Zaanse Schans: Highlights of Holland Private Guided Tour

The Zaanse Schans: Highlights of Holland Private Guided Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the Netherlands’ rich cultural heritage. From the iconic windmills to the charming fishing village of Volendam, this comprehensive tour offers an immersive experience that showcases the country’s unique traditions and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to learn about the Dutch way of life, this guided excursion promises to leave a lasting impression. Discover the hidden gems that make the Netherlands a truly remarkable destination, and prepare to be enchanted by the sights and flavors that await.

Good To Know

• Explore the historic charm of Zaanse Schans, a living museum showcasing 18th and 19th-century industrial heritage, and witness demonstrations of wooden shoe making and hot chocolate production.

• Set out on a private guided tour with hotel pickup and visit the quaint cheese town of Edam, where you’ll sample up to 30 different Dutch cheeses.

• Stroll through the picturesque fishing village of Volendam, known for its colorful harbor, traditional Dutch costumes, and scenic waterfront promenade.

• Enjoy comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with entrance fees and bottled water included, for a seamless and hassle-free experience.

• Suitable for adults, with a 5/5 customer rating, this tour emphasizes the highlights of Holland’s Zaanse Schans, Edam, and Volendam locations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a private guided exploration of the highlights of Holland, priced at $272.34 per person. It lasts 6.5 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve the tour now and pay later. The tour includes pickup from hotels in Amsterdam, Zaandam, or Alkmaar, and covers the key sights of Zaanse Schans, Edam, and Volendam.

Visitors can expect to explore historic houses, witness working windmills, taste local cheeses, and enjoy the charming fishing village of Volendam.

The tour provides transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, entrance fees, and complimentary bottled water.

Itinerary and Locations

The tour begins with pickup from the traveler’s hotel in Amsterdam, Zaandam, or Alkmaar. The first stop is Zaanse Schans, where guests will explore historical houses, warehouses, and working windmills for 2 hours. Next, the tour heads to Edam for a 1-hour cheese tasting at Henry Willig’s shop, known for its Gouda and Edam cheeses. The final destination is Volendam, where visitors can stroll through the charming fishing village for 1 hour. Scenic drives between the locations range from 30 to 45 minutes.

Location	Duration
Zaanse Schans	2 hours
Edam	1 hour
Volendam	1 hour
Scenic Drives	30-45 minutes

Exploring Zaanse Schans

Exploring the historic Zaanse Schans, visitors enjoy a living museum that showcases the region’s rich industrial heritage.

This 2-hour stop on the tour allows guests to wander among the charming historic houses, warehouses, and working windmills that line the banks of the Zaan River.

Visitors can watch skilled craftspeople demonstrate the art of wooden shoe making and witness the time-honored process of creating hot chocolate from locally sourced cocoa.

With ample free time to explore, guests can fully experience the picturesque character and authentic atmosphere of this well-preserved 18th and 19th-century Dutch village.

Cheese Tasting in Edam

After leaving the charming Zaanse Schans, the tour heads to the historic town of Edam, known for its renowned cheese production.

The group visits Henry Willig’s cheese shop, where they’ll have the opportunity to sample up to 30 different flavors of Gouda and Edam cheeses.

The tour includes:

1. A guided cheese tasting led by a knowledgeable expert.
2. The chance to learn about the traditional cheesemaking process.
3. Free time to explore the quaint streets and harbor of Edam.
4. The ability to purchase favorite cheeses to take home as souvenirs.

This stop offers a delicious and educational cheese-focused experience, showcasing the dairy heritage of the Netherlands.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Charming Volendam Village

From the picturesque Edam, the tour continues its journey to the charming fishing village of Volendam. Known for its lively harbor and winding streets, Volendam offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s maritime heritage. Explore the quaint village and learn about the local culture.

Highlights of Volendam
Colorful Fishing Boats	Admire the vibrant boats lining the harbor.
Traditional Dutch Costumes	See locals dressed in the iconic Volendam attire.
Wooden Shoe Carving	Watch a demonstration of the traditional craft.
Panoramic Harbor Views	Take in the scenic vistas from the waterfront promenade.
Charming Narrow Streets	Wander through the picturesque alleyways and pathways.

Woodworking and Cocoa Crafts

Fascinating woodworking demonstrations and enticing cocoa crafts await visitors during this private guided tour. Guests can witness the age-old tradition of wooden shoe making, as skilled artisans showcase their craftsmanship.

Plus, they’ll have the opportunity to:

1. Learn the process of transforming locally-sourced cocoa beans into rich, decadent hot chocolate.
2. Explore the intricate details of Zaanse Schans’ historic wooden buildings and structures.
3. Savor the flavors of 30 different Dutch cheeses during a tasting at Henry Willig’s renowned shop.
4. Stroll through the charming fishing village of Volendam, known for its picturesque harbor and narrow streets.

Transportation and Inclusions

The private transportation for this tour is provided in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Pickup and drop-off services are included, with the tour guide meeting guests at their hotel in Amsterdam.

Entrance fees for two windmills at the Zaanse Schans are covered, as well as parking fees. Guests will also receive a complimentary bottle of water.

The tour is designed to be comprehensive, with all necessary inclusions to provide a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Whether exploring the charming fishing village of Volendam or savoring cheese in Edam, the transportation and inclusions make this tour a hassle-free way to discover the highlights of Holland.

Important Considerations

This private guided tour has a few important considerations to note.

First, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 7 years old, people with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as there will be plenty of walking.

The tour is available in both Dutch and English, with a knowledgeable live guide.

Lastly, with a 5/5 rating based on 1 customer review, this tour promises an excellent experience highlighting the charming Zaanse Schans and the picturesque Edam and Volendam.

• Not suitable for young children, mobility-impaired, or wheelchair users
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking
• Available in Dutch and English with a knowledgeable guide
• Highly rated 5/5 based on 1 customer review

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Stops?

Yes, the tour can be customized to include additional stops. Travelers can work with the tour operator to tailor the itinerary to their specific interests and preferences within the allotted tour duration.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there is a group discount available. Groups of 4 or more can receive a 10% discount on the per-person tour price when booking this private guided tour of Zaanse Schans and its surrounding areas.

What Are the Available Payment Methods for the Tour?

The tour offers a ‘Reserve now & pay later’ option, allowing customers to book the tour and pay later. Plus, customers can pay for the tour using a credit/debit card at the time of booking.

Can the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Restaurants in the Area?

Yes, the tour guide can provide recommendations for restaurants in the area. They are knowledgeable about the local offerings and can suggest good dining options to enhance the tour experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?

The tour doesn’t explicitly offer an option to extend the duration, but the private nature of the tour suggests the guide can likely accommodate a request to extend the time spent at certain locations if needed. Clients should inquire about this flexibility when booking.

The Sum Up

The Zaanse Schans: Highlights of Holland Private Guided Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Dutch heritage and culture. Visitors can enjoy the picturesque landscapes of historic windmills, sample local cheeses, and discover the charming fishing village of Volendam. With convenient transportation and guided experiences, this tour provides an engaging and memorable way to uncover the unique essence of the Netherlands.

You can check if your dates are available here: