Volendam, Marken & Windmills Day Trip

• Uncover the Dutch customs in Volendam, Zaanse Schans, and Marken
• Examine the windmills at Zaanse Schans in detail
• Investigate the production of stroopwafels, clogs, and cheese
• Delight in a boat excursion on Lake Ijsselmeer

Iconic Dutch sights
Ask anyone what comes to mind when they think of the Netherlands, and the answer is likely windmills, tulip fields, and the lively centre of Amsterdam. The city’s picturesque canals, historic buildings, vibrant nightlife, and open-minded culture make it one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations. Yet beyond the capital lies a scenic countryside that is often overlooked by visitors.

Fortunately, it’s easy to combine a city break with a journey into the Dutch countryside. On this countryside and windmills tour from Amsterdam, you’ll visit the peaceful villages of Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken, all located just a short drive from the city centre. Here, you can slow down, enjoy the tranquillity, and step back in time as you admire colourful windmills and traditional village life.

An open-air museum
Once you leave Amsterdam behind, you enter a completely different world

Iconic Dutch sights
Ask anyone what comes to mind when they think of the Netherlands, and the answer is likely windmills, tulip fields, and the lively centre of Amsterdam. The city’s picturesque canals, historic buildings, vibrant nightlife, and open-minded culture make it one of Europe’s most fascinating destinations. Yet beyond the capital lies a scenic countryside that is often overlooked by visitors.

Fortunately, it’s easy to combine a city break with a journey into the Dutch countryside. On this countryside and windmills tour from Amsterdam, you’ll visit the peaceful villages of Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and Marken, all located just a short drive from the city centre. Here, you can slow down, enjoy the tranquillity, and step back in time as you admire colourful windmills and traditional village life.

An open-air museum
Once you leave Amsterdam behind, you enter a completely different world. Many of the surrounding villages feel like living open-air museums. This Dutch Countryside and Windmills Tour takes you to Zaanse Schans, Volendam, and the former island of Marken (the order of visits may vary).

At Zaanse Schans, you’ll find more than ten historic windmills lining the banks of the Zaan River. The area is free to explore and truly feels like an open-air museum. Several windmills can also be entered for a small additional fee. Zaanse Schans is one of the best places in the Netherlands to experience traditional windmills up close.

Next, you’ll visit Volendam, a classic Dutch fishing village. A stroll along De Dijk and through the harbour area is a highlight in itself. You’ll visit a cheese factory to sample delicious Dutch cheeses and, if time allows, learn how they are made. Staying for lunch? We highly recommend trying the freshly caught fish.

The final stop is Marken, a former island in the Markermeer that is now connected to the mainland by a causeway. Travel between Volendam and Marken by boat on a scenic 30-minute cruise across the IJsselmeer, passing towns such as Monnickendam and Katwoude along the way.

Walking through Marken feels like stepping into a storybook village. Be sure to stay on the paths—before you know it, you may find yourself in someone’s garden. The visit concludes with a stop at a traditional clog maker, where wooden shoes are still produced using steam-powered tools following a 100-year-old tradition. And yes, you can try them on—they’re surprisingly comfortable.

An unforgettable experience
This Amsterdam day trip offers a unique experience that appeals to both adults and children alike. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and unwind as you explore one of the Netherlands’ best-kept secrets.

The Dutch countryside is ready to welcome you and show you a completely different side of the Netherlands—far removed from the energy of its capital. Book your ticket here and enjoy a memorable windmills tour through traditional villages and timeless landscapes.