From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Volendam & Marken Day Trip

Exploring the Netherlands: A Complete Review of the Zaanse Schans, Volendam & Marken Day Trip

Taking a day trip from Amsterdam to explore the iconic Dutch countryside is a fantastic way to experience a different side of the Netherlands. This particular tour, offered by Tours & Tickets, promises a balanced mix of classic sights, cultural demonstrations, and charming villages—all in around six hours. With a stellar 4.4/5 rating from over 17,800 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find this experience worthwhile.

What we love about this tour is how it manages to pack so much Dutch charm into such a short time—windmills turning, cheese tastings, traditional clog-making, and colorful fishing villages. Plus, the comfortable bus, free Wi-Fi, and engaging guides make the journey smooth and enjoyable.

One thing to consider is that the itinerary can shift based on traffic or unforeseen circumstances, which might affect how long you spend at each stop. And, for those seeking more independence or wanting to explore at their own pace, this guided day trip is best suited for travelers looking for a structured but authentic taste of the Dutch countryside. If you enjoy cultural demonstrations, picturesque scenery, and lively villages, this tour could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch villages: Visit Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken, each offering distinct traditions and charm.
• Comprehensive experience: Includes windmills, cheese tastings, clog-making, and a boat ride, providing a well-rounded cultural day.
• Comfortable transport: Travel in a luxurious, air-conditioned bus with free Wi-Fi, making the journey relaxed and connected.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Diana, Francesca, and Lucas are praised for their friendliness and insight, making each stop informative and fun.
• Value for money: At $44 per person, it’s considered very reasonable given the quantity and quality of experiences packed in.
• Limitations: Lunch is not included, and the tour isn’t wheelchair or pet friendly, so plan accordingly.

In-Depth Review of the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at the Tours & Tickets office inside Amsterdam Central Station, a convenient location accessible by Metro or tram. From there, you’ll board a luxurious, air-conditioned bus equipped with free Wi-Fi, which is ideal for catching up on photos or just relaxing. The drive to Zaanse Schans takes about 45 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the scenic Dutch countryside.

What stands out immediately is the comfort of the transport. A number of reviewers mention that the coach is “very comfortable,” and the driver’s entertainment—such as piano playing and singing—adds a friendly, lively touch to the trip, making the bus ride feel less like a transfer and more like part of the experience.

Zaanse Schans: Windmills and Wooden Shoes

The first stop, Zaanse Schans, is a highlight for many. This historic windmill village feels like stepping into a Dutch painting. The windmills are beautifully preserved, and you’ll have some free time to wander around at your own pace. Reviewers often mention how they appreciated the chance to walk around leisurely—some wish for even more time here to soak in the scenery or explore the gift shops.

A key feature here is the visit to Houtzaagmolen de Gekroonde Poelenburg, an authentic working windmill, where you can see the windmill in action and learn about its historical function. Several reviews highlight the value of seeing a traditional windmill “run by the miller himself,” which adds a genuine touch often missing from more commercialized attractions.

Volendam: The Lively Fishing Village

Next is Volendam, famous for its colorful houses, bustling harbor, and lively atmosphere. You’ll visit a cheese factory, where a short, insightful demonstration reveals the old-fashioned methods still used to produce Dutch cheese. The tasting afterward is often described as “delicious,” and many reviewers mention the temptation to buy lots of cheese—some joking they might have purchased as many as 100 types!

The tour includes a lunch break in a traditional fish restaurant (at your own expense), which many travelers find a perfect opportunity to enjoy fresh seafood and soak in the local vibe. Post-lunch, there’s time to explore a bit more, shop for souvenirs, or just enjoy the lively street scene.

Marken: The Island Community

A boat ride between Volendam and Marken is often included in the all-inclusive option, offering stunning views of the water and the quaint island community. Travelers describe this boat trip as “beautiful,” although one reviewer noted it was not on an old windmill but a newer one, and the boat was loud due to a group of rowdy young men, which was a minor downside.

