Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip

Are you planning a trip to Amsterdam and looking for a fun day trip that takes you beyond the city limits? Look no further than the Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip! This is one of the most popular day trips among visitors to Amsterdam, and for good reason. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most common questions that tourists have about the tour and provide you with all the information you need to decide if this is the right excursion for you.

What is the Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip?

The Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip is a full-day guided tour that takes you to some of the Netherlands’ most charming and historic towns. You’ll depart from Amsterdam in the morning and head north to the village of Zaanse Schans. Here, you’ll explore a picturesque open-air museum filled with working windmills, a clog-making workshop, and various other traditional Dutch crafts. After this stop, you will head to Edam, a beautiful cheese town. You will have the opportunity to taste some of the world-famous Dutch cheese. The last stop on this tour is Volendam, a fishing village where you can wander along the harbor and take in the sights and sounds of the sea.

All throughout the trip, you’re accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will share insights and fun facts about the history and culture of each destination you visit.

What’s included in the tour?

The Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip is a comprehensive tour that includes transportation, entry fees to the Zaanse Schans village museum, a cheese tasting in Edam, and a guided tour through each location.

How long does the tour last?

The tour lasts approximately 8 to 9 hours. Departure typically begins around 9:30 am, and you will return to Amsterdam around 6:00 pm.

How difficult is the tour?

The Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip is a relaxed and easy-going excursion. You won’t have to walk long distances, and the terrain is relatively flat throughout the trip.

What should I bring with me?

It’s always a good idea to bring rain gear and comfortable walking shoes, as well as sun protection during the summer months. We recommend packing a small snack and water bottle, as well.

Conclusion

The Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip is a fantastic way to escape the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam and explore the charming countryside beyond the city limits. This tour takes you to some of the most beautiful and historic towns in the Netherlands and is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing and informative day trip. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to see more of this beautiful country.

If you’re interested in booking the Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip, make sure to check it out here and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure!

Insider’s Guide to Amsterdam: Volendam, Edam, & Zaanse Schans Guided Day Trip

If you’re planning a visit to Amsterdam, don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore some of the nearby picturesque towns. A guided day trip to Volendam, Edam, and Zaanse Schans will take you on a journey through time, showcasing the rich culture and history of the Netherlands. Here’s an insider’s guide to help you plan your perfect day trip.

Attractions

Volendam: A charming fishing village, Volendam is located on the shores of the Markermeer Lake. Explore the village and its small, colorful houses, visit the Volendam Museum to learn about the traditional dress and 16th-century harbor, and enjoy fresh fish from one of the local eateries. Don’t forget to snap a photo in traditional Dutch outfits!

Edam: Edam is famous for its namesake cheese and historic architecture. Take a stroll through town to see the striking Dutch Renaissance-style buildings and churches, and head to the Edam Museum to learn about the town’s history and cheese-making process. Sample some of the world-famous cheese and buy souvenirs to take back home.

Zaanse Schans: This picturesque windmill village is a living museum, showcasing the traditional Dutch way of life from the 17th and 18th centuries. Wander through the village’s paths and see the windmills, workshops, and farms. Visit the clog-making demonstration, try some freshly baked bread, and purchase souvenirs from the local shops.

Dining Spots

Volendam: For an authentic Dutch culinary experience, head to Restaurant de Pieterman. Try the fresh seafood the village is famous for, such as smoked eel, herring, and shrimps. For a simpler meal or a quick snack, try one of the numerous fish stands along the harbor.

Edam: Sample some of the best cheese in the world at the Edam Cheese market, or head to the Dam Hotel for a cozy and charming dining experience. Don’t forget to try the traditional pea soup, bitterballen, and stroopwafels.

Zaanse Schans: The Windmill Bakery is a must-visit for any foodie. Enjoy freshly baked bread, cakes, and Dutch pastries, while soaking in the traditional surroundings. For a more substantial meal, head to the De Hoop op d’Swarte Walvis or De Kraai restaurants.

Cultural Experiences

Volendam: For an authentic cultural experience, check out the Palingsound Museum. Learn about the evolution of Dutch music, particularly the popular “palingsound” genre that originated in Volendam and is still enjoyed today. Catch a live performance if you’re lucky!

Edam: Visit the Edams Museum to learn all about the town’s history and the cheese-making process. Take a stroll down Damplein Square and take in the traditional Dutch architecture and peaceful atmosphere.

Zaanse Schans: Take a guided tour of the windmills to learn about their history and operations. Try your hand at traditional crafts such as clog making or cheese making. Check out the Zaans Museum to learn about the history and industry of the Zaan region.

Local History

Volendam: The town has a rich and fascinating history that dates back centuries. From the origin of the traditional Dutch dress to the 16th-century harbor, there are plenty of stories to learn about. Take a guided tour or visit the Volendam Museum to get an in-depth look at the history of the town.

Edam: Edam has been a major player in the cheese-making industry since the 16th century. The town has a long history of trade and commerce, and the architecture reflects its prosperous past. Don’t miss the Grote Kerk (Big Church), which dates back to 1544.

Zaanse Schans: The region around Zaanse Schans has had a thriving industrial history since the 17th century. The windmills played a critical role in the industry, by powering sawmills and helping with the production of paints, oils, and chocolate. Visit the Zaans Museum to learn all about this fascinating history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Volendam: Take a boat trip around the harbor to see the town from a different viewpoint. Check out the town’s street art and murals, which add a modern twist to the traditional village. Alternatively, head to the nearby Marken Island for a breath of fresh air and a glimpse of traditional Dutch architecture.

Edam: Take a bike tour around the town and the surrounding countryside. Walk down the narrow streets and alleys of the historic center to explore the charming architecture and hidden gems. Check out the weekly cheese market or the annual Edams Cheese Festival in the summer.

Zaanse Schans: Explore the nearby towns and villages on bike, or take a boat tour of the picturesque Zaan River. Visit the Hemp Museum in nearby Zaandijk and learn about the history and use of cannabis in the region. Alternatively, take a day trip to the nearby town of Alkmaar, known for its cheese market and traditional Dutch architecture.

Whether you have a day or a week in Amsterdam, a guided day trip to Volendam, Edam, and Zaanse Schans will add a unique and unforgettable experience to your trip. Hope you enjoy your trip to Amsterdam!