Exploring the vibrant landscapes of the Netherlands has never been more enticing. The Keukenhof, Flower Fields, Volendam, and Zaanse Schans Small-Group Tour offers a chance to take in the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens to the charming seaside village of Volendam, this nine-hour journey promises an unforgettable experience. But what truly sets this tour apart is the opportunity to witness the timeless traditions of the Zaanse Schans, a living museum that showcases the essence of Dutch culture. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a history buff, this tour has something to captivate your senses.
Key Points
- This small-group tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Keukenhof Gardens, Volendam, and Zaanse Schans, providing a glimpse into Dutch culture and natural beauty.
- Keukenhof Gardens, the world’s largest flower garden, is the highlight, offering 3.5 hours to immerse in the vibrant tulips, daffodils, and diverse floral displays.
- Volendam and Zaanse Schans provide opportunities to experience traditional Dutch attire, crafts, and heritage, including cheese tasting and wooden shoe demonstrations.
- The tour utilizes air-conditioned minivans with Wi-Fi and skip-the-line tickets, ensuring a convenient and efficient experience.
- While the tour is not wheelchair accessible, it caters to a moderate fitness level, and participants should be aware of potential timing and mobility challenges.
Tour Overview
The tour is a 9-hour small-group experience that takes visitors to Keukenhof Gardens, the world’s largest flower garden, as well as the charming seaside village of Volendam and the historic Zaanse Schans.
This small-group tour, limited to just 8 people, departs from Amsterdam’s Overhoeksplein at 9:00 AM.
Participants will have 3.5 hours to explore the stunning Keukenhof Gardens, marveling at the blooming tulips, daffodils, and other spring bulbs across 32 hectares.
The tour also includes stops in Volendam, where visitors can soak up the quaint atmosphere and capture photos in traditional Dutch attire, and Zaanse Schans, a preserved 18th-century village with a cheese farm and wooden shoe workshop.
Itinerary Highlights
Visitors can expect to experience the world’s largest flower garden at Keukenhof, where they’ll be treated to a 3.5-hour visit among blooming tulips, daffodils, and other spring bulbs across 32 hectares (79 acres).
The tour also includes a stop in the quaint seaside village of Volendam, where guests can explore the charming town, purchase souvenirs, and even don traditional Dutch costumes for photos.
Plus, the tour visits Zaanse Schans, a living museum showcasing 18th-century Holland. Here, travelers can enjoy a cheese tasting at the Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm and witness a wooden shoe demonstration at the Kooijman Souvenirs & Clogs Workshop.
Keukenhof Gardens
At the very heart of the tour lies the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens, where visitors can enjoy the world’s largest flower garden. Spanning across 32 hectares (79 acres), the Keukenhof Gardens showcase a vibrant tapestry of blooming tulips, daffodils, and an array of other spring bulbs, offering a truly enchanting experience for all who visit.
With a 3.5-hour allotted visit, guests have ample time to wander through the meticulously-maintained grounds, admiring the stunning floral displays. From the iconic windmills to the tranquil ponds, the Keukenhof Gardens provide a picturesque backdrop for capturing unforgettable memories and photographs of nature’s vibrant beauty.
Volendam Exploration
Quaint seaside village Volendam offers a glimpse into traditional Dutch culture, where locals don colorful historic costumes and peddle handcrafted souvenirs to visitors.
Strolling through its charming streets, travelers can browse shops selling wooden clogs, Delft blue pottery, and other regional crafts.
The harbor provides a picturesque setting for photos, with its iconic fishing boats and views of the IJsselmeer lake.
Visitors can also sample local delicacies like Volendammer fish, herring, and smoked eel.
Beyond shopping and dining, Volendam allows travelers to enjoy the Netherlands’ storied past and experience the enduring traditions that have defined this coastal community for generations.
Zaanse Schans Attractions
Zaanse Schans beckons travelers with its well-preserved 18th-century Dutch buildings, offering a glimpse into the country’s rich industrial heritage.
At the historic Catharina Hoeve Cheese Farm, visitors can savor the flavors of traditional Gouda cheese during a tasting.
Just a short walk away, the Kooijman Souvenirs & Clogs Workshop showcases the time-honored craft of wooden shoe making with a live demonstration.
Strolling through the quaint streets, visitors can admire the charming windmills, the iconic symbol of the Netherlands.
The experience culminates in a deeper appreciation for Dutch culture and craftsmanship, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit this enchanting open-air museum.
Transportation and Amenities
The tour provides comfortable transportation with an air-conditioned minivan equipped with Wi-Fi, allowing participants to stay connected throughout the journey.
Included in the tour are features like live commentary, though it may be limited, as well as skip-the-line tickets for the Keukenhof Gardens and admission to the cheese farm and wooden shoe workshop.
Travelers also have the option to add on either a 5D flight simulation at This is Holland or a 1-hour Amsterdam canal cruise ticket.
While the tour give you a seamless experience, some reviews have highlighted issues with timing and adherence to the advertised itinerary, which could impact the overall flow and enjoyment of the day.
Accessibility and COVID-19 Measures
Typically, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and a moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the itinerary involves some walking. However, the tour operator follows the latest COVID-19 guidelines from the RIVM (National Institute for Public Health and the Environment), and participants must wear masks during the tour.
The tour’s accessibility considerations and COVID-19 measures include:
- Guests with mobility challenges may find the tour challenging due to walking and uneven terrain.
- Masks are mandatory for all participants to ensure a safe and responsible experience.
- The tour complies with RIVM guidelines, prioritizing the health and well-being of guests.
- Flexibility is key, as flower visibility may vary based on weather conditions.
Customer Feedback
Customers have provided a mix of feedback on their experiences with this Keukenhof and flower fields tour.
Some reviewers praised the beautiful gardens and vibrant tulips, as well as the enjoyable visits to Zaanse Schans and Volendam.
However, others noted issues, such as a lack of informative commentary from the guide and problems with timing at various stops, leading to rushed experiences.
Some travelers felt the tour management and adherence to the advertised itinerary could be improved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if cancelled at least 24 hours in advance. Partial refunds or credits may be available for later cancellations, but policies can vary by tour operator and should be confirmed prior to booking.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Tour?
Yes, guests can bring their own food and snacks on the tour. The tour operator allows participants to bring their own provisions to enjoy during the excursion. However, any meals provided by the tour are not included if guests choose to bring their own food.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it requires moderate physical fitness. Children are welcome, but parents should consider if the 9-hour duration and walking are suitable for young kids.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Camera Equipment or Is It Provided?
The tour doesn’t provide camera equipment, so you’ll need to bring your own. This allows you to capture the sights in your own style and ensure you have the right gear for the outdoor activities.
Can I Customize or Change the Itinerary to Suit My Interests?
The tour’s itinerary is generally fixed, but you can discuss customization options with the tour operator. They may be able to accommodate changes, such as adding or removing stops, within reason and depending on availability.
Recap
This small-group tour offers a chance to experience the Netherlands’ stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Visitors can enjoy the vibrant Keukenhof Gardens, explore the picturesque Volendam, and discover the traditional Zaanse Schans.
With comfortable transportation and convenient amenities, this tour provides an efficient and enjoyable way to explore the best of the Netherlands in a single day.
