Delft and Volendam: Cheese, Clogs & Windmills (Small Group)

Traveling through the Netherlands offers a delightful mix of picturesque landscapes, historical towns, and vibrant local traditions. This small group tour promises an intimate look at some of the country’s most charming spots—without the crowds and with plenty of hands-on experiences. From cheese farms and traditional clog making to exploring the charming fishing village of Volendam and the medieval streets of Delft, this 9-hour adventure is a taste of authentic Dutch life.

What we really appreciate is the emphasis on hidden gems like “Little Kinderdijk” and “Little Amsterdam,” providing a deeper insight beyond the popular tourist spots. Also, the personal demonstrations and guided walks bring a sense of authenticity and local flavor. A slight consideration is the pace: while most will enjoy the relaxed sightseeing, those with mobility issues might find parts of the tour challenging. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, immersive experience that balances culture, history, and scenic beauty—all in one day.

If you’re keen on discovering the Netherlands beyond the typical tourist trail, this tour suits curious travelers who love cultural stories, local craftsmanship, and scenic charm. It’s especially well-suited for small groups who value personalized attention and intimate encounters with Dutch traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit uncrowded cheese farms, watch clog-making demonstrations, and explore Dutch villages away from tourist crowds.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about the significance of windmills, how cheese is made, and Dutch fishing traditions.
• Scenic and Historic: Explore two medieval towns, Delft and Volendam, with picturesque streets, historic buildings, and traditional architecture.
• Personalized Group Size: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate, engaging experience.
• Value for Money: At $163, it includes many entrance fees and guided tours, making it a comprehensive value for a full day.
• Comfort and Convenience: Relaxed pacing with scenic drives, pick-up from Amsterdam, and small-group attention.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins outside the DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station, a convenient spot for city travelers. From there, you’ll hop into a comfortable van for a 45-minute drive to your first destination. The small-group size ensures a relaxed atmosphere, where you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and take photos without feeling rushed.

Cheese Farm Visit: Authentic Dutch Dairy

The first stop is a local cheese farm, deliberately chosen away from the busy Zaanse Schans area to offer a more authentic experience. Here, you’ll witness a private group demonstration of cheese making—an insightful look at how traditional Dutch cheese, like Gouda or Edam, is crafted. Expect to learn about the cheese’s history, ingredients, and the craftsmanship behind each wheel.

Guests frequently mention the quality of the guide’s explanations. One reviewer noted, “The expert explained the process clearly and passionately, making the tasting even more enjoyable.” After the demonstration, you get to taste freshly made cheese, which is a highlight for many visitors. The fact that this is a crowd-free experience adds to its appeal, giving a sense of genuine local practice.

Clogs Making: A Hands-On Tradition

Next, you’ll see a demonstration of wooden shoe making. Unlike the popular Zaanse Schans, this is a private, more personal experience, where you can try on the shoes and photograph the artisans at work. The host is friendly and eager to share the traditional methods, making it a memorable part of the day.

Multiple reviews highlight how special this is—many mention trying on the shoes themselves and learning about their significance in Dutch culture. One comment noted, “It’s fun to see the craftsmanship up close and even try making my own mini clog.” This experience offers a tangible connection to Dutch heritage, especially since the shoes are still used for farming and traditional festivals.

Volendam: The Authentic Fishing Village

A scenic drive follows, taking you to Volendam, often called “Little Amsterdam” for its charming architecture and lively harbor. The guided tour through the village reveals its history as a fishing community reclaimed from the sea, with many traditional houses and boats still in use.

You’ll have two hours here to explore freely, enjoy the views, and sample local Dutch treats like kibbelings (fried fish), herring, stroopwafel, and poffertjes. Many reviewers praise the food options, emphasizing that sampling fresh seafood in this seaside town is a must-do experience. One guest says, “The seafood was fresh and delicious, and I loved wandering through the colorful streets.” You can also browse local shops for souvenirs, especially traditional Dutch clothing and crafts.

Windmills and Scenic Drive

After Volendam, a scenic 30-minute drive takes you to a less-crowded windmill site nicknamed ‘Little Kinderdijk’. Unlike the overcrowded Zaanse Schans, this spot offers a more authentic feel, with fewer visitors and a genuine sense of Dutch rural life. You’ll stop for photos and walk around the windmills, learning about their role in water management—a crucial part of Dutch history.

The guide shares stories about how windmills helped reclaim land and sustain farming communities, adding context to the picturesque scene. It’s a peaceful moment that feels like stepping back in time, far from tourist-heavy zones.

Delft: Medieval Charm and Artistic Heritage

The final major stop is Delft, known for its marvellous architecture and association with Vermeer. The town exudes old-world charm, with cobbled streets, canals, and historic buildings. The guided walking tour covers the highlights: the medieval town center, the Royal Delft Blue factory, and Delft’s artistic legacy.

You’ll learn about the significance of windmills in Delft’s history and stroll through areas nicknamed “Little Amsterdam” for their beauty. Free time here allows you to explore at your own pace, perhaps visiting Delft’s church or browsing local galleries and shops.

Ending the Day at Central Station

After a full day of exploring, the van returns to Amsterdam, arriving back at Centraal Station. The entire experience, including transport, guided tours, and several demonstrations, feels well-balanced and thoughtfully organized.

Practical Details and Value

The overall price of $163 per person covers entrance fees, guided tours, demonstrations, and transportation, making it a good deal considering the depth of cultural insights. The small group setting (up to 8 people) ensures a more relaxed, personalized experience, unlike large bus tours that often feel rushed and impersonal.

The tour’s pacing is relaxed enough to enjoy each stop without feeling overwhelmed. The inclusion of local demonstrations and guided commentary enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing. Plus, the scenic drives and stops at less-touristed spots offer genuine glimpses into Dutch life.

While the tour is primarily suitable for those with comfortable mobility, it doesn’t cater to people with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven streets in towns like Delft. Also, children under 12 need a car seat, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Dutch culture in a manageable day. It’s especially valuable for travelers who want more than just ticking off tourist sights; instead, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve connected with local traditions—cheese, windmills, and hand-crafted clogs.

The combination of private demonstrations, scenic villages, and historic towns makes this tour stand out as a balanced mix of education, scenery, and fun. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet engaging way to see the Netherlands’ lesser-known corners, this experience hits the sweet spot.

For those who prefer a smaller, more personal group and want authentic encounters with Dutch artisans and history, this is an excellent choice. It’s ideal for culture lovers, first-time visitors wanting a broad overview, or anyone craving a peaceful, picturesque taste of the Dutch countryside.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 12 need a car seat, so you should prepare your own or check availability with the tour operator. The tour is best suited for those who can manage walking and standing for periods.

How long is the drive between locations?
The drive from the starting point to the cheese farm is about 45 minutes, with additional scenic drives between stops, like the 30-minute scenic drive to windmills and the return trip to Amsterdam.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have free time in Volendam to enjoy local seafood and snacks, but plan to bring or purchase your own food.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience and less crowded visits.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking in towns and uneven surfaces.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended for walking and weather variations. Bring a camera for photos and a mobile phone to stay reachable.

Are tips included?
No, tipping is not included and is at your discretion based on the service received.

What time does the tour start?
Check availability for specific starting times; the tour typically lasts around 9 hours, ending at Centraal Station.

This tour is an appealing choice for travelers eager to experience the Netherlands beyond the typical tourist spots, with a focus on authenticity, local craftsmanship, and scenic beauty—all wrapped into a relaxed, manageable day.