Bronkhorst: Discover the smallest and most charming town in The Netherlands
September 23, 2024
- Things to do Netherlands
Travander
Content
A visit to Zaanse Schans in the Netherlands feels like stepping back in time. Picture iconic windmills turning in the breeze, colorful wooden houses, traditional clogs, creamy Dutch cheese and a hint of nostalgia. Just north of Amsterdam, this charming open-air museum brings Dutch history from 100 years ago to life. From exploring working windmills to tasting artisanal treats, here are the 10 best tips for visiting Zaanse Schans.
What is the Zaanse Schans?
Zaanse Schans is a historic village on the banks of the Zaan River, attracting over a million visitors each year. It’s a collection of authentic wooden houses, windmills, and traditional workshops that bring the Dutch past vividly to life. Here you can see how spices were ground, how wooden clogs were carved, and how cheese is still made using centuries-old methods.
Created in 1963, the village was designed to preserve the heritage of the Zaan region, with historic buildings and objects relocated here over time. Since 1976, Zaanse Schans has been officially recognized as a cultural and tourist destination. Entry to the village is free; you only pay for parking and for access to certain museums or windmills.
How to get to the Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans is easy to reach from Amsterdam, whether you’re travelling by car or public transport. From Amsterdam Centraal, you can take a train to Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station, which takes about 17 minutes. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk to the village, or you can hop on bus 391. If you prefer to drive, Zaanse Schans is around a 20-minute car ride from the city centre, with parking available on site for a small fee. For a more scenic journey, you can also rent a bike in Amsterdam and cycle along the Zaan River, reaching Zaanse Schans in roughly 40 to 50 minutes. During summer and at weekends, Zaanse Schans can get quite busy. To make the most of your visit, we recommend going early in the morning or later in the afternoon, when it’s generally a lot quieter.
Parking at the Zaanse Schans
Next to the Zaans Museum, you’ll find a large paid parking lot for visitors (€10 per day). From there, it’s only a few minutes’ walk to the main highlights of Zaanse Schans. If you prefer to park for free, you can look for a parking space in the nearby residential area of Zaandijk, or continue to Zaandijk train station. From the station, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the village.
10 top things to do at the Zaanse Schans
f you’re planning to visit Zaanse Schans, you’re in for a unique experience. This historic village with its iconic windmills near Amsterdam offers a wonderful glimpse into traditional Dutch life. From exploring working windmills to tasting artisanal cheese and discovering traditional crafts, there’s plenty to see and do. Here are 10 of the best things to do at Zaanse Schans to make your visit truly unforgettable:
1. Visit the Zaans Museum
The number one highlight is a visit to the Zaans Museum. During a visit to this museum, you’ll learn about the history of the Zaan region and gain insight into the function of the windmills. You might not believe it yet, but around the Zaans Museum there is a strong cocoa scent — this comes from the Verkade factory nearby. One of the most enjoyable parts of the Zaans Museum is the Verkade Experience. You can explore the museum on your own, but there is also an audio tour available.
2. Climb the observation tower
Next to the Zaans Museum, you’ll find a watchtower offering breathtaking views over the meadows filled with iconic windmills. A fun fact: the oak frame of the tower was made from wood from the historic sawmill Het Jonge Schaap. At the base of the watchtower, a hiking trail begins through the scenic Kalverpolder — perfect if you want to enjoy another stroll in nature during your visit to Zaanse Schans.
3. Visit the Zaanse windmills at Zaanse Schans
The windmills you can visit today are the last remaining ones of the hundreds that once stood here. These historic mills are living remnants of the Dutch Golden Age, much like the canals of Amsterdam. At one time, it is estimated that more than 600 windmills filled the Zaan region. Each mill had a different function, from grinding spices to producing paint. Some of the most interesting windmills you can explore at Zaanse Schans include:
Verfmolen (Paint Mill) De Kat
Houtzaagmolen (Wood sawmill) Het Jonge Schaap
If you’d like to explore the windmills inside, it’s best to check their opening hours before your visit, as these vary for each mill.
Tickets: Admission to the Mill & Museum with Audio Guide
Get your tickets here to visit the Zaans Museum and explore the windmills in this historic village. This is a very popular experience, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
4. Take a cruise on the Zaan River
If you want to see the Zaan windmills and traditional Zaan cottages from a unique perspective, a cruise along the Zaan River is highly recommended. This experience is only available during the high season. Several companies offer boat tours, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.
Windmillhopper - a cruise in a sloop, maximum 12 people;
De Koeienboot (The Cow Boat) - a 45-minute round trip, maximum of 12 people;
Voetveer Zaandijk - the shore-to-shore ferry, about 5 minutes.
5. Taste unique tulip vodka at Zaanse Schans
Vodka made from tulip bulbs, it really exists, and you can taste it at the Zaanse Schans! At Café de Tweekoppige Phoenix, you’ll discover a variety of unique liqueurs and distillates made according to authentic family recipes passed down for generations. This is truly a one-of-a-kind tasting experience you won’t forget. A tulip vodka tasting at Zaanse Schans is one of the most unique things to do in the area and a must for lovers of artisanal drinks and Dutch specialties.
6. Visit the traditional clog factory
Once worn by almost every Dutch person, clogs are now mostly seen as charming souvenirs. The Dutch take pride in their wooden shoes, and at the Clog Museum in Zaanse Schans — the oldest family-owned clog museum in the Zaan region — you can discover why. Stroll through galleries filled with dozens of clogs in unique designs, attend a demonstration of how clogs are made, and browse a large shop with an impressive selection of authentic souvenirs. A visit to the Clog Museum is one of the most iconic experiences at Zaanse Schans and a must for anyone curious about Dutch culture.
7. Cheese tasting at the Catharina Hoeve in Zaanse Schans
Cheese making is a cherished Dutch tradition, and the Catharina Hoeve is a household name when it comes to authentic craftsmanship. Located on Zeilenmakerspad, this charming farm shows how cheese has been made for centuries — a story that began with Henri Willig. Wander past informative displays to learn the full history, then step into the store to taste a variety of artisanal cheeses. From classic Gouda to unique flavors such as lavender cheese and organic green pesto, this cheese tasting at Zaanse Schans is a delicious experience not to be missed.
8. Visit the first Albert Heijn Museum Store in Zaanse Schans
Albert Heijn is the largest and most famous supermarket chain in the Netherlands, with a history dating back to 1887. At Zaanse Schans, you can step back in time at the very first Albert Heijn store. It's a charming museum replica that showcases Dutch retail history. Although it is not the original building, the store is meticulously recreated with authentic interiors and vintage products such as old-fashioned coffee packs, canned goods, and traditional packaging. Walking through this museum store gives a fascinating glimpse into everyday Dutch life from the past century. Best of all, admission to the Albert Heijn Museum Store is completely free.
9. Discover traditional Dutch treats at the Bakery Museum "In de Gecroonde Duyvekater"
Step into history at the Bakery Museum In de Gecroonde Duyvekater, where sweet aromas and centuries-old traditions come to life. This charming bakery store and museum building dates back to 1658 and has been part of the Zaanse Schans since 1970. Here you can explore a delightful collection of traditional Dutch treats, including thumb drops (duivekater), butter candies, and licorice sticks. All beloved sweets from the past. The museum also features a beautifully furnished 19th-century tea room where you can enjoy a drink and taste freshly baked goods. Visiting this bakery museum offers both a sensory journey into Dutch culinary history and a cozy place to rest during your exploration of the Zaanse Schans.
Tip: Try the local Zaanse Duivekater!
10. Unique souvenirs and local flavors at Blik op de Zaan
End your visit to the Zaanse Schans with a stop at Blik op de Zaan, a charming shop located on the dike with a beautiful view of the Zaan River. This quaint store offers a delightful mix of local products, vintage Dutch tins, artisanal treats, and delicious chocolate. It’s the perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir to remember your day at the Zaanse Schans. Whether you’re looking for a gift or a sweet indulgence, Blik op de Zaan is the place to go to.
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Best places to stay near Zaanse Schans
Want to extend your visit into a relaxing weekend trip? Consider staying at the iconic Inntel Hotel in Zaandam, famous for its unique façade made of stacked traditional Zaanse houses. This hotel offers modern comfort with a charming Dutch touch, making it a perfect base for exploring the Zaanse Schans and nearby Amsterdam. You can also explore other hotels in Zaandam for a variety of options that suit different budgets and styles.
Explore Volendam: a charming Dutch fishing village near Zaanse Schans
If you’ve caught the spirit of old Holland, a trip to Volendam is a wonderful addition. Wander through the picturesque harbor, taste fresh fish straight from the sea, or take a nostalgic photo dressed in traditional Dutch costume! Volendam is a charming stop that brings Dutch culture and history to life.
Travander
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