Amsterdam: Keukenhof and Zaanse Schans Windmills Day Trip

Exploring the Netherlands’ iconic sights can be challenging without guidance, but this day trip from Amsterdam offers a well-organized way to see two of its most beloved attractions—the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens and the charming Zaanse Schans Windmill Village. For just around $77, you’ll enjoy a full day of colorful blooms, historic windmills, cheese tastings, and a glimpse into Dutch traditions, all with ease and flexibility.

What really makes this trip shine is the freedom to explore each site at your own pace—especially in Keukenhof, where you can stay as long as you want within the garden’s expansive grounds. Also, the inclusion of a self-guided tour app and local tips enriches the experience, making it more user-friendly. A potential drawback? The timing at Zaanse Schans might feel a bit rushed, especially during busy seasons, but overall, the value and authenticity make this a favorite among travelers.

This tour is ideal for those who want a practical, budget-friendly way to experience Dutch tulips and windmills without the hassle of planning all the logistics. If you’re a nature lover, flower enthusiast, or history buff eager to see traditional Dutch crafts—like clog-making and cheese tasting—this trip offers a good mix of sights, culture, and leisure.

Key Points

• Flexibility in Keukenhof: You can stay as long as you want and choose your own return time, giving you control over your day.
• Self-guided experience: With a detailed app and info leaflet, you can explore at your own pace, which many reviewers appreciate.
• Authentic Dutch sights: Windmills, traditional crafts, cheese tasting, and tulips in full bloom—classic experiences that are well worth the visit.
• Comfortable transportation: The air-conditioned coach ensures a relaxed journey, with guaranteed seating and smooth transfers.
• Value for money: At $77, the tour includes entry tickets to Keukenhof and the guided transport, which many find excellent for the price.
• Mixed reviews on timing: Some travelers mention that the Zaanse Schans stop can feel rushed, and traffic might impact the schedule.

The Itinerary in Detail

The day begins early, with two main departure options from This is Holland in Amsterdam—either at 8AM or 10:30AM—allowing travelers some flexibility. The journey first takes you to the Zaanse Schans Windmill Village, where you’ll get roughly 2.5 hours to soak in the sights. This stop is a perfect introduction to Dutch heritage, with iconic windmills, traditional wooden houses, and the opportunity to see how Dutch clogs are made. Several reviews highlight the charm of this area—one reviewer mentioned that arriving early meant fewer crowds, making for better photos and a more relaxed visit.

While there are optional activities like clog making and wooden shoe painting (at your own expense), many visitors find the self-guided walking tour app invaluable. It offers scenic routes, local tips, and historical insights, helping you make the most of your time. Some reviewers noted that the 2.5 hours might feel a little tight—especially if you want to visit the Wooden Shoe Museum or browse the shops—so plan accordingly.

Next, you travel to Keukenhof Gardens, arriving around noon or early afternoon. Here, you’re free to spend as long as you like (up to the last bus at 6:30 PM), making it possible to avoid rushing through the stunning displays. The gardens span over 79 acres filled with millions of tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils, alongside sculptures, mazes, and fairy-tale themed gardens. Many travelers describe Keukenhof as overwhelming in the best way—so many blooms, so little time.

Highlights include the flower shows, exhibitions, and the vibrant scent of spring filling the air. Reviewers often mention that the gardens are meticulously maintained, and the various themed sections provide plenty of photo opportunities. The included flower garden ticket makes this a great deal, especially during peak bloom seasons.

After your visit, the return trip is flexible—any shuttle bus back to Amsterdam until 6:30 PM allows you to linger or leave early. Some reviewers appreciated the convenience of this setup, although a few noted that the buses can get crowded during peak times, so arrive early or be prepared for a busy ride back.

What to Expect at Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is more than just windmills; it’s a living museum of Dutch trades. You can walk through historic buildings, watch cheese being sampled, and see traditional crafts in action. The cheese tasting is a highlight for many, who describe it as plentiful and delicious. The windmills themselves—some open for interior visits at an extra cost—offer fantastic photo ops and insight into Dutch engineering.

Interestingly, several reviewers pointed out that entrance to the windmills costs about €7.50, which isn’t included in the tour price. So, if you’re eager to go inside or see demonstrations, budget for this. Many people also recommend taking time to browse the small souvenir shops, especially for cheese, wooden shoes, and local crafts.

Exploring Keukenhof

Keukenhof is a visual feast, especially during peak bloom months when tulips and hyacinths carpet the landscape. You’ll find a combination of floral displays, sculptures, and themed gardens that appeal to all ages. Many travelers mention the value of staying longer—some even bring a picnic or purchase snacks to enjoy in the gardens.

The self-guided tour app is a standout feature, offering insights about the different sections of Keukenhof and local tips, which enhances the visit. You’ll love the way the gardens are laid out to cater to different interests—there’s a maze for kids, a sculpture park for art lovers, and even a fairy-tale garden for the young and young at heart.

Due to the size of Keukenhof, some reviewers suggest prioritizing your must-see areas or taking advantage of the map and app to plan your route. Also, since the last bus leaves at 6:30 PM, timing is key if you want to explore thoroughly.

Transportation and Practicalities

The air-conditioned coaches are a major plus, especially after walking around outdoor sites. The guaranteed seating and professional hosts make the day comfortable and stress-free. The departure points and check-in process are straightforward—just exchange your voucher at the welcome desk in This is Holland. The short ferry ride from Central Station adds an element of fun and convenience.

The tour’s flexibility—allowing you to stay as long as you like in Keukenhof—is a significant advantage. You can leave early if you’re tired or linger for sunset photos. The optional extra fee for windmill entry means you could tailor the experience further if you wish to go inside.

Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights

Many reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and friendly drivers—like Gilbert, who shared extra stories on the bus journey and made the ride more engaging. Although the tour is largely self-guided, these personal touches enrich the day.

Reviewers consistently mention the stunning landscapes, especially during tulip season, with some noting that arriving early at Zaanse Schans reduces crowds. The cheese tasting and demonstrations of clog-making** are also viewed as authentic and fun, giving a taste of Dutch craftsmanship.

One traveler commented that the timing at Zaanse Schans felt a little rushed, which highlights the importance of planning your day carefully. Despite this, the overall organization impressed many, with comments about how well the logistics were handled and the value of the included tickets.

Pricing and Value

At $77, this tour offers a lot for the price—transport, entry tickets, and some tastings included. For budget-conscious travelers, this is a practical way to see two iconic sites without worrying about train schedules, tickets, or parking.

Many reviewers said the value was excellent, especially considering the included extras and the flexibility to explore at your own pace. The only extra costs are optional—like entering windmills or buying souvenirs—so your budget remains largely in your control.

Who Would Love This Tour

This experience suits travelers who want a cost-effective, flexible, and comprehensive day out. It’s perfect if you enjoy flowers, windmills, and Dutch culture but prefer a laid-back, self-guided approach. It’s also great for those who appreciate the freedom to linger in beautiful settings without the pressure of a guided tour.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo—who enjoy outdoor scenery, photography, and cultural experiences—this trip delivers a well-rounded snapshot of the Netherlands’ most photogenic sites.

The Sum Up

This tour truly offers a convenient, authentic taste of Dutch beauty and tradition. The combination of Keukenhof’s vibrant floral displays and Zaanse Schans’s historic windmills makes it a standout experience for anyone visiting Amsterdam during tulip season or with a love for Dutch heritage.

The self-guided approach empowers you to explore at your own pace, making it suitable for various travel styles—from nature lovers to culture enthusiasts. The tour’s price point provides excellent value, especially given the included entrance tickets and transportation.

While some travelers wish for a bit more time at Zaanse Schans and inside the windmills, the overall organization, comfort, and authenticity make this a top pick. It’s a fantastic way to see iconic Dutch sights without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

In short, if you want a relaxed, scenic, and culturally enriching day trip that balances guided convenience with personal exploration, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for those eager to experience the Netherlands’ springtime magic without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is there a specific start time for the tour?
Yes, the tour has two options—departing at 8:00 AM or 10:30 AM from This is Holland in Amsterdam. Check availability for your preferred time.

How long can I stay at Keukenhof?
You can stay as long as you want until the last bus at 6:30 PM. This flexibility allows you to enjoy the gardens at your own pace.

Are the entrance fees to windmills included?
No, the tour includes the Keukenhof ticket and transportation. Entrance to windmills costs about €7.50 per person and is paid separately if you wish to go inside.

Is the transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The coach is air-conditioned with guaranteed seats, making the journey relaxed, especially after busy days walking around outdoor sites.

Can I explore Zaanse Schans on my own?
Yes. It’s a self-guided stop with a detailed app and leaflet, allowing you to walk at your own pace, visit shops, watch cheese tastings, and see windmills.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most likely yes. Kids will enjoy the colorful flowers, windmills, and the chance to see how Dutch clogs are made. The flexibility to linger or leave early can help tailor the day for different ages.

This detailed, practical review aims to help you decide if this Dutch countryside day trip fits your travel style. Whether you’re a flower fanatic or a lover of windmills, it offers a charming, flexible way to experience some of the Netherlands’ best-loved sights.