Zaanse Schans: A Postcard-Perfect Dutch Day Trip

March 15, 2025 Off By Noyon Jyoti Parasara

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and looking for a perfect day trip outside the city, let me tell you about our family adventure to Zaanse Schans. My wife, our 8-year-old son, and I set out expecting a quick excursion but ended up spending the entire day in this dreamy Dutch village. Yes, it’s a tourist hotspot, but it’s one that’s absolutely worth your time.

The Journey Begins

Our adventure started at Amsterdam Centraal Station, where we snagged train tickets to Zaandijk-Zaanse Schans—€3.40 one way, a quick 17-minute ride. But those 17 minutes were pure magic. The Dutch countryside revealed itself through the train window: charming suburban houses with tiny boats docked by backyard streams, the occasional windmill peeking through the morning mist, and that perfect stillness that only early mornings bring. Our son kept yelling, “Look, boats!” every few seconds, completely fascinated by the picturesque scenery.

We had read that reaching Zaanse Schans early was a smart move, and we’re so glad we did. What seemed like a small, quick stop on the itinerary turned into a full-day experience. If you’re planning this trip, go in the morning—you’ll need the extra hours.

First Impressions

From the railway station, it’s a pleasant 20-minute walk to the actual village. The anticipation builds with every step—small bridges, tree-lined paths, and the occasional glimpse of windmills in the distance make the journey feel like an adventure in itself. Our son skipped ahead, buzzing with energy, while my wife and I took in the fresh morning air. The moment we arrived, it felt like stepping into a Dutch Golden Age painting. The scenery is pure magic: rows of windmills standing proudly against the sky, wooden houses painted in deep greens and blues, and a gentle stream flowing past backyards where ducks paddled lazily. Our son was obsessed—shouting “Duck!” every time one waddled by. My wife couldn’t stop snapping photos, and I didn’t blame her. Every turn felt like a photo waiting to happen.

Wandering the cobbled paths, we realized how well this place balances history with charm. Yes, it’s designed for visitors, but it never loses its authentic, old-world feel.

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Cheese, Windmills, and Sweet Indulgences

A few hours in, we were ready for a snack, and Zaanse Schans did not disappoint. The village is sprinkled with cozy cafés offering classic Dutch pastries. A warm stroopwafel and a coffee later, we were recharged, while our son happily devoured a Dutch pancake with syrup.

The cheese farm, De Catharina Hoeve, was, hands down, a highlight for all of us. Here, we got an up-close look at how traditional Dutch cheese is made—curds, wheels, the whole deal. The smell was unreal, and then came the tasting. Our son’s eyes lit up with every bite of creamy Gouda, and my wife and I couldn’t resist grabbing a wedge to take home. It’s not just a stop; it’s a memory—and a delicious one at that. Our son was particularly intrigued by the cheese-making equipment, asking a dozen questions about the process, which made the experience even more engaging for him.

Next up were the windmills, the icons of Zaanse Schans. Those iconic green and red giants are everywhere, and some let you climb up for a small fee (around €5). We passed—our son was more into chasing ducks than scaling heights, and honestly, the view from the ground was plenty for us. But if your crew’s got the cash and the curiosity, it’d be a fun add-on.

The Perfect Ending

Before heading back, we browsed a few souvenir shops and picked up classic Dutch trinkets—miniature windmills, wooden clogs, and, of course, more cheese. Our son was particularly fascinated by the tiny wooden shoe keychains, which made for great little keepsakes.

The walk back to the station was slow—tired legs, full hearts. The journey back to Amsterdam felt like a dreamy rewind of the morning, with the same scenic houses and quiet waterways passing by the train window. Our son dozed off, clutching his new windmill souvenir, and we knew this was a day we wouldn’t forget.

Final Thoughts

So, is Zaanse Schans a tourist trap? Maybe. But it’s one of the best ones out there. If you’re visiting Amsterdam and want a day of breathtaking views, delicious food, and a touch of history, it’s absolutely worth the trip. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the most touristy places are popular for a reason—they’re just that good.

Would we go again? In a heartbeat.