Tour to the Alkmaar Cheese market and Windmills from Amsterdam

Discover the Charm of Dutch Countryside on a Private Tour from Amsterdam

This full-day excursion promises an intimate look at some of the Netherlands’ most iconic sights — the lively Alkmaar Cheese Market and the picturesque Zaanse Schans windmills, along with a visit to a traditional clog factory. Designed for those seeking a mix of culture, history, and authentic Dutch experiences, this tour is perfect for travelers wanting to escape the city’s hustle and bustle for a more relaxed, scenic day.

What really stands out is the personalized touch of a private driver-guide, who takes care of all logistics, leaving you free to enjoy every moment without stress. That said, if you’re expecting a highly guided experience, you should note that this tour emphasizes self-exploration with a knowledgeable guide behind the wheel rather than a full-fledged guide leading each stop.

Ideal for art lovers, cheese enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Dutch traditions, this tour balances informative stops with ample free time — making it an enriching yet comfortably paced day trip.

Key Points

• All-in-One Day Trip: Combines cheese, windmills, clog-making, and scenic countryside in just 8 hours
• Private, Personalized Experience: Your own driver-guide ensures attention and flexibility
• Cultural & Historic Highlights: Visit the oldest cheese market and a windmill where Rembrandt bought his paint
• Taste & Shop: Sample over 30 types of cheese and buy wooden clogs directly from the factory
• Comfort & Convenience: Luxury Mercedes vehicle, Wi-Fi, bottled water, and door-to-door pickup
• Value for Money: Inclusion of all entrance fees and tastings in the price

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at 9:00 AM, with pickup from your hotel in Amsterdam. The tour is conducted in a comfortable, air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle equipped with Wi-Fi and bottled water — a small but appreciated luxury that makes the day even more enjoyable. Having a private driver-guide means you won’t be part of a large group, which is perfect if you prefer a relaxed, tailored experience. The driver, often praised for friendliness and knowledge, will steer you safely through the countryside while sharing tidbits about Dutch culture and history.

This setup is especially advantageous because logistics are handled seamlessly; you’ll visit each site without worrying about parking or navigating public transport. Plus, with door-to-door service, it’s straightforward whether you’re staying centrally in Amsterdam or in a nearby neighborhood.

Alkmaar Cheese Market

The first stop is the Alkmaar Cheese Market, the oldest and largest in the Netherlands, dating back to 1365. It’s an event with a long tradition, where cheese carriers parade around in traditional costumes, and cheese wheels are exchanged on a historic scale — an authentic scene that’s perfect for snapping pictures or just soaking in the lively atmosphere.

You’ll have about three hours here, giving ample time to wander around the market streets, sample cheeses, and explore the quaint town center. Reviewers often highlight the freedom to explore independently, with one noting, “Explore the Alkmaar cheese market by yourself,” which is a great way to soak in the local vibe at your own pace.

The market isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s a living piece of Dutch history. You might find vendors offering local delicacies beyond cheese, and some visitors mention witnessing cheese being milked with a robot — a fun, modern twist on a centuries-old tradition.

Zaanse Schans Windmills & Clog Factory

Next up is Zaanse Schans, often called the “windmill village,” which features seven historic windmills still standing as a testament to the Netherlands’ engineering prowess. Of these, some are open for visits, including the paint windmill — where Rembrandt himself bought his paint, a fact noted by many enthusiasts.

You’ll love the views of these towering structures against the clear sky, especially if weather permits. One highlight is visiting the clog factory, where artisans craft traditional wooden shoes. Watching the process is fascinating, and you’ll have the chance to purchase authentic clogs directly from the source. Reviewers frequently mention this as a fun, tactile experience, with some noting they appreciated the opportunity to see how Dutch artisans produce these iconic shoes.

Inside the Last Paint Windmill

A unique feature of this tour is Molen De Kat, the only working paint mill on earth. This is a rare sight because most windmills have been preserved as museums, but this one still actively produces paint, just as it did in Rembrandt’s time. Visitors often find it intriguing to learn about the craft of paint-making from inside the mill, adding a layer of historical authenticity that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Cheese Farm Visit & Tasting

The final highlight is Jacobs Hoeve Cheese Farm, operated by Henri Willig. Here, the focus is on tasting and buying some of the best cheeses Holland has to offer. The farm offers over 30 kinds of cheese for sampling, and many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the chance to taste different varieties — from mild to aged, all made locally.

Beyond cheese, you’ll see how cows are milked with a robotic milking system, which often surprises visitors. The relaxed atmosphere allows for browsing local products and chatting with staff about Dutch dairy traditions. If cheese is your thing, this stop offers excellent value, especially since entrance, tastings, and the opportunity to buy are all included in the tour price.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour’s pricing at $495.68 per person reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, including all transportation, entrance fees, tastings, and the convenience of private pickup and drop-off. The cost may seem high at first glance, but when you factor in the hassle-free logistics, private transport, and multiple authentic stops, it offers good value for those wanting an immersive day.

One thing to keep in mind is that there’s no included guide at each site, which means you’ll explore the cheese market and windmills at your own pace. If you prefer guided commentary throughout, you might want to arrange for additional guides.

The trip also has flexible booking policies — free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure — which provides peace of mind.

Why This Tour Works Well

This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want an easy, curated way to explore the Dutch countryside without the stress of planning multiple transport connections. The private driver-guide ensures a relaxed pace and tailored experience, whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or a small group.

It’s also a good option if you’re passionate about Dutch traditions, art, or cheese, and want to see the original sites linked to famous artists like Rembrandt. The combination of active sightseeing, tastings, and cultural insights strikes a great balance.

The Sum Up

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, authentic, and immersive taste of the Netherlands outside of Amsterdam’s city center, this private tour delivers. The expertly curated stops — from the historic cheese market to the working windmills and cheese farm — give you a well-rounded experience. The flexibility and personalized service make it especially appealing for those wanting to avoid crowded group tours or rigid schedules.

While the cost might seem steep, the quality of transport, the opportunity to explore independently, and the chance to learn about Dutch craftsmanship make it worth considering. It suits curious travelers, art lovers, and cheese enthusiasts who value comfort and authenticity in their day trips.

For anyone wanting a memorable, hassle-free way to see Dutch traditions first-hand, this tour hits all the right notes.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusive to your group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility throughout the day.

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 AM with pickup from your Amsterdam accommodation.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance tickets to windmill parks, the cheese market, and the cheese farm are included.

Can I explore the sites on my own?
Absolutely. The itinerary allows free time for independent exploration at the cheese market and Windmills of Zaanse Schans.

What’s the transportation like?
You’ll travel in a luxury Mercedes vehicle, equipped with Wi-Fi and bottled water, making the trip comfortable and convenient.

Is there a guide at each stop?
The tour features a driver-guide, but not a dedicated guide at each site. You’ll explore sites independently with the driver providing local insights.

Is this suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the leisurely pace and private transportation make it accessible for most ages, but always consider individual mobility needs.

Whether you’re craving Dutch cheese, picturesque windmills, or just a break from city life, this tour offers a satisfying slice of the Netherlands’ most iconic traditions, all wrapped up in a comfortable, private package.