Dutch Windmills and Countryside Day Trip from Amsterdam Including Cheese Tasting in Edam

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Historic windmills, charming fishing villages, picturesque canals, a delectable lunch and cheese tastings – this day trip from Amsterdam shows you the best of traditional Dutch culture and scenery in one day. Venturing through Holland’s countryside, visit Volendam, Marken, Edam and Zaanse Schans for guided walking tours and free time. Witness the art of wooden shoemaking in Marken, take a boat ride to Volendam for a typical Dutch lunch, enjoy a cheese tasting in Edam, and admire the famous windmills of Zaanse Schans.

You’ll be picked up from Amsterdam’s Museum District. Your guide will then take you on a scenic drive through the beautiful countryside of the Netherlands.

Your first stop is Marken, a small fishing town known for preserving traditional Dutch culture. Take a walking tour along the charming streets while learning about the history of this special place. You’ll also visit a wooden shoemaker to see a craftsman busy at work, demonstrating the fine skill of wooden shoemaking.

You’ll then board a boat for a journey to Volendam, offering a beautiful view of Lake Ijssel. When you arrive in Volendam, you’ll have free time to explore this traditional Dutch fishing village on your own. Browse the shops and even take a picture of yourself in traditional Volendam costumes, which are sill worn during folkloric events. Then meet with your group for lunch at a restaurant along the dike. Here you'll enjoy a set 3-course meal, and can choose between a fish, meat or vegetarian option. Water is included, and other drinks are available for purchase.

Your next stop is Edam, a gem in the heart of North Holland. This little town is famous for its cheese, which has been enjoyed around the world for centuries. Savor the flavor of Edam during a cheese tasting at a local cheese shop. Not only is Edam famous for cheese, it also has a rich history as a former shipyard and is home to one of the Netherlands’ largest churches, the Grote Kerk, which you’ll see on your walking tour. Wander the cobblestone streets and gaze upon the quaint homes and bridges along Edam’s canals – it’s like taking a stroll through a Dutch postcard.

From Edam, continue your scenic drive through the countryside to the province of Zaandam, where you’ll visit the neighborhood of Zaanse Schans. This famous area is home to a wonderful collection of well-preserved, historic windmills. The area also has picturesque homes, wooden barns and scenic meadows for you to see. Visit one of the windmills by foot, exploring the inside to discover the importance of this Dutch icon up-close.

Zaanse Schans completes your authentic Dutch excursion. You’ll then make your way back to Amsterdam.