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The ultimate guide to Zaanse Schans: visiting the windmills of Holland

In Zaanse Schans, you can experience what life was like back in the 18th and 19th centuries — full of life, windmills, and shops. We all know you’ve come for the windmills, though. 😉

Thinking of a day trip to Zaanse Schans ? Good, because there’s plenty to do here!

When you go to Zaanse Schans, you’ll be greeted by 11 different windmills and people’s beautiful little Dutch houses (yup, people still live there).

Not only that, but also lots of little shops, a bakery, cafes, a cheese factory, souvenir shops, and a clog warehouse. As a result, tourists flock to the area (so, be aware — it gets busy). It’s like a mini traditional Dutch village, a short train ride from Amsterdam .

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What to do in Zaanse Schans

There’s enough to do in Zaanse Schans that you can easily spend a whole day there. You can also combine this top spot with a trip to another iconic Dutch destination, like exploring the canal town of Giethoorn .

However, while you’re in Zaanse Schans, here are the things you won’t want to miss:

The windmills at Zaanse Schans

There are 11 different windmills that you can explore in Zaanse Schans. Here’s a brief outline of what they all are:

• De Huisman : A spice warehouse where you can taste different spices
• De Gekroonde Poelenburg : A centuries-old wood sawmill
• De Kat : A paint mill where you can watch demonstrations
• De Zoeker : An oil, paint, and cocoa mill
• Het Jonge Schaap : A unique wood sawmill replica
• De Bonte Hen : An oil mill which has been running since 1693!
• De Os : A windmill that was later transformed into a diesel-powered mill
• Het Klaverblad : A small wood workshop mill
• De Bleeke Dood : The oldest smock mill in the Netherlands, used to mill flour
• De Ooievaar : An old oil mill that was moved to the Zaan area
• Mini-mills on the Schans : Miniature windmills that were used to pump water from the polder

Your Instagram feed is going to love you! 📸

The museums at Zaanse Schans

An iconic historical destination like Zaanse Schans is naturally jam-packed with incredible, one-of-a-kind museums .

TIP: Want to get the most out of your trip? The Zaanse Schans Card gives you access to nine different attractions in Zaanse Schans, making it the best way to see it all. Find out more.

Zaans Museum and the Verkade Experience

When you first arrive in Zaanse Schans, you’ll notice a large museum. This is the Zaans Museum , which teaches the history of the area, the windmills, and trade.

One of the trades of the area that you can learn all about (and taste) is biscuits and chocolate (yum!) since it’s the spot where famous Verkade girls made their treats.

READ MORE | 16 Haarlem museums that are well worth a visit

It’s a very interactive and modern museum, helping you to truly enjoy learning about the area — and then you can go out and see it for yourself.

You can even operate the chocolate machine in the museum. (Now we’re talking!)

The Zaanse Time Museum 

The museum houses many different Dutch timepieces that tell the story of the Zaanse Schans through beautiful old clocks that’ll chime on the hour, every hour.

Here you’ll learn about Dutch clockwork history from the 16th century. There are plenty of different things to see, as well as learn about their scientific and design history.

The Albert Heijn Museum Shop

It’s hard to believe (we know), but Dutch grocery behemoth Albert Heijn started out as a single, small shop.

Albert Heijn took over the shop from his parents in 1887, when he was just 21 years old. It was nothing like it is today.

In this museum, you can see for yourself the original shop and stock that was around at the time. Discover the roots of the Dutchies’ favourite store, unknown by many today.

Jisper House

This old fisherman’s cottage in the village of Jisp is as it would have been back in the 1850s.

Here you can explore the cute little cottage and even dress up in traditional local costumes and have your photo taken — selfies at the ready!

Learn about how herring came straight out of the fresh Zaan water and onto your plate with onion and pickles.

Bakery Museum de Gecroonde Duyvekater

As you walk through the Zaans Schans, the smell of Dutch treats will tempt you right into the bakery museum. This original bakery has been around since 1658 (yep, wow!).

It’s still in use today, meaning that… you can try out and buy some delicious traditional Dutch baked goods. 🤤

You can taste Duivekater, a famous sweet bread from Zaanse and other originals, as well as more modern baked goods.

If you want an excuse to chow down on some even more delicious Dutch snacks, then here’s your chance. 😉

Windmill museum

If you just can’t get enough of those adorable Dutch windmills, here’s your chance!

At the windmill museum, you’ll be able to interact with the exhibitions and learn all about what life working in a windmill was actually like.

READ MORE | Best windmill site in the Netherlands: Kinderdijk or Zaanse Schans?

From rotating exhibitions, films, and an interactive model with 1,100 windmills — you’ll be sucked into the charming world of the Zaanse Schans for hours.

All this, with a beautiful view over the older. ✨

Honig Breethuis

Jump into the lives of a Dutch merchant family in the 1830s at the Honig Breethuis.

Beautifully painted wallpapers and old-fashioned furniture will tell you all about the lives of the former inhabitants of the impressive traditional Dutch home.

Besides the wood detailing of the furniture and the gold accents on the walls, keep an eye out for special gems — like the old ornate fireplace.

Here are a few ways you can see Zaanse Schans

Cycling at zaanse schans.

Cycling at Zaanse Schans is possible (we’re in the Netherlands after all), so it’s good news if you’re wanting to take your omafiets for a spin.

No bike? No worries! You can rent bicycles at Zaanse Schans if you’re bike-less.

READ MORE | From omafiets, to mamafiets, and bakfiets — Dutch bikes, explained

There are bike tours and different cycling routes you can take throughout the area, so it’s the perfect place to go on a sunny day.

In the height of summer, it gets really busy along these routes, though, so beware of grandmas zooming down the paths on their e-bikes.

Going for a walk at Zaanse Schans

Just looking for somewhere nice to go for a walk in Holland ? Well, Zaansche Schans is the perfect place!

Strolling around and exploring most of the windmill area is completely free — ideal for getting those all-important Insta-worthy shots.

There are also theatrical walks if you’re looking for something a bit different. A guide in Zaan costume will show you around the area, where you will learn all about the history, food, and culture.

They may even let you in on some of the 1850s gossip. And thankfully, these tours are also available in English if your Dutch isn’t up to scratch.

Hop on a boat through the Zaanse Schans

Really want to get the most out of your visit to the Zaanse Schans? Hop in on one of the many boats that sail on the River Zaan or take a boat tour !

Feel the wind in your hair and smell the freshness of the water, all while learning from a guide about the beautiful sights around you.

Other things to do at Zaanse Schans

There are more things to do!? Yup.

There are plenty of typical Dutch shops and handicrafts, gift shops, and Dutch delicacies.

Have you ever been to Zaanse Schans? Tell us in the comments below! 

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in February 2019, and was fully updated in July 2023 for your reading pleasure.

Liked it? Try these on for size:

A guide to 12 breathtaking castles and palaces in the netherlands, surfing in the netherlands: where to go and what to know in 2024, esims in the netherlands: the ultimate 2024 guide + the best options, what do you think.

Thank you for sharing! Zaanse Schans sounds so lovely. I was wondering which windmills you would recommend for someone who is looking to visit only one or two? I’m eyeing De Bleeke Dood and De Huisman.

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Zaanse Schans – Windmill Village near Amsterdam

A pleasant half-day trip from Amsterdam is a visit to the picturesque Dutch village park at Zaanse Schans, approximately 15km north of the city. You will find iconic views of the 6 windmills set on the river Zaan, traditional houses, shops and museums.

Zaanse Schans has an open-air museum feel and has become a very popular tourist attraction with 2.5 million annual visitors. It is free to just walk around and take photos.

The Zaanse Schans area was actually set-up in 1963 as a reserve for historic buildings from the region. The buildings were transported here by land and water to be restored.

The Zaan region is well-known for its green houses. It is thought that the green paint made of copper pigment had good weatherproofing qualities.

Zaans Museum

The Zaans Museum is a principal attraction at Zaanse Schans and gives a concise historical overview of the people and industry of the area.

It has a varied collection of paintings, costumes, furniture as well as multimedia exhibits.

The museum also houses the Verkade Experience which is a history of the chocolate and biscuit maker including the old manufacturing machines which you can see in action.

In addition, the Zaans Museum includes two ‘living history’ museums:

The Weaver’s House (Zeilenmakerspad 8) shows how sails were traditionally made using looms.

The Tiemstra Cooperage (De Kwakels 2) will show you the craft of making wooden barrels which were vital for transporting goods.

The museum is open daily 1000-1700. Admission to Zaans Museum costs €14.50, seniors 65+ €11.50, children 4-17 €7.50. Iamsterdam City Card and Museumkaart holders get free entry; the Zaanse Schans card (see below) has entry included.

If you just wish to visit the Weaver’s House and Cooperage, then admission to either costs €3 for adults, €1.50 for children 4-17.

Zaans Museum , Schansend 7, 1509 AW Zaandam

There is a large car park at Zaans Museum which is where most of the coach tours arrive.

Not far from the Zaans Museum is a 2-level wooden watchtower (free entry) which gives an elevated panoramic view of the area.

Other museums/attractions at Zaanse Schans

The Albert Heijn Museum Shop (Kalverringdijk 5) is a reconstruction of the first ever Albert Heijn store from Oostzaan dating back to the late 19th century. Today Albert Heijn is the biggest supermarket in Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands. Entrance is free, open 1000-1630 weekends only.

The Zaanse Time Museum (Kalverringdijk 3, daily 1100-1600) shows the history of Dutch timepieces with a collection of clocks that chime together on the hour. Standard entrance is €11 for adults, €5.50 for children 4-17. Free entrance for Iamsterdam City Card and Museumkaart.

The Bakery Museum de Gecroonde Duyvekater (Zeilenmakerspad 4, daily 0900-1700) is where you can sample the Duivekater , a famous Zaanse sweet bread. Free entrance.

Honig Breethuis (Lagedijk 80, Fri-Sun 1300-1600) is a 19th century merchant family house on the west-side of the Zaan. Entrance is €7.50 for adults, free for Museumkaart holders.

The Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm (Zeilenmakerspad 5, daily 0830-1730 Oct-Feb/0800-1800 Mar-Sep) is a replica of an old farm from Oostzaan. Cheese makers wear traditional costumes and offer daily demonstrations.

Ever wondered how the ubiquitous Dutch clogs are made? The Clog Workshop (Kraaienest 4, daily 0900-1700 Nov-Feb/0900-1800 Mar-Oct) gives you the chance to see a clog maker in action. Entrance is free and the onsite museum houses an impressive collection of wooden shoes.

World of Windmills at Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is famous for its wooden windmills. The old industrial area of the Zaanstreek once featured more than 1,000 windmills.

The World of Windmills opened in 2020 and includes the Mill Museum and the chance to visit a number of working windmills.

The Mill Museum (Kalverringdijk 30, open 1200-1700 Tue-Sun) houses an interactive exhibition about various aspects of mill life, culture and trade. The highlight is perhaps an 11 metre wide panoramic painting of the windmills in Zaandam around the year 1800.

Individual entry to a windmill costs €5.50 for adults, €2.50 for children 4-17. Combi World of Windmill tickets (Mill Museum + 2 windmills) cost €20. Buy a World of Windmills ticket here

You have the choice to visit the following windmills:

De Kat (The Cat) – paint and dye mill (1664) Het Jonge Schaap (The Young Sheep) – sawmill (2007)

These other windmills at Zaanse Schans may have restricted opening hours or may be closed:

De Bonte Hen (The Brightly Coloured Hen) – oil mill (1693) De Zoeker (The Seeker) – oil mill (1672) De Huisman (The Houseman) – spice mill (1786) Het Pink (The Yearling) – oil mill (1620) Het Prinsenhof (The Prince’s Court) – hulling mill (1722) De Koker (The Pipe) – flour mill (1866) De Schoolmeister (The Schoolmaster) – paper mill (1692) De Gekroonde Poelenburg (The Crowned Poelenburg) – sawmill (1867) De Bleeke Dood (The Pale Death) – flour mill (1656) De Jonge Dirk (The Young Dirk) – paper mill (1908) De Ooievaar (The Stork) – oil mill (1622)

There is a Zaanse Schans card available for purchase (€23.50, children 4-17 €16) which offers entry into the Zaans Museum, Zaanse Time Museum, the Weaver’s House and Cooperage. You can also visit the Mill Museum, paint mill De Kat and saw mill ‘t Jonge Schaap. The card saves about €18 when taking account of all entrance fees. Buy the Zaanse Schans card here

Windmill Cruises Zaanse Schans (Kalverringdijk 21A) are available with departures every 30 minutes between 0930 and 1630. A cruise in a glass-topped boat takes 45 minutes and costs €13.50 (children 4-12 €7.50).

Getting to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam

There are a number of possibilities for getting to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam.

TOUR: The easiest way is to take an organised half-day Zaanse Schans tour with pick-up near Amsterdam Central station. Or take a combined Zaanse Schans + Volendam/Marken tour

In terms of public transport, there are 2 choices for reaching Zaanse Schans.

TRAIN: Take one of the NS Sprinter stopping trains from Amsterdam Central (direction Uitgeest, up to 4x hourly) to station Zaandijk Zaanse Schans .

From there it’s about 10-15 minutes walk to Zaanse Schans – just follow the signs. Walk up the road (Stationstraat) and then turn left towards the windmill and then right to cross over the bridge.

BUS: Connexxion’s Industrial Heritage bus line (391) runs from the bus station (IJ-side) at Amsterdam Central to Zaandam and the Zaanse Schans windmills. It runs up to 4x hourly and the trip takes about 40 minutes.

Public transport tickets for Zaanse Schans

The Zaanstreek Bus Day Ticket costs €11.50 and is valid on all Connexxion services in the Zaandam/Zaanstreek area including the 391 trip to/from Amsterdam. A 90 minute “Bus Tram Metro” ticket costs €6.50.

A day return (2023) on the train costs €7.40 and the trip takes just under 20 mins. There is a €1 surcharge for disposable tickets.

It is well worth getting out of Amsterdam to have a look around Zaanse Schans, a picture postcard version of a traditional Dutch village in a water and country setting.

This article was originally published in 2011. Last updated 3 January 2023 .

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

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Zaanse Schans

• 1.1 By train
• 1.4 By boat
• 2 Get around
• 3.1.1 Industrial mills
• 3.1.2 Museums
• 3.1.3 Crafts
• 3.2 Zaandijk

The Zaanse Schans is an open air conservation area and museum, on the bank of the Zaan River, north of Zaandam in the Netherlands . It displays the traditional architecture of the area (green wooden houses) and has several functioning windmills and craftsman's workshops, which are open to visitors. Located next to it is the regional museum, the Zaans Museum .

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ]

To get there, take a train to railway station Zaandijk Zaanse Schans . The ride is several stops from Amsterdam Central Station and takes 18 minutes. From there, walk 10–15 minutes along Stationsstraat in the village of Zaandijk until you see a windmill, and then cross the river on a bridge by that windmill.

By bus [ edit ]

Alternatively, Connexxion serves the area with buses. Take bus 391 from Amsterdam Central Station which has its terminus right beside the main entrance of the Zaanse Schans. The bus ride takes you there in around 40–45 minutes and the bus leaves every 30 minutes (in rush hours even more frequently). The bus link at Central Station is at the bus station at the east side of the main station entrance, at the bridge. The buses are the only ones painted red, so you can't miss them.

By car [ edit ]

You can also reach it by car: From Amsterdam take the A7 in the direction of Leeuwarden and take exit 2 Zaanstad-Het Kalf , then turn left and follow the signs for Zaanse Schans.

By boat [ edit ]

The Zaanferry [dead link] is a boat connection from Amsterdam Central Station to the Zaanse Schans. The Zaanferry leaves every Thursday, Friday, Saturday and in the summer also on Sunday from Amsterdam Central Station (steiger 14) to the Zaanse Schans and back. A single ticket costs €10 and a return €15. The ticket is valid all day and you can board and disembark an unlimited number of times.

Several tour companies also offer half-day trips to Zaanse Schans, with transportation to/from Amsterdam included.

Get around [ edit ]

Walking to the end of the area is about a kilometer, so you can easily get around on foot. It is also popular to navigate through the surrounding area by bicycle. You cannot rent a bicycle at the Zaanse Schans or Koog-Zaandijk railway station, but you can at the railway stations in Zaandam and Amsterdam .

See [ edit ]

Open air museum [ edit ].

The access for the open air museum is free, the wooden houses are mainly normal living houses. Most of the windmills can be visited for a small fee.

Industrial mills [ edit ]

• 52.47421 4.81761 1 Saw Mill De Gekroonde Poelenburg , Kalverringdijk 27 . Every second Saturday 10:00-17:00 .  
• 52.47502 4.81784 2 Paint Mill De Kat , Kalverringdijk 29 , ☏ +31 75 621-0477 . 09:00-17:00 daily .  
• 52.47602 4.81755 3 Oil Mill De Zoeker , Kalverringdijk 31 , ☏ +31 75 628-7942 . Su-F 9:30-16:30 .  
• 52.47803 4.81328 4 Oil Mill De Bonte Hen , Kalverringdijk 39 , ☏ +31 75 621-7452 . Sa 10:00-16:00 .  
• 52.47616 4.81658 5 Saw Mill Het Jonge Schaap , Kalverringdijk 31a , ☏ +31 75 640-1377 . Apr-Sep M-Sa 09:30-16:30, Oct-Mar M-F 09:30-16:30 . €3, children 6-12 €1.50 .  

Museums [ edit ]

• 52.47362 4.82234 6 Zaans Museum and Verkade Paviljoen , Schansend 7 , ☏ +31 75 681-0000 . 10:00-17:00 daily . €7.50, children €4 .  
• 52.47197 4.81539 7 Grocery Museum Albert Heijn , Kalverringdijk 5 , ☏ +31 75 616-9619 . Old coffee grinders, coffee storage boxes and commercial posters from the history of the most famous Dutch grocery store chain. Free .  
• 52.47319 4.81773 8 Bakery Museum In De Gecroonde Duijvekater , Zeilenmakerspad 4 , ☏ +31 75 617-3522 . €1, children €0.50 .  
• 52.47184 4.8154 9 Museum of the Dutch Clock , Kalverringdijk 3 , ☏ +31 75 617-9769 . Apr-Oct Tu-S 11:00-17:00, Nov-Mar Su 11:00-17:00 . €6, children €4 .  
• 52.47313 4.82057 10 Distillery Museum De Tweekoppige Phoenix , Kraaienest 3 , ☏ +31 75 635-3111 . 09:00-18:00 daily .  

Crafts [ edit ]

• 52.47297 4.81972 11 Wooden Shoe Workshop De Zaanse Schans , Kraaienest 4 , ☏ +31 75 617-7121 . A small and interesting collection of many types of both old, original clogs (for every day life and special occasions) and new artistic version of clogs. Every ten minutes or so there is a live demonstration of modern machinery clog making. Free .  
• 52.47171 4.81514 12 Pewter Foundry De Tinkoepel , Kalverringdijk 1 , ☏ +31 75 617-6204 . Jan-Mar Sa-Su 11:00-16:00, Apr Sa-Su 10:00-17:00, May-Oct 10:00-17:00 daily, Nov-Dec 11:00-16:00 daily .  
• 52.47324 4.81962 13 Craft Centre De Saense Lelie , Zeilenmakerspad 7 , ☏ +31 75 635-4622 . 08:30-18:00 daily .  
• The Coopery , Kalverringdijk 27 , ☏ +31 75 681-0000 . €2, free entry with Zaans Museum ticket .  

Zaandijk [ edit ]

Zaandijk is the community lying between the railway line and the bridge to Zaanse Schans. The street Lagedijk, running by the windmill De Bleeke Dood , is mostly lined with attractive Dutch houses between Boschjesstraat at the south end and the canal Zaandijker Sluisloot at the north end.

• 52.4714 4.8114 14 De Bleeke Dood ( the pale dead ), Lagedijk 28 ( at the bridge to Zaanse Schans ), ☏ +31 75 628 5602 . Friday 09.30–16.30 . This windmill, named De Bleeke Dood , was built in 1656 and operated until 1931. In 2000, the mill was restored to operational condition, and grinds corn every Friday. It has a store selling its products. ( updated Oct 2018 )

Do [ edit ]

Buy [ edit ].

There are many gift shops selling much of the same touristy things. However there is a clog workshop with a store selling many designs and sizes. The cheesemaking workshop too has a shop selling a variety of cheeses.

The bakery In den Gecroonde Duyvekater sells typical sweet bread and self-made candies. The grocery store of Albert Heijn gives you an idea how the first grocery around 1900 was set up. This was the first store of Albert Heijn, which is the largest supermarket chain in the Netherlands. They sell some tourist-oriented products of Albert Heijn.

• Hip aan 't Glop , Kalverringdijk 21 , ☏ +31 75 670-1290 . Apr-Oct 10:00-17:00 daily, Nov-Mar Sa-Su 12:00-17:00 . This building dates from the 19th century, but the porch is as old as from 1630. The building has functioned as a book shop annex library at the Rozengracht in Zaandam, but now is a design and gift shop with watches, bags, ceramics, jewellery and many other small products.  

Eat [ edit ]

There is also a smaller cafe, a fried food snack bar and many gift shops. Not to mention the cheese available on site.

• De Hoop op d'Swarte Walvis , Kalverringdijk 15 , ☏ +31 75 616-5629 . 11:00-22:00 daily . €40 .  
• De Kraai , Kraaienpad 1 , ☏ +31 75 615-6403 . Mar-Oct 09:00-18:00 daily, Nov-Dec, Feb 10:00-17:00 daily, Jan closed . This is an excellent pancake house in an authentic former granary. Their specialty are Dutch pancakes, but they also have a range of cakes, salads, soups, snacks, and drinks.  

Drink [ edit ]

• Museum Cafe , Schansend 7 ( at the Zaans Museum ), ☏ +31 75 681-0000 . 10:00-17:00 daily . Before or after heading out for the windmills you can have a cup of coffee or tea at the Museum Cafe. There is a beautiful view of the Kalverpolder and the lined-up windmills at the banks of the Zaan River.  
• 52.476143 4.811067 1 Brouwerij Hoop , Lagedijk 71, 1544 BC Zaandijk , ☏ +31 75 207 7000 . ( updated Apr 2019 )

Sleep [ edit ]

• Heerlijck Slaapen , Kalverringdijk 17-21 , ☏ +31 75 670-1290 . This bed and breakfast is the only accommodation in the Zaanse Schans. There are three rooms in unique old Zaan houses that are protected as monuments. Price includes breakfast. €65+ .  

Go next [ edit ]

There are many other interesting villages in Zaanstreek-Waterland , including Broek in Waterland , Edam , Marken , Monnickendam , and Volendam .

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One Day in Zaanse Schans: The Ultimate Guide

Are you looking to spend one day in Zaanse Schans away from the busy capital?

I’ve been guiding people from all over the world to this mesmerizing place so many times, that it became my second home after Amsterdam.

A day trip to Zaanse Schans is always a good idea if you want to enjoy nature and learn about the history of one of the most important technologies in the country.

You’ll feel transported back in time by visiting historic working windmills, and traditional Dutch houses!

In this article, we’ll discuss why there are so many windmills in the Netherlands, how to get there and when to visit, the things you can do in the village, tips for when visiting, the best tours available to visit Zaanse Schans and we’ll answer some of the frequently answered questions by you.

Let’s start by pronouncing Zaaaaanse Schans! Easy right?!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate advertising links. This means that if you click through any of the links on this page and decide to make a booking I get a small commission, at no extra cost to you. This helps fund the running costs of my site.

Why are There So Many Windmills in the Netherlands?

Many people have the impression that windmills are just tourist magnets and decorations, but that’s not it at all.

In the 19th century, there were more than 1,100 windmills just in the Zaan region!

So, the reason why there are so many windmills in the Netherlands is because, for centuries they were an essential part of the country’s agricultural and industrial development.

Since the first windmill was built in the 13th century, Dutch people used them for pumping water out of the land and the production of diverse goods.

Windmills were used all over the country to reclaim land from the swamps, lakes and sea.

Other uses were to produce oil, grind grain into flour and saw wood which helped the Netherlands in industrial production.

Having saw windmills, Dutch people could build faster boats to be sent to India to buy and trade many produce.

You can find windmills throughout the countryside, particularly in the  Kinderdijk  windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the  Zaanse Schans , where windmills are still working!

How to Get to Zaanse Schans

Getting to Zaanse Schans is very easy, and there are several options.

The most convenient choice is to hop on a train from Amsterdam Central Station to Koog-Zaandijk. This is a quick 20-minute ride.

Alternatively, you can take a bus or even drive if you prefer flexibility.

If you’re an advocate for eco-friendly transportation, consider renting a bicycle to enjoy the beautiful Dutch countryside.

Read about all the options and detailed info for getting from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans here.

Zaanse Schans Weather

You can visit Zaanse Schans any time of the year, which will give you different landscapes and surely you’ll take some of your best Instagram photos !

Let’s discuss what are the temperatures depending on the season and what to expect.

In spring the weather is mild with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 15°C (45°F to 59°F) during the day.

It is a very nice season as nature wakes up from the long winter, but the weather can be unpredictable, so get prepared for lots of changes during the same day.

Summer is warmer with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F).

The weather is generally warm and pleasant, with longer daylight hours. That’s why is also the peak season.

Expect longer times for photos and entrance at the windmills.

In autumn temperatures decrease with a low of 7°C and a high of 19°C (45°F to 66°F).

It’s perfect to see the trees changing colours and that moody atmosphere.

Read more about Amsterdam in Autumn here!

In the last season of the year, temperatures range from 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F).

It is more quiet, except for maybe Christmas time, but nothing compared with summer.

The weather can be very cold which is perfect to warm up with a hot chocolate and experience the village in a special season.

If you’re lucky enough, you’ll see Dutch people ice skating on the frozen canals!

Timing Your Visit

The time to visit Zaanse Schans will depend on your preferences and the time of your holiday.

Spring and summer have more pleasant weather, but also larger crowds.

Autumn, with the fall foliage, can also be charming.

The winter months are quieter, but some windmills may have reduced hours or be closed.

The truth is that even on a rainy windy day, this place is beautiful, but who knows, I might be biased!

Lastly, whatever season you choose to visit, be prepared for unpredictable weather conditions. One moment is sunny and the next it could get cloudy and windy.

Planning a trip to the Netherlands

Things to do in zaanse schans.

For such a small place, there are plenty of things to do. That’s why I recommend at least half day to discover all it has to offer.

Visit the windmills

Zaanse Schans is renowned for its iconic windmills, so exploring the windmills is the main activity of the Zaanse Schans. After all, that’s why it is called the Windmill Village.

The windmills are active and if the wind allows it, they are very busy producing diverse products, but if it is not windy, they will be giants standing waiting for the wind.

Tip: Check the wind speed of the day you’re planning to visit the village to make sure there’s enough wind for seeing the mills in movement! But, be aware because if it’s very windy you can also blow away.

In each of the windmills, you’ll learn about the process and production. There are sawmills, spice mills, oil and paint mills.

Windmills are normally open every day between 9 a.m. to 17:00 p.m. but in the lower season (October to March) they might have reduced opening hours. Be sure you check the opening hours in advance!

There’s a fee to enter the windmills of around 5 euros.

Furthermore, I highly recommend taking a guided tour ! There is so much history and stories you’ll never know of if you go by yourself without a guide.

Albert Heijn Museum Shop

Albert Heijn is a popular supermarket in the Netherlands and this museum features the supermarket with the original 1887 interior and products for sale.

Zaanse Schans Cheese Factory

For cheese lovers, the Cheese Farm is the place to be.

They will tell you about the cheese-making process and afterwards, you’ll try all the varieties of Dutch cheese. From cheese with spices to paprika and smoked cheeses. They are elevated Gouda cheeses!

Tip: In summer they have some of the best creamy ice cream, so don’t forget to get one!

Zaans Museum

One of the highlights of Zaanse Schans is the Zaans Museum .

Here, you can learn about the art and history of the region, and the chocolate and biscuit factory.

The museum is open daily paying an entrance fee .

There are different activities you can do in the Museum, check them all out here.

Wooden Shoe Workshop

In the Wooden Shoe Workshop, Klompenmakerij in Dutch, you’ll see how they craft Dutch clogs right before your eyes.

It’s a great place to learn how they craft the wooden shoes, learn about its history and try a pair yourself.

You’ll discover how comfy are these shoes, and their practical use: water resistance and safety shoes. If you walk in the Dutch polders there’s no better way to protect your feet from getting muddy and wet.

Historic Houses

Zaanse Schans has many well-preserved historic houses that reflect the region’s architectural styles.

Most of the houses are still inhabited so be respectful of their property!

You will notice that the houses are painted green and black; this is typical of the region.

In old ages, they did not have enough money to paint the houses with paint, so they used the tar for the black which was also waterproof for the roof, and a mix of plants for the walls which gave the green colour.

Nowadays, the colours are of course quality paint, but they still preserve the tradition of painting the houses in green and black.

Wander through the small alleys and see how the inhabitants used to live and still live nowadays. It’s like walking through history.

Cruise on the Zaan

Another way to explore the area from a different perspective is by taking a cruise on the Zaan River.

You can admire the unique views of the windmills and countryside from the water.

Find the cruise behind the De Huisman windmill (the first small windmill).

Zaanse Schans Restaurants

There are two restaurants at the entrance of the village: two-headed Phoenix and restaurant De Kraai . Try local dishes like apple pie and pancakes.

Next to the river Zaan, with beautiful views, there’s another option for food called De Hoop op d’Swarte Walvis.

Try some dishes like mustard soup, erwtensoep (pea soup), and bitterballen (deep-fried balls).

Lastly, you can also have a coffee and dessert at the Zaans Museum.

Webcam Zaanse Schans

Did you know there are webcams around the Netherlands so you can see the location you plan to visit live!?

You can check out the webcam of Zaanse Schans here .

Zaanse Schans Card

If you’re into windmills and want to visit more of the mill area, I suggest getting the attractions and museums card for Zaandam .

The card will allow you to have free entrance to two of the windmills, plus a free entrance to the chocolate factory, the Zaans museum, and other museums in the area and a 30% discount on the parking ticket.

Zaanse Schans Best Tours

Zaanse Schans Windmills Tour

Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans 3-Hour Small Group Tour : perfect for having a more personal experience.

Tour Zaanse Schans, Volendam and Marken

Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken Day Trip : nice to have an overview of the Dutch countryside visiting 3 villages.

Bike Tour Zaanse Schans

Amsterdam: Countryside Bike Tour and Zaanse Schans Windmills : great for discovering the countryside as a local in a small group.

Practical Tips

• Dress comfortably and be prepared for changing weather conditions.
• Wear sturdy walking shoes, as you’ll explore cobbled streets and uneven terrain.
• If you plan to visit multiple attractions, consider purchasing a Zaanse Schans Card for discounts.
• Capture the beauty of Zaanse Schans with your camera, but don’t forget to be present in the moment.
• Check out the free guide of things to know before your visit to Zaanse Schans.

A day trip to Zaanse Schans is so worth it because it is really close to Amsterdam, and it gives you a quick idea of what it is the Dutch countryside. So yes, it is definitely worth visiting Zaanse Schans.

Generally, the outdoor area of Zaanse Schans remains accessible year-round. However, the museums, windmills, and shops, may have different operating hours. Typically, most windmills close between 4:00 PM and 5:00 PM. It’s advisable to check the official Zaanse Schans website for the most up-to-date information regarding their opening and closing times.

You can enter the village free of charge, although there are admission fees for the museums, mills and other activities within Zaanse Schans.

Windmills at Zaanse Schans are not just for exhibition, they are operational meanwhile there is wind available.

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## Comment SPAM Protection: Shield Security marked this comment as “Pending Moderation”. Reason: Human SPAM filter found “great post” in “comment_content” ## Great post! I visited a few years ago and loved it: it’s really easy to visit from Amsterdam. If you don’t mind the trek out into the countryside and have your own car, Kinderdijk is also really impressive

Wow, great informative post & I looove this area! It is really great for family travel too and my daughter adored this and learned a lot while having fun.

I have only been to Amsterdam, but would love to go back and do some day trips from there. The idea of a cycling tour around Zaanse Schans in spring or summer just sounds perfect. See some windmills, explore the countryside, east local cheese…wow!

The photo of the windmills on the water looks so magical! Hope to travel there someday!

It’s fascinating to know that such a wooden shoe workshop exists! I always enjoy witnessing traditional skills in action.

Thanks for also sharing the food options. It’s always interesting to learn about local cuisine. Do you have a favorite dish or any unique local food experiences while visiting Zaanse Schans?

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Your Guide to Visiting Zaanse Schans, a Short and Sweet Day Trip from Amsterdam

The Netherlands are known around the world for (mainly) two things: tulips and windmills! Since I already covered everything you need to know about visiting Keukenhof Gardens , the most renowned tulip garden in the world, it’s time I share my tips for visiting the best place to see the Dutch people’s signature architecture. Discover the best way to visit Zaanse Schans in this guide!

Zaanse Schans is a residential area/park just north of Amsterdam. It is not only a fantastic place to see windmills, but a fun and educational experience to learning about Dutch history and way of life in centuries past.

Even if you only have a weekend in Amsterdam , you can squeeze this quick and easy day trip!

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How to reach Zaanse Schans

First things first – how can you get to Zaanse Schans? If you are coming from Amsterdam, you have several options.

The first option is to arrive by car. There is a paid parking lot right in front of the park, but if you arrive towards sunset after it is no longer officially open, you don’t have to pay for the parking.

It is an 18-minute drive from the center of Amsterdam, completely along main roads.

By public transportation

You can take the Sprinter 4060 bus toward Uitgeest from Amsterdam Sloterdijk station to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station, which is about a 20 minute walk from the park. The bus ride is 30 minutes long.

If you are already in the surrounding area, there are a number of public boats and boat tours you can hop on to reach the park.

By organized tour

Getting to Zaanse Schans isn’t overwhelming by car or public transport, so to save money, I suggest you use one of those options.

But if you are looking to enrich your day trip with more activities or simply prefer someone else handling the transportation for you, then opt for an organized tour.

What to See in Zaanse Schans

Enter the historic dutch windmills.

The main attraction are the Zaanse Schans windmills.

Some mills date back to the 1600s, and what makes them all special is that they each have different histories and use cases. One makes paint, one houses spices, one is a saw mill and more!

One thing to keep in mind is that not every mill is open every day or during all seasons. If there is something particular you want to see, check the website for updated opening times .

You can buy your tickets to enter the mills online or at the mill entrance.

Walk along the windmills and nature park trail

Right beside the trail that leads you down the path of the windmills is an expansive stretch of land that looks like a nature park.

The atmosphere is so tranquil, and you can spot wildlife! I saw birds and rabbits, but I believe there are other small fluffy creatures that also roam the area.

If you have a bike or rent one, it is also the perfect scenic route for a bike ride.

Get up-close to sweet farm animals

One thing I wasn’t expecting about Zaanse Schans but absolutely loved were the farm animals that roam around the village!

I saw the fluffiest sheep just munching away at the grass only a few feet from me, completely out in the open.

Explore the replica of an 18 th century Dutch village

There are so many things to do at Zaanse Schans beyond the windmills. The replica village comes alive with mini museums, workshops and boutiques. There are also several restaurants serving traditional Dutch cuisine.

Tips for Visiting Zaanse Schans

Go at early morning or towards sunset

It’s always better to visit attractions with fewer crowds, right? I visited the park at sunset, which was actually after the park’s opening hours. The area was still open to enter and people were visiting, but many of the shops were closed.

This was actually a perfect time to visit if you want a tranquil experience with nearly no people and a gorgeous landscape of the windmills at sunset.

If instead you are all about the attractions (which I actually didn’t know much about before visiting), then try to arrive at opening hours before the midday peak.

Don’t skip the Zaans Museum

I wish the museum were open when I visited, but unfortunately, I arrived after closing time, so I didn’t get to experience it firsthand.

However, this main museum is all about food coming to life in various ways! Besides the Zaans Museum, there are also other experiences like the Albert Heign Museum, bakery museum and more!

Don’t disturb the wildlife of the Zaan region

The Zaanse Schans is right next to what looks like a sort of nature preserve and along the Zaan River. We saw lots of birds and rabbits that get pretty close to you.

Another animal we saw a lot of? Cats. To ensure nothing bad happens to you or the animals, it is best to just avoid interaction.

Get the Zaanse Schans card for access to all activities

The Zaanse Schans park is free to visit, but if you are interested in doing more than just walking around and actually engaging in all the activities it has to offer, then consider purchasing the Zaanse Schans card .

I think this option is great for families, since many of the activities are designed to keep kids engaged. If you have short time, then it may be better to just visit the park for free and pay for one or two activities as you go.

But, at least you know that there is this option for enjoying the Zaanse Schans.

The SGTD Take

I believe Zaanse Schans is totally worth a visit if you are in Amsterdam and would like an extra interesting thing to do. Not only are the windmills beautiful, but it is really special to be immersed in Dutch history and culture.

A visit shouldn’t take you more than a couple of hours. In fact, if you are just interested in seeing the windmills, you could probably walk by all of them in less than an hour. In this way, it becomes a day trip adaptable to any itinerary and one I don’t think you should miss!

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Have any questions about visiting Zaanse Schans ? Let me know in a comment!

Michela is a travel writer and photographer living in northern Italy. She is passionate about helping people make the most of their travels by sharing advice gained from her personal experiences, off-the-beaten-path destinations and time-saving quick itineraries. Browse her top articles or have her help you plan your itinerary to your dream destination!

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Zaanse Schans Itinerary: A Day Drip Travel Guide Blog

Last updated on May 17th, 2024

Planning for Zaanse Schans itinerary for a short day trip from Amsterdam? Here is the travel guide blog for everything you need to know for visiting this well-preserved Dutch village town.

For generations, Zaanse Schans has been a tourist mecca, welcoming tons of visitors from all over the world. It is a Dutch village town filled with sprawling green fields, fanciful windmills, and full of traditional handicrafts and culture. It is set up like an open-air museum and visitors can experience life as it was lived by Dutch people in the 18th and 19th centuries. The Netherland you’ve always pictured.

Zaanse Schans is a popular day trip from Amsterdam. Since we have one more day in our Amsterdam itinerary, we decided to visit Zaanse Schans to experience Dutch culture.

In this Zaanse Schans travel guide blog post, we are sharing all the things to do on a day trip from Amsterdam.

Table of Contents

How To Get To Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans Windmills village is located in the Zaandam area of the Netherlands Europe. Distance is 16.5 kilometers one way. There are tours for a day trip to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam every day. But it is also possible to visit Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam on your own by public transport. As I’ve said, public transportation in Europe is easy. 

Getting to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam :

• By Bus : Take the bus (#391)  departed from Amsterdam Central Station, which leaves twice hourly from Platform E to Zandaam/Zaanse Schans. The entire ride takes less than an hour and tickets can be purchased for €8 round trip.
• By Train : From Amsterdam Centraal Station, takes a train to Koog-Zaandijk which takes only 17 minutes. Next, follow the direction board and walk for about 15 minutes to Zaanse Schans. Anyway, it is just a straight path, easy!

We highly recommended taking the bus to Zaanse Schans as it is the most convenient option and the bus stop is right outside of Zaanse Schans.

Zaanse Schans Tour Option

Another great way to get around to discover the typical Dutch countryside outside the capital is by joining the tour. Here is our recommendation from Viator (Tripadvisor) for a half-day or full-day tour to Zaanse Schans. Take a look!

• Zaanse Schans Small-Group Tour from Amsterdam
• Volendam, Marken and Windmills Day Trip from Amsterdam
• Volendam, Edam and Zaanse Schans Windmills Guided Day Tour
• Most Popular : Day Trip to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Marken

Zaanse Schans Travel Tips

We recommended download the “Zaanse Schans” App” to enhance your experience in Zaanshe Schans. The app will become your digital tour guide, offering an interactive tour and sharing with you some hidden gems of the area.

It is free to visit the area when it is open. But you will require to purchase the entrance ticket to enter the windmill or museum. The price is vary based on the attractions.

Pro Tips : Always check the schedule of events during your visit at Zaanshe Schans official website .

Here are the travel tips to plan for your Zaanse Schans itinerary:

You don’t need a full day trip to Zaanse Schans, instead, a few hours should suffice. Personally, I would suggest planning for a half-day Zaanshe Schans with about 3 to 4 hours is sufficient to explore the area.

There are no entry fees for Zaanse Schans, but you will need to purchase the ticket to enter the windmill or museum.

Zaanshe Schans is open every day from 9:00 to 17:00. However, not every portion of the museum is open every day, and each has a separate schedule for demonstrations and tours. Check the schedule of events during your visit at Zaanshe Schans official website . Besides, specific highlights like the working windmills or clog factory demonstration have limited hours.

Things To Do in Zaanse Schans Itinerary

No matter whether you take a guided day trip to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam or visit independently, there are enough attractions to keep you busy for half a day in Zaanse Schans itinerary. You will find windmills, museums, souvenir stores, a clog factory, and a Gouda cheese-making workshop inside the village. 

Here is everything you need to do in Zaanse Schans itinerary:

• Visit the historical Windmill (1 hour)
• Clog making  demonstration (30 minutes)
• Go for cheese tasting (30minutes)
• Strolling and admiring the Dutch scenery in Zaanse Schans (1 hour)

Visit the Historical Windmill

There’s a reason when you think of the Netherlands, you think of windmills! The real draw of Zanse Schans is the historical windmills.

As soon as you enter the windmills village Amsterdam site, you will be welcomed by gorgeous greenery all around, including greenhouses and vintage windmills along the river. There used to be many more along the river, but now only 13 windmills are scattered all across the complex.

Of the 13 existing windmills, only 6 are in working condition, which is a mustard mill, two sawmills, two oil mills, and the world’s last working dye mill, still operating in their full glory. They are vintage and historical, and completely functional to this day.

All these historical windmills are providing a great insight into what life must have been like back in the 17-18th century. Some have turned into shops, others have decks that can be climbed up to see the city from above.

There is a boat rental service available where you can even rent the boat that crosses the Zaan River to admire the windmills. The windmills are technically open every day and operating at all hours, but check their schedule for a visit, especially if there is a specific mill you’d like to visit.

Zaanse Schans Travel Tips : A visit to at least one of the windmills is not to be missed when visiting Zaanse Schans. All windmills have separate admission tickets and each may costs €5 to visit. If you are interested in visiting all of them and also some of other attractions, I highly recommend you purchase a Zaanse Schans card.  For only €29.50 you can visit several museums free of charge for an entire day. 

Clog Making Demonstration

In the Netherlands, Dutch clogs are part of the heritage. But are really only worn mostly in rural areas by farmers and gardeners because they’re great for walking around on the swampy ground.

At the entrance of the Zaanse Schans, there is a clog gift shop with a huge pair of brightly painted wooden clogs on display on the wall outside.

This shop is part of the Zaanse Schans Clog Workshop, dedicated to an interesting Wooden Shoe Museum where you can see clog roller skates, betrothal clogs, and many other unique clogs. It is the largest selection of clogs in all colors and sizes in The Netherlands. Be sure to try on a pair and see what it feels like to clomp around in your klompen.

In the past, clogs were made by hand and could produce up to seven pairs each day. But today machines are used to manufacture clogs, but clog makers still do make them by hand at the Zaanse Schans Clog Workshop.

Free clog-making demonstrations take place continuously throughout the day. You’ll get to see the making of a shoe from start to finish, presented by a young Dutch lad. The presentation takes about 15 minutes.

The Zaanse Schans Clog Workshop is open daily from 8:30 – 17:00. Free Entry.

Go For Cheese Testing

In addition to the shoe factory, there is a cheese store with seemingly endless samples that you can taste as you walk through the store on your way to visit the windmills.

We’ve never seen so many different types of Gouda in our lives. There was regular Gouda, smoked Gouda with herbs, Gouda with chilies, and even a neon green Gouda with pesto. If Gouda isn’t your thing, there are many other Dutch kinds of cheese as well.

We happily sampled a huge variety of cheeses at the cheese factory.

The Farm de Catherinenoeve is open every day from 08:00 am to 06:00 pm.

Strolling and admiring the Dutch Scenery

My favorite thing to do in Zaanse Schans. We spent hours just strolling around and admiring the Dutch scenery, busy photographing whatever stood out to us. From the entrance to the east bank of Zaan’s River, typical green wooden houses lined up and showcasing the traditional architecture of the area.

There is a farm opposite the windmills, we were thrilled to see cows pasturing freely in the area.

Additionally, there’s also a distillery museum, soap factory, and weaver’s house, if you want to wander around in Zaanse Schans.

What To Buy in Zaanse Schans

We couldn’t recommend anything to bring back from Zaanse Schans. Since it is a popular tourist hotspot, I honestly think that everything is kinda overpriced, correct me if I am wrong.

So the best thing to bring back home? Pretty photos and beautiful memories!

Overview: My Zaanse Schans Itinerary

All in all, our visit to Zaanse Schans was an educational one and a great detour from city life. Its picturesque settings with plenty of windmills, where you could spend a whole day here just strolling and admiring the scenery.

We spend about 4 hours for the Zaanse Schans including the traveling time. Honestly, I was slightly disappointed due to the lack of authenticity. The attraction is merely a recreation of a Dutch Village from the late 19th century, with most of its windmills relocated from other sites. But I appreciate the effort put into the reconstruction of the mill, shops, and restaurants where visitors can experience life as it was lived by Dutch people in the 18th and 19th centuries. 

In short, Zaanse Schans is a perfect half-day trip from Amsterdam city center, and highly recommended adding Zaanse Schans itinerary to your trip to the Netherlands to get a glimpse of the windmills village in Amsterdam.

Lastly, free feel to continue to read about our Amsterdam trip and also some other interesting places in Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Itinerary: A Complete Travel Guide Blog

• Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Best Areas and Hotels

Amsterdam Food Guide: A Dutch Food Experience

• Seasonal Trip: Day Trip To Keukenhof: A Travel Guide Blog

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Visiting Zaandam and Zaanse Schans on a day trip from Amsterdam

Zaandam is a Dutch city well known for its Zaanse Schans – a recreated village with typical Dutch windmills and wooden houses. Zaandam is located just north of Amsterdam and along with Zaanse Schans it’s often mentioned as one of the best day trips from Amsterdam. We absolutely agree with that, and hence included Zaandam and Zaanse Schans into our ‘ Small Dutch towns you must see ‘ list.

We would recommend visiting Zaandam and Zaanse Schans in one day as they are located really close to each other and, combined, have lots of things to do and see in a day. Take a train to Zaandam (under 15 mins ride from Amsterdam Central station), spend a couple of hours in the city center, then rent a bike and go to Zaanse Schans (20 min by bike from Zaandam).

If you arrive in Zaandam by train, start your walk from the Stadhuisplein – a Town Hall Square surrounded by colorful wooden houses. Visit the tourist information center and its small souvenir shop (Zaan Store) with local produce and gifts. 

We really liked all the cute houses and quirky architecture at the Stadhuisplein. One of the most remarkable of them is the building of the Inntel Hotel .

After Stadhuisplein, continue over the pedestrian bridge and down towards Gedempte Gracht .

Gedempte Gracht is a very nice pedestrian and shopping street with a mix of old and new architecture, many shops and few restaurants. The street goes along the canal with several small bridges over it. There is even a waterfall under one of the pedestrian bridges near the Inntel Hotel.

When you reach the end of the Gedempte Gracht (or actually, that would be the beginning of the street according to the house numbers) there is a fresh seafood kiosk – Vishandel de Boer . We recommend trying the traditional Dutch food – ‘Haring’ – slightly brined herring sprinkled with chopped onions. (Read more about Dutch foods in 20 Foods to try in the Netherlands )

There is also a small playground with water features near the fish kiosk. If you’re travelling with kids, it could be a nice short stop for them to play while you’re enjoying Dutch herring.

De Dam central square

After the Gedempte Gracht, walk to the central square – De Dam . It’s a nice place to have a drink and a lunch in one of the local cafes and restaurants.  

Name of the square – De Dam (‘The Dam’) – comes from the actual dam on the Zaan river that’s located just outside the square. You can walk there to enjoy the views to the river and residential houses across it.

Besides the cafes at De Dam you will find Czaar Peter Monument in the middle of the square. The monument dates back to 1909 and commemorates the stay of Russian Czar (or Tsar) Peter in the city of Zaandam. Csar Peter visited Zaandam to learn about ship building from Dutch masters. Hence, the statue shows Tsar Peter carving a ship. 

The Czar Peter House

As mentioned above, Czar Peter 1 of Russia visited Zaandam in 1697 to learn about ship building from Dutch masters. During the visit he stayed in the house of blacksmith Gerrit Kist for seven days. The stay made this small wooden house famous. 

You can visit The Czar Peter House for a small fee (when we visited it was € 4 Adult ticket). The wooden house is now one of the oldest wooden houses in the Netherlands. Though of course it doesn’t stand under the open sky any longer, but covered by a bigger stone house.

Zaanse Schans

After visiting Zaandam you can either take a train or bike to Zaanse Schans – it will take you 20-25 minutes either way to get there. 

Zaanse Schans is a small Dutch village outside the city of Zaandam with typical 18th-19th century Dutch wooden houses, workshops and windmills. The village was recreated in the late 20th century by relocating old wooden buildings from around the region to this place. Zaanse Schans is a very popular tourist destination as it makes a perfect one day trip from Amsterdam .

Museums and windmills of Zaanse Schans

You can walk around the village and enter some of the workshops, cafes and shops for free. But if you want to visit one of the many museums or windmills on the site you’ll have to pay an entrance fee. Alternatively, you can purchase a Zaanse Schans Card  that includes entrance to some of the museums and windmills. 

There are many windmills in Zaanse Schans and most of them are fully operational and open for visitors. There is a windmill for making oil, a wood saw windmill, a windmill to mill flour and spices. Even a windmill for making paint! Some of the windmills are original ones, dated back as far as to the 17th century. Some windmills are just replicas of old windmills, but nevertheless are still beautiful and authentic looking buildings.

There are several museums in Zaanse Schans , such as Albert Heijn Museum Shop, Zaanse Time Museum, Windmill Museum and others.

Free workshops

We really enjoyed visiting the Clog Workshop and watching how the clogs are made (the entrance to the workshop is free). Clogs (or Klompen in Dutch) are traditional Dutch wooden shoes made from wood. 

It was really interesting to see a short demonstration and listen to the details of how Dutch klompen are traditionally made. There is a small exhibition of different kinds of clogs right there in the shop. You can of course buy a pair of wooden shoes too. There is a big selection of styles and sizes in the store. If buying clogs for yourself or as a gift, don’t forget they’re supposed to be worn on thick socks!

You can visit other workshops in the village such as Weaver’s House, Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm or even Liqueur distillery.

Besides the museums and workshops there are several shops in Zaanse Schans village where you can taste and buy cheese, souvenirs and other Dutch products.

Finally, visit Zaans Museum – not only to learn about the history of Zaan region, but also for its Verkade experience. (Verkade is a Dutch chocolate and confectionery company based in Zaandam).

Alternatively, if you prefer hassle free travel in a group you can always join one of the bus tours to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam:

After visiting Zaandam and Zaanse Schans, why not go to other small Dutch towns? Check our post on  6 Small Dutch towns you must see!

10 thoughts on “ Visiting Zaandam and Zaanse Schans on a day trip from Amsterdam ”

I want to go here. Sadly the Netherlands is shut to Uk travellers and I already have cancelled a holiday there, These towns are so cool.

I had a few cancelled trips myself due to border closures :-/ But hopefully some time soon the Netherlands will open again and you will be able to visit it!

That is very cool. I like the houses stacked on houses and the little stream in between buildings. I wish they built like that more in America. Thanks for sharing. ~Michelle

Zaanse Schans sounds like a lovely place and the clog workshop sounds very interesting along with all the other things like the distillery cheese making visits. These are the sorts of little towns we would love

Those clogs are adorable! I must visit these towns!

I had only seen pictures of those places so far, so it is nice to get more background information. Enjoyed reading this post and lovely pictures, too.

When it comes to Holland, I’ve only been to Amsterdam. I wish to visit other cities too. Thank you for sharing some information about this small lovely town.

I love The Netherlands and have visited many time, but not to these places. They are so picturesque!

Lovely town! I live on a small touristy town so I know the feeling.

Oh these look amazing! I am planning to visit the Netherlands later this year, so this is giving me some inspiration on what to add aside from Amsterdam! Thanks for sharing x

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Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans

Gerrit Vandenberg

Gerrit shares his love for the Netherlands from his home near Amsterdam, helping thousands plan unforgettable trips to the lowlands. Discover his inspiring journey "From a critical health scare to celebrating Holland's charms" . If you want to send Gerrit a quick message, you can contact him here .

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Hi, I'm Gerrit

I enjoy sharing useful tips about the beauty of this county.

Are you wondering how to get from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans?

Then you’re in the right place. I’ve visited Zaanse Schans countless times in my life, with customers, with overseas friends, and by myself.

The last time I was at Zaanse Schans was in April 2024. It’s a great day trip from Amsterdam.

This article is all about how to get from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans . If you’re looking for things to do in Zaanse Schans , I have written this article for you.

There are six different ways to take a day trip to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam:

• Organized Tour (including my recommendations)
• Private Tour (by me)
• Taxi (pre-book to save money)
• Bus (Public Transport)
• Zaanse Schans by train
• Car (including tips)
• Bicycle (really a fun option; details in the post)

The benefit of a tour is that everything is taken care of. There are no transport tickets to buy and no worries about getting off the wrong bus or train stop.

With a group tour, you get on the bus, and they will do the rest. Plus, you get commentary and a host whom you can ask questions. With a private tour, you enjoy the privacy of a car and a more personalized trip.

But it’s also easily doable on your own and I’ll explain in this article how to do it.

I secretly enjoyed my recent trip with a tour company. It was included in my Amsterdam Go City Pass (it’s a steal; here is my full review) .

But public transport will be cheaper and more flexible than a tour. Thus, keep on reading if that is of interest to you. 

Also, don’t rule out going by bike. I know I advise against bike rental in Amsterdam (it’s dangerous), but outside of the city, it’s lovely. If you have an e-bike, its distance is easy to cover, and there are pleasant routes you can take. More about that is below.

Of course, if you have a car, you can get to Zaanse Schans quite quickly. But parking is not cheap, so it’s not worth renting a car to go here. But if you plan on visiting more nearby places and making Zaanse Schans one of your stops, then a car is perfect !

Short on time ? This is what I recommend:

If you’re okay with set travel times, I recommend this organized tour (the one I was on) . Or I would take the bus (or train) if I want to be in charge of my own time. 

But keep reading for more tips.

PS: The Zaanse Schans area is a super touristy place , but at the same time, it’s a lovely open-air museum to see windmills. It’s the closest place to Amsterdam to see Dutch working windmills. Most are historic windmills.

And there is a lot more to see and do. You can see how clogs are made (and buy a pair while you’re there). Or why not try a traditional Dutch Stroopwafel (syrup waffle) or pancake?

You can also visit the cute first Albert Heijn store, which was a small general store before becoming a huge supermarket chain in the country. It’s the l argest supermarket chain in the Netherlands , but the store where it first began is in Zaanse Schans.

And best of all, the Zaanse Schans is small and super easy to walk around .

It’s a beautiful spot to learn more about the history of the Netherlands , one of the top places to visit, and chosen by 2 million visitors a year. 

I wrote a complete guide on what to do in the Zaanse Schans , including tips like why not to buy cheese here.

Table of Contents

1. pros and cons choosing a zaanse schans tour.

You might wonder why go on a Zaanse Schans tour if it’s so easy to get there by bus or train on your own time instead. What is the added benefit?

That is a good question, and the answer is: If you want complete flexibility over your day, I would recommend traveling on your own by bus or train . But…

There is a convenience to a tour company that can’t be beaten. You don’t have to worry about getting off at the right stop. Everything is taken care of for you. There is a tour guide on board giving you more background information and is there for you to answer questions.

A benefit for the Zaanse Schans is that the free cheese and clog demonstrations can fill up quickly, while a tour company always has pre-booked demonstrations just for them. Direct entrance is guaranteed.

When I was on a guided Zaanse Schans tour last summer in 2023, I felt the balance between free time and group activities (the two demonstrations) was good. The demonstrations took less than an hour, and we had about 2 hours of free time to walk around.

That is enough time to visit a windmill, take photos, shop, and eat. And that is what most people come here for.

But that’s also the downside. There is much more to do at Zaanse Schans Park , like museums, if you want to do it all, you need more time. If that is the case, getting there by public transport, bicycle, or car is a better choice.

My private tour could be a good option if you want to see more of the country and enjoy more privacy.

What’s Included in a Tour?

• Transportation to and from Amsterdam
• Short Guided tour of Zaanse Schans
• Demonstrations at Clog workshop
• Cheese-making demonstration (read shops for both)

How Long Does It Last?

The tour lasts 5 hours.

How Much Does It Cost?

I recommend this half-day Zaanse Schans Windmill tour . It cost around €30-€35, and it’s the tour I was on myself and enjoyed a lot. The tour guide, Fleur, was terrific.

PS: this tour is also included (and thus free) with the Go City Amsterdam Pass (get a pass). When you plan more activities in Amsterdam this pass is a steal! A true money saver. This is my Go City Pass review .

Tip: Consider a full-day tour.

This Charm of Holland tour (full-day) is the most complete day trip I know and includes a visit to the Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Marken, and Edam.

Volendam and Marken are two iconic fishing villages , and the boat tour is included. Edam is known for its cheese-making. And it’s super cute.

What’s Included?

• Guided tours of Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Marken, and Edam
• Lunch at a local restaurant in Volendam (I had lunch here (at full price) and enjoyed it a lot)
• Boat ride between Marken and Volendam

Expect to be out for about 8-10 hours. It’s a full day.

Cost and Booking

This tour costs €99 and includes everything: transportation, tours, boat ticket and lunch! You can book this Charm of Holland ticket here .

PS : These tours often sell out in the primary tourist season (April-September)— book in advance to secure your spot .

Prefer a Private Tour to Zaanse Schans?

You can also book a private tour with me as your personal tour guide. Please visit my private tour page to learn more and make a booking request.

Classic Countryside

The all-time classic is Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Marken, and Edam. As a private tour instead of a tour bus. Including hidden gems.

• Meet at your accommodation
• Pre-tour call included
• Duration: 10-12 hours
• The classic Dutch Countryside

Delft and Kinderdijk

This day is truly Dutch. From Delft’s rich history to the iconic windmills. All experienced from the comfort of a private car.

• Unesco Dutch Windmills

Delft and Bruges (B)

Enjoy Vermeer’s Delft and then the romantic medieval city of Bruges in Belgium. This is a long day but a fantastic experience.

• Duration: 14-16 hours
• Visit Delft and Bruges

Gerrit!!! Thank you for making our “Flower Day” so special. We enjoyed our time with you so much! Best wishes to you and Herman during your upcoming move!🌷🌷

– The Miller Family. Austin, Texas

3. Travel By Taxi from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans

Why Choose a Taxi ?

If you don’t want to deal with transit, tickets, and walking to and from the station you can also opt for booking a private taxi.

You’ll be picked up at your accommodation and don’t have to worry about other people.

When you pre-book your taxi you can save significant money compared taking a regular taxi.

When you book a taxi in advance you can save up to 70% off the metered priced and enjoy a fixed price. With coverage around the country.

2. How to Get from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans By Bus

Direct bus 391 from Amsterdam is a convenient and low-cost way of traveling to the Zaanse Schans Windmills. The line was also referenced once as the industrial heritage line, but you can quickly forget that since there is no reference elsewhere.

Buses depart frequently and are safe. The downside is they take longer than the train, but the upside is the stop is at the village entrance, while by train you need to walk 15 minutes.

Buses leave 4x an hour . The bus takes 40 minutes. Check the screens to see from which platform your bus departs.

In summer, there is also express line 891 : there is no extra cost, but you’ll get to Zaanse Schans 20 minutes faster since it’s direct. Bus 891 departs less frequently than the regular buses (391), but you can plan for that.

All buses depart from the Amsterdam Central Station bus station (at IJ-side), the station’s north side, towards the ferry and the water, not the city center exit. Buses depart from platform E or L, but check the screens for the specific location since it changes.

Cost and Tickets

Contactless Payment: You can pay for your fare with a contactless debit or credit card (Google Wallet and Apple Pay also work). Even overseas cards work. TIP: Make sure to remember to tap when you enter and when you leave! The cost is about €5 for a one-way ticket.

Travel Pass: I recommend using the Amsterdam + Region Travel Ticket (ARTT) instead. This is a one-day or multi-day ticket that covers all bus, train, and metro journeys in the Amsterdam region . If you plan to explore more than just Zaanse Schans, it’s a steal. It also includes transport in Amsterdam on GVB, like trams and the metro, and local trains, for example, to and from the airport! Prices start at €21. 

PS : The I amsterdam Card (Amsterdam city card) only provides free transportation in the city of Amsterdam with the city operator called GVB. This does not include regional transit to the Zaanse Schans.

3. Travel By Train from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans

Why Choose the Train ?

I prefer to take the train compared to the bus. It’s faster and more direct, there is a toilet on board, it’s cheaper than the bus and you can move around. Traveling to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam by train takes less than 20 minutes. 

The downside of taking the train over the bus is that it is a 15-20-minute walk from the train station to the Zaanse Schans park.

I prefer this compared to sitting on the bus for 20 minutes longer. But if you don’t like the idea of an extra walk , then the bus is a better alternative.

Direct train services run every 30 minutes, and the train ride takes between 17 and 20 minutes. 

Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans Train Price

A one-way train ticket from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans costs €3.70 in 2nd class (2024 price).

TIP: You can use your contactless card just like the bus. But if you book a few days in advance on the railway’s website, you can sometimes get an early booking discount on these prices if you travel off-peak (after 9 a.m. and not between 4 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. on weekdays and the entire day on weekends). Tickets can be booked directly on the railway’s website here.

PS: booking can be a little confusing, here are some tips, more in my article here :

• First, you search for the route (Amsterdam Centraal to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans)
• Then select a random train around the time you want to go.
• If you choose a train during off-peak hours and book at least four days in advance, you might see a discount fare.
• Tickets are not connected to a departure (even though you selected a train on the screen). You can take any train, but if you have an off-peak discount, you must travel during off-peak hours. That is the confusing part.
• Once booked, you can quickly load the ticket in the NS app to use it.

Trains depart from Amsterdam Central Station. Look for trains heading to Uitgeest and get off at Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station .

Here is more information about train travel in The Netherlands .

PS : The Amsterdam + Region Travel Ticket (ARTT) is also valid on this train journey. So, if you plan to travel more, this is a steal compared to a single ticket.

4. Travel to the Zaanse Schans by Car

Why Choose to Drive ?

If you’re traveling just between Amsterdam and Zaanse Schans, traveling by car makes no sense . There are plenty of more convenient travel options available.

But if you love the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit multiple destinations on the same day or plan a multi-day trip, then driving to Zaanse Schans makes a lot of sense.

It’s perfect when combining multiple nearby villages like Volendam, Edam, Marken, go to the beach, and more.

If you don’t have your car, rental prices start at around €50-€100 per day, depending on the model. I always recommend checking out rates at Rental Cars and Discovery Cars . I usually find the best deals at Rental Cars, but check them both!

Find the lowest price for Car rental in the Netherlands

For the best car rental rates , I suggest checking both Rental Cars and Discover Cars. I often go with Rental Cars, but it’s worth comparing both.

How to Get There

The drive from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans is pretty straightforward. You take the S116 road to the A10 ring road from Amsterdam, followed by the A8. The journey takes 20 minutes.

Google Maps is an easy tool to navigate. You don’t need a separate GPS. But ensure you have a local data package for your phone to use the internet. 

I recommend getting an eSIM card . They’re super affordable, can be used on most modern phones, and avoid high roaming charges or travel packages from your home provider. This allows you to use the internet on your phone much more cheaply!

Here is my article on eSIM cards and which one I recommend for whom. 

I promise you will save a lot of money .

The Lowest Priced And Most Flexible eSIM cards (incl. tethering)

Stop searching for WI-FI; get an affordable eSIM for the Netherlands. From just $4.50 for 1GB, but I recommend at least 10GB . TIP: Get the App for easy top-up.

Once you arrive, park your car at the large parking area near the entrance. Parking fees are between €11 to €15 for the day, depending on the season. If you see €10 rates on other sites, you know they have outdated information.

Please don’t park for free in the nearby town. It’s quite a walk, and locals will be less than thrilled if you do this in their streets, harassment is not uncommon. Be mindful of where to park.

5. Can you bike from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans?

Surprisingly, yes, this is a pretty good idea. The distance is doable on any bike. It’s 20 kilometers (13 miles) one-way. But I recommend renting a comfortable bike with gears, preferably an e-bike.

You might have seen my post where I say don’t rent a bike in Amsterdam . And I do stand by that advice. The city center is too busy for comfort. But taking a trip to the countryside is a great idea . You’ll experience your surroundings much more.

You have multiple options. If you use Google Maps , you’ll get a boring, direct route through build-up areas that are not pretty.

A cool route is to go west via the free ferry at Hembrug, and you’ll pass the Dutch Kissing Couple Statue XXL. This is an enormous statue of the famous Delft Blue souvenir where a boy and a girl kiss.

Nearby, you have Boer Geert for the best sandwiches in the country .

Another route is via NDSM (take a free ferry, also free of charge for your bike or scooter) from Central Station to NDSM and then cycle north via the nature area ‘t Twiske. Offering you great Dutch countryside views and stopping points along the way.

A consultation call with me can help fine-tune this itinerary (and the rest if your itinerary). With a screen share, I can show you the exact route I take, and I can give you more tips along the way.

Cycling will take an hour and a half . With stops a little bit more. Plan a full day if you want to do this.

Where to Rent

I recommend checking out bicycle availability and prices here, especially if you book in advance. It saves significant money . Popular bike rental places in Amsterdam , like MacBike, offer less convenient bikes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to get from amsterdam to zaanse schans.

The fastest way to the Zaanse Schans is the express bus 891 in summer. The journey will take 20 minutes. Traveling by car can be just as quick, but traffic in Amsterdam can be all over the place, so it’s very likely the trip will take (much) longer. The train is also fast. That takes less than 20 minutes, but you must walk for 15 minutes to get to the Zaanse Schans. Outside of summer, the regular bus (391) takes 40 minutes.

What is the easiest way to reach Zaanse Schans?

The easiest way to get there would be traveling on a half-day tour from Amsterdam on a tour price. This is the Zaanse Tour that I would recommend .

What is the distance from Amsterdam to the Zaanse Schans?

The distance is about 11 miles (18 kilometers), depending on where in Amsterdam you depart. But it’s close. The journey from Amsterdam takes between 20 minutes and 40 minutes, depending on the mode of transportation you choose and how much traffic there is. That is why it’s so easy to visit the Zaanse Schans.

What is the Zaanse Schans Address?

Zaanse Schans Schansend 7 1509 AW Zaandam The Netherlands.

I hope this post has helped you plan your trip. It’s an easy day-trip destination from Amsterdam . For tips on what to do once you get there make sure to check out my other page on things to do at Zaanse Schans .

You might also be interested in my day trip to Volendam post , which you can find here.

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Update your (intended) travel dates for accurate prices . TIP: Zoom out on the map (-) in the bottom right corner. This will show more options and availability.

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30 minutes is a good amount of time for short trips up to 3 days, 60 minutes is usually needed for longer trips.

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Our proposed plan:

Sun 14-Jul Arrive Amsterdam - late evening fly into Schiphol airport and check in to hotel

Mon 15-Jul Amsterdam - City

Tue 16-Jul Amsterdam City (Den Hague time permitting)

Wed 17-Jul Zaanse Schans - Day trip

Thu 18-Jul Amsterdam --> Brussels - Travel by Train

1. Given the fact that we will have possibly 2 big pieces on luggage and smaller bags and the 2 kids, Is it possible to take the public transport from airport to hotel (Mercure Hotel Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station)?

2. Plan to use public transport in Amsterdam for 3 days, do we get a NS rail pass or just individual days/ trips.

3. Checking IC trains (1st class, Full-flex fare) and Eurostar(Comfort) from Amsterdam at mid/ later afternoon we are getting almost similar fares.

Which is a better option?

4. Are there self service laundromats in Amsterdam?

3 replies to this topic

1. It's close to Sloterdijk station. So yes transfer by train.

3. As you are not dependent on flight arrivals and Eurostar is a bit faster, the latter.

4. Plenty, possibly even walking distance from Sloterdijk and otherwise a few tram stops away.

-Erik> & [Sandya]

Den Haag will be a longer journey to get to, and there is a lot to do there.

https://www.mauritshuis.nl/en/visit/day-trip-to-the-hague/

Use public transport with your credit card. For the kids you can get a GVB day pass each day which is cheap, for Amsterdam area travels. For train, you can buy Railrunner which is a small cost and unlimited travel for kids on train. For yourself adults youcan use a credit card.

From the airport to Mercure, you can easily take the train ride. It is frequent enough and convenient. So long as you can manage your luggage. If you think train is hectic, you can use a BOLT app taxi. There are buses as well to near the hotel, which will be easier in some ways with the luggage, but will meander through a lot of Amsterdam West and you will see the busy streets.

For travel to BE, you can take IC tickets, they are more frequent and yes you can go first class, and its flexible which train you take. (Second class is also fine but it is more full).

There are laundromats. You can use Google Maps, and look close to your hotel.

In The Hague, you can buy a kids day ticket for the tram and bus for just 1 euro.

For kids, Madurodam is a very nice spot (and I think for parents too ☺). It's close to the Kunstmuseum, a modern art museum in a very nice building. I think for kids this might be more interesting than the "boring old masters" in the Mauritshuis. Check the website for some information. If you're in that area, it's not too far from the beach, if you like.

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