Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans – Volendam – Giethoorn with Boat Tour

Exploring the picturesque villages of Giethoorn, Volendam, and Zaanse Schans offers a diverse glimpse into Dutch life outside of Amsterdam. This Holland Dream Tour, priced at $161.39 per person, lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, making it a manageable day trip packed with highlights. The tour departs from De Ruijterkade 99 in Amsterdam at 8:30 am and includes transport in a minivan or coach, a canal cruise, and live demonstrations at key stops.

The experience is particularly suited for those wishing to avoid car rentals or complex planning, thanks to the organized itinerary and small group size limited to eight participants. With many positive reviews praising guides and scenery, this tour combines culture with practical logistics, although some reviews note occasional issues with punctuality or guide professionalism.

Key Points

• Visit three scenic Dutch villages—Giethoorn, Volendam, and Zaanse Schans—in one day.
• Experience a canal boat tour in Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the North.”
• Enjoy live demonstrations of clog making and cheese production at Zaanse Schans.
• Includes transportation and guided commentary with a focus on Dutch culture and history.
• Small group size ensures more personalized attention and less crowding.
• Cost is $161.39 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the trip.

Starting Point and Tour Duration

The tour begins at De Ruijterkade 99, Amsterdam, at 8:30 am. It lasts around 9 to 10 hours, providing ample time at each destination without feeling rushed. The tour ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics straightforward. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and come prepared for rain or shine, as the tour takes place outdoors regardless of weather.

Exploring Giethoorn: The Venice of the North

The first stop is Giethoorn, located in the northern Netherlands. Known for its canal network and absence of roads, this village offers a fairy-tale atmosphere. A 1-hour guided boat tour leads visitors through narrow canals lined with traditional farmhouses, most built on small man-made islands.

Walking along narrow footpaths, visitors find themselves surrounded by hundreds of bridges and peaceful scenery. The village, with a population of fewer than 3,000, provides a tranquil setting with plenty of opportunities to take photos and soak in the serene environment. The boat cruise is a standout feature, praised for its leisurely pace and informative commentary.

The Charm of Volendam Harbour

Next, the tour moves to Volendam, famous for its brightly painted wooden houses and traditional Dutch costumes. Visitors get a short walk through the harbor, which has been a popular tourist attraction since 1875.

At Volendam, opportunities abound to buy souvenirs and capture photos in regional dress at local photo studios. The village’s vibrant atmosphere and colorful houses make it a favorite stop. The guide provides insights into local life, and the stop offers just about an hour to explore at leisure.

Zaanse Schans: Windmills and Clogs

The final stop is Zaanse Schans, a well-preserved 17th-century village filled with traditional houses and windmills, representing the industrial heritage of the Netherlands. Visitors can walk past greenhouses, observe clog-making demonstrations, and learn about Dutch cheese production at a cheese factory.

A live clog factory demonstration and cheese tasting deepen understanding of regional crafts. The 2-hour visit combines walking with free time to explore or visit the various attractions at your own pace. The windmills are often highlighted as a visual highlight in many reviews, praised for their authenticity and scenic appeal.

Practical Inclusions and Extras

This tour offers several added features to enhance the experience. Included are transportation in a minivan or coach, ensuring a stress-free journey between locations. The canal cruise in Giethoorn, live demonstrations of clog making and cheese tasting at Zaanse Schans, and an English-speaking guide with deep local knowledge all contribute to a comprehensive experience.

The small group size fosters a more personalized experience, with enough space for questions and interaction. The tour provides walking tours or free time at each stop, giving flexibility to explore or relax.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

The tour involves a fair amount of walking, especially at Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans. Travelers should have moderate physical fitness and wear comfortable shoes suitable for outdoor walking. The tour proceeds rain or shine, so packing appropriate clothing is advisable. It is not specified if the tour is wheelchair accessible, but the nature of the stops suggests some walking involved.

Pricing, Booking, and Cancellation Policy

At $161.39 per person, the tour provides good value considering the full-day itinerary, boat ride, demonstrations, and guided insights. The booking process is straightforward, with confirmation issued immediately after purchase.

A key advantage is the free cancellation policy available up to 24 hours in advance, which refunds the full amount. This flexibility is especially useful in unpredictable weather or schedule changes.

Guide Quality and Review Highlights

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Antonis and Igor, who are praised for their local expertise and engaging personalities. Guides are seen as key to making the experience enjoyable, with some reviews mentioning attractive storytelling and patience.

However, some reviews note issues like guide lateness or poor behavior, emphasizing the importance of good communication and professionalism on the day.

Tour Limitations and Considerations

While many reviews are highly positive, some point to occasional organizational hiccups, including timing issues or guides giving minimal information. One review reports a last-minute cancellation and no refund, highlighting the importance of booking with a provider that offers clear policies.

Travelers should also be aware that small group sizes mean limited availability if booking last-minute—49 days in advance appears typical for reservations.

Final Thoughts on the Holland Dream Tour

This full-day tour from Amsterdam offers a practical way to explore three distinctive Dutch villages in a single day. The highlight is the canal cruise in Giethoorn and live demonstrations at Zaanse Schans—both authentic and engaging experiences. The small group size and guided commentary help create a more personalized and informative outing.

While some minor drawbacks like timing issues or guide professionalism have been noted, overall, the tour provides great value and beautiful scenery. It’s ideal for culture enthusiasts and those looking to see Holland beyond the city, especially if convenience and comfort are priorities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, a canal cruise in Giethoorn, live clog and cheese demonstrations, and an English-speaking guide.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 8:30 am and returning to Amsterdam by late afternoon or early evening.

Do I need to prepare for walking?
Yes, the tour involves a fair amount of walking at each stop, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are all attractions free to enter?
Yes, all stops—Giethoorn, Volendam, and Zaanse Schans—have free walking tours. Some activities like photo shoots or purchases are optional.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness and comfortable walking shoes, but very young children or individuals with mobility issues may find it more challenging.

What are the main highlights?
The canal boat cruise in Giethoorn, windmills and clogs at Zaanse Schans, and painting houses in Volendam are the show-stoppers, each showcasing different facets of Dutch life.

Is there food included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are opportunities for snacks and souvenirs during the stops.

What should I bring?
A camera, raincoat or umbrella, and comfortable shoes are recommended for the outdoor excursions.

Can I join this tour if I have limited mobility?
While the tour involves walking and outdoor activities, the specific accessibility is not detailed, so early inquiry is advised if mobility is a concern.