Amsterdam: Day Trip to Keukenhof & Zaanse Schans Windmills

Explore the Netherlands with a Day Trip to Keukenhof and Zaanse Schans

This tour offers an affordable way to enjoy two of the Netherlands’ most iconic sights: the windmills of Zaanse Schans and the flower-filled gardens of Keukenhof. Priced at $78.54 per person and lasting approximately 10 hours, it’s a practical option for visitors wanting a taste of Dutch culture and natural beauty. The tour departs from This is Holland at Overhoeksplein in Amsterdam and features free transportation via a short ferry ride from Central Station, making the start smooth and straightforward.

While the tour does not include guided commentary, it provides ample free time at each location, allowing personal exploration. The experience is best suited for those who enjoy self-guided touring and want to visit both windmills and vibrant flower gardens without the hassle of planning multiple trips. However, some reviews mention issues with timing and communication, so it’s worth considering whether flexibility meets your travel style.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: Priced at $78.54, the tour lasts around 10 hours
• Locations Visited: Includes stops at Zaanse Schans and Keukenhof, with an introductory visit to This is Holland in Amsterdam
• Transport: Travel is by air-conditioned bus and includes a free ferry ride to the starting point
• Self-Guided Freedom: Visitors enjoy free time at each site to explore at their own pace
• Highlights: Iconic windmills, traditional wooden houses, and millions of spring flowers
• Limitations: Some reviews point out timing issues and lack of guided commentary; not a full tulip field walk

Starting Point and Logistics at This is Holland

The tour kicks off at This is Holland, an attraction with a 5D flight experience that introduces visitors to Holland’s culture and history through entertaining shows. To reach the meeting point, take the free ferry from platform F3 behind Central Station—a quick 3-minute ride across the river. Once ashore, turn left and look for the round building with a Dutch flag, easily recognizable.

Participants check in at This is Holland while the tour driver provides instructions. The tour group size is limited to 50 travelers, ensuring a manageable experience. The initial stop offers a chance to learn about Dutch heritage before heading out on the air-conditioned bus to the next attractions.

Traveling Through the Tulip Fields to Keukenhof

The bus journey from Zaanse Schans to Keukenhof takes around 45 minutes, offering views of endless tulip fields. These vibrant landscapes are among the Netherlands’ most colorful and photographed scenes, perfect for snapping memorable photos. Guests enjoy the scenic drive through the countryside, watching as the fields display a kaleidoscope of color.

While the tour includes no guided commentary during the bus ride, the visual impact of the tulips makes it a highlight for many. Visitors also appreciate the flexibility to explore Keukenhof independently, with 6 hours allocated for wandering through the gardens. The gardens feature over 7 million flowers, making it the world’s most beautiful spring garden.

Discovering Zaanse Schans Windmills and Traditional Crafts

The next stop is Zaanse Schans, an authentic village famous for its windmills and traditional Dutch houses. The tour allocates 2 hours and 30 minutes here, giving ample time to admire multiple windmills and explore the working windmills that showcase Dutch heritage.

Additional activities include cheese tasting at a cheese farm, where visitors can sample local specialties. The village also offers free demonstrations, providing insights into traditional crafts such as clog-making. Visitors enjoy walking among the historic cottages and windmill structures, capturing photos of the picturesque scenery.

While admission to the windmills and cheese farm is included, some reviews suggest that timing can be tight, and the lack of guided commentary might leave some visitors wanting more context.

Keukenhof: A Floral Wonderland

The highlight of the trip is Keukenhof, where more than 7 million flowers bloom across beautifully landscaped gardens. The tour provides 6 hours to explore this floral paradise at your own pace, capturing images of vibrant tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and more.

Keukenhof is renowned worldwide as the most beautiful spring garden, and visitors often find the gardens a feast for the senses. The site is easily navigable, with clearly marked pathways, and offers countless photo opportunities. It’s important to note that some reviews mention that the timing of the bloom can vary; in some cases, tulips may be past their prime depending on the visit date.

Guests have the option to extend their time in Keukenhof or return to Amsterdam at their convenience, thanks to the flexible bus schedule.

Flexibility in Return Travel and Free Time

Unlike guided tours with fixed schedules, this experience offers freedom to explore Keukenhof or Zaanse Schans at your own pace before catching any bus back to Amsterdam. The return options are open-ended, providing the chance to stay longer at favorite spots or leave earlier if desired.

This flexible approach ensures that visitors can customize their experience according to their interests and energy levels. It also allows for spontaneous discoveries or revisiting particular attractions, a benefit highlighted by some reviews.

Meeting Point and Accessibility Details

The tour begins at This is Holland, Overhoeksplein 51, which is near public transportation, making access straightforward. Participants should arrive on time for the 8:00 AM departure, although some reviews mention issues with timing and check-in procedures.

For redemption, guests visit This is Holland at the start and finish, ensuring a consistent and easy-to-find meeting spot. The short ferry ride from Central Station is included, adding a scenic touch to the start of the day.

Price, Value, and Potential Drawbacks

At $78.54 per person, this tour is a budget-friendly way to visit two major Dutch attractions. The ticket price includes admission to Zaanse Schans and Keukenhof, as well as transportation, which many find to be good value.

However, some reviews note that the lack of guided commentary and timing issues diminish the overall experience. One reviewer felt the tour was overly priced for what was offered, especially since it mainly drops visitors off and allows self-exploration. Others mention that Keukenhof’s bloom may be past its best if visiting late in the season, affecting the visual impact.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This day trip appeals most to visitors seeking independent exploration of iconic Dutch sights, rather than those who prefer guided storytelling. The flexible schedule, transport logistics, and free time make it suitable for travelers who enjoy a self-paced experience.

Those interested in windmills, tulips, and Dutch culture will find plenty to appreciate, though it’s important to manage expectations about timing and guided detail. Visitors who prioritize cost-effective sightseeing without guided commentary or extra amenities** will likely find this tour a practical option.

Final Thoughts on the Amsterdam Day Trip to Keukenhof and Zaanse Schans

This tour offers a cost-conscious way to visit two of the Netherlands’ most recognizable attractions. The combination of windmills and flower gardens provides a well-rounded glimpse into Dutch tradition and natural beauty. The free ferry ride and flexible departure options add convenience and flexibility that many travelers enjoy.

While some timing and communication issues have been noted, the overall experience remains positive for those who value independence and self-guided exploration. It’s particularly suitable for visitors who want to maximize their time at each site without the constraints of guided tours.

In summary, this trip is a solid choice for budget-minded travelers eager to see the iconic Dutch landscapes, provided they are comfortable with less guided support and some logistical uncertainties.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking around Zaanse Schans and Keukenhof, which could require some physical mobility. It’s best suited for those able to walk comfortably across outdoor areas.

Can I stay longer at Keukenhof?
Yes, you can extend your time in Keukenhof or choose to return earlier, thanks to the flexible bus schedule provided once your free exploration time ends.

Are guided commentary and explanations included?
No, this is mainly a self-guided experience with free time at each attraction. There are no guided tours or audio guides included.

What is the best time to visit Keukenhof for flowers?
While the tour operates during spring, some reviews suggest that if visiting late in the season, flowers like tulips might be past their prime. Visiting early in the blooming season is ideal for full floral displays.

How do I get to the meeting point?
Take the free ferry from platform F3 behind Central Station in Amsterdam, which takes about 3 minutes. The meeting point is This is Holland, Overhoeksplein 51, a prominent building with a red, white, and blue flag.