The Perfect Day Trip Just 30 Minutes from Amsterdam City Center
If you catch a train from Amsterdam Central and head north, you will arrive at a traditional picturesque village in the Netherlands countryside in a short 30 minute journey.
Zaanse Schans is a popular tourist destination located just a short train, bus, or car ride away, and offers a glimpse into traditional Dutch life from the 18th and 19th centuries. From clogs, to cheese and working traditional Dutch windmills, read more to find out why Zaanse Schans should be on your bucket list.
Free Traditional Dutch Activities Near Amsterdam
Access to the Zaanse Schans village is free, however, there are separate charges for specific attractions such as the windmills or museums. It is important to bear in mind that while some attractions may be free, visitors are encouraged to browse and consider purchasing artisanal products.
Visitors are welcome to explore the village, admire the picturesque views, and capture photos at no charge.
Tour Traditional Dutch Windmills and Learn Their History
Zaanse Schans is famous for its well-preserved historic windmills, many of which are still functional today. Tourists can see the windmills working, used for a variety of purposes like grinding spices, sawing wood, or making oil. Visitors can also explore the interiors of someof the windmills for and learn about their mechanics and importance to the region's industrial past in addition to buying goods like notebooks from the paper mill!
Dutch Clog Museum and Woodworking Demonstration
Zaanse Schans has a dedicated clog museum where you can learn about the history of traditional wooden shoes, known as "clogs" or the old dutch word "klompen." One of my favorite clogs on display were roller skates!
Additionally, a live clog-making demonstration is a highlight of the town, showing how these shoes are made by hand, both historically and using modern tools. It’s a great opportunity to see this Dutch craft in action and even buy a pair as a unique souvenir.
Traditional Cheese Demonstration and Shop with Experienced Staff
The traditional cheese store in Zaanse Schans showcases some of the finest Dutch cheeses. Here, visitors can watch demonstrations on how traditional dutch cheeses are made. You'll also have the chance to taste a variety of these cheeses and even purchase some to take home. It's a great way to experience authentic Dutch dairy culture.
Apart from showcasing demonstrations, the staff is well-informed and enthusiastic about the history and methods associated with each type of cheese. They explain the differences between fresh and aged cheeses, the incorporation of different herbs and spices, as well as the evolution of cheese making over time.
Recommended Zaanse Schans Group Tours from Amsterdam
The combination of culture, history, and local crafts makes Zaanse Schans a charming and educational day trip from Amsterdam. While this destination is easy enough to reach on your on with public transit, I highly recommend taking a group tour.
Utilizing a local guide has many advantages, but here are my two favorite:
They have a partnership with the on-site shops and vendors
Tour guides go to these destinations with new groups daily - they can give you the in's and out's of what to do, where to eat, what to buy, and so much more.
They know the local history and some fun facts
Tour guides are expected to communicate with their group the history of the location and often times know more local information that you can not find on your own, loke why Zaanse Schans is so green.
Fun Fact's Learned from My Group Tour: Why is Zaanse Schans So Green?
A combination of historical status, practical use, and cultural tradition explains why the green color is so prevalent in Zaanse Schans, making it a key feature of its unique identity.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, green paint was considered a luxury item and was commonly employed by affluent families to demonstrate their social standing. Affluent traders and mill proprietors in the community desired their houses to mirror their prosperity, hence opting for this opulent and vivid shade to make a statement.
The green color was not just about aesthetics or status; it was also practical. The paint contained copper oxide, which helped protect the wood from harsh weather conditions, including the damp, rainy climate of the Netherlands.
Over time, this green hue became a traditional color in the Zaan region. To maintain a sense of historical continuity, all of the buildings in Zaanse Schans have retained this iconic green, helping to preserve the region's unique visual heritage.
Put Zaanse Schans on Your Bucket List Today
Zaanse Schans is a must-visit destination that transports you back in time to the heart of Dutch tradition. With its iconic green-painted houses, working windmills, and demonstrations of time-honored crafts like clog-making and cheese production, it offers a unique and immersive experience.
The village showcases the Netherlands' rich industrial history while offering breathtaking views of the Zaan River and charming countryside. Whether you're exploring the interior of a historic windmill or tasting authentic Dutch cheeses, Zaanse Schans is an unforgettable experience that combines history, culture, and natural beauty.
It’s a perfect day trip from Amsterdam and should definitely be on your bucket list if you want to capture the essence of traditional Dutch life. Book your tour now below:
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