From Amsterdam: Windmills, Volendam, & Marken Private Tour

Key Points

• Private, Guided Day Trip: Enjoy a personalized experience with a private driver in an air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle.
• Visit Zaanse Schans: Explore the windmills, cheese factory, and traditional workshops in this historic area.
• Authentic Dutch Villages: Walk through the colorful harbor of Volendam, then cross to Marken by ferry, seeing houses on wooden poles.
• Local Tastings and Shopping: Sample cheese at Henri Willig, buy traditional clogs and Dutch waffles, and enjoy local souvenirs.
• Flexible and Convenient: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with the option to purchase entrance tickets, making this tour accessible and easy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Zaanse Schans: The Netherlands’ Iconic Windmill Area

The tour begins at Zaanse Schans, a distinctive open-air museum that brings 18th- and 19th-century Dutch life to life. This area showcases authentic windmills, wooden houses, barns, and workshops. Visitors can stroll past the bakery museum where the smell of fresh bread fills the air, and observe clog makers at work in the traditional warehouse.

A highlight at Zaanse Schans is the opportunity to see the windmills from the outside, as entry inside is not included. The admission to the windmill park allows for a broad view of these historic structures, which are among the most recognizable symbols of the Netherlands. The area also features a cheese factory, where cheese tasting at the Henri Willig store offers a chance to sample Dutch cheese and purchase some as souvenirs.

Visitors can also explore pewter foundries and browse local shops, making Zaanse Schans both a visual delight and an educational stop. The 1.5-hour visit provides enough time to appreciate the craftsmanship and history behind the windmills and local products.

Exploring the Fishing Village of Volendam

Next, the tour moves to Volendam, a small, vibrant fishing village with a population of around 22,000 residents. Known for its picturesque harbor, the town offers classic views of colorful houses and fishing boats, creating perfect photo opportunities.

Here, there’s an hour of free time to stroll along the waterfront, soak in the lively atmosphere, and visit local shops. Travelers can enjoy a lunch at one of Holland’s top seafood restaurants, which serve freshly caught fish and local specialties. Volendam’s charm lies in its authentic Dutch character and lively seaside vibe, ideal for quick sightseeing and shopping.

Crossing to Marken by Ferry: A Classic Dutch Experience

After exploring Volendam, the ferry ride to Marken lasts approximately 30 minutes. This scenic crossing is a highlight, offering views of the waterfront and the opportunity to see houses on wooden stilts in this island’s peaceful setting.

Marken is known for its traditional wooden houses and fishing heritage. The tour includes a photo stop on the island, allowing guests to admire the quaint architecture and learn about its history. Although the stop is brief, the scenery and relaxed atmosphere make it a memorable part of the day.

What You Can Buy: Dutch Clogs, Waffles, and More

During the tour, there are multiple chances to purchase authentic Dutch souvenirs. Traditional clogs are available for sale, offering a tangible piece of Dutch craftsmanship. You can also buy Dutch waffles, a sweet treat often enjoyed at the local markets.

The cheese tasting at Henri Willig is included in the tour, with the option to buy cheese directly from the shop. These local products make excellent gifts or keepsakes of your Dutch adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transport and Logistics: Comfort and Convenience

The entire tour operates in a private group setting, with hotel pickup and drop-off included for maximum comfort. Travelers ride in an air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle, ensuring a smooth and comfortable experience throughout the 6.5-hour itinerary.

The driver is English-speaking, providing a relaxed and informative journey. The tour includes local taxes and bottled water, making for a hassle-free day. Tickets for the ferry to Marken are also part of the package, simplifying the logistics of crossing to the island.

What’s Not Included: Inside Windmill Tours and Guides

While the tour offers many highlights, entrance tickets to the inside of the windmills are not included. Visitors can only admire the windmills from the outside.

Plus, there is no professional guide provided during the tour, as it is led by the driver. This allows for a flexible and intimate experience but might be less informative for those seeking detailed explanations inside each site.

Tour Ratings and Feedback

With a 4.3 out of 5 rating based on three reviews, this tour appeals to those looking for a personalized, relaxed exploration of North Holland’s most loved sites. Review comments highlight the helpfulness and knowledge of the driver, with mentions of enjoyable ferry trips and authentic village atmospheres.

One reviewer appreciated the cheese factory with its robot cow milking, and enjoyed the scenic views at Zaanse Schans. Others noted that Volendam was charming but somewhat crowded and hot, while the ferry and Marken provided picturesque moments.

The tour’s pace is considered helpful and well-balanced, making it suitable for visitors who prefer a comfortable, guided experience without rushing.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This private tour is ideal for families, couples, or small groups seeking a knowledgeable, flexible outing in North Holland. It suits those who want to see the windmills, enjoy local tastings, and visit authentic Dutch villages without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets.

Because the tour is 8 hours long and includes some walking, it’s best for travelers comfortable with moderate activity. It’s perfect for those looking for a convenient, all-in-one experience with plenty of photo opportunities and local flavor.

The Sum Up: A Relaxed and Authentic Dutch Day Trip

The From Amsterdam: Windmills, Volendam, & Marken Private Tour offers a comfortable, well-organized way to experience some of North Holland’s most iconic sights. The private driver and air-conditioned vehicle make the day smooth and enjoyable, with plenty of time to explore each location at a relaxed pace.

The tour’s highlights—Zaanse Schans’s windmills, fishermen’s charm of Volendam, and the scenic ferry to Marken—provide a varied and picturesque snapshot of Dutch culture. While it doesn’t include inside visits to the windmills, the outdoor views and local tastings compensate well, creating a memorable day out.

This tour suits those seeking a flexible, all-in-one excursion that combines history, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s a practical choice for visitors who want to avoid the stress of independent travel and enjoy a personalized experience in North Holland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation in an air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle is included, with hotel pickup and drop-off.

Can I buy cheese and souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, you can taste cheese at Henri Willig and purchase cheese, clogs, and waffles at various stops.

Are inside windmill tours available?
No, entrance tickets to see the windmills from inside are not included in this tour.

How long is the ferry ride to Marken?
The ferry ride takes approximately 30 minutes and offers scenic views of the waterfront.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full experience lasts 6.5 hours, making it a comfortable day trip from Amsterdam.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s relaxed pace and outdoor stops make it suitable for families, though some walking is involved.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and any personal souvenirs you wish to purchase.

Is there a guide during the stops?
No, the driver acts as a host, providing commentary but not a professional guide inside the sites.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least a day ahead is recommended, with full refunds available up to 24 hours before.

Can I customize the tour?
This is a private tour, so there is some flexibility to tailor your experience within the scheduled stops.

This review provides a clear, detailed picture of what the From Amsterdam: Windmills, Volendam, & Marken Private Tour offers, highlighting its strengths, logistics, and what travelers can expect from this scenic Dutch adventure.

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