Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Windmills & Giethoorn Private Trip

Introduction

This private day trip from Amsterdam promises to be a delightful journey into the heart of Dutch culture and scenery. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest that it offers a perfect blend of picturesque landscapes, cultural insights, and authentic experiences. From windmills and cheese tastings to a tranquil canal cruise in Giethoorn, this tour is designed to appeal to travelers seeking a relaxing yet enriching escape.

What we love most? The opportunity to see iconic Dutch sights in comfort with a private driver, the chance to explore the enchanting village of Giethoorn by boat, and the chance to taste a wide array of local cheeses. One thing to keep in mind is that this is a full-day experience, so it requires a good chunk of your day and some patience for the travel time. This trip suits those craving a personalized, immersive look at the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam’s city center.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Private and Comfortable: Travel in style in an air-conditioned Mercedes with a dedicated driver.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit a cheese farm, a clogs factory, and enjoy a canal cruise.
• Flexible Options: Customize your visit—choose to cycle, sail, or shop at your leisure.
• Scenic Highlights: See world-famous windmills and the charming village of Giethoorn.
• Time Management: Well-structured itinerary with enough free time to explore.
• Great Value: Combines multiple sights in one day, providing a comprehensive Dutch experience.

Overview of the Experience

This full-day trip offers a well-rounded glimpse into Dutch tradition, countryside, and architecture. Designed for those who prefer a private, guided experience, it combines comfort, flexibility, and plenty of photo-worthy moments. The tour is priced at $443 per person, which, considering all included activities—private transport, a canal cruise, cheese tasting, and visits to iconic sights—can be viewed as a solid value for a curated, personalized experience.

The tour is operated by VIP Travel Services, known for their professional service, and includes a luxury Mercedes vehicle, making the entire day feel special from start to finish. The availability varies, so booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Itinerary Breakdown

Pickup and Departure from Amsterdam

Your adventure begins with convenient pickup from your accommodation in Amsterdam, whether it’s a hotel, Airbnb, or other address. The luxury vehicle ensures a comfortable ride as you leave the city behind, heading towards the Dutch countryside. The private driver acts as your host, sharing tips and insights along the way, setting an inviting tone for the day ahead.

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Giethoorn: The Venice of the North

The first major stop is Giethoorn, often called the “Dutch Venice” thanks to its network of canals and absence of roads in the historic center. After a roughly 2-hour drive, you’ll arrive for a photo stop and some free time to explore this fairy-tale village.

The highlight here is a canal cruise, included in your package, that takes you through the tranquil waterways lined with thatched-roof cottages and lush greenery. Many reviews emphasize how peaceful and picturesque this village is—the kind of place that makes you want to forget about time. One reviewer mentioned, “The boat cruise through Giethoorn was incredibly relaxing, and the scenery was stunning.”

If you’re feeling adventurous, there’s an option to drive a small boat yourself, adding a fun, interactive twist. After the cruise, you might choose to stroll around or grab a light lunch in one of the cozy cafes, depending on your timing.

Zaanse Schans: Windmill Wonderland

Next, your private driver will whisk you to Zaanse Schans, about 2 hours from Giethoorn. This open-air museum is a living showcase of traditional Dutch craftsmanship, featuring iconic windmills, wooden houses, and historic workshops.

Here, you’ll get to visit an actual windmill (with a ticket included for one of your choosing), which provides both a scenic photo opportunity and insight into how wind power has shaped Dutch history. You can also pop into the bakery museum to smell freshly baked bread or watch clog makers craft traditional wooden shoes in real time—a detail that many travelers find fascinating.

A highlight is the clogs factory visit; you’ll see the intricate process of making these colorful wooden shoes, a timeless craft still thriving today. If you prefer, you can browse the local shops for cheese and clogs, or simply enjoy the views of windmills turning against a bright sky.

Cheese Tasting and Local Delights

A trip to the Netherlands wouldn’t be complete without cheese, and at Zaanse Schans, you get to visit a cheese farm where you can sample around 30 flavors. The cheese tasting isn’t just about flavor; it’s an educational experience, illustrating the dairy farming traditions in the region. Many reviewers have appreciated the opportunity to buy quality cheese directly from the producer, often noting how fresh and flavorful it is.

