Zaanse Schans: A Windmills, Crafts and History Self-Guided Tour
Active
45m - 1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover the charm of Zaanse Schans on this self-guided 45-minute walking tour through a historic Dutch village of windmills, wooden houses, and centuries-old craftsmanship.
Starting at Klaverringdijk, stroll past green-painted homes, cross wooden bridges, and visit working windmills that still produce paint, oil, and timber.
Tour highlights include:
• De Kat, the world’s only working paint mill
• Traditional Zaan architecture with green facades and white trim
• A clog workshop showcasing centuries-old shoemaking techniques
• Cheesemaking demonstrations with tastings
• Museumwinkel Albert Heijn, the first store of the iconic Dutch chain
The tour ends at the Museum Zaanse Tijd, home to 17th–18th century Dutch clocks.
Available options
Zaanse Schans: A Windmills, Crafts and History Self-Guided Tour
What's included
Lifetime access to this tour in English before your booking date and after it
Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
App for Android and iOS
Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start
Detailed itinerary
1
Stroll by and see how one of the most recognizable symbols of the Dutch countryside is made and remains a proud symbol of Dutch heritage, and a popular souvenir. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
2
Pass by and witness how milk is transformed into more than just a product but a culture. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
3
Walk by and learn about this unique windmill and the only remaining working paint mill in the world. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
4
Sneak a peek as you pass by this reconstruction of a 1680 mill, demonstrating how wind power was harnessed to saw logs into planks. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
5
Pass by and see one of the few remaining working oil mills in the Netherlands where oil is traditionally pressed from seeds – a beautiful example of how wind power was used for industrial production, long before electricity or engines existed. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
6
Stroll past a special piece of Dutch retail history, a faithful reconstruction of the first Albert Heijn store, founded in 1887, which went from humble beginnings in a small neighbourhood to the largest supermarket chain in the Netherlands. Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour.
What's not included
Smartphone and headphones
Personal expenses for admission fees not included during the tour
Food and drink
Transportation
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
Written guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
2 reviews
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Meeting point
This tour begins near nr 1 Klaverringdijk, 1509 BT Zaandam, Netherlands, at the entrance of the Zaanse Schans windmill area. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
Important notes
VOICEMAP CODE
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking.
You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.
This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.
DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
Create an account
Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
Enter your code then select Download Now
PLEASE NOTE
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.
This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.
When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.
Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.
SUPPORT
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me
About Zaandam
Zaandam is a charming city in the Netherlands known for its picturesque wooden houses, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. It offers a unique blend of traditional Dutch architecture and modern attractions, making it a delightful destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Zaans Museum
The Zaans Museum showcases the rich history and culture of the Zaandam region, with exhibits on windmills, wooden house construction, and local industries.
Museum
2-3 hours
€15
De Catherijnepoort
This historic city gate is one of the last remaining remnants of Zaandam's medieval city walls. It offers a glimpse into the city's past and is a popular spot for photos.
Historical
30 minutes
Free
Zaansche Schans
Zaansche Schans is an open-air museum and historic district featuring well-preserved windmills, traditional houses, and workshops. It offers a unique glimpse into the region's industrial past.
Historical
2-3 hours
€12.50
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stroopwafel
A thin waffle cookie filled with a sweet syrup, often enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Dessert
Vegetarian, Contains gluten
Haring
Raw herring fish, typically served with onions and pickles.
Snack
Contains fish, Gluten-free
Bitterballen
Deep-fried meatballs filled with a creamy ragout, often served with mustard.
Snack
Contains meat, Gluten-free
Popular Activities
Biking
Hiking
Kayaking
Spa visits
Canal cruises
Coffee shop lounging
Museum visits
Historic site tours
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the best time to visit Zaandam for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and events during the summer months.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Zaandam is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure in crowded areas
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
Getting there
By air
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 15 km
By train
Zaandam Station
By bus
Zaandam Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus network in Zaandam is extensive and efficient, covering most parts of the city and connecting to nearby towns.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, TaxiApp
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Zaandijk
Kogerveld
Day trips
Amsterdam
15 km • Half day to full day
Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands and offers a wealth of cultural attractions, historic sites, and vibrant neighborhoods.
Zaanse Schans
3 km • Half day
Zaanse Schans is an open-air museum and historic district featuring well-preserved windmills, traditional houses, and workshops.
Haarlem
20 km • Half day to full day
Haarlem is a charming city known for its beautiful architecture, historic sites, and vibrant cultural scene.
Festivals
Zaans Festival • June
Christmas Market • December
King's Day • 27th April
Pro tips
- Visit the Zaans Museum and Zaansche Schans for a deep dive into the region's history and culture
- Explore the city on a bike, as Zaandam is very bike-friendly
- Try local Dutch dishes like stroopwafels and bitterballen
- Check for local events and festivals during your visit
- Use public transportation or bike to reduce your environmental impact
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
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