Witness a live diamond-cutting display and learn about the country’s long-standing tradition of diamond polishing.
• Stroll through quaint streets lined with picturesque wooden houses, providing a glimpse into the Netherlands’ distinctive architectural style.

Crossing the Afsluitdijk

After exploring the quaint Zaanse Schans, the tour heads to the next destination – the Afsluitdijk.

This 20-mile long dyke is a feat of Dutch engineering, connecting the provinces of North Holland and Friesland. Passengers will have a 30-minute photo stop to admire the impressive structure and take in the views of the Wadden Sea and IJsselmeer.

The Afsluitdijk plays a crucial role in protecting the Netherlands from coastal floods, showcasing the country’s innovative approach to water management.

This brief stop provides a glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich history of land reclamation and hydraulic engineering, before the tour moves on to the final destination – the charming village of Giethoorn.

Discovering Giethoorn

The tour now sets its sights on the final destination – the charming village of Giethoorn. Known as the "Venice of the Netherlands," Giethoorn offers a unique and picturesque experience.

Guests will embark on a 1-hour boat cruise through the town’s famous canals, taking in the sights of:

• Thatched-roof cottages and bridges
• Lush greenery and tranquil waterways
• Historic monuments and landmarks
• Locals punting their traditional "whisper boats"
• An included lunch to savor the local cuisine

After the scenic cruise, visitors will have ample time to explore Giethoorn’s quaint streets and charming atmosphere before heading back to Amsterdam, leaving with lasting memories of this enchanting Dutch destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

According to the tour details, guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks. However, a water bottle per guest is already included in the tour inclusions.

Is There Wheelchair Accessibility on the Boat Cruise?

Unfortunately, the boat cruise in Giethoorn isn’t wheelchair accessible. The narrow, traditional boats used for the tour can’t accommodate wheelchairs. Travelers with mobility issues may need to explore Giethoorn on foot or find alternative transportation options.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Clothing or Footwear?

For the tour, it’s recommended to wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately for the weather. No specific clothing is required, but layers may be helpful to adjust comfort during the day’s activities.

Can I Extend My Stay in Giethoorn or Zaanse Schans?

The day trip includes a set itinerary, but travelers can extend their stay in Giethoorn or Zaanse Schans if they’d like more time to explore these destinations on their own after the guided tour concludes.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour Participants?

The trip doesn’t have specific age restrictions, but isn’t suitable for individuals over 220 lbs. Private or small group options are available if travelers prefer a more customized experience.

The Sum Up

The Amsterdam: Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, and Zaanse Schans Day Trip offers a captivating exploration of the Netherlands’ iconic landmarks. Visitors can enjoy the rich cultural heritage, picturesque landscapes, and traditional craftsmanship across these destinations. Whether it’s discovering Zaanse Schans, crossing the impressive Afsluitdijk, or embarking on a scenic boat cruise in Giethoorn, this guided excursion promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the enchanting beauty of the Netherlands.

You can check if your dates are available here: