How to Plan Your Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour from Amsterdam

If you’re looking for a perfect day trip from Amsterdam, you might want to consider a visit to Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans. This combo tour takes you to two of Holland’s most charming attractions, which are known for their picturesque windmills, historic houses, and canals.

Overview of the Tour

The Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour is a full-day guided trip that allows you to explore two different parts of Holland. The tour is operated by a professional company that provides return transfer from central Amsterdam, so all you need to do is show up and enjoy the ride. The first part of the trip takes you to Zaanse Schans, which is a living open-air museum that showcases Holland’s rich cultural heritage. Here, you can see traditional windmills, watch clog-making demonstrations, and explore historic houses that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. After visiting Zaanse Schans, the tour takes you to Giethoorn, a charming canal town that is often called the “Dutch Venice”. Here, you’ll take a guided boat excursion on a Whisper Boat through the canals and discover the town’s beauty from a unique perspective. You might also have the opportunity to drive the boat by yourself, which is a fun and exciting experience.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour includes several elements to ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable experience for all guests. Here’s what you can expect to be included in the tour:

Professional Guide

The tour is led by a professional guide who will meet you at the designated meeting point and accompany you throughout the day. The guide will provide informative commentary about the sights you’ll see and answer any questions you may have.

Tour Coach or Van

The tour includes a comfortable coach or van that will pick you up from the meeting point in central Amsterdam and take you to the tour destinations. The vehicle is air-conditioned and equipped with free Wi-Fi, so you can stay connected during the ride.

1-Hour Boat Trip on a Whisper Boat in Giethoorn

The tour includes a 1-hour guided boat trip on a Whisper Boat in Giethoorn, which allows you to explore the town’s canals and waterways. The boats are electrically powered, so they are quiet and eco-friendly. During the boat trip, you’ll see the town’s charming houses, bridges, and gardens from a unique perspective.

Gratuities

The tour price includes all gratuities and tips, so you don’t have to worry about additional expenses.

Lunch

Lunch is not included in the tour price, but there will be plenty of opportunities to sample local cuisine at the tour destinations.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the tour is at the Hotel NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace, which is located in the heart of Amsterdam. The hotel is easily accessible by public transportation and is within walking distance of several popular attractions.

How to Book the Tour

If you’re interested in booking the Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour, you can do so online through the tour operator’s website. The link to book the tour is https://www.viator.com/tours/Amsterdam/Giethoorn-and-Zaanse-Schans-Day-Tour/d525-39989P6?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383. Make sure to book the tour in advance to secure your spot, as the tour is popular and may sell out quickly. You will receive a confirmation email with all the details of your tour booking, including the meeting point, departure time, and other important information.

Tips for the Tour

To make the most of your Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

Both Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn involve a lot of walking and standing, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes that are suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.

Bring a Camera

The tour destinations are incredibly picturesque, so make sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture all the beautiful sights.

Bring Cash or Credit Card

Although gratuities are included in the tour price, you may want to bring some cash or a credit card for any extra expenses, such as souvenirs or lunch.

Arrive Early

Make sure to arrive at the meeting point early to avoid any delays or confusion. The tour operator recommends arriving at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Book Your Tour Now

The Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans Day Tour is a perfect option for those who want to experience two of Holland’s most charming attractions in one day. With a professional guide, comfortable transfer, and exciting boat excursion, this tour is a great way to see the best of Holland outside of Amsterdam. So book here to reserve your spot on this fantastic tour!

Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital city of Netherlands, is known for its unique cultural attractions, stunning architecture, and expansive canal system. It is a popular tourist destination with a plethora of things to see and explore. Here are some frequently asked questions about Amsterdam.

1. What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

The best time to visit Amsterdam is during the spring months from April to May when the weather is mild and the blooming tulips add a charming touch to the beauty of the city’s many parks and gardens. Alternatively, autumn months from September to November offer a chance to witness Amsterdam’s beautiful foliage and seasonal festivals. Summer months from June to August are peak tourist season, with bustling crowds and higher prices.

2. What is the best way to get around Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a compact city, and the best way to get around is by bicycle, which you can rent from various outlets in the city. Besides biking, the city’s public transit system is efficient with trams, buses, and metros reaching most areas of the city. Taxis can be expensive, but Uber is widely available in Amsterdam. Walking is also an excellent way to experience the city’s charming streets and alleyways.

3. What are the must-see attractions in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a lot to offer, and some of the must-see attractions include:

• The Rijksmuseum containing a vast collection of Dutch art and history
• The Van Gogh Museum featuring iconic works of the celebrated Dutch artist
• The Anne Frank House gives visitors a glimpse into the life and times of the young teenage diarist
• The stunning architecture and history of the Canal Ring
• The colorful and lively Albert Cuyp Market

4. What is the legal status of cannabis in Amsterdam?

Cannabis is legal and regulated in Amsterdam. However, the sale and purchase of cannabis are only legal within designated coffee shops, where patrons can purchase small amounts of the drug for personal consumption. It is illegal to smoke cannabis in public places, with fines exceeding €100 for violators. It is also important to note that visitors must be at least 18 years old to enter coffee shops.

