Keukenhof Gardens, Zaanse Schans Windmill Tour from Amsterdam

If you’re visiting Amsterdam, you may be wondering what day trips you can take from the city that will immerse you in the quintessential Dutch countryside. Luckily, there is an exciting day trip combo that takes you to two of the most popular destinations outside of Amsterdam – Keukenhof Gardens and Zaanse Schans Windmill Village. Here are a few of the most common questions about this tour:

What is Keukenhof Gardens?

Keukenhof Gardens is a stunningly beautiful park located in Lisse, which is about 40 minutes away from Amsterdam by bus. It’s the largest tulip garden in the world and is open to visitors only for a few weeks each spring. The park covers over 70 acres and features more than 800 varieties of tulips, as well as other flowers, trees, and shrubs. A visit to Keukenhof Gardens is an absolute must if you’re in Amsterdam during the spring season.

What is Zaanse Schans Windmill Village?

Zaanse Schans is a charming open-air museum that gives you a glimpse into a traditional Dutch village from the 19th century. It’s located in Zaandam, which is about 25 minutes away from Amsterdam by bus. The village is famous for its well-preserved windmills, which were used for various industrial purposes in the past, such as sawing wood, grinding spices, and making oil. You can also visit a clog museum and a cheese farm in the village and learn more about Dutch culture and traditions.

What is the Keukenhof Gardens and Zaanse Schans Windmill Tour?

The Keukenhof Gardens and Zaanse Schans Windmill Tour is a full-day guided tour that takes you to both of these amazing locations. You’ll be picked up from central Amsterdam in the morning and taken to Keukenhof Gardens first. You’ll have a few hours to explore the park on your own and take plenty of pictures of the colorful tulips. After that, you’ll be driven to Zaanse Schans Windmill Village, where you’ll see the windmills in action, visit the clog museum and the cheese farm, and have some free time to walk around the village. The tour guide will provide you with interesting facts and stories about the places you visit and answer any questions you may have.

What should I bring on the tour?

Since the tour is a full day, it’s recommended that you wear comfortable shoes and clothing, as well as bring a jacket or umbrella in case of rain. You may also want to bring a camera to capture the beauty of the gardens and the windmills. It’s important to note that the tour does not include meals, so you may want to bring some snacks or money to buy food along the way.

Can I book the tour in advance?

Yes, it’s highly recommended that you book the Keukenhof Gardens and Zaanse Schans Windmill Tour in advance to secure your spot. You can book the tour online through Viator, a trusted third-party booking platform. The tour is very popular during the spring season, so it’s best to book early to avoid disappointment. You can book the tour at the following link: https://www.viator.com/tours/Amsterdam/Amsterdam-Day-Trip-Combo-Keukenhof-Gardens-and-Zaanse-Schans-Windmill-Village/d525-6926P9?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383&medium=link

What are some other popular day trips from Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is surrounded by many interesting and beautiful places that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular day trips from Amsterdam include:

• The Hague and Delft, where you can explore the political capital of the Netherlands and learn about Dutch pottery
• Giethoorn, a picturesque village known as the “Venice of the Netherlands” for its canals and bridges
• Bruges, a charming medieval city in Belgium that’s famous for its chocolate and beer
• Rotterdam, a modern and lively city that’s home to the largest port in Europe

There are many tour operators in Amsterdam that offer day trips to these destinations and more.

Conclusion

The Keukenhof Gardens and Zaanse Schans Windmill Tour is a wonderful way to experience the best of Dutch culture and nature outside of Amsterdam. You’ll be amazed by the breathtaking beauty of the tulips and the fascinating history of the windmills. Book your tour in advance to avoid missing out on this unforgettable experience.

Insider’s Guide to Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, is famous for its iconic canals, coffee shops, and Red Light District. However, there is much more to this beautiful and vibrant city than meets the eye. In this insider’s guide, we will take you off the beaten path and uncover some hidden gems, local quirks and fascinating stories that will make your trip to Amsterdam a memorable one.

Local Attractions

While there is no shortage of tourist attractions in Amsterdam, there are also plenty of hidden gems that are not so well-known but just as worthy of a visit. For example, the Begijnhof courtyard, tucked away in the heart of the city, is an oasis of tranquillity with its beautiful gardens and picturesque houses. Another must-visit is the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, where you can admire rare plants, a butterfly greenhouse, and a flower garden with over 4,000 species. For a unique view of the city, head to the rooftop of NEMO Science Museum, where you can enjoy an unobstructed panorama of Amsterdam.

Dining Spots

If you are a foodie, Amsterdam will not disappoint you. From traditional Dutch cuisine to international delights, there are plenty of restaurants and food markets that will satisfy your taste buds. When in Amsterdam, do as the locals do and try some herring, a popular street food. For something more substantial, make your way to De Kas restaurant, housed in a magnificent greenhouse, where you can indulge in locally grown, seasonal vegetables with fish or meat. For a taste of Amsterdam’s colonial past, head to Café-Restaurant De Plantage, where you can dine in an elegant setting while admiring the Artis Royal Zoo.

Cultural Experiences

Amsterdam has a rich culture and history, and there are many ways to experience it. One of the best ways to get a feel for the city is by taking a bike tour, which not only allows you to explore Amsterdam’s historic streets and hidden corners but also gives you an insight into how the locals get around. For art lovers, the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum are must-see attractions, showcasing works by Dutch masters. Amsterdam also has a thriving music scene, so check out Paradiso or Melkweg for the latest gigs.

Local History

Amsterdam has survived devastating fires, plagues and wars, and the city’s history is filled with stories of resilience, innovation and courage. For example, during World War II, many Amsterdam residents risked their lives to shelter Jewish families and resist Nazi occupiers. One of the most moving sites is the Anne Frank House, where the famous young diarist and her family hid from the Germans for two years. Amsterdam’s canals are also steeped in history, as they were once used to transport goods and play a vital role in the city’s prosperity.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unique and memorable experience, consider visiting Amsterdam’s floating flower market, the Bloemenmarkt, which has been selling tulips, narcissus, and other blooms since the 17th century. If you are into sustainable tourism, take a boat tour of the city’s eco-friendly initiatives, such as the Plastic Whale project. For a break from the city’s crowds and noise, head to the Amsterdam Forest, a vast green space where you can go hiking, cycling or have a picnic. Finally, for a quirky and fun experience, visit the Electric Ladyland fluorescent museum, where you can see glowing rocks, fluorescent artwork and even have your teeth illuminated by black light.

In conclusion, Amsterdam is a city that offers much more than meets the eye. With its unique mix of history, art, culture and natural beauty, Amsterdam is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a rich and fulfilling travel experience.