Private CUS Tour: giethoorn & Windmill zaanse en//

Traveling through the Netherlands often feels like wandering through a storybook, especially when it involves the iconic windmills and tranquil canals. This private tour from Amsterdam offers a tailored way to explore some of the most picturesque spots in North Holland—Giethoorn, Zaanse Schans, and beyond. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and thoughtful touches suggest it’s a wonderful way to soak up authentic Dutch scenery without the stress of crowded group tours.

What really caught our eye is the combination of private transportation, customized stops, and the chance to enjoy local crafts like cheese and clog making. We also love that you can choose your preferred guide language—either English or Chinese—making this experience flexible for different travelers. The only thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t include a private boat ride in Giethoorn, which is often a highlight, but it’s easy to see how this tour balances value with insider access.

This tour is perfect for those wanting a personalized Dutch adventure, especially if you value comfort, flexibility, and authentic sights. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group, the customization options make it a versatile choice.

Good To Know

Personalized Experience: Fully customizable itinerary and guide language options.
Comfortable Transport: Private transfers in a 5-seater sedan or Mercedes-Benz minivan.
Authentic Sights: Visit Giethoorn’s canals and windmills at Zaanse Schans, with craft demonstrations included.
Scenic Cruise: Private boat ride through Giethoorn’s stunning waterways, ideal for capturing those perfect photo moments.
Cultural Insights: Opportunities to see clog and cheese factories, plus a windmill museum with historical buildings.
Flexible & Private: Exclusively for your group with a flexible schedule, making it ideal for those who dislike crowds or rigid schedules.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: An Overview of What You Can Expect

Starting Point & Pickup: The tour begins with hotel or airport pickup in Amsterdam, setting a relaxed tone from the start. The use of private transportation means no crowded buses—just you, your group, and your guide. According to reviews, the vehicle options are well-suited for small groups, with a Toyota 5-seater for 1-4 people or a Mercedes-Benz minivan for larger parties, providing both comfort and space.

Windmill Village & Cheese Factory: Arriving at Zaanse Schans, you’ll step into a living open-air museum where windmills still turn, and old buildings showcase Dutch life from centuries past. Visitors often enjoy watching clog-making demonstrations and exploring the cheese and dairy workshops. One reviewer, Juan Jose, mentioned “Cheng is very attentive, we had a wonderful day,” highlighting the guide’s role in making the experience memorable.

Giethoorn & Canal Cruise: After a scenic drive through the countryside, you’ll reach Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the North.” Thanks to the absence of roads in the village, canals are the main streets, and boats are the preferred mode of transport. A private cruise allows you to float past charming thatched-roof houses, lush greenery, and peaceful waterways at your own pace. While the tour doesn’t include the boat ride, many travelers find this a highlight, especially when combined with the chance to explore the village’s quaint paths and bridges.

Lunch & Leisure: The tour includes time for a relaxed lunch in Giethoorn. You can savor local dishes overlooking the canals, making it a perfect break to appreciate the scenery and take photos. Many reviews point out the leisurely pace and the ability to explore without feeling rushed, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Return to Amsterdam: The day wraps up with a smooth drive back, typically arriving around 6:30-7:00 pm, giving you ample time to unwind or grab a dinner in the city.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

While the price might seem moderate, the inclusion of private transport, personalized guides, and exclusive visits (cheese and clog factories, windmill museum) makes it a well-rounded day trip. You’re paying for comfort, flexibility, and authentic experiences, rather than just ticking off tourist sites.

The fact that you can customize the itinerary and guide language makes this appealing for different types of travelers, from families to couples or small groups of friends. It also suits those who prefer a slower, more intimate exploration rather than large bus tours that rush through key sights.

Deep Dive: What Makes Each Stop Stand Out

Zaanse Schans Windmill Village

Here, the old Dutch windmills aren’t just picturesque—they’re historical industrial icons. With over 250 years of history, these windmills once powered a variety of industrial tasks. Three are open to visitors, and you might find yourself captivated by the stories behind each mechanism. Watching clog-making shows or browsing the cheese workshop adds layers of cultural appreciation. Traveling with a guide means you get stories and context that you won’t find in a guidebook, making the visit more meaningful.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Giethoorn Village

The “Venice of the North” isn’t just a pretty nickname—it’s a living village where boats, not cars, carve through the waterways. Many reviewers, like Juan Jose, have praised the attentive guide, Cheng, for adding local insights that elevate the experience. The private cruise offers peaceful views and a chance to capture stunning photos of old houses and lush greenery from the water. The absence of roads in Giethoorn means it’s a slow-paced escape from city life, perfect for relaxing and appreciating Dutch craftsmanship and natural beauty.

Cheese & Clog Factories

Seeing traditional crafts in action is a highlight. The cheese factory allows visitors to sample local varieties, while the clog factory reveals the artistry behind this iconic Dutch craft. These stops aren’t just about tourist souvenirs—they’re about understanding local life and heritage. The Windmill Village museum also showcases old shipyards and historic buildings, giving a picture of what life was like centuries ago in the Netherlands.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Transportation: The private vehicle ensures a comfortable, quiet ride with plenty of room for luggage or shopping finds. For larger groups, the Mercedes-Benz minivan is a luxurious upgrade, though it requires booking for five or more people.

Timing & Pacing: Starting around 9:30 am and returning by evening, the schedule feels well-paced. The tour allows you to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. However, the itinerary is flexible, so you can adjust timing or skip certain stops if preferred.

Inclusions & Extras: Bottled water and all fees are included, but note that the private boat ride in Giethoorn is not part of the package. If this is a must-do, you might consider adding it separately.

Guide & Language: Language options are available—either English or Chinese—making it accessible for non-native speakers. The reviews highlight guides like Cheng, who are attentive and knowledgeable, adding a personal touch.

Flexibility & Customization: The tour prides itself on being customizable, so you can tailor your day to match your interests and pace.

Final Thoughts

This private tour offers a well-rounded, comfortable way to experience some of North Holland’s most iconic sights. The combination of windmills, canal villages, craft demonstrations, and private transportation makes it suitable for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed Dutch adventure. The ability to choose your guide language and customize the itinerary ensures a personalized experience that’s both enjoyable and memorable.

While it doesn’t include every possible attraction (like the Giethoorn boat ride), the overall value lies in the flexibility, exclusivity, and quality of the visits. The tour is particularly ideal for those who want to avoid large groups, prioritize comfort, and take their time exploring at their own pace.

If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic, and insightful day trip from Amsterdam that combines history, craftsmanship, and stunning views, this tour hits many of the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour private?
Yes, it is exclusively for your group, with options for small groups in a sedan or larger groups in a minivan.

What languages are available for the guide?
Guides are available in English or Chinese, allowing for personalized communication.

Does the tour include a boat ride in Giethoorn?
No, the private boat ride is not included, but many travelers add it on separately if they wish.

How long is the overall tour?
The tour is approximately 10 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening, with flexible scheduling.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll travel comfortably in an air-conditioned vehicle, suited for 3-4 people in a sedan or 5-9 in a minivan.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely, the tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to prioritize certain stops or skip others.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Yes, the relaxed pace and private setting make it suitable for travelers of all ages who enjoy scenic, cultural outings.

In summary, this private CUS Tour provides a tailored, comfortable way to explore North Holland’s most scenic and charming locations. With the added benefit of flexibility, knowledgeable guides, and scenic highlights, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a deeper connection with Dutch culture and landscapes without the hassle of crowded group tours.

You can check if your dates are available here: