Highlights of Holland Private Guided Tour from Amsterdam

The Highlights of Holland Private Guided Tour from Amsterdam offers a comprehensive and personalized way to explore the countryside of the Netherlands. Priced at $333.09 per person and lasting approximately 7 hours, this tour provides a deep dive into Dutch culture, history, and landscapes. With private transportation and engaging guides, visitors can avoid busy crowds and enjoy an intimate experience, perfect for those who appreciate tailored itineraries and authentic sights. The tour is especially suitable for travelers seeking a relaxed pace and in-depth insights, though it’s not designed for children under seven.

What sets this tour apart is its carefully curated stops in some of the most iconic and picturesque locations in Holland. From working windmills to charming fishing villages, each site offers a glimpse into the country’s heritage. The inclusion of all fees and taxes simplifies planning, and the option for pickup and group discounts adds to the convenience. The tour’s high ratings—a perfect 5.0 based on 237 reviews—reflect consistent satisfaction with the guide’s expertise and the quality of the experience.

Key Points

• Private 7-hour tour exploring Holland’s countryside outside Amsterdam
• Includes windmills, cheese farm, fishing villages, and historic towns
• Comfortable private transportation with all fees covered
• Engaging guides customize the experience and share local stories
• Stops at Zaanse Schans, Marken, Volendam, and Church Broek in Waterland
• Suitable for travelers aged seven and above seeking an in-depth, relaxing day

Exploring Zaanse Schans: Holland’s Windmill Capital

The tour begins at Zaanse Schans, where you visit some of the best windmills in Holland. This area was once the largest industrial zone in the world during the 17th century, with windmills functioning as factories producing paint, oil, paper, and wood. The dozen fully operational windmills are still grinding and turning thanks to the wind, showcasing their historic industrial power.

Visitors get the opportunity to enter one of the windmills, which is included in the tour. This allows for a closer look at their inner workings and historical significance. The windmills are a testament to Holland’s innovative engineering and continue to operate on good windy days, providing a dynamic sight. The visit typically lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and offers a chance to appreciate the country’s traditional landscape and manufacturing history.

Cheese and Wooden Shoe Experience at Simonehoeve

Next, the tour visits Simonehoeve, a family-owned cheese farm where visitors learn about the cheese-making process and the tradition of clog making. The farm offers a large variety of cheeses to taste, along with Dutch cookies and fruit wine, making it a delightful stop for food lovers.

Guests have the chance to purchase their favorite cheeses and souvenirs, including clogs and other handicrafts. The visit lasts about 45 minutes and provides insight into two iconic Dutch crafts, making it both educational and tasty. Since the admission is free, it’s a relaxed break where the focus is on experiencing local craftsmanship and flavors firsthand.

The Picturesque Fishing Village of Volendam

Volendam is famous for its harbor and historic fisherman’s quarter called the Maze—a labyrinth of tiny alleys and small houses. Built on a dike along Het IJsselmeer, this town offers classic Dutch scenery and a lively atmosphere.

A highlight here is trying Dutch seafood, particularly the raw herring with pickles and onions. Despite sounding unusual, this dish is tender and has a flavor reminiscent of sushi, often enjoyed by visitors who sample it. Another popular choice is kibbeling, battered and fried cod served with tartar sauce. Visitors can spend about 1 hour exploring, dining, and shopping in the local bars or shops.

Marken: From Island to Peninsula

Marken was once an island in the open sea, now a peaceful peninsula on the IJsselmeer. It’s known for its well-preserved wooden houses and small neighborhoods that are designated as national cultural monuments.

The town offers a quiet, authentic Dutch atmosphere and the chance to have lunch at waterside cafes. The stop lasts 45 minutes, allowing time to stroll through the historic streets and enjoy the scenic views. Its preservation and charm make Marken a special peek into traditional Dutch life away from the tourist crowds.

Discovering Old Holland in Monnickendam

Monnickendam is among Holland’s oldest towns, featuring a historic center, an old church with an impressive bell tower, and a busy harbor full of traditional vessels. Driving through the old town gives a sense of timeless Dutch maritime culture, with lovely views and photo opportunities. This stop is brief—about 15 minutes—but adds a historical dimension to the journey.

Waterland: Holland’s Wetlands and Traditional Villages

Waterland is known as the wetlands of Amsterdam, with a landscape of narrow waterways (sloten), meadows, and lakes. The area is full of pearl villages, farms, and church towers visible on the horizon, showcasing the quintessential Dutch countryside.

The roughly 45-minute visit highlights the country’s peatland and lakes, with opportunities to see cows, sheep, horses, and birds in their natural habitat. This scenic landscape embodies the perfect Dutch rural environment and offers excellent photo moments.

Exploring Church Broek in Waterland

Church Broek in Waterland feels worlds away from Amsterdam’s cosmopolitan vibe. Most houses and farms are made of wood, reflecting traditional Dutch architecture suited to soft, peat-rich soil. The village exudes peace and quiet charm, with large wooden houses and flower-filled gardens.

This stop lasts about 45 minutes and is ideal for visitors seeking a tranquil, authentic experience. As the only tour operator to visit this village, the tour offers a more intimate glimpse of rural Holland, avoiding large crowds and buses.

Comfortable Logistics and Personal Touches

The tour includes all fees and taxes and offers private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. The pickup service enhances convenience, and bottled water is provided throughout the day. The tour departs at 9:00 am, and its private nature means only your group participates, allowing for a flexible and relaxed pace.

Participants should have moderate physical fitness, as some walking and outdoor activity at sites like windmills and villages is involved. The tour is not suitable for children under seven years old, but for those who meet the age requirement, the experience balances sightseeing with comfort.

High Praise and Guide Expertise

Reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially mentioning Philip and Teun, who are praised for their friendly demeanor and ability to tailor the experience. Guests appreciate the insightful commentary and the off-the-beaten-path spots visited, including working windmills and private factories.

Many reviews note the relaxed pace and personalized approach, which allows for more meaningful interactions and flexibility. The inclusion of lunch options and visits to small towns makes this tour feel both comprehensive and intimate.

Final Thoughts on the Tour Experience

This private countryside tour from Amsterdam offers an excellent value for those wanting to explore beyond the city. The combination of windmills, cheese farms, fishing villages, and authentic villages provides a well-rounded look at Holland’s heritage. The high ratings and numerous positive reviews reflect consistent satisfaction with the guides’ expertise and the scenic stops.

While it doesn’t include a dedicated lunch or activities for children under seven, the flexibility and personalized nature make it especially appealing to adults and families who enjoy cultural sights and scenic landscapes. The all-inclusive pricing and private transport make planning straightforward, delivering a comfortable, engaging day in Holland’s countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The tour price covers all fees and taxes, entrance to a windmill, private transportation, and bottled water.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops at local cafes and restaurants, especially in Marken and Volendam, where you can enjoy Dutch seafood and other specialties.

Can children participate?
This private tour is not suitable for children under seven years old.

What is the guide’s expertise like?
Reviews highlight guides’ extensive knowledge, especially about windmills, Dutch villages, and local crafts, with personalized attention and storytelling.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done through the provided provider, Holland Windmills, with options for group discounts and pickup service.

Is the tour customizable?
Yes, the guides are praised for their ability to tailor the experience to your interests, making each trip unique.

What makes this tour different from others?
The private setting, careful selection of stops, and friendly, knowledgeable guides create an experience that’s both relaxing and informative, with fewer crowds and more personal attention.