One of the must-do excursions for your group from Amsterdam is a visit to Zaanse Schans. There are many windmills and beautiful villages in the Netherlands, but this one is close enough to Amsterdam to visit on a day trip — or even a half-day if you’re short on time. With a private minibus rental and an Amsterdam driver you are all set to go.
Molinos de Zaanse Schans – Crédito foto: Rudolf-Peter Bakker
At this famous attraction, you’ll walk past green-painted wooden houses, windmills, factories, shops, and more. While the place may seem like an open-air museum — and in many ways it is — that doesn’t make it any less charming. Plus, since many people live and work there in the mills and workshops, the area is full of life.
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Map of Zaanse Schans
You can view all the locations mentioned in this article, including eateries and workshops, on this map:
A Bit of History and context
Visiting this destination near Amsterdam will transport you back in time, specifically to the mid-17th century. At that time, over 600 windmills were built in the region, boosting Dutch industry.
Eventually, many were abandoned and the area declined — until in 1946, architect Jaap Schipper designed a plan to restore the old mills and houses. Thanks to this, a traditional Dutch village was recreated, allowing visitors to experience life from centuries past.
Today, Zaanse Schans is a district of Zaanstad (20 km from Amsterdam), where some windmills and old houses remain. Visitors can walk through the streets and factories to get a feel for life in the olden days.
What to See in Zaanse Schans
Plan several hours for your visit, depending on how many windmills and museums you want to explore, and whether you’ll take a canal boat ride. It’s best to start early to make the most of your time.
Windmills – The Stars of Zaanse Schans
There are several windmills you can see, some restored from the 17th century, others built in the 20th. They are located along the Zaan River, close to each other.
They were used to grind wheat, produce wood, oil, dyes, and more. Some are open to the public and allow visitors to explore the inside and learn how they work, or climb up for a panoramic view.
Notable Windmills:
- De Kat (“The Cat”): Produces oil and pigments. One of the few of its kind in the world.
- De Huisman (“The Householder”): Spice mill once used for mustard. Offers insight into mustard seed grinding.
- De Zoeker (“The Seeker”): Oldest mill in Zaanse Schans (1619). Produced linseed, rapeseed, and flax oil.
- De Bonte Hen (“The Spotted Hen”): Restored in 1975. Presses oilseeds. Open for visits and demonstrations.
Molinos de Zaanse Schans – Crédito foto 3345557
Traditional Village & Historic Houses
After the mills, stroll through the traditional village full of well-preserved historic houses — many now tourist shops. You’ll also see narrow canals with wooden bridges, perfect for photos.
Canal Boat Ride
Get a new perspective by taking a 25-minute guided boat tour on weekends. The boat departs from ‘t Glop, near De Huisman, and fits up to 12 people.
Casas históricas de Zaanse Schans – Crédito foto: MrsBrown
Windmill Museum (Zaans Museum)
A must-visit — before or after seeing the mills. You’ll learn how this region contributed to the economic development of the Netherlands in the Middle Ages.
Includes an audio guide in multiple languages and features:
- History of the windmills
- Old chocolate and cookie factory (Verkade)
Located just north of De Bonte Hen. Parking available nearby.
Other museums:
- Boatbuilding Museum
- Cheese Museum
- Craftsmanship Museum
Shops & Workshops
You can visit cheese and chocolate shops, taste samples, and buy souvenirs.
Highlights:
- Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm: Learn how cheese is made and sample varieties.
- CacaoLab (Blik op de Zaan): Learn about chocolate-making and enjoy a tasting.
- In de Gecroonde Duyvekater: Bakery-museum-café selling traditional Zaanse bread and cookies.
You can also visit a clog factory and see how wooden shoes are made. Take fun photos with giant clogs outside the shop.
Zuecos gigantes en Zaanse Schans – Crédito foto: Ernst N
Where to Eat in Zaanse Schans
You might get hungry exploring! Grab a snack or sit down at a local restaurant.
Recommended: De Hoop op d’Swarte Walvis
Located near the entrance, with a large terrace and scenic views.
How to Get There from Amsterdam
Hire a mini bus: a service with a local driver for your group might be a bit more costly than self-drive but will allow you to make the most of your day and also visit Volendam and Marken on the same day. Expect to pay around euro 800 to 1200 per day depending on the size of the bus.
Hire a bus with driver
A driver that knows its way around may cost more than a self-drive option, but it offers far greater convenience and flexibility for your group. You’ll make the most of your day — and can easily combine a visit to Zaanse Schans with stops in Volendam and Marken.
Expect to pay between €800 and €1,200 per day for a minibus hire from Amsterdam, depending on the size of the bus and the season.
By public Bus service: Take bus 391 from Amsterdam Central Station. It departs every 15 minutes starting at 8:00 AM. Ride time: approx. 40 minutes + 5-minute walk to the mills.
By Train: Take the train from Amsterdam to Koog-Zaandijk Station. From there, it’s a 15–20 min walk. Ride time: 15–20 minutes.
By Car: Drive via the A10 and park near the Zaans Museum.
Parking of minibuses coaches in Zaanse Schans
Cars: Park at Schansend 7 (near the museum). Cost: €15 per visit (varies by season). Street parking is not allowed.
Buses: Park at Kraaienest 1, Zaandam. Cost: €30–€50 depending on the season.
Opening Hours & Ticket Prices
Entry Tip: Get the Zaanse Schans Card
Includes access to:
- Several windmills
- Museums
- Artisan workshops
- Discounts at shops and cafés
Prices:
- Adults: €29.50
- Children (4–17): €20.00
Buy it at:
- Zaans Museum Info Center
- Zaanse Tijd Museum entrance (Kalverringdijk)
- ‘Wevershuis’ (Weavers House)
Check the official website for seasonal hours.
Group discounts & guided Tours
If you’re visiting with a group, promotional packages and guided tours are available. Contact them via email for more details.
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Last Updated on June 18, 2026
