Giethoorn, Fish village , Zaanse Schans Tour incl Hotel pick up

Experience Dutch Charm with a Full-Day Tour to Giethoorn, Zaanse Schans, and Durgerdam

This $148 tour from Amsterdam offers a comprehensive glimpse into the Netherlands’ most picturesque spots. It lasts approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, including hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it an easy way to explore without logistical stress. With small-group sizes and a knowledgeable guide, it’s ideal for those wanting an engaging, relaxed day of sightseeing, learning, and tasting.

You’ll visit Zaanse Schans, famous for its classic windmills and wooden houses; Durgerdam, a charming fish village with historic docks and a clock tower; and Giethoorn, the so-called “Venice of Holland”, with a boat tour through its tranquil waterways. The tour combines guided explanations, free time for personal exploration, and unique activities like cheese sampling and a wooden shoe workshop, promising a well-rounded Dutch experience.

Key Points

• Affordable day trip at $148 per person, including all fees and taxes
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off provide convenience and ease
• Visit Zaanse Schans to see windmills, Dutch houses, and learn about land reclamation
• Explore Durgerdam, a picturesque fish village with Docks, a clock tower, and cozy local eateries
• Experience Giethoorn’s canals with an hour-long boat tour and free time for strolling
• Small group size ensures personalized attention from your guide

Convenient Hotel Pick-Up and Small Group Experience

This tour departs daily from De Ruijterkade 46, Amsterdam at 8:30 am, with pickup included from nearby accommodations. The guided group is limited to 8 travelers, allowing for a more intimate and engaging experience. We appreciate how this setup offers plenty of free time at each stop for personal exploration, shopping, or snapping photos.

The air-conditioned vehicle transports the group comfortably between locations, and all fees and taxes are covered, simplifying the planning process. Bottled water is provided, but lunch is not included, so packing a snack or planning to dine at each stop is advisable.

Discover Zaanse Schans’s Traditional Windmills and Wooden Shoe Workshop

The first stop, Zaanse Schans, is a highlight for fans of classic Dutch scenery. The 30-minute drive from Amsterdam leads to a landscape filled with green windmills and distinctive wooden houses. The guide shares interesting facts about the village’s history and how land was reclaimed from the sea, giving context to the scenic views.

Next, a 1-hour visit to the Kooijman Souvenirs & Clogs Wooden Shoe Workshop allows a close look at the craftsmanship behind traditional Dutch clogs. You can observe demonstrations on how the wooden shoes are made and explore the shop’s selection, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

Cheese Tasting at Catharina Hoeve Farm

Another 1-hour stop at the Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm offers a chance to see cheese production in action. The guide provides a demonstration explaining the process of making Dutch cheese, with over 25 varieties available for sampling. This hands-on experience appeals to food lovers and adds flavor to the day.

After the tasting, visitors have the freedom to wander the farm and explore the nearby shops. The combination of educational insight and delicious samples makes this stop both fun and tasty.

Stroll Through Durgerdam’s Historic Fish Village

The second major stop is Durgerdam, a charming Dutch fish village by the IJ lake. The walk includes sights like historic houses, a clock tower, an old church, and docks with boats tied up. The picturesque setting provides fantastic photo opportunities amid the tranquil waters and traditional architecture.

Following this exploration, a local cozy restaurant offers a chance to enjoy lunch and relax before continuing onto Giethoorn.

Exploring Giethoorn’s Canals and Thatch-Roof Cottages

The largest highlight of the tour is Giethoorn, renowned as the “Venice of the Netherlands”. No cars are allowed in the historic center, so transport is via water canals. The 1-hour boat trip takes visitors across the old village and Bovenwijde lake, showcasing thatched cottages and arch-shaped wooden bridges.

After the boat ride, there’s plenty of free time to stroll along the canals, browse local shops, and absorb the peaceful beauty of this unique village. The visit concludes with a 3-hour drive back to Amsterdam, rounding out a full day of Dutch sights and experiences.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What To Expect

The tour package covers all fees and taxes, ensuring no hidden costs. The boat trip is part of the experience, offering a unique perspective of Giethoorn’s waterways. Bottled water is provided, but lunch is not included, so plan accordingly.

Travelers can expect a comfortable, well-paced day with some physical activity during the walks and boat ride. The small group size enhances interaction with the guide, making the day more personalized and informative.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour appeals to those who want a comprehensive look at Dutch culture without the hassle of organizing individual visits. It suits travelers interested in history, architecture, food, and scenic views. The small group format encourages conversation and tailored attention, ideal for curious minds.

It’s especially suitable for visitors staying in Amsterdam who seek a stress-free, full-day adventure with memorable photo ops and local flavor. The inclusion of free time at each stop makes it flexible for personal interests, whether shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing.

Giethoorn, Zaanse Schans, and Durgerdam: A Well-Balanced Dutch Day Out

This small-group tour offers an excellent way to experience the Netherlands’ most iconic sights in under a day. The windmills of Zaanse Schans, traditional cheese farm, historic fish village of Durgerdam, and the canal-laden streets of Giethoorn combine to create a varied and enriching experience.

The guided commentary adds context, while the free time allows personal exploration. The boat tour in Giethoorn is a standout feature, providing a tranquil, scenic journey through the village’s waterways. The tour’s reliable reviews and high rating reflect its value and appeal.

While lunch is not included, the tour’s convenience, affordability, and diversity of sights make it a top choice for those wanting to see a broad slice of Dutch life in one day.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $148.17 per person, covering all fees, taxes, and the boat trip.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, including travel time and free exploration periods.

Does the tour include hotel pick-up?
Yes, hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, starting at De Ruijterkade 46, Amsterdam.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. Travelers should plan to eat at the stops, such as in Durgerdam or Giethoorn.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Zaanse Schans, Kooijman Wooden Shoe Workshop, Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm, Durgerdam, and Giethoorn.

How much free time is there at each location?
There is ample free time at each stop, allowing for personal exploration, shopping, or resting.

What makes Giethoorn special?
Giethoorn is known as the “Venice of Holland” due to its canal system and thatch-roof cottages—a peaceful setting accessible by boat.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes, the tour involves walking and a boat ride, but no strenuous activity is required. It’s accessible for most travelers.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, creating a more intimate experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.