Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Unique Day Trip with Boat Cruise

Explore Two Dutch Highlights in One Day

This 10-hour day trip from Amsterdam offers a well-rounded glimpse into some of the most charming destinations in the Netherlands. Priced at $141.23 per person, it combines a visit to Zaanse Schans, a traditional windmill village, with a trip to Giethoorn, often called the “Green Venice.” The tour is designed for those who appreciate local culture, scenic views, and hands-on experiences.

The tour departs at 8:00 am, with a luxurious mini bus carrying a maximum of 19 participants, ensuring a comfortable and intimate atmosphere. Included are guided tours at key attractions, a one-hour boat cruise in Giethoorn, and a selection of free time for photos and exploration. Each traveler receives bottled water, and helpful extras like power banks, umbrellas, and napkins are provided.

A major strength of this tour is its focus on avoiding crowded main entrances—visitors enter Zaanse Schans via a local residence entrance, making for a more relaxed experience. The private guided visits to attractions like the cheese factory and diamond showroom add an educational touch, making this trip ideal for those seeking both fun and learning.

Key Points

• Two iconic Dutch villages: Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn in one day
• 10-hour experience with luxury transportation and small group size
• Private guided tours at cheese, wooden shoes, and diamonds
• Includes a one-hour boat cruise in Giethoorn, the “Green Venice”
• Affordable price of $141.23, with free bottled water and extras
• Suitable for most travelers, with easy access and comfortable transport

Starting the Day at Zaanse Schans with a Local Entrance

The tour begins with a visit to Zaanse Schans, a picturesque windmill village that emphasizes a more authentic experience by entering through a local resident entrance. This approach helps to avoid the crowds typically found at the main entrance and allows for a more peaceful exploration.

Once inside, the tour features a private guided visit to a Dutch cheese factory, where we learn how Gouda cheese is made using traditional methods. Over 26 flavors are available for tasting, giving a delicious insight into Dutch cheese craftsmanship. Next, the group visits a Dutch wooden shoes factory for a live demonstration of clog making, along with the chance to try on different styles and take photos.

The Royal Amsterdam Diamond tour offers a private presentation about diamond history and cutting techniques. Here, the highlight is the “Royal Lady” diamond, which boasts 268 facets, along with a unique diamond featuring a tulip design. Visitors are free to explore the windmills further and take photos at their leisure.

Visiting Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm for Traditional Cheese Tasting

After the initial exploration, the tour proceeds to Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm for a 30-minute private demonstration. This spot emphasizes the traditional Dutch cheese-making process and offers a chance to sample over 26 flavors of cheese. The farm’s long history makes it a meaningful stop for those interested in the heritage of Dutch dairy products.

This stop complements the earlier cheese factory visit and deepens understanding of Dutch cheese craftsmanship, making it a highlight for foodies.

Wooden Shoe Workshop Demonstration

Next, the visit to the Kooijman Souvenirs & Clogs Wooden Shoe Workshop provides an authentic look at clog making, a quintessential Dutch craft. A live demonstration by a traditional clog maker showcases how wooden shoes are crafted, while visitors can see and try on various painted and colored wooden shoes.

Photos are encouraged, and this stop also offers an opportunity to learn about the history of wooden shoes, which have been a Dutch staple for centuries. The variety of shoes on display allows for a deeper appreciation of this iconic craft.

Discovering Diamond Artistry at Royal Diamonds Amsterdam

The Royal Diamonds visit adds a luxurious touch, with a private presentation on diamond cutting and history. Visitors see the “Royal Lady” diamond, notable for its 268 facets, and a diamond with a tulip design, illustrating the artistry behind Dutch gemstone craftsmanship.

This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of diamonds, blending history and craftsmanship in a refined setting. It’s a memorable experience for those interested in jewelry and luxury items.

