Zaanse Schans
Zaanse Schans: Near Amsterdam, offers a well-preserved glimpse into Holland’s industrial past with its historic windmills and distinctive green wooden houses. It’s a living museum reflecting the 18th and 19th centuries.
Here is an itinerary that you may enjoy. Book your flight and hotel with the Expedia link below, and off you go. Have a super holiday.
Zaanse Schans Long Weekend Itinerary
A picturesque village in the Netherlands known for its well-preserved historic windmills and houses, offers a unique glimpse into Dutch heritage. The nearest international airport is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, located approximately 30 minutes away by car, making it a convenient entry point for your visit.
Arrival and First Impressions – Day 1:
- Morning: Arrival at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
- Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and travel to Zaanse Schans. Check into your hotel or a local B&B in or near the village.
- Afternoon: Exploring Zaanse Schans
- Begin your exploration. Stroll through the village, admire the traditional wooden houses, and visit a working windmill.
- Evening: Dinner with Traditional Dutch Cuisine
- Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, experiencing traditional Dutch cuisine. Many restaurants in the area offer dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients.
In-depth Exploration of Zaanse Schans – Day 2:
- Morning: Windmill and Craft Workshops
- Spend the morning visiting various windmills with unique history and function. Attend craft workshops like wooden shoe making and cheese making.
- Afternoon: Zaans Museum and Time on the River
- Visit the Zaans Museum to learn about the Zaan region’s history and culture. Optionally, enjoy a boat tour on the Zaan River for a different perspective of the windmills.
- Evening: Relaxing in the Village
- Spend a leisurely evening in the village. Explore local shops selling traditional Dutch products, from cheese to clogs.
Surrounding Areas and Local Experiences – Day 3:
- Morning: Visit to Nearby Towns
- Explore nearby towns such as Zaandam or Wormerveer for a broader experience of the region. These towns offer a mix of historic and modern Dutch lifestyles.
- Afternoon: Biking Around the Countryside
- Rent a bike and explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Zaanse Schans. Enjoy the scenic routes along the river and fields.
- Evening: Culinary Delights in the Region
- Experience the region’s culinary delights with dinner at a local eatery, perhaps trying fresh seafood or international cuisine.
Leisure and Departure – Day 4:
- Morning: Leisure Time
- Spend your last morning in Zaanse Schans at leisure. Revisit favourite spots or shop for unique souvenirs like Dutch cheese or Delftware.
- Afternoon: Departure
- After a final stroll and lunch, depart for Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, concluding your visit filled with Dutch cultural and historical experiences.
This itinerary offers a blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion, and the serene beauty of the Dutch countryside, ensuring a memorable long weekend in Zaanse Schans.
Need more reading material? Click on our top picks below to help with your research.
Why not treat yourself to new luggage and travel in style?
Check out other holiday destinations in Europe.
Follow your wanderlust and check out our YouTube Channel.
