From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken
Zaanse Schans, Amsterdam
Escape the city and explore the Dutch countryside on a full-day tour from Amsterdam. Visit the windmills, taste authentic Dutch cheese, and discover 17th-century fishing villages.
This full-day tour from Amsterdam suits travelers interested in Dutch countryside heritage, traditional villages, and local crafts.
Highlights
- Visit historic windmills and artisan workshops at Zaanse Schans
- Explore the medieval town of Edam, known for its cheese
- Watch cheese-making and clog-making demonstrations near Volendam
- Discover the island village of Marken with its wooden houses
- Optional canal cruise in Amsterdam to end your day
Description
Experience the Dutch countryside on a 6.5-hour tour starting from Amsterdam. Visit traditional villages and enjoy local customs and landscapes.
Begin at Zaanse Schans, home to working windmills, wooden houses, and artisan workshops. Learn about the role of windmills in the Dutch economy and capture photos of this historic site.
Next, visit Edam, famous for its cheese. Walk along cobblestone streets and historic canals, and see the original cheese market square.
Near Volendam, visit a family-run farm to watch cheese-making demonstrations for Gouda and Edam. Also, see how clogs are carved and painted by hand in a clog workshop.
Spend free time in Volendam’s fishing harbor, where you can try Dutch street food, browse souvenir shops, or enjoy the coastal setting.
Visit Marken, a quiet island village with colorful wooden homes and a local Protestant church reflecting its history. Note that in bad weather, Marken may be replaced for safety reasons.
The tour returns to Amsterdam, where you can optionally add a canal cruise through UNESCO-listed waterways, passing historic buildings and bridges.
Includes
- Spanish or English-speaking tour guide (depending on option selected)
- Transportation by bus
- Visits to Zaanse Schans, Edam, and Marken
- Entrance and cheese tasting at the farm near Volendam
- Entrance to the clog workshop
Excludes
- Any food or beverage not listed as included
Important Information
- Babies require their own Maxi-Cosi car seat
- The bus is not wheelchair accessible
- No pets allowed on the bus
- You may keep luggage on the private bus during the tour
- This is a fast-paced 6.5-hour itinerary designed to give an overview of the countryside while returning to Amsterdam early afternoon
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking tip: Wear comfortable shoes and bring weather-appropriate clothing. The best time to visit is during late spring to early autumn for favorable weather conditions.