Once in Marken, you can visit a working windmill and see a clog-making demonstration. Many users rave about the clog workshop, emphasizing how traditional the demonstration feels, with some mentioning the antique steam engine running the process. It’s a fantastic opportunity to see craftsmanship in action and maybe pick up a pair of authentic wooden shoes.

Additional Experiences (on All-Inclusive Only)

The all-inclusive tour offers even more, including a visit to a traditional Marker house, an operating windmill, and a clog-making demonstration with a steam engine. Reviewers who opted for these extras mention that they add a deeper dimension to understanding Dutch traditions and craftsmanship.

The Overall Value

For $44, this tour offers remarkable value. You get a comprehensive look at key Dutch sights, engaging guides, and a relaxed atmosphere. Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, often mentioning that they added humor and local insights that enriched the experience. Guides like Diana, Francesca, Lucas, and Steve the Rock are repeatedly appreciated, with some reviews mentioning their musical talents or storytelling skills.

Practical Considerations

While most reviewers found the schedule well-paced, some mention that the windmill tour was “a little rushed,” with only about an hour at Zaanse Schans. If you’re particularly interested in the windmills or shopping, you might want to arrive early or stay longer on your own afterward.

Lunch is not included, but plenty of options are available in Volendam. It’s worth budgeting extra for a seafood meal or snacks during free time. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or pets, so plan alternatives if needed.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This trip is ideal for travelers who want a taste of traditional Dutch culture without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It suits those interested in photography, culture, and history, especially if they enjoy guided tours with lively stories and demonstrations. The journey’s pace works well for families, couples, or solo travelers who are happy to be part of a group and appreciate a structured yet authentic experience.

If you prefer more free exploration, or have specific accessibility needs, you might find this tour a bit restrictive. However, for most, the combination of windmills, cheese, villages, and boat rides makes for a memorable day.

The Sum Up

This Zaanse Schans, Volendam & Marken day trip delivers an engaging, balanced look at the Dutch countryside. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and a good mix of activities, it offers excellent value for money. You’ll enjoy seeing traditional windmills in action, tasting authentic cheese, experiencing lively fishing villages, and cruising across water to a charming island.

It’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive culture in a short time, especially if they love picturesque views and hands-on demonstrations. The tour’s relaxed pace, friendly guides, and variety of experiences make it a memorable way to connect with the Netherlands’ heritage.

For those seeking a fun, educational, and visually stunning day with minimal hassle, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just remember, it’s best suited for those comfortable with group tours and eager to learn about Dutch traditions.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of dining options available in Volendam where you can enjoy fresh seafood or quick snacks.

Can I customize or extend my visit at each stop?
The tour is structured with a fixed schedule, so if you want more time at specific sites like Zaanse Schans or the cheese shop, it’s best to plan on exploring on your own before or after the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3 or younger can join for free if they don’t occupy a seat. The engaging demonstrations and picturesque villages often appeal to kids, especially when accompanied by a family-friendly guide.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour, so plan accordingly if traveling with animals.

What languages are available for the audio guide?
The audio guide is provided in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Russian, Turkish, and more.

How long is the boat ride between Volendam and Marken?
The boat ride lasts approximately 30 minutes and offers beautiful water views of the region.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it is not suitable for wheelchair users, so travelers with mobility issues should consider alternative options.

What is the main highlight of this tour?
Most travelers mention the windmills at Zaanse Schans and the lively fishing village atmosphere of Volendam as standout moments.

How much does this tour cost?
The price is around $44 per person, offering a very reasonable cost for a full day of sightseeing and cultural activities.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and some spending money for meals or souvenirs are recommended. A light jacket might be handy depending on the weather.

Overall, the Zaanse Schans, Volendam & Marken day trip is a fantastic way to experience the essence of Dutch culture, scenery, and craftsmanship—all in one convenient package. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour is sure to leave you with plenty of memorable moments.