Discover the hidden gems of the Netherlands that lie beyond Amsterdam’s bustling streets. This captivating tour takes travelers on an 8.5-hour journey to uncover the rich heritage and natural wonders of the Dutch landscape. From quaint villages to historic sites and engineering marvels, each destination offers a unique perspective on the country’s diverse culture. With a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, and all admission fees included, this experience promises to unveil the lesser-known treasures that make the Netherlands a truly fascinating destination. Intrigued? Read on to explore the itinerary and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.
Good To Know
- Explore a charming Dutch village with well-preserved wooden houses and a striking 17th-century town hall on this 8.5-hour guided tour from Amsterdam.
- Discover the impressive 18th-century Museum-mill of Schermerhorn and learn about the role of windmills in Dutch culture and economy.
- Visit the oldest working planetarium in the world in Franeker, showcasing 18th-century scientific knowledge and mechanical marvels.
- Uncover the mystery of the mummified individuals preserved in the Wieuwerd crypt, dating back to the 18th century.
- Experience the impressive Afsluitdijk, a 32-kilometer dyke that transformed the Zuiderzee into the freshwater IJsselmeer, demonstrating Dutch engineering expertise.
Tour Overview
The tour package offers a unique opportunity to explore five lesser-known gems in Amsterdam’s vicinity. Priced at €3,168 per person, the 8.5-hour tour takes visitors to historic villages, windmills, a UNESCO-listed planetarium, and the famous Afsluitdijk.
The group size is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience with a live English-speaking guide. Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the "reserve now, pay later" option allows them to secure their spot without upfront payment.
The tour includes snacks, beverages, air-conditioned transportation, and admission fees for all sites, providing a seamless and immersive journey through these captivating hidden gems.
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Itinerary Highlights
Starting at the historic village of De Rijp, the tour showcases its wooden houses, an old bridge, and a town hall from the Dutch Golden Age, providing a captivating glimpse into the country’s rich heritage.
Next, the group visits the Museum-mill of Schermerhorn, one of the most beautiful and less crowded windmills in the Netherlands.
In Franeker, the tour explores the oldest working planetarium in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built between 1774 and 1781.
Later, the mummie-crypt of Wieuwerd reveals four mummified individuals, a scientific mystery.
The experience culminates at the impressive Afsluitdijk, a 32-kilometer dyke showcasing Dutch water management ingenuity.
De Rijp
Although a small village, De Rijp captivates visitors with its well-preserved history and charming architectural gems.
The tour starts here, showcasing the town’s wooden houses, an old bridge, and a striking town hall from the Dutch Golden Age.
Wandering through De Rijp’s quaint streets, travelers can imagine themselves transported back in time, surrounded by the village’s well-maintained 17th and 18th-century structures.
This historic setting provides a scenic introduction to the day’s exploration of the Netherlands’ hidden treasures, whetting the appetite for the remarkable sights that lie ahead on the itinerary.
Museum-mill of Schermerhorn
After exploring the historic charms of De Rijp, the tour progresses to the Museum-mill of Schermerhorn, one of the Netherlands’ most beautiful and less crowded windmills.
Visitors will be captivated by:
The mill’s impressive 18th-century design, featuring a colossal wooden structure and sails that tower over the picturesque landscape.
The opportunity to step inside the mill and witness the intricate mechanics that powered the grinding of grains in the past.
Engaging exhibits that provide insights into the mill’s history and the role of windmills in Dutch culture and economy.
This unique museum-mill offers a glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich heritage, complementing the tour’s exploration of the country’s hidden gems.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyPlanetarium Franeker
Nestled in the quaint town of Franeker, the Planetarium Franeker stands as the oldest working planetarium in the world, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was built between 1774 and 1781. Visitors can marvel at the intricate celestial mechanics of this remarkable astronomical instrument, which offers a rare glimpse into the scientific knowledge of the 18th century. The planetarium features:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Orrery | A mechanical model of the solar system |
| Armillary Sphere | A model of the celestial sphere |
| Mechanical Planets | Planets orbiting the sun in real-time |
This one-of-a-kind attraction provides a captivating educational experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and explore the wonders of the cosmos.
Mummie-crypt of Wieuwerd
What makes the Mummie-crypt of Wieuwerd so intriguing? This little-known site houses a fascinating mystery that’s puzzled scientists for years.
Visitors can discover four mummified individuals, eerily preserved in a local church crypt. The mummies are believed to date back to the 18th century, and their origins and causes of death remain uncertain.
The crypt’s highlights include:
- The remarkably well-preserved state of the mummies, with skin and hair still intact.
- The mystery surrounding their identities and how they ended up in this secluded crypt.
- The church’s somber and atmospheric setting, adding to the crypt’s air of intrigue.
Exploring this unique historical site is sure to leave a lasting impression on any visitor.
Afsluitdijk
The Afsluitdijk is an impressive 32-kilometer dyke that stands as a remarkable feat of Dutch water management.
This engineering marvel separates the Zuiderzee, a saltwater inlet, from the Wadden Sea. Completed in 1932, the Afsluitdijk was a crucial project that transformed the Zuiderzee into the freshwater IJsselmeer.
Visitors can marvel at the scale and significance of this iconic structure, which serves as a vital flood defense system. During the tour, travelers will have the opportunity to take in the views from the dyke, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Dutch people’s ingenious approach to water challenges.
The Afsluitdijk exemplifies the country’s expertise in hydraulic engineering and its commitment to safeguarding its land from the unpredictable forces of nature.
Inclusions and Meeting Point
The tour package includes snacks and beverages, though lunch isn’t provided.
Participants will have an air-conditioned vehicle and a knowledgeable guide to escort them throughout the day. The admission fees for all the sites, including the windmill, planetarium, and mummie-crypt, are also covered in the tour price.
The tour starts and finishes at De Ruyterkade 5, opposite the Kamer van Koophandel (Chamber of Commerce), which is accessible from Amsterdam Central Station.
Participants should look for the vehicle with the company logo, "Best of The Netherlands tours", to identify their transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year to Take This Tour?
The best time to take this tour is year-round, as the hidden gems can be enjoyed in any season. However, some visitors may prefer the milder weather of spring or fall for a more comfortable outdoor experience.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
While the standard itinerary can’t be customized, the tour operator may accommodate specific requests if made in advance. Travelers can discuss their interests with the guide to enhance their experience within the existing tour framework.
Is There a Discount for Students or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t explicitly offer student or senior discounts. However, customers can contact the tour operator to inquire about any available discounts or special rates for specific groups.
How Much Walking Is Involved During the Tour?
The tour involves moderate walking, with approximately 30-45 minutes spent at each of the 5 featured destinations. Participants should expect to be on their feet for the majority of the 8.5-hour excursion.
Can I Visit the Sites on My Own if I Don’t Take the Tour?
Yes, visitors can explore the sites on their own without taking the tour. However, they’d miss out on the expert guidance and insider knowledge provided by the live tour guide. The tour offers a more enriching and convenient experience.
The Sum Up
This captivating tour promises to unveil the rich heritage of the Dutch landscape. Travelers will explore five unique and intriguing hidden gems, including a quaint village, a historical museum-mill, the world’s oldest working planetarium, a mysterious mummie-crypt, and an impressive dyke. With a knowledgeable guide, air-conditioned transport, and all admission fees included, this 8.5-hour experience is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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