Volendam, Marken and Windmills Day Trip from Amsterdam

If you ask anybody what pops into their mind when they think of the Netherlands, most people will say windmills, tulip fields and the lively centre of Amsterdam. Its picturesque canals, historic buildings, exotic nightlife, and open-minded culture stand out. And while Amsterdam is undeniably one of the country’s most fascinating tourist destinations, the scenic Dutch countryside and windmills in the surrounding area are often overlooked. Fortunately, you can easily combine your visit to the country's bustling capital with a phenomenal countryside and windmills tour from Amsterdam. The peaceful villages of Zaanse Schans, Marken and Volendam are only a short drive from the city centre. There you'll be able to enjoy the tranquillity of the area and immerse yourself in the old way of life as you admire the colourful Dutch windmills. When you get outside the Dutch capital you enter a different world, with most of the small towns surrounding the city appearing like open-air museums. The Dutch Countryside and Windmills Tour will take you from Amsterdam to the villages of Zaanse Schans, Volendam and to the former island of Marken; the order of tour can change. A visit to Zaanse Schans means you can get your fill of historical windmills. Over ten windmills line the banks of the Zaan river and the area around them is free for you to wonder around in as it really is an open-air museum. You can enter some of the windmills at a small extra charge. Zaanse Schans is one of the best places to see windmills in Holland. Volendam is a typical Dutch fishing village and taking a walk along De Dijk and through the harbour area will not disappoint. Here you will visit the Cheese Factory to learn more about how the Dutch make cheese and have a little taste as well. If you are staying in town for lunch, we recommend the freshly caught fish. The third location visited on the tour is the village of Marken, a former island in the Markermeer, now a peninsula. You'll travel between Marken and Volendam by boat, with a scenic, 30 minutes trip across the IJsselmeer. Enjoy the view as you sail past the towns of Monnickendam and Katwoude. When you walk among the houses on Marken, be careful to stay on the road because before you know it you're in someone's garden. A visit to a traditional clog, or wooden shoe, maker completes our tour. Here clogs are still made according to a 100-year-old tradition with steam powered tools. They are surprisingly comfortable as you will be able to try for yourself.