Have a fantastic adventure with a tour starting right from the lively heart of Amsterdam. This journey will take you from the bustling city of Amsterdam to the serene countryside surrounding it. Get ready for a unique experience that includes visits to Zaanse Schans, Volendam, Marken, and the enchanting Keukenhof Gardens. First on the list is Zaanse Schans, a magical open-air museum where history comes alive through the majestic windmills that enhances the landscape. See ten charming windmills standing along the Zaan river. The entire area is like an outdoor museum, inviting you to freely roam and absorb the rich heritage. Zaanse Schans is truly one of the best places in Holland to witness the beauty of these iconic windmills.
Next stop is Volendam, a quintessential Dutch fishing village that will captivate you with its charm and beauty. Take a leisurely stroll along De Dijk and through the picturesque harbor area, soaking in the authentic atmosphere. You will visit the Cheese Factory, where you can see the secrets of Dutch cheese-making and even indulge in a delightful tasting session. If you decide to stay for lunch, do not miss the chance to savor freshly caught fish, a local specialty.
Following Volendam, the adventure continues to Marken, a village with a fascinating history as a former island in the Markermeer, now connected as a peninsula. Your journey between Marken and Volendam is not just a regular ride – it is a scenic boat trip offering breathtaking views across the IJsselmeer. On Marken, explore the traditional craft of wooden shoe making at a clog maker's workshop. You might be surprised at how comfortable these traditional Dutch clogs are, and you can even try them on for yourself. The tour reaches its end at the Keukenhof Gardens, often said as the most beautiful garden in the world. Covering an expansive 15 kilometers of footpaths, the gardens are adorned with over seven million flowers. Keukenhof is a floral paradise, open for less than two months each year and standing as the largest flower gardens in all of Europe.
Once at Keukenhof, you will have ample time to wander through the themed gardens, flower parades, and captivating flower shows. Immerse yourself in a vibrant world of tulips, crocuses, daffodils, hyacinths, and more. The many variety, with 800 different species of tulips alone, is a testament to the meticulous care and effort put into the gardens. Keep in mind that every single flower bulb is planted by hand each year, adding a personal touch to this breathtaking floral landscape.