Dutch Countryside, Windmills, and Cheese Tour

Visiting: Alkmaar, Schermerhorn, Edam, Volendam, Marken, Zaandam

8-hour private tour with a private guide (car/walk):
€ 745 (1-3 people, car)
€ 895 (4-8 people, van)

Pick up at your hotel/airport in the Amsterdam area. Suggested pick-up time: 8:30 – 9:00 a.m.

I will drive you through the charming countryside north of Amsterdam, in the province of Noord-Holland.

Tour Highlights:

1. Alkmaar Cheese Market:
We start at the famous cheese market in Alkmaar (every Friday from March to September, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.). Watch the cheese carriers in action with their traditional outfits and customs.

2. Windmills of Schermerhorn:
Our next stop takes us to the windmills of Schermerhorn, where you can capture stunning photos of the quintessential Dutch countryside.

3. Beemster Polder and De Rijp:
On the way to our next destination, we’ll drive through the historic Beemster Polder, a UNESCO World Heritage site reclaimed in 1612. We’ll then visit the picturesque village of De Rijp, with its narrow streets and canals. You’ll feel as if time has stood still in this old fishing town.

4. Edam:
A short 20-minute drive will take us to another famous cheese town, Edam, known for producing the world-renowned Edammer cheese. (Note: We skip visiting Edam if the Alkmaar cheese market is included in the tour.)

5. Volendam:
Next, we visit the vibrant town of Volendam. The friendly locals in traditional costumes will greet you as you explore the small shops selling Dutch products. Don’t forget to take a photo in traditional Dutch attire – a perfect souvenir! If you’re feeling adventurous, try the famous Dutch herring on the Dijk.

6. Marken:
After lunch, we head to Marken, a former island now connected to the mainland. The unique houses on stilts here offer a one-of-a-kind sight.

7. Zaanse Schans:
Our final stop is Zaanse Schans, the world’s first industrial area. Though it once had over a thousand windmills, today it is a beautifully preserved village featuring historical wooden houses, all painted in the iconic Dutch green. Here, you’ll also find the first-ever Albert Heijn supermarket.

As your private tour guide, I can adjust the schedule and duration to fit your needs. Please let me know if you have any special requests.

Details:

– No entrance fees are included in the tour price.
– Lunch is not included, but I can provide recommendations.