Zaanse Schans - Discovering Netherlands

Travelling to Zaanse Schans

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Zaanse Schans, a pretty good destination in Netherlands (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Zaanse Schans and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Zaanse Schans, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Netherlands, here's everything to know about Zaanse Schans for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is a small Dutch town located near Amsterdam that serves as an open-air museum showcasing Dutch heritage and architecture. It is known for its picturesque windmills, traditional craftsmen's houses, and beautiful countryside setting. Visitors can witness how Dutch cheese and wooden shoes are made, explore the traditional houses, or take a bike tour around the area. The town is also famous for its chocolate and confectionery shops, making it a sweet destination for tourists.

What to visit in Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is a popular open-air museum and tourist attraction located near Amsterdam, Netherlands. Here are some of the must-see attractions: 1. Windmills - Zaanse Schans is known for its classic and iconic Dutch windmills. There are a total of 6 windmills that are still in operation and guests can go inside some of them to see how they work and learn more about the history of windmills in the Netherlands.
2. The cheese farm - Cheese farm catharina hoeve is a cheese farm in Zaanse Schans where you can taste some of the world-famous Dutch cheese. Visitors can see how cheese is made and witness the traditional Dutch cheese market.
3. Wooden clogs demonstration - Tourists can also witness the crafting of wooden shoes, or clogs, at the Dutch clog museum in Zaanse Schans. A clog maker shows the process of making wooden shoes and visitors can also see the different varieties of clogs.
4. Bakery museum -This museum allows you to travel back in time and learn about traditional Dutch baking. Here you can see the process of making Dutch waffles, cookies, and cakes.
5. The Zaans Museum - The museum houses a large collection of historical artifacts, including models of windmills, traditional Dutch clothing, paintings and a lot more. It has a rich history and cultural exhibits for visitors to explore.
6. The Chocolate & Confectionary museum - Visitors can also explore the Dutch Chocolate and Confectionary museum in Zaanse Schans, and learn about chocolate making in the Netherlands.
7. Boat tour - If you feel like exploring the scenic landscape of Zaanse Schans, a boat tour is a great option. This 20-minute boat tour takes tourists through the Zaanse Schans waterways and past some of the most iconic windmills and other landmarks. These are just some of the many tourist attractions in Zaanse Schans that will give you a glimpse of Holland's rich history, culture, and traditions.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Netherlands, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Zaanse Schans.

When to go on holiday to Zaanse Schans

The best time to visit Zaanse Schans in the Netherlands is during the spring (April-June) and summer (July-September) months, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities and events to enjoy. However, keep in mind that this is the peak tourist season, so it may be crowded and more expensive during this time. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting in the fall (October-November) when the leaves change color or in the winter (December-February) when the Christmas markets are in full swing. Just be prepared for colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours in the winter.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is located about 15 kilometers north of Amsterdam, in the Netherlands. You can reach Zaanse Schans by train or by bus.
By Train: - From Amsterdam Centraal train station, take a train heading to Uitgeest.
- Get off at Zaandijk Zaanse Schans train station.
- From there, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to the windmill village.
By Bus: - Take bus number 391 from Amsterdam Centraal bus station.
- Get off at Zaanse Schans.
- The bus journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
Alternatively, you can also take a guided tour from Amsterdam that includes transportation to and from Zaanse Schans.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Zaanse Schans, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is a charming village in the Netherlands famous for its historic windmills, cheese-making, and traditional Dutch foods. Some of the typical foods of Zaanse Schans are as follows: 1. Stroopwafel - A delicious treat consisting of two thin waffles with a layer of caramel syrup in between. These are best enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
2. Pancakes - Dutch pancakes are thicker and smaller than American pancakes. They are usually served with a variety of toppings, such as bacon, cheese, or apples.
3. Cheese - Zaanse Schans is known for its cheese-making tradition, and you can find a variety of cheeses for sale, including Gouda, Edam, and Maasdam. You can also visit cheese museums and see how it's made! 4. Herring - A popular Dutch snack, herring is raw fish that has been marinated in vinegar and sweet onions. It's usually served with pickles and onions.
5. Bitterballen - These are small bite-sized snacks containing a mixture of beef or veal ragout and a crispy bread-crumb coating. They are often served with mustard.
6. Poffertjes - These are mini Dutch pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar. They are a sweet treat that's great for breakfast or dessert.
7. Dutch apple pie - Finally, no trip to Zaanse Schans would be complete without trying some Dutch apple pie. This dessert consists of a flaky crust filled with apples, cinnamon, and sugar. It's usually served with whipped cream on top.
You can find general info about typical foods in Netherlands here.

Is Zaanse Schans an expensive destination for tourists?

Zaanse Schans is not necessarily an expensive destination for tourists, but it can be pricey depending on your travel style and preferences. Admission to the living museum and windmill areas is free, but there may be additional costs for certain activities such as boat tours or cheese-making workshops. Food and drinks can also be expensive in the area, especially around the main entrance and tourist hotspots. However, you can save money by bringing your own snacks and drinks or by exploring the nearby town of Zaandijk where you can find more affordable options. Ultimately, the cost of your trip to Zaanse Schans will depend on factors such as transportation, accommodations, and activities, but with proper planning, it is possible to enjoy the area without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Zaanse Schans

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Zaanse Schans in the Netherlands are the towns of Zaandam, Wormerveer, and Zaandijk. These towns are located near Zaanse Schans and offer easy access to the attraction. Additionally, they have a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts. Amsterdam is also a popular option for accommodation, as it is only a short train ride away from Zaanse Schans.
You can check hotel prices at Zaanse Schans here:
Booking.com

Is Zaanse Schans a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Zaanse Schans in the Netherlands is considered a safe place for tourists. The area is popular among tourists and it is well-maintained with several shops, museums, and restaurants around. However, like any tourist destination, it is always recommended to take normal safety precautions and be aware of your surroundings. It is also advisable to keep your belongings safe and avoid leaving them unattended in public areas.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Netherlands here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Zaanse Schans.

What type of travelers will enjoy Zaanse Schans the most?

Zaanse Schans is a great place for everyone to visit! It's a unique open-air museum and historic village that has something for everyone. The picturesque windmills, traditional Dutch houses, and charming canals make it a perfect destination for couples and families with children. The interactive museums, artisan workshops, and guided tours make it a fun and educational experience for young people as well. Moreover, the region's famous cheese, chocolate, and bakery shops offer a treat for everyone's taste buds. So, regardless of age or travel group, Zaanse Schans is a must-visit location for anyone visiting the Netherlands.

How to get around Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is a small open-air museum village located in the Netherlands, just outside of Amsterdam. The village can easily be explored on foot, as it's not very big. However, for those who prefer other modes of transportation, here are some options: 1. Bicycle - Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the area. There are several rental shops in the village offering bicycles for a reasonable price.
2. Boat - You can take a small boat tour along the Zaan river, which gives you a unique perspective of the village.
3. Bus - There are several bus routes that pass through Zaanse Schans, making it easy to get to and from other nearby towns and attractions.
4. Car - If you're driving, there's a parking lot near the entrance of the village. However, keep in mind that parking can be quite expensive.
Overall, walking or cycling is the best way to fully experience the charm and beauty of Zaanse Schans.

What to see around Zaanse Schans

Certainly, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Zaanse Schans: 1. Amsterdam: Just a 20-minute drive from Zaanse Schans, Amsterdam is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions, including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum.
2. Haarlem: A beautiful, historic city that is 25 minutes away from Zaanse Schans. Haarlem has many museums, art galleries, canals, churches, and cafes.
3. Alkmaar: Known for its cheese market, Alkmaar is 30 minutes from Zaanse Schans. Explore the picturesque streets and canals, visit a museum or enjoy Dutch cuisine.
4. Volendam: A charming fishing village that's only 25 minutes away from Zaanse Schans. Volendam has a famous harbor, a museum about the village's traditional dress, and some excellent seafood restaurants.
5. Utrecht: Approximately an hour drive from Zaanse Schans, this city boasts stunning architecture, an impressive cathedral, and an ancient castle. The museums and lively restaurant scene are also worth checking out.
I hope this helps!
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