Amsterdam: Giethoorn & Zaanse Schans Small Group Day Trip

A charming day exploring the scenic countryside of North Holland — from windy windmills and cheese farms to the picturesque canals of Giethoorn and traditional clog workshops.
This small-group tour offers a well-rounded taste of Dutch culture and natural beauty, all within a compact 9-hour itinerary. It’s ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, relaxed experience with plenty of local flavor.

What we really love about this trip is the personalized touch that comes with travelling in a small group—fewer crowds, more flexibility, and a chance to really soak in each location. The expert guides, like the highly praised David, add a layer of insight that makes each stop feel meaningful.

One potential consideration is that the tour lasts around nine hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. Also, since the tour isn’t wheelchair friendly, accessibility could be a concern for some travelers.

This experience is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy culture, stunning scenery, and a laid-back pace. Whether you’re a couple, family, or solo adventurer, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

Intimate Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, making for a relaxed, personalized experience.

Authentic Dutch Experiences: Clog making, cheese tasting, and a canal cruise highlight the true essence of Dutch culture.

Expert Local Guides: Knowledgeable guides like David add valuable insights, making each stop informative and engaging.

Beautiful Locations: Windmills at Zaanse Schans, the serene canals of Giethoorn, and traditional farms — all picture-perfect.

Flexible & Well-Organized: The tour is thoughtfully paced, with plenty of free time at each site, ensuring you can explore without feeling rushed.

Value for Money: With included activities like cheese tastings, a boat cruise, and demonstrations, the cost reflects a comprehensive day out.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The tour kicks off at Oosterdokskade 65, conveniently located near major Amsterdam attractions. The guide, easily recognizable in a bright red sweater featuring “Amsterdam,” ensures you’ll spot the group easily. From there, transportation is in a comfortable, clean van — praised by reviewers for its reliability and friendly driver, David, whose personable nature enhances the experience right from the start.

Traveling in a small group means fewer crowds and a more intimate vibe. The journey through the Dutch countryside is scenic, with expansive fields and colorful tulips in bloom depending on the season. The drive itself sets the tone for a relaxed day — a perfect way to transition from the city’s hustle to the calm rural scenery.

Zaanse Schans — Windmills and Clogs

Your first major stop is Zaanse Schans, a highlight for many travelers. Here, you’ll get up close with iconic Dutch windmills. The guided tour ensures you understand their historical importance, and you’ll even step inside one to see how they operate—an authentic look at the machinery that powered Dutch industry for centuries.

The windmill visit isn’t just sightseeing; it’s a chance to understand a vital part of Dutch heritage. Plus, you’ll witness a clog-making demonstration, which impresses many, as master craftsmen carve and shape wood into traditional clogs. This demonstration is not only visually fascinating but also offers the chance for you to try on a pair and walk in them—an amusing and memorable moment.

Reviewers like Wendi appreciated the early arrival at Zaanse Schans, which meant fewer crowds and better photo opportunities. Having the guide’s local knowledge helps you avoid the busiest times, which makes the experience more relaxed.

Cheese Farm — Tasting and Learning

Next, you’ll visit a classic Dutch cheese farm. Here, you witness cheese-making demonstrations, learning about the process passed down through generations. The highlight is the tasting—more than 20 different cheeses including Gouda, Edam, and others.

The cheese tasting isn’t just about savoring; it’s about understanding regional varieties and terroir. Reviewers note that the presentation is engaging, and the opportunity to sample many cheeses makes this stop feel like a real treat. One guest mentioned the host’s friendliness and the chance to get discounts while shopping, adding to the feeling of a personalized experience.

Clog Workshop — Handcrafted Tradition

After cheese, you’ll visit a clog workshop. Here, master artisans carve and shape wood into iconic Dutch shoes. Watching the process from rough blocks to finished footwear is fascinating, and the chance to try on a pair yourself makes it interactive. Many guests, including those in reviews, found this a fun and authentic activity that adds a hands-on element to the tour.

Giethoorn — The Venice of the North

The final major stop is Giethoorn, often called the Venice of the North thanks to its network of tranquil canals. Here, you’ll embark on a leisurely boat cruise, gliding past thatched-roof cottages, lush gardens, and charming bridges. This part of the tour is the most memorable for many, offering picture-perfect views and a peaceful atmosphere.

The boat ride is guided, with insights into the history and architecture of the village. Reviewers repeatedly mention the quiet serenity of Giethoorn and the pleasure of seeing it from the water. David’s personal navigation of the boat adds a special touch, and his explanations help you appreciate the scenery.

Ending the Day and Reflection

As the sun sets, casting a golden glow, you’ll head back to Amsterdam, feeling enriched by the day’s experiences. The small group format and expert guidance make for a comfortable and engaging journey.

Practical Details and Value

At around 9 hours, this tour is packed with sights yet maintains a relaxed pace. The inclusion of transportation, guided commentary in multiple languages (Dutch, English, Spanish), and activities like cheese tastings and a boat cruise make it a good value for the price.

The tour is suitable for families and couples, with an emphasis on culturally rich, scenic experiences. However, it’s not suited for wheelchair users due to walking and boat access limitations.

The morning meeting point is conveniently located near Central Amsterdam, with a clear meeting spot in front of a well-known landmark — the Sea Palace floating restaurant. The group is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience that many reviewers found more enjoyable than large bus tours.

Availability varies, so checking the schedule ahead of time is recommended, and the flexible booking policy allows for cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund.

Final Words: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a standout choice for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Dutch culture without the hassle of organizing multiple day trips on their own. The small-group setup means you’ll get more personalized attention and flexibility, making it ideal for couples, small families, or solo travelers wanting a friendly, intimate experience.

If you’re a fan of scenic landscapes, traditional crafts, and authentic local experiences, this trip offers a delightful blend of all three. The knowledgeable guides, especially those like David praised for his friendliness and expertise, elevate the experience, transforming a simple sightseeing day into a memorable adventure.

While it’s a full day, the variety of activities and stunning scenery make it worth the time. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes—and bring your camera, your curiosity, and an appetite for delicious cheese.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation to and between sites is included. You’ll travel comfortably in a small, private van.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the evening, depending on traffic and weather.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since there’s some walking at each stop. The tour provider also supplies umbrellas if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly, but note that it’s not wheelchair accessible. Children should be comfortable with a full day of activities.

What languages are available?
The tour is offered in Dutch, English, and Spanish, with live guides providing commentary in these languages.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included. There are plenty of options available at stops, but you should plan to bring or buy your own food.

In essence, this small-group tour offers a well-balanced, authentic glimpse into Dutch life, perfect for those eager to see windmills, sample cheese, and drift along picturesque canals—without feeling rushed or crowded.