From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans Windmills & More – E-Bike Tour

Exploring the Netherlands doesn’t have to mean sticking to crowded city streets or cheesy souvenir shops. This e-bike tour takes you out of Amsterdam’s hustle into the peaceful, picturesque countryside, where windmills turn slowly and farm animals graze in scenic fields. Led by knowledgeable guides from Those Amsterdames, it promises a full day of authentic Dutch scenery, culture, and a touch of history — all from the comfort of a well-maintained electric bike.

One of the things we love about this experience is how smoothly it balances a relaxed pace with plenty of interesting stops. You get to see iconic windmills up close, visit a traditional cheese farm, and even peek inside a clog-making workshop. And because the bikes are electric, the ride remains accessible to most fitness levels, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a comfortable way to explore the Dutch landscape away from the city’s busy streets.

That said, a potential consideration is the length of the tour. Covering roughly 40 km over five and a half hours, it’s quite a bit of pedaling — though the electric bikes help ease the effort. This might not suit very young kids or those who aren’t comfortable riding bikes for extended periods. Still, if you’re reasonably active and eager for an authentic outside-the-city experience, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip to Amsterdam.

This tour works wonderfully for travelers who want a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a fun outdoor adventure. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers craving a genuine Dutch countryside experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch scenery: Experience windmills, farms, and canals outside the city.
• Easy riding: Electric bikes make covering 40 km manageable for most fitness levels.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides like Corbin, Gabe, and Kendra share stories and local insights.
• Authentic cultural stops: Visit a cheese farm and a clog-making workshop.
• Well-organized itinerary: Carefully curated stops ensure a balance of sightseeing and relaxation.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 10 people) foster a more personal experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Start at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 30
Your adventure kicks off right in the heart of Amsterdam at Those Amsterdames’ meeting point. Here, you’ll receive a briefing, helmets, ponchos if needed, and a quick introduction to the electric bikes. The guides, like Corbin or Kendra, are praised for their friendliness and knowledge—expect lively commentary peppered with fun stories about Amsterdam and the surrounding region.

Ferry Ride to Amsterdam-Noord
A short 5-minute ferry crossing transports you across the IJ river, leaving the city behind and whisking you into a calmer world. This ferry ride is part of the fun, giving you a moment to absorb the transition from urban to rural.

Cycle Through Landsmeer and Twiske
The ride begins with peaceful stretches through Landsmeer and Twiske, where you’ll see classic Dutch farms, small waterways, and perhaps a cow or two. The terrain is flat, which makes for a stress-free ride, especially on the electric bikes, which are lauded for their comfort and ease. Reviewers like Eileen mention how the “breathtaking countryside ride” was a highlight, with plenty of stops along the way to soak in the views.

Zaanse Schans – The Heart of the Tour
The star of the day, Zaanse Schans, is a beloved heritage site packed with historic windmills, traditional wooden houses, and craft demonstrations. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, plenty of time to explore at your pace, grab lunch, visit a cheese farm, or watch clog makers craft wooden shoes. Many reviewers note that the guided part of the visit is not rushed, and some, like those who enjoyed meeting the windmill owners, found it a deeply authentic experience.

Visit Zaandam & the Inntel Hotel
On the return leg, you’ll pedal through Zaandam, known for its surreal architecture—the Inntel Hotel, covered in almost 70 Zaanse-style facades, is a must-see. It’s a perfect Insta shot for those into colorful, quirky architecture, as highlighted by reviewers like Scott and Jennifer.

Final Ride Back to Amsterdam
As you cycle back into the city, passing NDSM Werf, you’ll get a glimpse of Amsterdam’s modern, creative side. This artsy district provides a striking contrast to the windmills and farms, making for a well-rounded day.

The Experience of Riding & Learning

Most guests comment on how manageable the ride is, thanks to the electric bikes, which help pedal through flat terrain without exhaustion. Kendra’s guide work is often praised for her humor and local knowledge—reviewers love how she makes the history of Windmills and the Dutch landscape lively and engaging. You’ll learn about Dutch land reclamation, the importance of windmills, and the story behind wooden shoe making—something that turns out to be quite a fun hands-on workshop.

The stops are spaced out with enough time to relax, take photos, and chat. Many guests mention how the tour’s pacing allows for a leisurely yet rundown of the countryside, avoiding the “rush” that can sometimes mar longer tours.

The Value of the Tour

At 5.5 hours, this experience offers excellent value considering the transportation, guided insights, and access to iconic sites. The inclusion of well-maintained e-bikes, helmets, and ponchos makes it convenient and comfortable, especially for those worried about riding in variable weather.

The tour’s small-group format (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more personalized experience where guides can cater to individual needs and questions. Plus, the flexibility of booking and paying later adds a layer of convenience for planning your trip.

Food and drinks are not included, but there are options available at Zaanse Schans, and water bottles are recommended for staying hydrated. Given the scenic stops and cultural insights, the cost is well justified for a full-day, authentic Dutch countryside adventure.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic day outside of Amsterdam’s busy streets. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy biking or are comfortable on a bicycle — the flat terrain makes it accessible for most. It’s also ideal for history buffs and culture lovers, thanks to the knowledgeable guides and hands-on stops like cheese farms and clog workshops.

That said, it may not be suitable for very young children or anyone uncomfortable with riding bikes for several hours. Those with limited mobility or who prefer less activity might want to consider other options.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the e-bikes make it easy for most people to manage the 40 km route, even if you’re not a regular cyclist. The guides will ensure everyone feels comfortable and safe.

What should I bring?
Wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle. Though ponchos are provided if it rains, packing warm clothing is advisable for cooler days.

Are helmets included?
Yes, helmets are provided upon request at the start of the tour.

Can I join if I don’t know how to ride a bike?
It’s recommended that you feel comfortable riding a bike before joining, as safety is a priority, and the guide may not allow everyone to participate if they have safety concerns.

How long do stops last?
Stops range from 15 to 90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to explore each site, take photos, or enjoy a quick lunch.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but you can purchase food and drinks at Zaanse Schans or bring your own.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, intimate group experience.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it runs rain or shine. Severe weather warnings may lead to cancellations for safety reasons.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the tour.

The Sum Up

This E-bike tour from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans offers an authentic taste of Dutch rural life, seamlessly blending scenic beauty, cultural experiences, and expert guiding. The manageable pace, thanks to electric bikes, makes it accessible for most travelers eager to escape the city for a day. Whether you’re interested in windmills, cheese, or quirky architecture, this tour provides a well-rounded, value-packed adventure.

It’s especially well-suited for those who want a relaxed yet informative outing that goes beyond typical tourist spots. The small-group atmosphere, knowledgeable guides, and thoughtfully curated stops mean you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Dutch heritage, along with plenty of fantastic photos.

If you’re after a memorable, authentic experience that combines outdoor activity with cultural insight, this tour will meet and likely exceed your expectations. Just remember to wear comfortable clothes, stay hydrated, and prepare for a day filled with Dutch charm.

Happy cycling and exploring!