Zaanse Schans Edam Volendam Private Day Tour from Amsterdam

A charming look into the Netherlands’ iconic sights and flavors

Our review of the Zaanse Schans Edam Volendam Private Day Tour from Amsterdam highlights a thoughtfully curated journey through some of the most recognizable and culturally rich spots in the Dutch countryside. While we haven’t taken the tour ourselves, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and precise descriptions make it clear this experience offers much more than just sightseeing.

From windmills and cheese to quaint villages and local delicacies, this tour promises an engaging day packed with authentic encounters. We love the way it combines history, local cuisine, and beautiful scenery — all in a manageable 9-hour window.

One consideration to keep in mind is the cost: at $1,144.88 for two, it’s an investment, but one that many find justified given the private setup, included guide, and personalized attention. This experience suits travelers eager to explore Dutch culture in a more intimate setting, especially those interested in food, traditional crafts, and scenic villages.

Good To Know

• Private Tour: Enjoy exclusive transportation, a dedicated guide, and a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests.
• Authentic Experiences: Clog workshops, cheese tasting, chocolate masterclasses, and local cuisine make this a hands-on adventure.
• Cultural Highlights: Windmills, cheese farms, historic villages, and local legends offer a deep dive into Dutch heritage.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pick-up at your hotel, WiFi on board, and a well-paced schedule help make this a smooth day out.
• Value for Money: While priced at over $1,100, the personalized experience and included activities add significant value.
• Authentic Flavors: Tasting Dutch cheeses, herring, and eel soup at a historic family smokehouse are often highlights.

Discovering the Dutch Countryside: An In-Depth Review

The Convenience of a Private Day Trip

Starting with the pick-up at your hotel in Amsterdam, this tour minimizes hassle and maximizes comfort. The private transportation options include high-quality vehicles like the Hyundai Tucson SUV or even luxurious Mercedes E-class cars, depending on your preference. This ensures a relaxed journey through the Dutch landscape, with WiFi on board so you can share photos or gather quick info during transit.

The entire day spans roughly 9 hours, a decent length that balances thorough exploration without feeling rushed. The guide is dedicated to your group, which allows for personalized attention, tailored questions, and a more intimate experience compared to larger group tours. According to reviewers, having a knowledgeable guide—like Maria—makes all the difference, bringing stories and insights to every stop and making each visit more meaningful.

Exploring Zaanse Schans: Windmills, Chocolate, and Clogs

Your day kicks off in Zaanse Schans, a highlight for many visitors. The arrival around 10:30 AM means you avoid the early-morning crowds and settle into exploring at a comfortable pace. The windmills here aren’t just pretty—they’re still producing paints, oils, spices, and perfumes, offering a fascinating glimpse into old Dutch industries. Plus, they reveal how millers worked in the 17th century, blending maritime history with agricultural innovation.

A chocolate masterclass adds a sweet dimension to the morning. You’ll learn about chocolate’s history and get to taste specialty items like chocolate beer or cocoa, which are paid separately but are well worth trying for a richer experience. Reviewers loved this part, describing it as “a must” and a highlight of their day.

Next, a visit to a cheese shop provides an immersive look at cheese-making, with opportunities to taste local varieties and mustard. Some travelers opt for a high-tech cheese farm with cows, which can give insight into modern dairy practices. The cheese tasting is regularly praised — many reviewers mention delicious cheeses and lively conversations about Dutch culinary tradition.

The clog workshop is another authentic experience. Watching artisans craft traditional wooden shoes and trying on Dutch costumes leaves a memorable impression. The visit to bakeries, antique shops, and shops selling Dutch sweets adds to the charm, making this stop a delightful mix of education and entertainment.

Edam: The Iconic Cheese Town

A short drive (about 30 minutes) takes you to Edam, famous worldwide for its cheese. Arriving around 2:30 PM, you’ll stroll through streets and along canals, absorbing the town’s peaceful atmosphere. The Weighing House and cheese museum offer insights into Edam’s historical role in trade, giving context to the town’s enduring reputation.

While the review mentions free admission, it’s the atmosphere and local architecture that truly shine here. Travelers generally find Edam perfect for a leisurely wander, soaking in Dutch charm and perhaps picking up a few souvenirs—if they’re feeling tempted.

Volendam: A Picturesque Coastal Village

From Edam, the tour proceeds to Volendam, arriving around 3:45 PM. This fishing village is renowned for its colorful houses and lively promenade. Visitors often mention how it feels like stepping into a postcard, with vibrant street art, local legends, and a bustling market atmosphere. Here, the focus is on tasting local herring and cheese, which many say are “delicious” and essential Dutch experiences.

The highlight for many is dinner at a historic family smokehouse, where you’ll enjoy eel soup, a Dutch specialty, paired with champagne. The reviews describe this as a “delicious” and memorable way to end the day.

The Return Journey

Departing around 6:30 PM, the drive back to Amsterdam is relaxed, with time to reflect on the day. The private setup and the friendly guide ensure you feel at ease, and the WiFi allows for sharing photos or continuing conversations about the day’s highlights.

Practical Considerations and Value

Pricing and Value

At $1,144.88 for up to two people, this tour is definitely a premium experience. However, the included private transportation, guide, and all activities justify the cost for travelers seeking a personalized, hassle-free day. The reviews consistently mention the value of the guide’s knowledge and the quality of the experiences, which elevate the experience beyond typical group tours.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Included in the price are private transportation, a guide, WiFi, and bottled water—meaning you stay comfortable and connected throughout the day. The main costs outside this are lunch and dinner, which are paid separately. Many reviewers recommend the dinner at the smokehouse as a highlight, so budgeting for meals is wise.

Flexibility and Accessibility

The tour accepts service animals and is suitable for most travelers, making it accessible for many. You’ll also find that the departure times and itinerary offer enough flexibility to customize your experience, especially with a private guide.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience appeals especially to those wanting an intimate look at Dutch villages and crafts, with the flexibility to explore at their own pace. It’s perfect for foodies, culture enthusiasts, and families who appreciate a mix of history, local flavor, and scenic beauty. If you’re looking for a luxurious, private day trip that combines education with fun, this tour checks all boxes.

FAQs

Is this a group or private tour?
It’s a fully private experience for your group only, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 9 hours, from hotel pickup to return to Amsterdam.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and dinner are not included, but there’s the option to enjoy a special dinner at a historic family smokehouse with eel soup and champagne.

What vehicles are used for transportation?
The tour offers high-quality vehicles such as Hyundai Tucson SUVs, Renault Talisman, Lexus IS, Mercedes E-class, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes V-class minivans.

Can I buy cheese and herring during the tour?
Absolutely. You’re welcome to purchase cheese, herring, and beer, but these are at your own expense, and beer consumption is for those 18 and older.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s considered kid-friendly, especially with engaging activities like clog-making and tasting.

Final Thoughts

This private day tour offers a wonderful way to experience the essence of the Netherlands in a comfortable, personalized setting. From windmills and cheese to charming villages and local delicacies, it encapsulates the best of Dutch culture and scenery in just a day.

Perfect for travelers who value authentic experiences and expert guides, this tour provides a balanced mix of history, taste, and picturesque views. The attention to detail and the intimate nature make it stand out, especially if you’re seeking a memorable, hassle-free way to explore beyond Amsterdam’s city limits.

While the price may seem high, the combination of private transport, knowledgeable guide, and immersive activities make it a worthwhile investment for those eager to truly understand and enjoy the Dutch way of life. If you’re craving a day filled with flavor, tradition, and stunning sights, this tour is an excellent choice.