Transition to Giethoorn by Private Coach

After exploring Zaanse Schans and its attractions, the tour travels to Giethoorn via an air-conditioned VIP bus. This part of the journey offers a comfortable ride through scenic landscapes, setting the stage for the next highlight: Giethoorn, often called the “Green Venice” for its canals and charming houses.

The journey takes roughly 3 hours, giving ample time for relaxation and anticipation of what’s to come. The small bus size ensures a less crowded, more personalized experience.

Lunch and Free Exploration in Giethoorn

Once in Giethoorn, guests have lunch at their leisure, with many local restaurants available for a variety of tastes. After lunch, there is a 1-hour boat cruise through the canals on an outdoor or open boat, weather permitting.

This cruise offers an up-close view of houses lining the canals, wooden bridges, and the big lake behind the village. It’s a perfect moment to capture photos and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere that has earned Giethoorn its reputation.

Optional Boat Driving and Additional Time

During the free time in Giethoorn, visitors can choose to drive their own boat for an extra charge, adding more fun and interaction with the surroundings. The cruise is not shared with other groups, ensuring a private and relaxed experience.

The overall 3-hour stay in Giethoorn balances sightseeing, dining, and leisure, making it ideal for those who appreciate slow-paced exploration.

End of the Day and Return Transport

The tour concludes with the return to the meeting point in Amsterdam, typically around 6:00 pm. The small group size, personalized attention, and comfortable transport help make this a relaxing, memorable day out of the city.

The entire experience emphasizes quality over quantity, with a focus on authenticity, comfort, and cultural insight. The small group of up to 19 participants guarantees a friendly environment and easier interaction with guides.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is especially suited to those who value local experiences, hands-on demonstrations, and scenic boat rides. It caters well to food lovers, history buffs, and photographers seeking beautiful scenes without the hassle of crowded spots. The luxury transport and private guided visits make it a comfortable option for travelers of most ages, including families and seniors.

However, travelers should be prepared for moderate walking at stops like Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn, and check weather for the boat cruise.

Final Thoughts on the Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Day Trip

This well-organized, thoughtfully curated tour offers a balanced mix of Dutch cultural highlights and scenic waterways. The inclusion of private guided visits and a boat cruise in Giethoorn adds a special touch that sets it apart from more generic day trips.

The affordable price, combined with small group sizes, luxury transport, and free extras like bottled water, make for a value-packed experience. It’s an excellent choice for those looking for a full day of authentic Dutch sights without feeling rushed or crowded.

The main limitations are that travelers should be prepared for a long day with some travel time between sites, and weather conditions can affect the boat cruise. Still, the overall experience promises a relaxed, scenic, and educational adventure that highlights the best of the Netherlands outside Amsterdam.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers luxury transportation, guided tours at the cheese factory, wooden shoe workshop, and diamond showroom, a one-hour boat cruise in Giethoorn, and all fees and taxes. A bottle of water per traveler is also included.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 8:00 am and ending back at the meeting point in the late afternoon or early evening.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved at stops. The tour is friendly for families and seniors alike.

Can I bring my own boat in Giethoorn?
Yes, driving your own boat is an option during the free time in Giethoorn, but it involves an extra charge.

What makes this tour unique compared to other day trips?
Entering Zaanse Schans through a local residence, private guided visits to cheese, shoes, and diamonds, and a personal boat cruise in Giethoorn set this experience apart.

What should I bring?
A camera for photos, weather-appropriate clothing for the boat cruise, and some cash or card for optional extras like boat driving or meals.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
The boat cruise depends on good weather; if canceled due to rain, you will be offered a different date or full refund.

How large is the group on this tour?
The tour accommodates up to 19 participants, ensuring a small-group experience.

Is there a recommended age for participants?
While suitable for most ages, younger children should be able to handle standing and walking, and all should enjoy the scenic outdoor activities.

How do I book or contact the provider?
You can reserve through the Viator website, with the tour operated by Amsterdam-Tours. Contact details, including phone +31620182288 and email [email protected], are available for further inquiries.