Private Zaanse Schans Windmills and Volendam Tour from Amsterdam

Exploring the Dutch countryside is effortless with the Private Zaanse Schans Windmills and Volendam Tour from Amsterdam. Priced at $323.28 per person and lasting approximately 5 hours, this tour offers a personalized experience in a private Mercedes vehicle. It includes visits to iconic sites like Zaanse Schans, the cheese farm of Henri Willig, and the picture-perfect fishing village of Volendam. This tour is perfect for those who prefer a flexible, intimate day out, without the hassle of self-driving or group excursions.

One of the tour’s strongest points is the thorough exploration of Dutch traditional crafts—from working windmills to wooden shoe demonstrations. It’s guided by a driver/guide who shares insights about each stop, offering a blend of sightseeing and cultural education. While the tour does not include a professional guide and relies on the driver for commentary, reviews highlight high praise for the driver’s knowledge and friendliness. The tour also features cheese tastings, local waffles, and the opportunity to purchase souvenirs, making it a well-rounded experience.

Key Points

• Private 5-hour tour with pickup and drop-off from Amsterdam in a luxury Mercedes vehicle
• Visits to Zaanse Schans, Henri Willig cheese farm, and Volendam fishing village
• Includes windmill entrance tickets, cheese tastings, and clog demonstrations
• Affordable group discounts available, suitable for small groups seeking a personalized experience
• Excellent for culture lovers, craft enthusiasts, and those wanting a relaxed countryside escape
• Most reviews rate this experience 4.7 out of 5, praising the driver’s professionalism and the variety of stops

Discovering Zaanse Schans’s Iconic Windmills

The tour begins at Zaanse Schans, home to seven traditional windmills. Here, admission to the windmill park and parking costs are included, simplifying logistics. You can visit the paint windmill, famous for being the place where Rembrandt bought his paint, as well as a sawmill and a spice mill. These working windmills are a striking sight, and the stops are designed to give plenty of photo opportunities.

The inside visit to the paint mill is a highlight, as it remains the last working paint mill on earth. This aspect appeals especially to those interested in industrial history and traditional Dutch craftsmanship. Visitors can also purchase fresh waffles at the site, though waffle purchases are not included in the tour price. The pace allows enough time to appreciate the scenic beauty and take memorable photos.

Seeing the Art of Wooden Shoe Making

A dedicated stop at Zaanse Schans offers a demonstration of traditional wooden clog making. This is a chance to watch artisans show how clogs are crafted today, keeping this ancient craft alive. Visitors can buy wooden shoes and souvenirs directly from the factory, making it an ideal spot for authentic Dutch gifts. The demonstration lasts about 30 minutes and provides a clear glimpse into Dutch artisanal skills.

This stop is especially appreciated for its interactive nature, allowing visitors to see the craftsmanship firsthand. The opportunity to purchase clogs makes it a practical part of the tour, especially for those who value authentic souvenirs.

Inside the Last Paint Mill: Molen De Kat

Next, the tour takes visitors inside Molen De Kat, the last remaining windmill capable of producing paint. This specialized mill offers a unique view into Dutch industrial heritage. Visitors learn how paint was historically made using wind-powered machines, tying into the region’s industrial legacy. Admission tickets are included, ensuring a smooth visit without extra costs.

The interior visit provides a rare insight into traditional manufacturing processes that are rarely seen today. It’s a highlight for history buffs and those curious about how everyday products were made before modern automation.

The Charm of Volendam

The tour’s midpoint is the famous fishing village of Volendam, where visitors have about an hour to explore. This charming town is renowned for its colorful houses, harbor, and local seafood restaurants. A famous spot for Dutch culture and picture-perfect views, Volendam invites visitors to stroll along the dijk, enjoy a lunch at one of the best fish restaurants, or buy traditional souvenirs.

The free time here is ideal for those wanting a relaxed walk or to sample Dutch waffles. The harbor and town scenery provide excellent photo opportunities, and reviews praise the authenticity and lively atmosphere of Volendam.

Visiting Jacobs Hoeve Cheese Farm

A key highlight on this tour is the visit to Henri Willig’s cheese farm, which lasts about an hour. The farm features an automated milking robot, showcasing modern dairy farming, while explaining how Jersey cows produce milk used for Gouda cheese. Visitors enjoy free cheese tastings of more than 30 different varieties, making this stop a true culinary delight.

You can buy cheese to ship home, and the farm allows as much tasting as desired. Visitors also observe a demonstration of cheese making and see cows and calves in a real Dutch farm environment. This stop combines educational insights with delicious sampling, appealing particularly to cheese lovers.

Comfort and Convenience of a Private Mercedes Vehicle

The tour’s private Mercedes vehicle is a key feature, providing luxury, comfort, and Wi-Fi onboard. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, simplifying logistics for visitors. The vehicle accommodates small groups, ensuring a personalized experience without the crowds of larger bus tours.

Having bottled water on board and professional, friendly drivers adds a layer of comfort. Reviewers highlight the ease of travel and the timely pickups as major benefits, allowing for a relaxed pace at each stop.

Timing, Pacing, and Crowd Considerations

Starting the tour in the morning helps avoid crowds at popular spots like Volendam and Zaanse Schans, as noted in reviews. The roughly 5-hour schedule balances sightseeing with ample free time for lunch, photos, and shopping.

While the tour is not guided by a professional historian or guide, the driver/guide shares interesting facts and anecdotes. Some reviews mention that the driver might be less communicative, but overall, the personalized service and careful planning create a smooth experience.

Booking, Flexibility, and Customization

This is a private tour, meaning no other groups are involved, allowing for customized stops and pacing. The tour is bookable 29 days in advance on average and can be extended upon request.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, offering flexibility if plans change. The tour includes admission tickets and parking costs, simplifying the overall cost and planning.

Suitability and Practical Tips

This tour is ideal for small groups or families wanting a personalized, hassle-free day exploring classic Dutch sights. It suits culture enthusiasts, foodies, or anyone interested in traditional crafts and scenic villages.

Participants should be prepared for some walking at stops like Volendam and Zaanse Schans, but overall, the tour is accessible for most. The private vehicle makes it a good choice for those seeking comfort and flexibility.

The Sum Up: Authentic Dutch Day in Comfort and Style

This private Zaanse Schans Windmills and Volendam Tour offers a well-balanced look at Dutch craftsmanship, scenic beauty, and local flavors. Its personalized approach and luxurious transportation make it a strong choice for visitors who prefer small-group experiences without the crowds. The inclusion of windmill and cheese farm visits, clog demonstrations, and Volendam’s charm provides a comprehensive taste of Dutch tradition.

While it lacks a professional guide, the driver/guide is praised for knowledge and friendliness, ensuring a smooth, engaging day. The free tasting opportunities and shopping options add practical value. This tour best suits those who seek comfort, flexibility, and an authentic cultural experience in a limited timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour’s stops are engaging and suitable for families, especially with the chance to see windmills, cheese tasting, and clog demonstrations.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it is a private tour, customization upon request is possible, particularly with extension options.

Are entrance tickets included?
Yes, admission to the windmill park, inside the paint windmill, and the cheese farm are included in the tour price.

How long do stops last?
Most stops range from 20 to 60 minutes, offering a good balance of sightseeing and free exploration.

Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included, but recommendations for riverside restaurants at Volendam are provided, and local waffles are available for purchase.

What transportation is provided?
A private, air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi is used for the entire trip.

Is the tour accessible for mobility-challenged visitors?
The tour involves some walking at stops like Volendam and Zaanse Schans, so mobility considerations should be taken into account.

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made about 29 days prior, but availability can be checked sooner.

Are there group discounts?
Yes, group discounts are available, making it economical for small groups or families.

What is the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility in case plans change.