Zaanse Schans & Volendam: Private Windmills, Cheese & Clogs Tour

Summary

Windmills creak in Zaanse Schans, cheese melts in Volendam, clogs thud underfoot

You’ll wander among Zaanse Schans windmills with a local guide who brings old stories alive, try your hand (and feet) at wooden clogs, sample fresh Gouda on a working farm near Volendam, and stroll through a fishing village where locals still wave hello. It’s not just about seeing things — you’ll feel part of this Dutch day.

What’s the experience like?

“You see that green one? My uncle worked there for thirty years,” our driver said as we pulled into Zaanse Schans. The windows fogged up a little from our breath — it was that kind of damp Dutch morning. I pressed my hand to the glass and tried to imagine the rhythm of life inside those windmills. The air smelled faintly of wood smoke and something sweet, maybe waffles from a stand nearby. We wandered along the path, ducking into one mill where gears groaned overhead and sawdust stuck to my sleeve. I didn’t expect to feel so small next to these old giants.

We stopped at a wooden shoe workshop next — the guy carving clogs barely looked up but grinned when I asked if anyone actually wears them now. “Only for dancing or mud!” he joked, holding up a half-finished pair. The floor was scattered with wood curls and smelled sharp, almost like pencil shavings. I tried on a pair (they’re heavier than you’d think) and shuffled around until my friend started laughing. It’s weird how something so simple can feel so unfamiliar.

By the time we reached Volendam, the sky had cleared just enough for sunlight to bounce off the water in the harbor. Our guide led us straight to a cheese farm outside town — cows grazing quietly behind electric fences, their breath steaming in the chilly air. Inside, we watched this milking robot do its thing (honestly mesmerizing), then tasted slices of Gouda that still felt warm somehow. There was a tang I can’t quite describe; I keep thinking about it now when I see supermarket cheese back home.

Walking through Volendam itself felt like stepping into someone else’s postcard — fishermen chatting by their boats, kids darting between tourists with cones of fries. Our guide waved at half the people we passed; it seemed like everyone knew each other here. We ended up sitting on the dike for a while, just watching boats go by and not saying much at all.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore windmills, clogs, cheese, and Volendam

• Visit Zaanse Schans windmills
• See traditional clog-making demonstration
• Tour Henri Willig cheese farm
• Taste Gouda and other cheeses
• Explore Volendam fishing village
• Walk along Volendam dike and harbor

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included in this Zaanse Schans & Volendam tour?

No, but private transportation with pickup is provided for your group.

Can you go inside the windmills at Zaanse Schans?

Yes, several windmills are open for exploration; entry tickets can be purchased onsite.

Is cheese tasting included in this private tour?

Yes, there is a cheese tasting at a local farm near Volendam included in your day.

How long does it take to drive from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans?

The drive typically takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome and infant seats are available.

Will we have time to explore Volendam on our own?

You’ll have time to stroll along the harbor and dike after visiting the cheese farm.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels; please mention any specific needs when booking.

Are public transportation options available nearby?

Yes, public transport is accessible near both Zaanse Schans and Volendam if needed.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation in a luxury car or van with WiFi onboard, bottled water throughout the journey, parking fees covered by your driver/host who doubles as your local guide, plus an included cheese tasting at a family-run farm before returning comfortably to Amsterdam or your chosen drop-off point.