Do this because
See the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans
Taste Dutch cheese and learn how it is made on a farm
Stroll the twisting streets of Volendam on a guided tour
Watch traditional craftsmen making clogs
Enjoy a cruise on the famous Amsterdam canals
What to expect
From the churning windmills in the Zaanse Schans to the cheese weighing house in Edam, this tour highlights everything that is typical Dutch. See the beautiful landscapes of the province of North Holland and explore the traditional fishing village of Volendam on a 5.5-hour guided tour from Amsterdam. Learn about clog making in the wooden shoe shop and try some tasteful cheese in one of the Dutch cheese farms.
Escape the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, starting with a 20-minute drive to the windmill village of Zaanse Schans. This outdoor conservation area is situated on the banks of the River Zaan and is home to several functioning windmills and wooden houses. Watch live demonstrations of craftsmen at work, including a clog maker crafting the famous wooden shoes of the Netherlands and experience free time to explore the village and visit a windmill on your own.
Continue to the village of Edam, where its ancient streets and tranquil canals are lined by beautiful 17th-century buildings, including the leaning Carillon tower, the Big Church and former town hall. After a stroll around this historic village, you will have the opportunity to see how Edam’s world-famous cheese is made. And, of course, to taste some cheese in a nearby cheese farm.
Finally, stop in the seaside village of Volendam. People come from all over the world to see the small and houses and learn about the locals and traditional Dutch costumes. Your guide will take you on a short walk through the oldest parts of the village, exploring a labyrinth of twists and turns to sites such as St. Vincent’s Church, the wooden Stolphoevekerk and the vis afslag (Fish Auction). You can also enjoy a walk on top of the Dike with a beautiful view of the IJssel-lake.
Back in Amsterdam your guide will give you your ticket for a regular city canal cruise that can be used at any time during your visit. On this 75-minute canal cruise you’ll experience the best sights of this historical city. Relax on the boat and enjoy the fantastic views of the 17th-century buildings lining the canals. Admire the Overhoeks quarter from water, the Golden Bend and the Music Building and the magnificent VOC ship, known also as The Amsterdam.
COVID-19 information
The following health and safety measures are in place, so you can relax and enjoy your experience.Visitor numbers are limited to reduce crowds
The experience complies with government regulations
Proof of vaccination or negative COVID test may be required, please confirm the local requirements before your visit
What’s included
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Transport by air-conditioned coach
Live commentary on board
Ticket for Amsterdam canal cruise
What’s not included
Gratuities (optional)
Food and drinks
Location
This is Holland, Overhoeksplein, Amsterdam, Nederland
Provider
Blue Boat Company
Cancellation policy
Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 1 day before the activity begins.
Important to know
- Please note that the order of visiting the villages may differ from the description
- Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
- Tour may be operated by a multilingual guide
- Infants must sit on laps
City canal cruise:
- Your city canal cruise voucher can be redeemed at the docks of Blue Boat Company - Gray Line Amsterdam
- Note that this is an 'open ticket' no timeslot has been allocated and you can board any next available boat at one of the 2 docks
- Canal cruises depart from Stadhouderskade 501, opposite the Hard Rock Cafe or Stadhouderskade 550, opposite Heineken Experience
- Audio guides are available on board in English, Italian, French, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Russian, Dutch, Japanese, Croatian, Czech, Chinese, Cantonese, Korean, Thai, Bahasa, Polish, Swedish, Hindi and Arabic