Lykkers, if you're in search of a picture-perfect corner of the Netherlands—complete with windmills, wooden clogs, canals, and classic green cottages—Zaanse Schans is a destination worth adding to your travel plans.
Just a short distance from Amsterdam, this open-air village brings Dutch traditions and craftsmanship to life, offering a vibrant and educational experience for all ages.
What to Expect at Zaanse Schans
A Living Village
Zaanse Schans is not simply a museum; it's a functioning neighborhood with more than 40 beautifully preserved houses, green lawns, and charming paths. Though it feels like stepping into a storybook, people actually live here.
The entire site is designed to reflect life in a Dutch village around the mid-1800s, complete with water channels, wooden buildings, and authentic windmills.
Best Time to Visit
The destination attracts many visitors year-round, especially during warmer months. Weekdays and early mornings are ideal for those seeking a quieter experience. The entire site can take a day to explore, so plan accordingly to enjoy all the sights without feeling rushed.
The Iconic Windmills
Functional and Historic
Zaanse Schans features eight windmills, six of which are lined up along the Zaan River. Each mill serves a different purpose—one saws timber, another grinds spices, and others process seeds like flax and rapeseed into oil. There's even one dedicated to grinding pigment for paints.
Inside the Windmills
Visitors can step inside these structures to learn how they operate. Many of the windmills date back to the 1600s and early 1900s. With rotating sails powered by wind, the mills remain fully functional. Demonstrations show how grain becomes flour or how seeds turn into oil, all using traditional methods.
Tickets and Access
Entrance to the village is free, but specific activities and windmill visits require payment. A Zaanse Schans Card (€29.50 for adults, €20.00 for children aged 4–17) includes entry to one windmill, the Zaans Museum, the clog workshop, and discounts at participating shops. Individual windmill entry is approximately €5 for adults and €2.50 for children.
Traditional Workshops and Homes
Clog Making
At the wooden clog workshop, guests can watch artisans carve clogs from plain blocks of wood using vintage tools. The demonstration highlights how these iconic shoes are made quickly and efficiently—a fascinating display of skill.
Weaver's House
A small home once shared by weaving families showcases the tools and techniques used to create durable fabrics for sails. Young visitors can even try weaving themselves, getting hands-on with history.
Fisher's Cottage
This tiny home tells the story of a family that lived with modest means, where clothing was rotated to show different colors depending on the occasion. Visitors can try on traditional outfits and take themed photos to remember the experience.
Barrel Maker's Workshop
Step inside a cooper's workshop to witness how wooden barrels were crafted by hand. Children are encouraged to explore the tools and ask questions as they learn about this once-essential trade.
Local Delights and Educational Stops
Cheese Tasting
One stop many enjoy is the cheese farm, where staff explain how the popular Dutch variety is made. Samples are available and can be taken home as tasty souvenirs.
Chocolate Workshop
A visit to the chocolate-making shop offers insight into traditional preparation methods. The aroma alone is worth the stop, and there are plenty of treats available for purchase.
Clock Museum
The small but detailed timepiece museum contains a unique collection of pendulum clocks, alarm clocks, and other vintage instruments—each offering a glimpse into timekeeping over the centuries.
Boat Ride Along the Zaan
To get a different perspective, a 45-minute boat tour cruises along the river, offering views of the windmills from the water. This experience provides photo opportunities and a tranquil break from walking.
Planning Your Visit
Opening Hours
Zaanse Schans is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Individual workshops and attractions may operate slightly different hours, so check at the entrance or official site.
Getting There
The village is about 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam Central Station to Zaandijk-Zaanse Schans, followed by a 15-minute walk. Buses and guided tours are also available for convenience.
Accessibility
The area is walkable and stroller-friendly. Bicycles can be rented on-site, and a small ferry service along the river is also available for those wanting to reduce walking distances.
Final Thoughts
Zaanse Schans offers Lykkers a vibrant and hands-on way to connect with Dutch history and traditional craftsmanship. From the rhythmic motion of the windmills to the scent of fresh cheese and wooden clogs being carved before your eyes, every corner of the village tells a story. It's a family-friendly destination where the past lives on, ready to be discovered one charming cottage and cobbled path at a time.
