Jess at Sea

When you think of the Netherlands, chances are one of the first images that pops into your head is a row of charming wooden windmills. And the good news? You don’t need to travel far from Amsterdam to see them in real life. Just a short trip away lies Zaanse Schans, a living museum where traditional Dutch history, culture, and craftsmanship come to life. It’s one of the best day trips you can take from Amsterdam – and it’s picture-perfect at every turn.

What is Zaanse Schans?

Zaanse Schans is an open-air museum village that feels like stepping back into the 18th and 19th centuries. Think working windmills, historic green-painted houses, and artisan workshops where you can watch cheese-making, wooden clogs being carved, and even chocolate production. It’s not just about sightseeing – you’ll actually see history in motion.

How to Get to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam

The best part? Zaanse Schans is super easy to reach from Amsterdam:

• By Train: Take a 20-minute train from Amsterdam Centraal to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station, then it’s about a 10-minute walk to the village.
• By Bus: Bus 391 runs directly from Amsterdam Centraal to Zaanse Schans in about 40 minutes.
• By Tour: If you prefer a guided experience, plenty of half-day and full-day tours include Zaanse Schans, often paired with Volendam or Marken.

Things to Do at Zaanse Schans

Here are some highlights you won’t want to miss:

• Windmills: Several windmills are open to visitors, each with its own specialty — from sawing wood to grinding spices and producing oil. Climbing up inside one is a must!
• Clog Workshop: See how traditional Dutch wooden shoes are made (and maybe even try a pair on).
• Cheese Tasting: Stop at the cheese farm for free samples of gouda and edam. Warning: it’s impossible to leave without buying a wedge or two.
• Chocolate Museum & Shop: Learn about the Zaan region’s chocolate-making history (and indulge in some sweet treats).
• Walking Around: Honestly, half the joy is just strolling through the quaint lanes, crossing wooden bridges, and snapping photos of the postcard-worthy scenery.

Tips for Visiting Zaanse Schans

• Go Early: The village can get busy, especially in summer, so arriving in the morning gives you a quieter experience.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking between windmills, workshops, and fields.
• Bring a Snack or Picnic: While there are cafés, it’s also lovely to sit by the water with a sandwich and watch the windmills turn.
• Check the Weather: Windy days add extra charm, but pack a jacket – it can get chilly by the river.

Other Windmill Day Trips from Amsterdam

Kinderdijk

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinderdijk boasts 19 windmills built in the 18th century. While it’s a bit further from Amsterdam (around 1.5–2 hours by train and bus), it’s absolutely worth the journey. The windmills here line the waterways in a breathtakingly scenic setting. If you’re after that “wow” moment, Kinderdijk is it.

Haarlem and Surrounding Countryside

Closer to Amsterdam, Haarlem has the striking Molen de Adriaan, a reconstructed windmill you can tour to learn about milling and Dutch history. Combine this with a stroll through Haarlem’s charming old town for a quieter alternative to the more touristy Zaanse Schans.

Touristy, But Worth It!

Zaanse Schans is one of those places that feels both touristy and authentic at the same time. Yes, it’s popular, but seeing the windmills in action, tasting fresh cheese, and wandering along the river really does feel like stepping into a Dutch painting. It’s a chance to connect with the Netherlands’ heritage while only being a short hop from Amsterdam.

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s equal parts beautiful, cultural, and fun – Zaanse Schans is it. Once you’re standing by the water watching the sails of the windmills turn, you’ll know you made the right choice – it’s truly an iconic Amsterdam experience.

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