Planning a trip to the Netherlands? If you want to immerse yourself in Dutch culture, there’s no better place than the Zaanse Schans. Located just 20 minutes from Amsterdam, this open-air museum offers a stunning snapshot of traditional Dutch life, with iconic windmills, charming houses, and a range of local shops and museums.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the details of how to get there, what to do, where to stay, and how much it will cost—ensuring that you get the most out of your visit!
How to Get to Zaanse Schans: Travel Essentials
Getting to Zaanse Schans is relatively easy, and there are several options depending on your preferences:
From Amsterdam by Train: The quickest and most affordable way is by taking a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Koog Zaandijk station. The journey takes just 17 minutes and costs around €4.50 (one-way). From the station, it’s a short 15-minute walk to the Zaanse Schans.
By Car: If you prefer to drive, it takes about 20 minutes from Amsterdam. Parking is available near the entrance for €10 per day.
By Bus: Another option is to take bus 391 from Amsterdam Central Station directly to Zaanse Schans. This takes about 40 minutes and costs around €5 one-way.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Zaanse Schans is during spring (April to June) when the weather is mild and flowers are blooming, or during early autumn (September to October) when the crowds are thinner. Avoid peak summer months (July and August) if you want a quieter experience.
Things to Do and See at Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans is a living museum where we can learn about the Netherlands' rich history, culture, and craftsmanship. There are several must-see attractions:
Windmills: Zaanse Schans is home to 11 beautiful windmills. Most of them are still operational and open for tours. The entrance fee for each windmill is around €5-€7 per person, but you can buy a Zaanse Schans Card for €15, which gives access to multiple attractions.
Notable windmills to check out:
De Huisman: A spice mill where we can taste a variety of spices.
De Gekroonde Poelenburg: A wood sawmill that dates back to the 17th century.
De Kat: A paint mill where demonstrations are held.
Museums: There are several fascinating museums in the area, including:
Zaans Museum (€10 entry): Learn about the history of the region, its industries, and famous brands like Verkade (chocolates and biscuits).
Zaanse Time Museum (€8 entry): Explore Dutch clockmaking history with beautiful timepieces.
Windmill Museum (€5 entry): A museum dedicated to windmill history with interactive exhibits.
The Jisper House (€5 entry): A fisherman’s cottage from the 1800s, offering a glimpse of 19th-century life. You can even try on traditional Dutch costumes here!
The Bakery Museum (€5 entry): Visit the Gecroonde Duyvekater bakery, operating since 1658, to try delicious Dutch pastries.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
While there are no hotels directly in Zaanse Schans, there are several great options nearby for a comfortable stay. Here are a few recommendations:
Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Zaandam: Located just a 10-minute drive from Zaanse Schans, this quirky hotel offers modern amenities with a touch of local design. Prices start around €130 per night.
Zaan Hotel: Located in Zaandam, around 5 km from Zaanse Schans, this 3-star hotel offers great value for money, with rates starting at €100 per night.
Airbnb: If you’re looking for something more personalized, consider renting an apartment in Zaandam or Amsterdam. You can find places starting at €60 per night for a simple apartment or room.
Where to Eat: Dutch Delights Await
Zaanse Schans offers several delightful spots to grab a bite and enjoy local flavors. Here are some places where you can enjoy Dutch treats:
The Windmill Café: This cozy café is perfect for a quick lunch or snack. Try the Dutch Poffertjes (mini pancakes) or Dutch cheese sandwiches. Meals here cost around €10-€15.
De Hoop op d’Swarte Walvis: Located nearby in Zaandam, this charming restaurant serves traditional Dutch dishes like Stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) and Dutch herring. Prices range from €15 to €30 per person for a full meal.
Bakery Museum de Gecroonde Duyvekater: Aside from its history, this bakery serves mouthwatering Dutch sweets. Don’t miss out on their famous Duivekater, a sweet bread that’s a local delicacy. Treats here cost between €2 to €5.
How Much Does it All Cost?
Train fare from Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans: €4.50 one-way
Zaanse Schans Windmill Ticket: €5-€7 per windmill, or €15 for a multi-attraction pass
Museum Entry Fees: Between €5 and €10 each, depending on the museum
Food: A meal at a café costs about €10-€15 per person, while a full meal at a restaurant ranges from €15 to €30.
Hotel: Accommodation starts at around €100 per night for a 3-star hotel.
Conclusion: An Unforgettable Dutch Day Trip
Zaanse Schans is a place where we can truly experience the essence of the Netherlands, from its iconic windmills to its traditional Dutch houses and museums. With various transportation options, a range of attractions, and delicious food, it’s easy to see why this village is a favorite for travelers. Whether we’re cycling, walking, or hopping on a boat tour, we’ll undoubtedly have an unforgettable time here. So, pack your bags and get ready to step into Dutch history!
Hope this guide helps you, Lykkers! Have an amazing trip to Zaanse Schans, and don’t forget to share your experiences with us!