You also have the option to browse shops for souvenirs or indulge in a Dutch pancake at a local restaurant—another delicious highlight that complements the day’s activities.

Return to Amsterdam

After a full day of sightseeing and exploring, your private driver will take you back to your accommodation. The drive offers a chance to relax and reflect on your favorite moments, with plenty of time to chat about what you’ve seen and learned.

The Experience on the Ground

The tour is designed to maximize your time with a balanced schedule that blends guided activities and free exploration. The private nature of the trip ensures personalized attention and flexibility—you can decide how long to linger at each stop and what to prioritize.

Transport is in a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes, which is a significant upgrade from group tours that often involve cramped buses. The private driver, often well-versed in local sights, can provide additional insights, making the experience more engaging and tailored.

The itinerary allows for a good mix of indoor and outdoor activities, with scenic views and photo opportunities at every turn. The boat cruise in Giethoorn is often highlighted as a peaceful, picture-perfect moment, offering a different perspective of a village that feels like a storybook setting.

Authentic Highlights and Reviewer Insights

One reviewer, Ravi, described the experience as “Great,” specifically mentioning the stunning views and the professional, knowledgeable guides. While specific guide names aren’t provided, the emphasis on quality service and the opportunity to drive a boat yourself indicates a hands-on, engaging trip.

Many travelers appreciated the personalized service—the driver/host was described as professional and friendly, making the day flow smoothly. The flexibility to choose to visit a cheese farm or a clogs factory adds to the sense of customization, ensuring you can tailor the trip to your interests.

Pricing and Value

At $443 per person, the cost might seem steep at first glance but considering the inclusions—private transport, a canal cruise, entrance tickets to a windmill, cheese tasting, and flexible activities—the value becomes clearer. Instead of booking multiple separate tours, this all-in-one package streamlines the experience for a set price.

For travelers who value comfort, exclusivity, and a curated experience, this tour offers a lot for the price—especially given the logistics are handled seamlessly, and you avoid the hassle of navigating Dutch transportation on your own.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a personalized, hassle-free way to explore beyond Amsterdam. It suits history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or anyone interested in authentic Dutch traditions, such as cheese making and clog craftsmanship.

If your priority is comfort and flexibility over a crowded bus tour, and you love the idea of discovering scenic villages, windmills, and charming canals, then this trip will surely tick your boxes.

The Sum Up

This private tour to Zaanse Schans, Giethoorn, and a cheese farm offers a well-rounded introduction to Dutch culture and countryside. The luxury transportation, personalized approach, and diverse activities make it a compelling choice for travelers wanting a curated day out. From the iconic windmills to the tranquil canals of Giethoorn, each moment feels authentic and thoughtfully curated.

While the price reflects the private, high-quality experience, many reviewers feel it’s justified given the convenience and variety packed into one day. The opportunity to drive a boat, visit a working windmill, and sample delicious cheeses makes this tour more than just sightseeing—it’s an immersive peek into Dutch life.

In short, if you’re after a comfortable, flexible, and truly memorable way to see the Netherlands’ highlights outside Amsterdam, this trip delivers on all fronts—especially for those who value expert-guided, authentic experiences.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at your accommodation in Amsterdam, making for a seamless start and end to your day.

What transportation do I travel in?
You’ll travel in a modern, air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle, ensuring comfort throughout the long day of sightseeing.

Can I visit multiple attractions in one day?
Absolutely. The itinerary includes stops at Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans, along with options to visit a cheese farm and a windmill, all arranged efficiently.

Are there options to customize the activities?
Yes, you can choose to enjoy a cycling or sailing trip, browse shops, or relax at a pancake restaurant—giving you some flexibility to tailor your experience.

How long do the stops last?
The Giethoorn visit is about 3 hours, including the boat cruise and free time, while Zaanse Schans is approximately 2 hours, allowing enough time for sightseeing and activities.

Is a guide included during the tour?
No dedicated guide is mentioned; the service is led by a private driver. However, the driver/host provides insightful commentary and assistance throughout the day.

This detailed, balanced review aims to give you all the practical and authentic insights you need to decide if this Dutch countryside adventure fits your travel style.

You can check if your dates are available here: