From Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken｜Netherlands

Discover the charm and heritage of the Dutch countryside on this full-day tour from Amsterdam. Visit traditional villages, enjoy local flavors, and immerse yourself in the Netherlands’ most iconic landscapes and customs.

Begin at Zaanse Schans, where you’ll find a collection of working windmills, wooden houses, and artisan workshops. Learn how these historic windmills contributed to the Dutch economy and take stunning photos in one of the country’s most picturesque locations.

Next, travel to Edam, the hometown of the world-famous cheese. Stroll through cobblestone streets, admire historic canals, and visit the square where the original Edam Cheese Market once took place.

Near Volendam, stop at a family-run farm for a live demonstration of traditional cheese-making techniques for Gouda and Edam. You’ll also visit a clog workshop to see how wooden shoes are carved and painted by hand.

In Volendam, enjoy free time at the vibrant fishing harbor. Try classic Dutch street food like herring or kibbeling, explore souvenir shops, or simply enjoy the coastal charm.

Your final countryside stop is Marken, a quiet island village full of character. Walk past colorful wooden homes, visit the quaint harbor, and see the local Protestant church that stands as a symbol of the village’s history.

Back in Amsterdam, you can upgrade your experience with an optional canal cruise. Relax aboard a boat as you glide through the city’s UNESCO-listed waterways, passing historic buildings and charming bridges.

Important
The visit to Marken may be substituted for safety reasons in bad weather conditions.
Please note that this tour is designed to give you a panoramic overview of the Dutch countryside without spending the whole day away from Amsterdam. The idea is to have you back in the city in time to make the most of your afternoon—whether you need to catch a train, head to the airport, join another activity, or simply enjoy Amsterdam at your own pace.

That’s why we leave early, and the total duration of the tour is 6.5 hours (8h with the canal cruise included). It’s a fast-paced itinerary (in a good way), created to help you see several highlights in half a day.