From Amsterdam: Dunes, Submarine & Windmills Guided Day Tour

Explore The Dutch Countryside With An Expert Guide

This 9.5-hour guided day tour from Amsterdam offers a captivating look into the North Holland region. With a provider rating of 4.8, the tour combines scenic nature, historical sites, and unique experiences, making it ideal for those eager to see ‘real Holland’ beyond the city. The tour starts at a convenient pickup point behind Amsterdam Central Station and is led by a live English-speaking guide, ensuring an engaging and informative experience throughout.

A standout aspect is the diversity of stops: from vibrant flower fields and windmills to a coastal village and an iconic navy submarine. While the 9.5-hour duration allows for a thorough exploration, the tour involves some walking and navigating steep stairs at the submarine, which might not suit everyone. This tour appeals most to those interested in Dutch nature, history, and maritime culture.

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Key Points

• Duration: 9.5 hours filled with scenic and historical stops
• Highlights: Flower farm, windmills, coastal village of Huisduinen, WWII bunkers, and a navy submarine
• Start point: Behind Amsterdam Central Station at De Ruijterkade
• Includes: Viewpoints over flower fields, historic bunkers, and interior of a navy submarine
• Provider rating: an impressive 4.8 out of 5, reflecting strong satisfaction
• Note: The submarine visit involves steep stairs and tight spaces; not suitable for those with claustrophobia or back problems

Starting Point and Logistics Made Easy

The tour departs from De Ruijterkade 153, located behind Amsterdam Central Station. This central location simplifies access via any mode of transport to Amsterdam’s main hub. The guide will be holding a paper sign that says Maresia, making it easy to identify. The pickup is designed to be straightforward, making the start of your adventure smooth and stress-free.

Once onboard, travelers enjoy a comfortable journey through the waterway alongside a historic 80-kilometer waterway, passing through the polder landscapes that define Dutch rural scenery. The tour’s pacing allows for plenty of photo opportunities, especially at key stops.

Windmills and Waterways: A Classic Dutch Scene

The tour takes you past traditional Dutch windmills, offering close-up views of these iconic wooden structures. These windmills are part of the largest continuous flower bulb region, and their presence adds a quintessential Dutch touch to the landscape. The guide explains their historical importance, making these stops both scenic and educational.

Traveling through the waterway, travelers see the flat, expansive polder scenery that characterizes the Dutch countryside. The relatively short drive between stops keeps the pace engaging and ensures plenty of time to appreciate the views. The viewpoint over flower fields provides a rare perspective, making for excellent photos during the flower season.

Visiting a Family-Run Flower Farm

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to a specialist flower farm. Here, visitors get up close with the latest flower breeds and have the chance to purchase bulbs directly from the family-owned business. This personal touch offers insight into the Dutch flower industry and makes for a memorable experience, especially during flower season when the fields bloom in vibrant colors.

The farm visit is an opportunity to understand how Dutch flower cultivation is integrated into local life. The farm’s knowledgeable staff share stories about their breeding processes, enhancing the appreciation of this colorful industry.

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Exploring the Coastal Village of Huisduinen

The small coastal village of Huisduinen offers a contrast to the countryside. Walking along the dike, dunes, and beach, visitors feel the fresh sea breeze and enjoy views of the red lighthouse, Lange Jaap.

This stop provides a peaceful break from the busier sites, with opportunities to take photos and soak in the maritime atmosphere. The village’s charm lies in its simplicity and connection to Dutch coastal life, making it a favorite among travelers seeking authentic moments.

Historical Bunkers and Fortress Tours

The tour includes a visit to WWII Atlantic Wall bunkers, where visitors can see the exterior for free or explore a Napoleonic fortress for a deeper dive into Dutch maritime history.

These sites reveal the military history of the region, with remnants from different eras. The bunkers are impressive structures, and learning their stories adds a layer of historical context to the scenic day. Visitors should note that interior exploration of the fortress might involve walking and some stairs.

Inside A Navy Submarine: A Unique Underwater Experience

The experience of stepping aboard a real navy submarine ranks as a highlight. Visitors can peek through a functioning periscope and explore the command center of a navy ship.

The tour provides a rare opportunity to see what life is like in such a confined environment. However, it involves going down steep stairs and navigating claustrophobic spaces, so it may not suit everyone, especially those with back problems or claustrophobia.

Relaxing at the Naval Base and Scenic Return

After the submarine visit, travelers relax at the historic navy base, enjoying the modern cafés and restaurants. The waterfront scenery offers a peaceful setting to reflect on the day’s adventures or grab a snack.

The return trip to Amsterdam offers a chance to see more of the Dutch countryside, rounding out the day with a scenic journey back to the city. The overall experience balances nature, history, and maritime culture beautifully.

Practical Tips for the Day Tour

Participants should wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring uneven surfaces. The weather can vary, so bringing appropriate clothing is wise.

While food and drinks are not included**, there are options available at the navy base and during stops. Travelers may consider bringing snacks and water to stay comfortable throughout the day.

The tour is not suitable for individuals with back problems, claustrophobia, or wheelchair users, due to the nature of some stops and the submarine interior.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

While there are other tours available, such as trips to Zaanse Schans or Volendam, this tour offers a richer combination of natural landscapes, historical sites, and maritime experiences within a single day. The visit to a flower farm and the submarine experience stand out as unique features.

The provider, Maresia Tours, maintains a high rating of 4.8, indicating consistent quality and positive feedback. The tour’s emphasis on authentic Dutch scenery and history makes it particularly appealing for those wanting a comprehensive look at North Holland.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Dutch Day Trip

This guided tour from Amsterdam provides a balanced mix of scenery, history, and unique experiences. The flower fields and windmills capture classic Dutch images, while the coastal village and WWII bunkers deepen the historical perspective. The navy submarine adds a rare and interactive element that enhances the overall value.

Despite some physically demanding aspects, such as steep stairs at the submarine, the overall experience offers plenty of memorable moments. This tour is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and those curious about Dutch maritime culture.

Travelers looking for a full day of exploration, rich in scenic views and cultural insights, will find this tour worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 9.5 hours, covering several stops and activities.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at De Ruijterkade 153, behind Amsterdam Central Station.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include a flower farm, windmills, Huisduinen coastal village, WWII bunkers, and a navy submarine.

Is the submarine visit difficult?
Yes, it involves steep stairs and tight spaces, making it unsuitable for claustrophobic or back-problem-prone travelers.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended; dress according to the weather forecast.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but there are options for purchasing food at the navy base and stops along the way.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Ideal for those interested in Dutch landscapes, history, maritime culture, and unique experiences.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
No, due to the stairs and certain site limitations, it is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What makes this tour different from others?
The combination of natural beauty, historic sites, and the submarine experience makes this a distinctive way to explore North Holland from Amsterdam.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby