How to Plan Your Private Excursion to Zaanse Schans, Edam, and Volendam in Amsterdam

If you think that Amsterdam is already all that Dutch culture has to offer, think again. Prepare to discover the beauty of the Netherlands with a private excursion to Zaanse Schans, Edam, and Volendam. With a guide solely focused on your group, experience the best of Dutch countryside in one day trip that you will never forget.

What’s included in the tour

With a hotel pickup and personal transport, your driver/guide will pick you up at your hotel (only in the city center). This personalized tour is tailored specifically to your group’s interests and provides ample free time for you to explore the Dutch countryside in your own way. With a professional guide providing commentary along the way, you’ll learn about Dutch culture outside of Amsterdam.

What to expect in the tour

The tour starts with a visit to the picturesque windmill village of Zaanse Schans, where you will experience authentic Dutch life in the 18th and 19th centuries. See the iconic windmills that have been turned into museums and explore the traditional Dutch houses to experience life before modern technology.The next stop is the town of Edam, which is locally known for its world-famous cheese. While there, you’ll learn how Edam cheese is made and taste some of the best cheese that the Netherlands has to offer. Afterward, take a stroll through the town’s charming streets and discover its unique landmarks.Following Edam is Volendam, the thriving fishing village. Here, your guide will take you to the best places where you can experience local shops, cafes, and seafood restaurants. With ample free time, take a stroll along the harbor and enjoy the beautiful views.The final stop is in Marken, an island that can only be reached by ferry. Marken is a traditional Dutch village with a population of only 2,000 people. Discover the island’s unique history and take a walk along its scenic streets before returning to Amsterdam.

What’s included?

• Private tour with a guide just for your group
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (only in the city center)
• Driver/guide
• Professional guide providing commentary
• Ample free time to explore each location
• Food and drinks

Booking the tour

Booking this tour is a breeze. All you have to do is visit the website, select the date that works best for your group, and book your tickets. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, so all you have to worry about is enjoying your time in the Dutch countryside.

Final thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to experience the Dutch countryside in a unique way, this private excursion is just for you. With a guide solely for your group, explore the beautiful countryside and discover the magic of the Netherlands. Book the tour here and get ready to experience the best of Dutch culture outside of Amsterdam.

Amsterdam: The most Frequently Asked Questions

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. With its picturesque canals, vibrant nightlife, and rich cultural heritage, Amsterdam attracts millions of visitors every year. While planning a trip to this beautiful city, you might have a lot of questions. In this blog post, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Amsterdam to help you plan your trip effectively.

1. When is the Best Time to Visit Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do. The peak tourist season is from April to September when the weather is mild, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. However, this is also the busiest time, and prices for accommodation and activities are high.

If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy good weather, late spring, and early fall are great times to visit. Another great time to visit is in winter, between November and February, when the Christmas markets and festivals are in full swing, and the city is beautifully lit up.

2. How to Get Around Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a compact city, and it’s easy to explore most of the attractions on foot or by bike. The public transportation system is also excellent, with trams, buses, and metro covering the entire city. The best way to get around is by purchasing an OV-chipkaart, a prepaid card that you can use on all modes of public transport. You can buy the card at the train station or convenience stores. Taxis are also readily available, but they are expensive.

3. What are the Must-See Attractions in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is home to several world-famous attractions that you should not miss. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• The Rijksmuseum
• The Van Gogh Museum
• The Anne Frank House
• The Royal Palace of Amsterdam
• The Vondelpark
• The Bloemenmarkt
• The Heineken Experience
• The Red Light District

4. Where to Stay in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam offers a wide range of accommodation options for all budgets. The best areas to stay in Amsterdam are the city center, Jordaan, De Pijp, and Oud-Zuid. The city center is the most expensive but is convenient as most of the attractions are within walking distance. Jordaan is a trendy neighborhood with charming narrow streets, artistic shops, and cozy cafés. De Pijp is a multicultural neighborhood with lively markets, bars, and restaurants. Oud-Zuid is a quieter neighborhood with elegant houses, museums, and parks.

5. Is Amsterdam Safe?

Amsterdam is generally a safe city, but tourists should still take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and scams. The Red Light District and some parts of the city center can be noisy and rowdy at night, so it’s essential to be aware of your surroundings. Biking and walking can be dangerous, so always follow traffic rules and wear a helmet if you’re cycling.

6. What to Eat and Drink in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam has a rich culinary scene with several must-try dishes and drinks. Some of the popular food items include:

• Stroopwafel: A delicious syrup-filled waffle
• Croquettes: Deep-fried meat or cheese balls
• Haring: Raw herring served with onions and pickles
• Bitterballen: Deep-fried snacks filled with meat or cheese

When it comes to drinks, Amsterdam is famous for its beer and gin. The city has several breweries, including Heineken and Amsterdam Brewery. You can also try jenever, a traditional Dutch spirit similar to gin.

7. How to Save Money in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam can be an expensive city, but there are several ways to save money during your trip. Some tips include:

• Buy an Amsterdam City Card: This card offers free access to most of the city’s attractions and public transport
• Eat at local cafes and markets: They are cheaper than restaurants
• Use public transport instead of taxis
• Visit free attractions like the Begijnhof and the Oude Kerk

8. Can You Smoke Weed in Amsterdam?

While marijuana use is technically illegal in the Netherlands, the law is not enforced in Amsterdam’s licensed coffee shops. You must be over 18 to purchase and use marijuana, and there are rules and restrictions in place to ensure safe and responsible use. However, smoking weed in public places like parks and streets is illegal and can result in a fine.

9. What is the Currency in Amsterdam?

The Netherlands’ currency is the euro, and most shops and restaurants accept credit cards. However, it’s always good to carry some cash with you, especially in smaller cafes and food stalls.

10. What is the Language Spoken in Amsterdam?

The official language of Amsterdam is Dutch, but most locals speak fluent English. You won’t have any problems communicating with people in Amsterdam, and most signs and menus are in English.

Conclusion

Amsterdam is a vibrant and exciting city with something for everyone. We hope this blog post answers your most frequently asked questions and helps you plan your trip effectively. Whether you’re interested in culture, nightlife, or outdoor activities, Amsterdam has something to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in Europe. It offers the perfect tourist experience, with its stunning architecture, art, history, canals, and, most notably, the welcoming atmosphere. Amsterdam provides visitors with unique and iconic experiences, which makes it challenging to know where to begin when planning a trip. Here are some of the best things to do in Amsterdam, including attractions, activities, and hidden gems to explore while on your trip.

1. Take a Canal Cruise

Amsterdam is full of canals that crisscross through the city, making a canal cruise the best way to see the city’s beauty from a unique perspective. Numerous companies offer different types of canal cruises, which vary from 30 minutes to two hours. During the cruise, you’ll pass through some of the city’s famous landmarks like Anne Frank House, the Magere Brug Bridge, and the houseboats of the Amstel River. One of the city’s most popular canal cruise companies is Canal Boat Tours, whose boats have an open roof, providing tourists with a better perspective of Amsterdam from the water.

2. Admire the Artworks in the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is one of Amsterdam’s most exceptional art museums and has been an iconic attraction for tourists visiting the city. It is easy to spot with its impressive façade that puts it alongside some of the most beautiful museums worldwide, such as the Louvre Museum in Paris. The museum contains over eight thousand artworks and artifacts, depicting Dutch art history, including works from many iconic artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer, to mention a few. Inside the Rijksmuseum, you’ll find the Night Watch, one of the most significant and notable art pieces in the museum. To avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning, on weekdays and booking online in advance.

3. Visit the Anne Frank House

Located in the Jordaan district of Amsterdam is the Anne Frank House, which is a popular attraction for visitors to the city. The historical house is iconic because it was the hiding place for Anne Frank and her family during World War II. The museum displays the original house itself as it was during WWII, along with exhibits about the Frank family and their experiences during the war. It’s best to book your tickets online in advance as the museum is often crowded.

4. Explore Vondelpark

Unwind, relax and spend some time in Vondelpark. This beautiful park is Amsterdam’s equivalent of New York’s Central Park and a great place to go for a picnic, people-watching or reading a good book in one of the many quiet corners. At the center of the park, you will find an open-air theatre where concerts and other events take place in the summer months. Get a bike and explore the city Amsterdam style by cycling through the park. It’s a great way to meet locals and enjoy the scenery.

5. Take a Stroll Along the Negen Straatjes

Negen Straatjes translates to “Nine Streets,” which is a street’s network in Amsterdam’s Canal Belt between Leidsestraat and Raadhuisstraat. The area’s charm lies in its boutique shops, independent art galleries, bespoke restaurants, and cafes. The experience of exploring this unique and vibrant neighborhood is worthwhile. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts, this is the place to be.

6. Visit the Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is a popular tourist attraction in Amsterdam dedicated to the iconic Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh. The museum houses over 200 paintings and 500 drawings made by the artist throughout his life. The museum showcases the impressionist style and the artwork of other artists from the nineteenth and early twentieth century who inspired Van Gogh. The museum is popular, so it’s best to book your tickets online in advance to avoid crowds.

7. Discover Amsterdam’s Hidden Gems

Amsterdam is full of hidden gems that many people do not know about, and it’s a good idea to explore one or two during a visit. One of these is Begijnhof, a residential courtyard that transports visitors back to the 14th century. Another hidden gem is the Skinny Bridge, also known as the Magere Brug, built over the river Amstel. It was initially a wooden drawbridge, which has been replaced with an elegant white bridge. Take a walk past the Skinny Bridge as it illuminates the river Amstel at night and adds to the picturesque scenery the city has to offer.

Conclusion

These are just some of the best things to do in Amsterdam. The city is full of life, culture, history, and well worth a visit. Amsterdam is a fantastic destination with something to suit every type of traveler – from foodies to history buffs, art enthusiasts, and nature lovers. We hope this guide gives you a great starting point to plan your trip to Amsterdam and explore all that the city has to offer.