Private Tour to Giethoorn with boat and Zaanse Schans windmills

An Honest Look at the Private Tour to Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans

This private day trip from Amsterdam offers an appealing blend of iconic Dutch sights—think canal-laced Giethoorn and the windmills of Zaanse Schans—all wrapped up in a personalized experience. I’ve heard from travelers that this tour is a fantastic way to see some of the most picturesque parts of the Netherlands without the crowds or the hassle of navigating on your own. The experience is hosted by Dutch Tours, with guides Eva and Sarah earning genuine praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and careful driving.

What really makes this tour stand out is the opportunity to explore Giethoorn early in the day, avoiding the usual tourist crush and enjoying quiet waters and charming streets. The boat rides are described as “private time on the water,” which can feel very special, especially with fewer visitors around. Plus, the visit to Zaanse Schans offers a classic view of Dutch heritage—windmills, clog-making demonstrations, cheese tasting, and scenic photo stops.

If I had to highlight two things I’d love about this tour, it’s the personalized guidance—thanks to Eva and Sarah—and the balanced itinerary, giving ample time at each stop for photos, exploration, and tasting local specialties. The only potential consideration? The full-day length might be long for some, and you’ll want to be ready for an early start at 8 am. But if you’re after a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and comfort, this trip seems well worth the price.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Early start to beat crowds: Visiting Giethoorn early means quiet canals and picture-perfect scenery with fewer travelers.
• Personalized private experience: Only your group participates, making it more intimate and tailored.
• Well-rounded itinerary: Includes boat rides, demonstrations of clog-making, cheese tasting, and scenic views at Zaanse Schans.
• Guides Eva and Sarah: Known for their expertise, friendliness, and smooth driving, adding a trustworthy layer to your day.
• Authentic Dutch experiences: From wooden shoes to cheese, the tour offers hands-on, traditional Dutch crafts and foods.
• Flexible, all-inclusive value: All fees, taxes, bottled water, snacks, and entrance tickets to two mills are included, making it straightforward and stress-free.

Exploring the Full-Day Experience: What to Expect

Starting the Day with Giethoorn – The ‘Venice of the North’

The tour kicks off early at 8 am, with your guide arranging a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the approximately 3-hour trip from Amsterdam. This is a smart move, as it allows you to arrive at Giethoorn before most other visitors. Known affectionately as the “Venice of the North,” this village’s charm lies in its canals, footpaths, and quaint bridges.

Once there, you’ll have about three hours to explore at your pace. You can opt for a leisurely walk along the waterways, enjoying the peaceful ambiance or take a private boat ride through the canals—an experience described as “private time on the water,” perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery. Many reviewers, like one who said, “Our family enjoyed the boat tour and the chance to walk along the bridges and narrow streets,” find this part to be the highlight.

You’ll also have some free time to browse local shops or sip coffee in a cozy Dutch café—small touches that let you savor the authentic atmosphere. This early visit helps escape the crowds that typically flock to Giethoorn later in the day, making it a more intimate experience.

Zaanse Schans: A Living Museum of Dutch Heritage

After a relaxed morning, the tour continues to Zaanse Schans, about a 3-hour stop. This open-air museum showcases a working collection of historic windmills, traditional wooden houses, and craft demonstrations. It’s a vivid glimpse into the Netherlands’ rural past—oil, paint, mustard, and paper were once produced here, and you can see those industries in action through demonstrations.

Entrance to two mills is included, along with a visit to a cheese factory and a clog-making demo. Many visitors appreciated the photo stop at the Zaan Riverbank, which offers a classic view of multiple windmills lined up, a truly iconic scene. One reviewer noted, “The windmills and the cheese tasting were fantastic, and the guides made sure we learned a lot without feeling overwhelmed.”

Authentic Local Tastings and Handicrafts

One of the tour’s most praised features is the tasting opportunities. You’ll sample local Dutch cheese and cookies, and have the chance to try on traditional wooden shoes—an experience that adds a fun, tangible connection to Dutch culture. These small, immersive moments are what many find memorable.

Logistics, Comfort, and Price

The tour’s $434.10 per person price might seem steep, but it includes all fees, taxes, bottled water, snacks, and entrance tickets—eliminating surprise costs. The private group setting ensures personalized attention, and the guides’ knowledge makes each stop more meaningful.

Transport is via a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, making the 10- to 11-hour day manageable. The early start means you’ll cover a lot but also enjoy a more relaxed pace at each location.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits travelers seeking a customized, intimate look at Dutch culture and scenery. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid crowds, enjoy private boat rides, and indulge in local foods. The full-day format might be best for those with a flexible schedule, as it packs in a lot without feeling rushed thanks to the well-planned itinerary. Families, couples, and small groups who appreciate knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Price and Value Considerations

At over $430 per person, this is a premium experience. However, when you consider that all entrance fees, snacks, and private transportation are included, the value increases. Compared to trying to do Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans independently—renting boats, booking transport, and paying for entrance fees—the cost is reasonable for such a seamless, guided experience. Plus, the early access to Giethoorn and the personal touch from Eva and Sarah make it stand out from generic day trips.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Tour for You?

If you’re looking to explore the Netherlands beyond Amsterdam’s city center, this tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Dutch rural life and scenic beauty. It’s best for travelers eager for an authentic, stress-free day with expert guides, and those who appreciate cultural crafts, local foods, and picturesque landscapes.

You’ll love the quiet canals of Giethoorn in the morning and the nostalgic windmills of Zaanse Schans in the afternoon—two must-see sights presented in a way that’s personal, enjoyable, and truly memorable.

FAQs

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, the tour lasts approximately 10 to 11 hours, starting at 8 am and usually ending in the early evening.

What is included in the price?
All fees, taxes, bottled water, snacks, and entrance tickets to two mills at Zaanse Schans are included, offering a hassle-free experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While specific age restrictions aren’t mentioned, families with children who enjoy outdoor exploration and cultural activities will find it engaging.

How is transportation organized?
A comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle will transport you between sites, with pickup arranged in Amsterdam.

Are guide tips included?
Yes, guides Eva and Sarah are part of the tour experience, offering insights and friendly service.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and some cash or cards for optional shopping or extra snacks outside what’s provided.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring a picnic or plan to buy something during your free time.

Will I have free time at each stop?
Yes, the itinerary allocates time for exploration, photos, shopping, and tasting at both Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans.

In sum, this private tour is a well-balanced, enriching way to see some of the Netherlands’ most charming sites with the comfort of a guided experience. It’s perfect for those who want to blend scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a touch of authenticity—all in one carefully curated day.