Private Tour: From Amsterdam to Windmills & Giethoorn

Enjoy the idyllic Dutch countryside on this private tour from Amsterdam. Venture beyond the bustling city to explore the charming village of Zaanse Schans, known for its iconic windmills and traditional wooden architecture. After a satisfying lunch, drift through the picturesque canals of Giethoorn, a quaint town often referred to as the "Venice of the North." With a dedicated driver and the freedom to explore at your own pace, this journey promises a unique glimpse into the Netherlands’ rich heritage and culture. Prepare to be captivated by the serene beauty and timeless allure that awaits.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive 10-hour private tour from Amsterdam to the iconic windmills of Zaanse Schans and the picturesque village of Giethoorn.
• Includes hotel pickup, sightseeing at Zaanse Schans, and a scenic boat ride through Giethoorn’s serene waterways.
• Allows for exploration of Dutch history, architecture, and culture, with opportunities to witness traditional craftsmanship.
• Offers a one-hour lunch break to sample authentic Dutch cuisine at a local restaurant.
• Provides a comfortable and scenic drive through the Dutch countryside, with drop-off at the original pickup location.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This private tour takes travelers from Amsterdam to the charming villages of Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn.

The tour lasts 10 hours and costs from €657.39 per group of up to 3 participants. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Guests don’t need to pay upfront – they can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour includes pickup from Amsterdam, sightseeing of iconic windmills in Zaanse Schans, and a scenic boat ride through Giethoorn’s waterways.

While entrance tickets are included, additional costs apply for optional activities and meals. The driver won’t act as a guide, but they’ll provide private round-trip transfers from/to the hotel in Amsterdam.

Pickup From Amsterdam

The tour begins with pickup from the guest’s hotel or a central location in Amsterdam. The driver will arrive promptly to collect your and begin the journey to the first destination, Zaanse Schans. During the drive, guests can sit back and enjoy the scenic route through the Dutch countryside.

Pickup Location	Pickup Time	Approximate Drive Time
Amsterdam Hotel	9:00 AM	30 minutes
Dam Square	9:15 AM	25 minutes
Centraal Station	9:30 AM	20 minutes
Vondelpark	9:45 AM	15 minutes
Artis Zoo	10:00 AM	10 minutes

The driver will ensure a comfortable and efficient start to the day’s activities.

Zaanse Schans Highlights

Typically, the first stop on the tour is the charming village of Zaanse Schans, renowned for its well-preserved historic windmills and quaint wooden houses.

Visitors can marvel at the iconic windmills, including the Paintmill De Kat, and learn about traditional Dutch craftsmanship at the Wooden Shoe Workshop, where they can watch a demonstration and purchase souvenirs.

Throughout the village, guests can explore the unique architecture and enjoy the region’s rich cultural heritage.

The tour highlights the picturesque scenery and offers an opportunity to explore the Netherlands’ storied past, providing a captivating introduction to the day’s adventures.

Lunch Break

After exploring the charming Zaanse Schans, the tour takes a break for lunch at a local restaurant.

This one-hour stop allows guests to recharge and sample authentic Dutch cuisine. Though not included in the tour price, the restaurant serves up delicious regional dishes in a cozy setting.

Visitors can choose from a variety of options, from hearty stews to fresh seafood platters.

The lunch break provides a welcome respite before continuing on to the next highlight – the picturesque village of Giethoorn.

With stomachs full, the group is energized and ready to discover the "Venice of the North."

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Scenic Boat Ride

Upon arrival in Giethoorn, the boat-centric tour of the "Venice of the North" commences. Gliding through the serene waterways, visitors are treated to a unique perspective of the charming village, with its picturesque thatched-roof cottages lining the banks. The boat ride, which lasts approximately 1.5 hours, allows guests to fully enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and admire the natural beauty of the area.

Feature	Description
Duration	1.5 hours
Cost	Extra fee
Highlights	Thatched-roof cottages, serene waterways
Availability	Check with tour operator

The scenic boat ride is an integral part of the Giethoorn experience, providing a leisurely and captivating way to explore this enchanting destination.

Sightseeing in Giethoorn

Following the scenic boat ride, visitors are able to explore Giethoorn’s charming Bovenwijde area on foot.

This quaint and tranquil neighborhood is known for its picturesque canals, traditional thatched-roof cottages, and lush greenery. Visitors can stroll along the winding pathways, admiring the serene waterways and taking in the peaceful ambiance.

Many choose to visit the local shops and boutiques, browsing for unique souvenirs and handcrafted items. The 1.5-hour sightseeing experience allows ample time to take in the village’s charming atmosphere and capture the quintessential Giethoorn experience.

This portion of the tour provides a delightful contrast to the earlier windmill visits, offering a chance to fully appreciate the idyllic Dutch countryside.

Return to Amsterdam

With the sightseeing in Giethoorn complete, the tour now makes its way back to Amsterdam.

After the boat ride and exploration of the picturesque village, travelers will return to the van for the journey back. The 1.5-hour drive will provide scenic views of the Dutch countryside along the way.

Upon arrival in Amsterdam, the driver will drop off participants at their original pickup location. This marks the end of the 10-hour private tour, which showcased the iconic windmills of Zaanse Schans and the charming waterways of Giethoorn.

Travelers can reflect on the unique experience and the insights gained about traditional Dutch culture and heritage during the day’s activities.

Important Information

The driver won’t act as a guide during this private tour, but rather as a dedicated chauffeur to transport travelers between the key destinations.

Guests should check the availability of different tour start times prior to booking. Pickup from locations outside the standard Amsterdam area may incur additional fees.

Entrance tickets, the scenic boat ride, and meals aren’t included in the tour price and will require extra payments on the day. Travelers should budget accordingly for these additional costs to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience on their private tour from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?

Yes, the traveler can customize the itinerary to visit additional sites. The tour provider allows for special requests, which may incur additional costs depending on the requested changes.

How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Mobility Issues?

The tour’s accessibility for individuals with mobility issues is limited. While the driver provides private transportation, some activities like the boat ride in Giethoorn may be challenging. Visitors should inquire about accessibility accommodations when booking.

Are Child-Friendly Activities Available During the Tour?

The tour includes some child-friendly activities like exploring windmills and taking a scenic boat ride in Giethoorn. However, participants should consult with the tour provider for specifics on the availability and suitability of activities for children.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Activities and Meals?

The tour has a free cancellation policy – travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Additional activities and meals have their own cancellation policies, which may vary.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Menu for Lunch?

Yes, the traveler can request a vegetarian or special dietary menu for lunch. The tour provider allows for customized meal arrangements, as long as the request is made in advance when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

This private tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the charming Dutch countryside. Visitors can experience the iconic windmills and traditional wooden houses of Zaanse Schans, indulge in authentic Dutch cuisine, and enjoy a scenic boat ride through the picturesque canals of Giethoorn. With a dedicated driver, this journey provides a personalized adventure for those seeking to enjoy Dutch culture and heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: