Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Day Trip with Cruise

Travelers looking to escape the buzz of Amsterdam and soak in some of the Netherlands’ most iconic sights will find this tour a perfect fit. It offers a blend of scenic countryside, cultural crafts, and tranquil waterways—all packed into a well-organized 10-hour adventure.

What makes it stand out? First, the beautiful windmill village of Zaanse Schans with its traditional clog-making and cheese tasting. Then, the picturesque, car-free community of Giethoorn, often called the “Dutch Venice,” where a relaxing boat cruise reveals serene waterways and charming thatched-roof houses. Lastly, the professional guides and comfortable transport ensure a smooth, engaging experience from start to finish.

One thing to consider is the tour’s duration—10 hours can be quite full, so it’s best suited for travelers eager to explore intensively. It’s ideal for those wanting a genuine taste of Dutch countryside without the hassle of planning logistics, especially if you’re keen on authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences.

This tour is best for those craving a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and relaxed boat rides—all at a reasonable price point. If you love discovering local crafts, trying traditional foods, and enjoying stunning views in a small-group setting, you’ll likely find this day trip a highlight of your Netherlands trip.

Good To Know

• Comfortable transportation in a Mercedes minivan ensures a smooth journey.
• Expert guides like Leidse, Reinier, and others enhance the experience with detailed and engaging commentary.
• Authentic experiences include cheese tasting, wooden shoe workshops, and windmill visits.
• Giethoorn’s boat cruise offers an unparalleled view of the tranquil waterways.
• Flexible planning with hotel pickups in select Amsterdam areas.
• Good value for money considering the inclusions like guided tours, tastings, and transport.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This day trip is designed to maximize your time and immersion in Dutch culture and scenery. Starting with a hotel pickup from central or convenient locations in Amsterdam, you’ll be whisked away in a luxurious Mercedes minivan, with thoughtful touches like a power bank and umbrella—perfect for capturing photos or staying comfortable in changing weather.

Zaanse Schans: Windmills, Clogs, and Cheese

Your first stop is Zaanse Schans, a village famous for its classic Dutch windmills and traditional crafts. The guided tour allows you to snap photos of iconic windmills and watch a wooden shoe demonstration—a fun, family-friendly activity that offers insight into Dutch craftsmanship. Reviewers like Larisa praise guides like Reinier for their passion and friendliness, which makes the visit lively and informative.

The cheese factory here is a highlight. You’ll see how gouda cheese is made, and most importantly, get to sample fresh cheese during the tasting. This isn’t just a snack; it’s a genuine opportunity to savor the local flavors and understand the craftsmanship behind one of the Netherlands’ most loved products. Andrzej notes the great atmosphere and the guide’s knowledge making this stop memorable.

Scenic Drive to Giethoorn

After exploring Zaanse Schans, you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour drive through the Dutch countryside, which is a relaxing way to settle into the slower pace of rural life. The scenery is typically filled with lush fields, quaint farmhouses, and windmill silhouettes—perfect for those Instagram moments.

Giethoorn: The Village of Canals

The highlight for many is a 1-hour boat cruise through Giethoorn’s waterways. Known as the “Dutch Venice,” this car-free village is a peaceful haven where thatched-roof cottages sit alongside narrow streams. Reviewers like Fidelma describe it as “beautiful” and “very enjoyable,” with guides like Leidse ensuring everyone gets a chance to relax and take in the views.

You’ll have free time to walk around, take photos, or grab a local snack. The tour includes a guided walk that reveals the village’s history and charm. Many reviews highlight how the small group size allows for personalized attention and flexibility, making the experience feel intimate and special.

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Crafts, Culture, and Local Flavors

Back at Zaanse Schans, you’ll also experience a wooden shoe workshop—a fun way to connect with Dutch traditions. Some tours include a diamond demonstration, adding more local crafts to appreciate. The guides’ enthusiasm and local insights have received praise; Emma calls Eric “amazing,” noting his humor and extensive knowledge.

Practical Considerations and Value

The tour costs around $135 per person, which covers hotel pickup and drop-off, guided sightseeing, tastings, and the boat cruise. That’s a fair price for a full day of sightseeing, especially considering the small-group style that fosters a relaxed atmosphere.

While lunch isn’t included, there’s plenty of time to find a local café or grab a snack during the free periods. The boat rental in Giethoorn isn’t included, but that’s an optional extra if you want to explore more independently.

The 10-hour duration might be a long day for some, but most reviews suggest the pacing is well-managed, with enough breaks to keep everyone comfortable. The guides’ professionalism and friendly attitude keep the energy high and the experience enjoyable.

Why This Tour Works

This trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into Dutch rural life, blending scenic beauty with hands-on craft experiences and delicious food. The small-group format ensures a more personal touch, allowing guides to tailor their commentary and responses to your questions.

The transportation in a luxurious Mercedes minivan makes the long drives comfortable, and the inclusion of essentials like a power bank and umbrella shows thoughtful planning. Plus, the hotel pickup makes logistics simple, removing the hassle of finding meeting points.

The guides frequently earn praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and patience—making even a busy itinerary feel relaxed and enjoyable. Reviewers mention how guides like Leidse, Reinier, and Eric elevate the experience through their enthusiasm and professionalism.

Who is it best suited for?

If you’re keen on experiencing a mix of Dutch culture, scenic landscapes, and tranquil waterways, this tour is ideal. It suits history buffs, craft lovers, and those who want a peaceful escape from city life. It’s also great for small groups or families looking for a more intimate, guided experience.

However, travelers who prefer a very relaxed pace or fewer stops might find the day a bit packed. Still, for those wanting a rundown of Dutch countryside highlights in one day, this trip hits the mark.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, making it a full-day experience with plenty of sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guided visits, cheese tasting, wooden shoe workshop, a diamond demonstration, a 1-hour Giethoorn cruise, a bottle of water, a power bank, and an umbrella.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the package. You’ll have free time to find local options at your own expense.

Can I join if I’m staying outside central Amsterdam?
Yes, pickup is available in select areas within the A10 Highway Ring, excluding the north part of the Het IJ river. You can also take a free ferry from North Amsterdam to central station.

Are small groups available?
Yes, the tour can be booked for private or small groups, which might enhance flexibility and comfort.

Is the boat cruise in Giethoorn included?
Yes, the 1-hour boat cruise through Giethoorn is included in the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. An umbrella is provided in case of rain.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is family-friendly, but always check with the provider if you are traveling with very young children.

How is the walking involved?
There’s some walking at each stop, including sightseeing and exploring on foot or in the boat, but it’s generally manageable for most.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check availability, as the tour runs year-round, but consider the weather—spring and summer offer the best scenery.

Final Thoughts

This day trip from Amsterdam offers a fantastic way to see the Netherlands beyond the city. With thoughtfully curated stops, comfortable transport, and engaging guides, it’s a solid choice for those wanting an authentic taste of Dutch rural life.

You’ll love the visual splendor of windmills and waterways, the chance to sample delicious cheese, and the personal stories guides share along the way. The small-group setup ensures you won’t feel like just another passenger but a welcomed guest exploring at a relaxed pace.

While it’s a full day, most travelers find the balance of activities and downtime just right. It’s particularly suited for adventurous, curious travelers eager to learn about Dutch craftsmanship and scenic beauty in one memorable outing.

In essence, this tour is a beautifully orchestrated journey into the heart of Dutch tradition and countryside—perfect for those who want to connect with local culture while enjoying some of the most picturesque spots in the Netherlands.

You can check if your dates are available here: