Day Tour Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk and Zaanse Schans with Boat Cruise

Explore the Best of Dutch Culture and Landmarks in One Day

The Day Tour Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk and Zaanse Schans with Boat Cruise offers an engaging way to see multiple highlights of the Netherlands in just 10 hours. Priced at approximately $149.18 per person, this tour is a well-rounded experience that includes hotel pickup, guided visits, and a scenic boat cruise. The tour departs from Amsterdam and covers notable locations such as the historic windmill village of Zaanse Schans, the Afsluitdijk, and the enchanting Giethoorn, often called the Venice of the Netherlands.

This tour suits those who want a comprehensive day out without the hassle of planning multiple visits. It is especially popular, with bookings made on average 47 days in advance, and has received a high 4.5-star rating from 30 reviews, with 93% recommending it. While the itinerary is packed with attractions, the tour also incorporates practical touches like group discounts and the convenience of mobile tickets.

Key Points

• All-inclusive full-day experience covering major Dutch sights
• Guided tours and demonstrations at Zaanse Schans, including cheese, wooden shoes, and diamonds
• Scenic boat cruise through Giethoorn, the picturesque, car-free village
• Includes transportation, hotel pickup, bottled water, and admission tickets
• The Afsluitdijk stop provides insight into flood prevention and land management
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most able to participate

Visiting Zaanse Schans: Windmills, Cheese, and Wooden Shoes

The tour kicks off at the Zaanse Schans, a renowned open-air museum that showcases traditional Dutch craftsmanship. Here, visitors experience a private Dutch cheese factory tour, tasting more than 26 flavors of cheese, and gain insight into how traditional Dutch cheese is made. The cheese tasting is a highlight and offers a tasty introduction to Dutch dairy products.

Next, you’ll visit Kooijman Souvenirs & Clogs Wooden Shoe Workshop, where live demonstrations reveal the process of making wooden shoes using traditional methods. Guests can see different types of wooden shoes, learn about their history, and even try on colorful pairs. Plenty of photo opportunities are available during this hands-on experience. The admission is included, making this stop both educational and fun.

Discovering the Iconic Afsluitdijk and Its Engineering Marvels

The Afsluitdijk is the world’s largest dike, an engineering masterpiece designed to prevent flooding and manage land in the Netherlands. Visitors get a photo stop at this impressive structure, viewing the North Sea and the Ijsselmeer, the largest inland lake in Holland. Though the observation tower is currently closed for renovation, the stop still offers a chance to learn about the history and significance of this monumental dike.

This stop lasts about 15 minutes and is free of charge, providing a quick but meaningful glimpse into Dutch land management efforts. It’s a great spot for photography and understanding how the Netherlands actively controls its water.

Exploring Giethoorn: The Venice of the Netherlands

In the afternoon, the tour arrives at Giethoorn, often called the Dutch Little Venice due to its canal-lined streets. The highlight here is a 1-hour boat cruise included in the tour price, allowing visitors to glide through the serene waterways and enjoy the charming scenery. The village is completely car-free, which adds to its tranquil, picture-perfect atmosphere.

After the boat ride, guests have free time to explore Giethoorn on their own. Visitors can sail their own boat or simply walk around the idyllic streets, discovering traditional thatched cottages and lush gardens. The relaxed pace and stunning views make this a favorite part of the day, especially for those seeking a peaceful, scenic experience.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Size

The tour departs from ibis Amsterdam CentreStationsplein 49 at 8:00 am and ends back at the same location. It maintains a small group size of up to 19 travelers, which helps ensure a more personalized experience. Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, and the tour includes bottled water for refreshment.

Guests appreciate the prompt pickup and comfortable transportation, with reviews noting the helpfulness and friendliness of guides like Eric, Pete, and Koen. The most common praise goes to the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, making the day both informative and enjoyable.

Highlights of the Guided Tours at Zaanse Schans

The guided experience at Zaanse Schans is a core part of this tour. Visitors learn about Dutch culture and craftsmanship, with private demonstrations of cheese-making and wooden shoe production. The diamond demonstration adds a touch of luxury, showcasing the history of diamond cutting and polishing with 268 cuts on display.

Guests are encouraged to enjoy free time to take pictures of the windmills, the traditional Dutch houses, and the equipment used. The inclusion of admission tickets to these attractions ensures a smooth visit, and the guided element enhances understanding of each craft.

The Quality and Comfort of the Tour Experience

The tour features air-conditioned vehicles that provide a comfortable ride between locations. The small group size helps reduce crowding and allows guides to offer more personalized attention. Many reviews highlight friendly guides who are attentive to the needs of the group, often helping with photographs and providing interesting commentary throughout the day.

While some reviews mention limited landscape views at the Afsluitdijk due to ongoing renovations, the overall experience remains positive, thanks to the variety of attractions and the well-organized itinerary.

The Unique Charm of Giethoorn’s Boat Cruise and Free Time

The boat cruise in Giethoorn is a main attraction of the tour. It allows visitors to see quaint cottages, lush gardens, and peaceful canals from the water. The scenic cruise is a perfect way to relax after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Following the cruise, guests enjoy several hours of free time. This flexibility lets visitors explore independently, rent their own boat, or simply soak in the village’s tranquil atmosphere. The included bottled water and scenic surroundings make this part of the tour especially memorable.

Cost and Value for Money

At $149.18 per person, this tour offers good value considering the full-day itinerary, guided tours, boat cruise, and admission tickets. The inclusion of hotel pickup and transportation simplifies logistics, saving time and effort for visitors.

The high booking rate and strong reviews suggest that many find this tour worth the price, particularly due to its variety of stops and the expertise of guides.

Suitability and Recommendations

This tour caters well to those interested in Dutch culture, engineering, and scenic towns. It’s suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to enjoy the full experience. Physical requirements are minimal, though guests should be comfortable with standing and walking during free time.

It’s an ideal choice for families, couples, and small groups looking for an organized and engaging day outside Amsterdam. The small group size and personalized service especially appeal to travelers who value a more intimate experience.

Final Thoughts on the Giethoorn, Afsluitdijk, and Zaanse Schans Tour

This full-day tour offers a practical way to see key Dutch sights without the hassle of independent planning. Its highlights—windmills, cheese, wooden shoes, the Afsluitdijk, and Giethoorn—provide a well-rounded view of the country’s culture, engineering, and natural beauty.

While the Afsluitdijk stop is limited due to ongoing renovations, the guided visits and the boat cruise in Giethoorn** are consistently praised. The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation make for a smooth and enjoyable experience, especially for those with limited time to explore the Netherlands in depth.

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors, families, and small groups seeking a comprehensive and scenic day out of Amsterdam, with plenty of memorable moments and photo opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The tour price includes hotel pickup, transportation, guided tours of cheese, wooden shoes, and diamonds, admission tickets, and a one-hour boat cruise in Giethoorn.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, with minimal physical requirements. The tour is engaging for families and adults alike, but guests should be comfortable with walking and standing during free time.

Can I customize or extend my visit at any stop?
The itinerary is fixed, but guests have free time in Giethoorn to explore independently, sail a boat, or relax. The tour does not include lunch, so bringing snacks or planning a meal is recommended.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to weather, guests are offered a different date or full refund. Rain gear and umbrellas are advised if rain is forecasted.

How long in advance should I book?
Booking on average 47 days in advance is common, reflecting the tour’s popularity. Early booking helps secure a spot, especially during peak season.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at ibis Amsterdam CentreStationsplein 49 at 8:00 am and returns to the same location, making logistics straightforward for guests staying in central Amsterdam.