5. What is the local cuisine in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a rich culinary history with its cuisine influenced by its seas, canals, and surrounding farms. Some popular dishes include:

• Stroopwafels – thin, round waffles filled with sweet syrup
• Bitterballen – deep-fried balls of meat-filled gravy
• Hollandse nieuwe haring – a type of raw herring commonly eaten with onions
• Kroket – deep-fried croquette filled with cheese, meat, or vegetables

6. What are the best shopping areas in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a wide range of retail options, from international luxury brands to local designer shops. Some popular shopping areas include:

• The shopping district of Nine Streets
• The high-end P.C. Hooftstraat street with designer boutiques
• The bustling Kalverstraat for mainstream high street brands
• The exotic and multicultural Albert Cuyp Market

7. What are the necessary safety precautions to take while in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is generally a safe city, but it is important to take some safety precautions while visiting. These include:

• Avoiding walking alone in remote areas at night
• Keeping wallets, bags, and personal belongings secure
• Ensuring your bicycle is securely locked to prevent theft
• Being mindful of pickpockets in crowded tourist areas

8. What is the currency used in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam uses the euro as its official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for small transactions or in case of emergencies. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks, exchange offices, and some hotels at varying rates.

9. What are the cultural events and festivals in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam hosts numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year that are worth experiencing. These include:

• Kingsday (April 27th) – Celebrating the birthday of the king with parades and Orange-inspired street parties
• Pride Amsterdam (July/August) – A colorful and LGBT-oriented parade through the city center
• Amsterdam Light Festival (Winter months) – Illuminating the stunning canals and architecture of Amsterdam with art installations and light projections
• Amsterdam Fringe Festival (September) – A celebration of daring and innovative performances by both local and international artists

10. What is the standard tipping etiquette in Amsterdam?

Tipping is not mandatory in Amsterdam, but it is customary to round up the bill while offering a small tip. Generally, rounding up to the nearest euro or leaving a few euros as a tip in restaurants and cafes is appreciated. It is also acceptable to tip taxi drivers, hairdressers, and hotel staff around 10% of the total bill.

These are just a few of the commonly asked questions about Amsterdam. With its vibrant culture, history, and charm, Amsterdam remains one of the most enchanting cities in the world to visit.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a popular tourist destination and known for its beautiful canals, artistic heritage, and lively nightlife. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for tourists to plan their itinerary. In this guide, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Amsterdam.

1. Explore the City on Foot or on a Bicycle

One of the best ways to explore Amsterdam is on foot or on a bicycle. The city has a well-developed network of cycle paths and is very bike-friendly. There are many places where you can rent a bike for a reasonable price. Biking around the city is a fantastic experience that allows you to discover less-known parts of the city while avoiding crowds and traffic. If biking is not your thing, you can simply explore the city on foot. Amsterdam is a compact city, and most of the tourist attractions are located within walking distance.

2. Visit the Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is a must-visit for all art lovers. The museum has the largest collection of paintings and drawings by Vincent van Gogh in the world, including famous masterpieces such as Sunflowers and The Bedroom. The museum also has a collection of works by Van Gogh’s contemporaries and a collection of Japanese prints that influenced Van Gogh’s art. Make sure to book your tickets in advance online to avoid long queues.

3. Take a Canal Cruise

Amsterdam is known for its beautiful canals, and taking a canal cruise is a great way to explore the city from a different perspective. There are many canal cruises available, and they offer a variety of tours, from informative guides to romantic dinner cruises.

4. Visit the Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is a museum dedicated to the life of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who hid with her family and four others in a secret attic during the Nazi occupation of Amsterdam. The museum is located in the house where Anne Frank and her family hid and provides insight into the lives of the people who lived in hiding during World War II. Book your tickets online in advance, as the museum gets very crowded.

5. Check out the Red Light District

The Red Light District is a famous area in Amsterdam known for its legalized prostitution and adult entertainment. Although it may not be for everyone, it is still worth checking out for its unique architecture and vibrant nightlife.

6. Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous museums in the world and home to a unique collection of Dutch art and history. The museum has over 8,000 objects on display, including works from the Dutch Masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. Make sure to book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.

7. Explore Vondelpark

Vondelpark is a beautiful public park located in the center of Amsterdam. It is a great place to relax, have a picnic, or go for a walk or bike ride. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including rabbits, squirrels, and birds, and has several playgrounds for children.

8. Try Dutch Cuisine

Amsterdam is known for its delicious food, and trying some of the local specialties is a must. Dutch cuisine includes dishes such as bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), stroopwafels (caramel waffles), and herring. You can find these dishes in many restaurants and street vendors throughout the city.

9. Visit the Flower Market

Amsterdam is also known for its beautiful flowers, and the Flower Market is a great place to see them. Located on the Singel canal, the market has been selling flowers for over 150 years and is a popular tourist attraction. You can find a variety of flowers and souvenirs, including tulip bulbs, wooden shoes, and Dutch cheese.

10. Experience Amsterdam Nightlife

Amsterdam has a lively nightlife and offers a variety of bars, clubs, and music events. The city is famous for its coffee shops, where you can legally purchase and consume cannabis. However, make sure to follow the rules and regulations and consume responsibly.

Book Your Tour Now

Amsterdam has something to offer for every type of tourist. From its beautiful canals to its rich history and vibrant nightlife, the city has an endless amount of attractions and things to do. With this guide, you can plan your itinerary and make the most out of your trip to Amsterdam.