Discover the Best Things to Do in Zaanse Schans: A Complete Guide

If you’re like me, when you think of a quintessential Dutch village, you think of beautiful windmills and charming scenery.

Well, that is exactly what you get when you visit Zaanse Schans!

Located just a short journey from Amsterdam, this charming area offers visitors a unique blend of historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and hands-on experiences.

Whether you’re interested in Dutch history, craftsmanship, or simply enjoying scenic views, Zaanse Schans has something for everyone.

We enjoyed our day trip from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans so much that I just knew I had to put together a guide to the city.

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Top Things to Do in Zaanse Schans

Visit the Iconic Windmills

The windmills of Zaanse Schans are exactly what I think of when I think of the Netherlands.

These historic structures are so picturesque, and one of the reasons we planned our day trip from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans.

You can tour the last remaining paint mill in the Netherlands, the De Kat Windmill.

We found it so interesting to learn and see the intricate process that powered the machinery to produce the paint pigments.

In addition to the De Kat Windmill, you can also check out the De Gekroonde Poelenburg windmill, a sawmill that dates back to 1690.

Other windmills include the De Zaanse Schans Windmill, which is one of the most photographed windmills in the area, and once used for grinding grain.

Visitors can walk around the outside of the windmills for free, but it is important to note that several of the structures change a fee for entry.

Explore Traditional Dutch Crafts

Marty standing in huge wooden shoes in Amsterdam

Michelle standing in oversized wooden clogs

In addition to the famous windmills, Zaanse Schans also give you an opportunity to explore traditional Dutch craftmanship and purchase some authentic handmade products.

We had a great time learning all about Dutch cheese-making traditions when we visited the Cheese Farm

Seeing the process from curd to whey and learning about the various types of Dutch cheese, such as Gouda and Edam, was so interesting.

Of course, touring the cheese shop and tasting all of the samples was the highlight of the visit for me!

In addition to the Cheese Farm, there is also a Clog Workshop that guests can tour.

I loved the displays of all of the different types of clogs created throughout history. I couldn’t image walking in some of the high heel ones!

The Clog Workshop holds live demonstrations where skilled artisans use traditional methods to carve and assemble the clogs.

Of course, there are also plenty of clogs that you can purchase in a variety of designs and colors.

I was truly surprised at how comfortable they were. I wasn’t expecting that.

Wander Through Historic Wooden Houses

Zaanse Schans is also home to some beautifully preserved wooden houses that highlight Dutch architectural history.

Many of these houses are original structures that have been relocated and restored to showcase not only Dutch architecture, but also Dutch interior design.

Inside the houses that are open to the public, you can see period furniture, decorative items, and everyday household items that illustrate how people lived in the past in this area.

We enjoyed walking through the village taking in the historic home and lush landscape. The entire atmosphere was tranquil and relaxing. Well, minus the hundreds of tourists.

Enjoy Scenic Canal Views

While visiting Zaanse Schans we also enjoy walking along the canals and enjoying the views of the windmills and the historic buildings.

We also saw many people riding bikes in the area and learned that you can rent bikes if you would like to enjoy riding along the scenic routes.

The area also offers boat rides along the canals. While we didn’t do this, I bet the boat tours offered some nice views of the waterways and landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Zaanse Schans from Amsterdam?

Zaanse Schans is easily accessible via car or train.

Since we were already staying in Amsterdam, we bought a ticket at Amsterdam’s Central Station to Koog-Zaandijk.

The train ride took about 20 minutes, and then it was about a 10 minute walk into the village.

If you are driving, there is parking available, but it looked really full when we walked by, so you might want to arrive early.

Of course, there are also guided tours to the area if you would prefer to sit back and relax while someone else drives you around.

What is the best time to visit Zaanse Schans?

The best time to visit Zaanse Schans is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is pleasant and the village is in full bloom.

We visited in late September and the weather was perfect!

Spring is especially lovely for seeing the surrounding fields of tulips.

Autumn (September to November) offers beautiful fall foliage and fewer tourists, while winter (December to February) provides a quieter experience with festive decorations and a cozy atmosphere.

Are there guided tours available in Zaanse Schans?

Yes, several guided tours include transportation from Amsterdam and a guided exploration of Zaanse Schans.

These tours often provide in-depth commentary and cover key attractions, making them a great option if you prefer a structured visit.

Look for tours that include highlights such as windmill visits, cheese tasting, and clog making demonstrations.

Is Zaanse Schans wheelchair accessible?

Many areas of Zaanse Schans are wheelchair accessible, but some of the historic windmills and building may have limited access due to their age and design.

Final Thoughts on Zaanse Schans

Whether you’re interested in exploring historical sites, sampling Dutch cheeses, or simply enjoying scenic views, Zaanse Schans provides a memorable experience.

Enjoy your visit to this enchanting village and the rich heritage it represents!