Viator Rating : 5 (5337 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.2/10 (Solid Experience)
Amsterdam
Dutch Countryside: Windmills, Cheese & Villages Tour
390
Overview
Day Trip to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam, and Marken from Amsterdam: This tour takes visitors on a journey through the beautiful Dutch countryside. It's a chance to see windmills, taste cheese, and explore charming fishing villages. This bus tour is perfect for people who want to see more of Holland outside of Amsterdam.
Get ready to step back in time as visitors walk through Zaanse Schans. This historic village is known for its windmills, wooden houses, and workshops. Then, explore Edam, famous for its cheese and old-world charm. Near Volendam, see how cheese and clogs are made at a family-run farm. Enjoy free time in Volendam's lively harbor. Finally, discover Marken, a quiet village where Dutch heritage is alive. The tour includes tasting local cheese and other treats! For even more fun, visitors can add a canal cruise when they return to Amsterdam.
The tour is led by a professional guide and includes bus transportation. The optional Amsterdam canal cruise comes with an audio guide. This experience is a great way to see the best of the Dutch countryside. It is an excellent choice for a full-day adventure filled with culture, food, and beautiful scenery. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Instagram Factor (8 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Upsell Risk (6 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (6 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
See Historic Windmills: Visit Zaanse Schans, a village known for its iconic windmills and wooden houses.
Taste Dutch Cheese: Enjoy a cheese tasting at a family-run farm near Volendam.
Explore Fishing Villages: Discover the charming villages of Volendam and Marken.
Relax on a Canal Cruise (Optional): Add an Amsterdam canal cruise to see the city from the water.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing the windmills and cheese farms.
-
Many enjoyed the stops in Volendam and Marken.
-
The guides were knowledgeable and friendly.
-
The bus was comfortable and made travel easy.
Some felt that there was not enough time at each stop.
-
The cheese demonstration felt rushed.
The Journey
Zaanse Schans
Step into a living postcard at Zaanse Schans, a meticulously preserved village showcasing the Netherlands' iconic windmills and traditional crafts. Witness the inner workings of historic windmills that once powered the Dutch economy, grinding spices, sawing wood, and pressing oil. Explore the charming wooden houses, artisan workshops, and museums that vividly depict 18th and 19th-century Dutch life. Capture stunning photos amidst this picturesque landscape, a testament to Dutch ingenuity and heritage.
Edam
Discover the enchanting town of Edam, renowned for its world-famous cheese and rich maritime history. Stroll along cobblestone streets lined with historic buildings, graceful canals, and traditional Dutch architecture. Explore the iconic square where the Edam Cheese Market once thrived, a testament to the town's pivotal role in the global cheese trade. Experience the tranquil atmosphere and authentic charm of this storybook setting, a true gem of North Holland.
Cheese Farm and Clog Workshop near Volendam
Delight in a sensory experience near Volendam with a visit to a traditional cheese farm, where you'll witness the art of Gouda and Edam cheese making firsthand. Learn the secrets from a local cheese master and savor the rich flavors of authentic Dutch cheese. Then, step into a clog workshop and uncover the fascinating process of crafting these iconic wooden shoes, a symbol of Dutch heritage and craftsmanship. A truly immersive cultural experience awaits.
Volendam
Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Volendam, a picturesque fishing village on the Markermeer lake. Stroll along the scenic harbor, admiring the colorful boats and soaking in the maritime charm. Indulge in traditional Dutch delicacies like fresh herring or fried kibbeling, and browse the quaint shops filled with local crafts and souvenirs. Experience the authentic character of Volendam, where time seems to slow down and the spirit of the sea prevails.
Marken
Journey back in time to Marken, an enchanting island village with a unique cultural identity. Wander through narrow lanes lined with distinctive wooden houses, each painted in vibrant colors and steeped in history. Visit the tranquil fishing harbor, where traditional boats bob gently in the water, and admire the simple beauty of the local Protestant church. Discover the quiet charm and authentic Dutch life of Marken, a testament to the enduring traditions of the Netherlands. (Note: Visit to Marken may be substituted for safety reasons in case of bad weather conditions.)
A'dam Lookout
Conclude your bus tour at A'dam Lookout, an observation point offering panoramic views of Amsterdam. From here, easily access Amsterdam Central Station via a free ferry, offering an effortless transition to your next destination. For those who have booked the canal cruise, our guide will escort you to the pier, where you'll embark on a relaxing journey through Amsterdam's waterways.
Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Enhance your Amsterdam experience with a relaxing canal cruise through the heart of the city. Glide past historic bridges, elegant townhouses, and iconic landmarks as you discover why Amsterdam is often called the "Venice of the North." This peaceful boat ride offers a unique perspective on the city's rich history and vibrant culture, providing a perfect conclusion to your Dutch countryside adventure. (Note: Only if the option is booked).
Know Before You Go
This tour includes a professional guide and transportation by bus. If the option is selected, a 1-hour Amsterdam canal cruise with an audio guide is included. Tasting of local cheese and other products like cookies, fruits, and wine are provided. Food and drinks, unless specified, and hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. Please note that the tour starts and ends in Amsterdam.
Hot Tip
Many people recommend trying the fresh herring in Volendam. Also, wear comfortable shoes for walking around the villages.
Review Summary
People finds this tour highly praised for its efficient coverage of windmills at Zaanse Schans, cheese and clog demonstrations, and charming visits to Edam, Volendam, and Marken, with engaging guides and convenient transport from Amsterdam. Travelers frequently highlight the authentic Dutch countryside experience and tastings as positives, though some note limited time at each stop and desire more free exploration in the villages.
Frequently Asked Questions
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