One of many must-do excursions to your group from Amsterdam is a go to to Zaanse Schans. There are numerous windmills and delightful villages within the Netherlands, however this one is shut sufficient to Amsterdam to go to on a day journey — or perhaps a half-day should you’re quick on time. With a non-public minibus rental and an Amsterdam driver you might be all set to go.
Molinos de Zaanse Schans – Crédito foto: Rudolf-Peter Bakker
At this well-known attraction, you’ll stroll previous green-painted picket homes, windmills, factories, retailers, and extra. Whereas the place might seem to be an open-air museum — and in some ways it’s — that doesn’t make it any much less charming. Plus, since many individuals stay and work there within the mills and workshops, the realm is filled with life.
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One of the simplest ways to get round is by automobile
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Map of Zaanse Schans
You may view all of the places talked about on this article, together with eateries and workshops, on this map:
A Little bit of Historical past and context
Visiting this vacation spot close to Amsterdam will transport you again in time, particularly to the mid-Seventeenth century. At the moment, over 600 windmills have been constructed within the area, boosting Dutch trade.
Finally, many have been deserted and the realm declined — till in 1946, architect Jaap Schipper designed a plan to revive the outdated mills and homes. Due to this, a standard Dutch village was recreated, permitting guests to expertise life from centuries previous.
At the moment, Zaanse Schans is a district of Zaanstad (20 km from Amsterdam), the place some windmills and outdated homes stay. Guests can stroll by way of the streets and factories to get a really feel for all times within the olden days.
What to See in Zaanse Schans
Plan a number of hours to your go to, relying on what number of windmills and museums you need to discover, and whether or not you’ll take a canal boat trip. It’s greatest to start out early to benefit from your time.
Windmills – The Stars of Zaanse Schans
There are a number of windmills you may see, some restored from the Seventeenth century, others constructed within the twentieth. They’re positioned alongside the Zaan River, shut to one another.
They have been used to grind wheat, produce wooden, oil, dyes, and extra. Some are open to the general public and permit guests to discover the within and find out how they work, or climb up for a panoramic view.
Notable Windmills:
- De Kat (“The Cat”): Produces oil and pigments. One of many few of its sort on the earth.
- De Huisman (“The Householder”): Spice mill as soon as used for mustard. Gives perception into mustard seed grinding.
- De Zoeker (“The Seeker”): Oldest mill in Zaanse Schans (1619). Produced linseed, rapeseed, and flax oil.
- De Bonte Hen (“The Noticed Hen”): Restored in 1975. Presses oilseeds. Open for visits and demonstrations.
Molinos de Zaanse Schans – Crédito foto 3345557
Conventional Village & Historic Homes
After the mills, stroll by way of the standard village stuffed with well-preserved historic homes — many now vacationer retailers. You’ll additionally see slender canals with picket bridges, good for photographs.
Canal Boat Trip
Get a brand new perspective by taking a 25-minute guided boat tour on weekends. The boat departs from ‘t Glop, close to De Huisman, and suits as much as 12 individuals.
Casas históricas de Zaanse Schans – Crédito foto: MrsBrown
Windmill Museum (Zaans Museum)
A must-visit — earlier than or after seeing the mills. You’ll find out how this area contributed to the financial growth of the Netherlands within the Center Ages.
Contains an audio information in a number of languages and options:
- Historical past of the windmills
- Outdated chocolate and cookie manufacturing facility (Verkade)
Situated simply north of De Bonte Hen. Parking obtainable close by.
Different museums:
- Boatbuilding Museum
- Cheese Museum
- Craftsmanship Museum
Outlets & Workshops
You may go to cheese and chocolate retailers, style samples, and purchase souvenirs.
Highlights:
- Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm: Learn the way cheese is made and pattern varieties.
- CacaoLab (Blik op de Zaan): Study chocolate-making and luxuriate in a tasting.
- In de Gecroonde Duyvekater: Bakery-museum-café promoting conventional Zaanse bread and cookies.
You may also go to a clog manufacturing facility and see how picket sneakers are made. Take enjoyable photographs with big clogs outdoors the store.
Zuecos gigantes en Zaanse Schans – Crédito foto: Ernst N
The place to Eat in Zaanse Schans
You would possibly get hungry exploring! Seize a snack or sit down at an area restaurant.
Really useful: De Hoop op d’Swarte Walvis
Situated close to the doorway, with a big terrace and scenic views.
How you can Get There from Amsterdam
Rent a mini bus: a service with an area driver to your group could be a bit extra pricey than self-drive however will let you benefit from your day and likewise go to Volendam and Marken on the identical day. Count on to pay round euro 800 to 1200 per day relying on the dimensions of the bus.
Rent a bus with driver
A driver that is aware of its approach round might price greater than a self-drive possibility, however it presents far better comfort and suppleness to your group. You’ll benefit from your day — and might simply mix a go to to Zaanse Schans with stops in Volendam and Marken.
Count on to pay between €800 and €1,200 per day for a minibus rent from Amsterdam, relying on the dimensions of the bus and the season.
By public Bus service: Take bus 391 from Amsterdam Central Station. It departs each quarter-hour beginning at 8:00 AM. Trip time: approx. 40 minutes + 5-minute stroll to the mills.
By Prepare: Take the prepare from Amsterdam to Koog-Zaandijk Station. From there, it’s a 15–20 min stroll. Trip time: 15–20 minutes.
By Automotive: Drive through the A10 and park close to the Zaans Museum.
Parking of minibuses coaches in Zaanse Schans
Automobiles: Park at Schansend 7 (close to the museum). Price: €15 per go to (varies by season). Road parking just isn’t allowed.
Buses: Park at Kraaienest 1, Zaandam. Price: €30–€50 relying on the season.
Opening Hours & Ticket Costs
Entry Tip: Get the Zaanse Schans Card
Contains entry to:
- A number of windmills
- Museums
- Artisan workshops
- Reductions at retailers and cafés
Costs:
- Adults: €29.50
- Youngsters (4–17): €20.00
Purchase it at:
- Zaans Museum Data Middle
- Zaanse Tijd Museum entrance (Kalverringdijk)
- ‘Wevershuis’ (Weavers Home)
Verify the official web site for seasonal hours.
Group reductions & guided Excursions
When you’re visiting with a gaggle, promotional packages and guided excursions can be found. Contact them through e-mail for extra particulars.
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Final Up to date on June 7, 2025