Hey Lykkers! We just had the most amazing day exploring Zaanse Schans in Holland—it's like stepping into a storybook! The windmills there are absolutely iconic, and you can even tour the inside of some to see how they used to work.
The Zaans Museum was another highlight, with tons of cool exhibits about Dutch history and culture. And don’t even get us started on the cheese factory and clog workshop—tasting all those delicious cheeses and watching how wooden clogs are made was so much fun. If you’re ever in the area, you’ve got to check it out!
1. Zaanse Schans Windmills
The windmills of Zaanse Schans are among the most iconic symbols of Dutch culture. Spanning several centuries, these windmills represent the innovation and craftsmanship of the past. Each windmill serves a unique purpose: some were used for grinding grain into flour, while others pumped water or processed oil.
Visitors can explore the interiors of various windmills, witnessing the traditional mechanisms that once powered local industries. Highlights include the "De Kat" windmill, which is one of the few remaining paint mills in the world, and the "De Huisman" windmill, which still produces wooden shoes.
• Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Ticket Price: Exploring the exterior is free, but guided tours inside the windmills cost approximately €4 per person.
• Transportation: The village is reachable by car with free parking available, or via bus from Amsterdam’s Central Station, taking around 40 minutes.
2. Zaans Museum
The Zaans Museum offers an immersive dive into the local history and culture of the Zaan region. It features an extensive collection of artifacts that illustrate the area's industrial past and cultural evolution.
Exhibits include everything from traditional Dutch costumes and household items to historical industrial tools and interactive displays about the region’s economic development.
One of the museum’s highlights is its collection of paintings depicting the Zaan landscape, providing a visual representation of how the area has changed over time. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs, making each visit unique.
• Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Closed on Mondays.
• Ticket Price: €12 for adults, €6 for children (ages 4-17). Children under 4 enter free of charge.
• Transportation: Located within walking distance of the village. It is easily accessible by car or by bus from Amsterdam.
3. Cheese Factory and Clog Workshop
For a taste of Dutch tradition, the Cheese Factory and Clog Workshop are essential stops. The Cheese Factory provides an engaging experience with free tastings of various Dutch cheeses, including Gouda and Edam.
Visitors can watch demonstrations of cheese-making, learning about the traditional methods used to produce these famous cheeses. Nearby, the Clog Workshop offers a fascinating glimpse into the craft of wooden shoe-making. Watch skilled artisans carve and shape clogs using traditional techniques, and even purchase a pair as a unique souvenir.
• Opening Hours: Daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Ticket Price: Entrance is free. Cheese tastings and clog workshop demonstrations are included in the visit.
• Transportation: Both attractions are located within the village and can be easily reached on foot from any entry point.
With its scenic beauty and rich history, Zaanse Schans provides a delightful day trip that immerses visitors in Dutch culture and traditions. From the iconic windmills to the engaging museum and hands-on workshops, there’s something for everyone in this charming Dutch village.
