Full Day Tour of the Countryside and Windmills Near Amsterdam

Amsterdam , Netherlands

Full Day Tour of the Countryside and Windmills Near Amsterdam

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About this experience

Tour of the Dutch Countryside :

Immerse yourself in the enchanting Dutch countryside with visits to iconic windmills at Zaanse Schans, a traditional cheese factory in Volendam, and the historic city of Alkmaar. Begin your journey at Zaanse Schans, where you can enter a working windmill and witness the intricate mechanisms that harness wind power, showcasing traditional Dutch engineering. Continue to a cheese factory in Volendam to discover the art of Dutch cheesemaking. Enjoy guided tours and tastings of a variety of flavorful cheeses. Finally, stroll through Alkmaar's historic center, known for its charming architecture and rich history. Explore landmarks like the St. Lawrence Church and the medieval Waag (Weigh House), and experience the vibrant cultural scene. This tour is perfect for families, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers, offering immersive cultural experiences, insider knowledge, and memorable encounters with local traditions, all within a few unforgettable hours.

Available options

Full Day Tour of the Countryside and Windmills Near Amsterdam

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

tour and guidance

WiFi on board

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel surcharge

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Windmills at Zaanse Schans :

Discover the enchanting windmills at Zaanse Schans, a quintessential Dutch experience. This scenic area is home to a collection of well-preserved historic windmills, each showcasing traditional Dutch engineering and craftsmanship.

Enter a Working Windmill

Step inside one of these iconic windmills to explore its inner workings. Witness the intricate mechanisms that harness the power of the wind, turning it into energy for milling grain, sawing wood, or other tasks. Gain a deeper understanding of how these structures have been vital to Dutch industry and daily life for centuries.

Visit the Historic City of Alkmaar :

Explore the captivating city of Alkmaar, a place where history and charm blend seamlessly. Wander through its picturesque streets, lined with beautifully preserved buildings that tell stories of a rich past. Discover Alkmaar’s vibrant cultural scene, famous for its traditional cheese market, which has been a focal point of the city since 1365. Visit historic landmarks such as the St. Lawrence Church and the medieval Waag (Weigh House), which houses the fascinating Cheese Museum. Enjoy the delightful canals, cozy cafes, and local shops, offering a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Whether you are a history enthusiast or simply looking for a charming destination, Alkmaar promises an unforgettable experience.

Visit the Cheese Factory in Volendam :

Embark on a delightful journey to the cheese factory in Volendam, where tradition and taste come together. Discover the time-honored process of Dutch cheesemaking, from the initial stages of milk curdling to the meticulous aging process. Join a guided tour to witness skilled artisans at work, crafting some of the finest cheeses in the Netherlands. Immerse yourself in the rich history and techniques that have been passed down through generations. End your visit with a tasting session, sampling a variety of exquisite cheeses, each with its own unique flavor profile. Experience the essence of Dutch culinary heritage in the charming village of Volendam.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

The remaining hours are allotted for the travel time. 1 hour for pickup and drive to the windmills, another hour to drive back to the Hotel, Cruise Terminal or Airport, and additional 2 hours transfer time between the spots.

About Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the 'Venice of the North,' the city offers a rich blend of art, history, and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

Museum 2-3 hours €20

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. It houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings in the world.

Museum 1.5-2 hours €20

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II.

Historical 1 hour €16

Dam Square

Dam Square is the central square of Amsterdam and a historic site. It is home to the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and various other landmarks.

Historical 1 hour Free

Jordaan

Jordaan is a picturesque and lively neighborhood known for its narrow streets, canals, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great place to explore, shop, and dine.

Neighborhood A few hours to explore Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining

Must-Try Local Dishes

Stroopwafel

A thin, round waffle made from two layers of baked dough joined by a caramel-like syrup filling

Dessert Vegetarian, contains wheat and sugar

Bitterballen

Deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a creamy, spiced ragout, typically made from beef or veal

Snack Contains meat, gluten, and dairy

Haring

Raw herring fish, traditionally served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by its tail and lowering it into your mouth

Dish Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians

Poffertjes

Miniature pancakes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast, served with powdered sugar and butter

Dessert Vegetarian, contains wheat, eggs, and dairy

Popular Activities

Canal kayaking Bike tours Escape rooms Canal cruises Visiting parks and gardens Spa and wellness treatments Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The peak tourist season in Amsterdam is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, but it's also the busiest and most expensive period.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, German, French
English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

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, with some areas requiring caution

Amsterdam is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bike theft, can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport
• Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 17.5 km from city center

By train

Amsterdam Centraal

By bus

Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Getting around

Public transport

Amsterdam's tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with 14 day and night tram lines. A single ticket costs €3.20, and day passes are available.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Amsterdam

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jordaan De Pijp De Wallen (Red Light District) Museumplein Amsterdam-Noord

Day trips

Zaanse Schans

20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day

A picturesque and open-air museum featuring traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of the region.

Haarlem

20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day

A charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene, often considered a smaller and more relaxed version of Amsterdam.

Utrecht

50 km from Amsterdam • Full day

A vibrant and historic city known for its beautiful canals, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene, with a unique and charming atmosphere.

Festivals

King's Day (Koningsdag) • April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th is a Sunday) Amsterdam Pride • Late July to early August Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) • Mid-October

Pro tips

Use the OV-chipkaart for seamless and convenient public transport
Rent a bike to explore the city like a local, but be aware of cycling rules and etiquette
Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
Explore the city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm
Try local specialties, such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, and Dutch pancakes