Excursion to Windmills and Amsterdam Boat Ride

Exploring the Windmills and Canals of Holland: A Practical Tour Review

Our review of the “Excursion to Windmills and Amsterdam Boat Ride” offers a detailed look at what this popular day trip provides. While we haven’t personally taken the tour, the comprehensive information available paints a clear picture of an experience that balances scenic beauty, culture, and convenient logistics.

What we love most about this tour is its focus on authentic Dutch experiences: visiting Zaanse Schans, tasting Gouda and Edam cheeses, and watching traditional clog-making. The inclusion of a boat ride on Amsterdam’s canals adds a relaxing, picturesque ending. A potential downside is that the tour is quite structured—if you’re seeking off-the-beaten-path adventures or a more flexible schedule, this might feel a bit tight.

This tour suits travelers who want a well-organized, cultural overview of Holland without the hassle of planning multiple activities. It’s perfect for those who appreciate history, local craftsmanship, and scenic views, all wrapped into a manageable half-day trip.

Good To Know

• Authentic Dutch Culture: Experience working windmills, cheese tasting, and clog demonstrations.
• Comfort & Convenience: Round-trip train transport from Amsterdam ensures ease and comfort.
• Expert Guidance: Guided in Spanish, providing informative storytelling.
• Diverse Experiences: Combines rural sightseeing with a scenic canal cruise.
• Cost-Effective: At $71, offers a lot of value for a comprehensive cultural day out.
• Time Efficient: Approximately 3 hours exploring and 2 hours traveling, ideal for a half-day escape.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point & Transportation

The tour kicks off at Amsterdam Central Station, where the guide is easy to spot with a blue-green umbrella or a sign bearing the “Amsterdam in a Million” logo. Being centrally located, this makes it simple for travelers staying in or near the city to join. The bus ride to Zaanse Schans is replaced by comfortable round-trip train travel, which not only feels more relaxed but also integrates travelers into local transport habits—an added bonus if you love feeling like a local.

Zaanse Schans: The Heart of Traditional Holland

Once at Zaanse Schans, you’ll step into a postcard-perfect scene of historic windmills, many still operational. The guide will lead a guided visit to the village, highlighting the importance of the windmills in Dutch history—used historically for oil, cereal, and mustard production. You’ll get to enter a working windmill and see firsthand how these giants keep turning, their blades a backdrop for countless photos.

This stop is especially valued for its authenticity. Multiple reviews mention that it’s not just a superficial visit—you’re allowed inside a real mill, which adds a layer of insight that many other tours skip. Visitors also find the clog factory demonstration fascinating; watching artisans craft traditional wooden shoes in real-time offers an intimate glimpse into Dutch craftsmanship.

Cheese Tasting & Clog Workshop

Next, the tour includes a visit to a traditional cheese factory. Here, expect to taste Gouda and Edam cheeses, two Dutch staples. One reviewer noted that “the cheese tasting was delicious, and the variety was impressive”, emphasizing that this was a highlight for many.

The live clog-making demonstration provides a tangible connection to Dutch tradition. Observers often comment that seeing the artisans at work makes the experience more engaging. Plus, sampling fresh cheese directly from the factory floor is a treat that leaves a lasting impression.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Return & Amsterdam Canal Ride

After roughly three hours exploring Zaanse Schans, you’ll return to Amsterdam. The journey from the rural windmill village is quick and comfortable, thanks to the train transfer. The highlight on return is the canal cruise, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Amsterdam’s famed architecture and waterways. This relaxing boat ride is a perfect way to unwind after the morning’s activities.

Overall Experience & Value

At $71 per person, this tour offers good value considering the variety of experiences packed into a half-day. The inclusion of transportation, guided visits, entrance to a working windmill, cheese tasting, clog demonstration, and a canal cruise makes it a comprehensive option for those new to Holland or short on time.

Practical Tips & Considerations

• Timing: Departing from Amsterdam Central Station early in the day allows plenty of time for exploration without feeling rushed.
• Comfort: The round-trip train and guided tour setup ensure a stress-free experience, especially for travelers unfamiliar with Dutch public transport.
• Language: The guide speaks Spanish, making it ideal for Spanish-speaking travelers; other language options may not be available.
• Booking & Cancellation: You can reserve your spot with the flexibility to pay later, and full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
• Duration: The entire experience lasts about 3 hours of touring, plus travel time, fitting well into a half-day schedule.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers seeking a cultural overview of Holland—from windmills and cheese to traditional crafts—and prefer a structured, guided approach. It’s perfect for those wanting to avoid the stress of planning logistics themselves while still enjoying genuine, local sights. If you’re a fan of scenic boat rides, historical villages, and authentic Dutch traditions, this tour offers a well-balanced mix.

FAQ

Is transportation between Amsterdam and Zaanse Schans included?
Yes, the tour includes round-trip transportation by train from Amsterdam city center, ensuring a seamless transfer.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 3 hours, including the guided visit, cheese tasting, clog demonstration, and the canal ride.

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
The guide speaks Spanish, so it’s best suited for Spanish-speaking travelers. Other language options aren’t specified.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the price?
The price covers guide services, transportation, entrance to a working windmill, cheese tasting, clog demonstration, and the canal cruise.

Is there any time spent shopping?
While not explicitly stated, visits to the cheese factory and clog workshop involve demonstrations, which may include opportunities to purchase souvenirs.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, especially given the family-friendly nature of cheese tasting and demonstrations.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, and a camera to capture the picturesque windmills and canals.

Will I get enough time at each stop?
Yes, the scheduled stops are designed for a balanced experience, with enough time to enjoy each activity without feeling rushed.

Is the canal cruise included in the tour price?
Yes, the boat ride on Amsterdam’s canals is part of this package, providing a scenic, relaxing end to the day.

To sum it up, this tour offers a thoughtful, well-organized excursion into Dutch culture—perfect for those who want an immersive yet manageable experience of Holland’s iconic sights. It balances rural charm with urban elegance, from windmills and cheese to scenic waterways, all at a reasonable price point. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning traveler, it provides a clear snapshot of what makes Holland special, wrapped into a comfortable, guided package.

If you’re looking for a day that combines scenic beauty, cultural insight, and comfort, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially ideal for travelers who prefer guided experiences that cover the essentials without the hassle of multiple bookings or complex planning.

You can check if your dates are available here: