Amazing Day Trip to Windmills from Amsterdam: See the Best

Ever wondered what it's like to step into a postcard? Well, a day trip to windmills from Amsterdam is pretty close. Think of it: charming villages, the smell of cheese in the air, and those iconic windmills spinning against the sky. Forget the city buzz for a bit and picture yourself on a ferry, heading to a place where time seems to slow down. This isn't just a sightseeing tour; it's a taste of real Dutch life. We’re going to start our adventure with a short ferry ride, then get our fill of cheese in Edam, stroll through historic Volendam, and finally, see the majestic windmills at Zaanse Schans. Get ready for a day filled with photo ops, tasty treats, and a whole lot of Dutch charm. I'll tell you about my own little adventure, the best way to enjoy it, and how to make the most of your day! So, grab your comfy shoes, and let's go!

Ferry Fun and Cheese in Edam

Starting with a Splash: The Ferry to A'DAM

so your day trip to the windmills doesn't actually start at the windmills. It kicks off with a free ferry ride from Amsterdam Central Station to the A'DAM Tower. Yes, free! And it's not some dingy old boat, it's a pretty cool ride, offering great views of the city from the water. The ferry leaves every five minutes, so you don't have to sweat the schedule. I remember the first time I went, I was so excited I almost missed the boat, but trust me, it's a breeze. It's a short hop across the water, and then you're ready to jump on the bus to Edam, our first stop.

Once you arrive at the other side, you'll find the bus station. It’s pretty straightforward: hop on a bus heading towards Edam. The bus ride itself is like a mini-tour, with the Dutch landscape rolling by your window. You’ll see fields, canals, and charming houses. It takes about 30 minutes to get to Edam, and that’s more than enough time to get your camera ready for some cheese-tastic photos.

Edam: Where Cheese Dreams Come True

Edam is a small town, but don't let its size fool you. It's famous for its cheese, and rightfully so. The moment you step off the bus, you can smell it – that creamy, slightly nutty aroma. The town is super quaint, with cute little streets and canals. You can watch cheese being made the old-fashioned way, and of course, taste some samples. I swear, they have every type of Edam cheese you can imagine. It's a cheese lover's paradise!

While you’re there, wander around the town a bit. You’ll see some beautiful old buildings, and you might even catch some locals in traditional Dutch clothing. It's a great place to just soak in the atmosphere. Don't forget to buy some cheese to take home; it makes for a great souvenir and a delicious snack later. And remember, the real fun is in the experience. So, explore, taste, and enjoy!

Exploring Historic Volendam and Dutch Treats

Stepping Back in Time: Volendam's Charm

Alright, so after you've had your fill of cheese in Edam, it's time to hop on another bus to Volendam. This place is like stepping into a living history book. I mean, seriously, the houses are so cute and colorful, it's like they're straight out of a storybook. Volendam is a fishing village, and you can still see the fishing boats bobbing in the harbor. It's a really different vibe from Amsterdam, more relaxed and peaceful. I remember wandering around the harbor, and it was so quiet and peaceful, it felt like I had been transported to a different time period.

The streets here are narrow and winding, perfect for just strolling around and soaking it all in. You'll find all sorts of shops selling traditional Dutch souvenirs, like clogs and Delftware. And the best part is, you can try some traditional Dutch treats here. I'm talking about those amazing Dutch pancakes, they are thin and crispy, and you can have them with sweet or savory toppings. It’s a must-try when you're there. I could probably eat them all day, but hey, there are more windmills to see, so let's move on.

Pancakes and Pictures: Volendam Must-Dos

Now, you might be wondering, what should you do in Volendam besides just wandering around? Well, first off, grab yourself a plate of those Dutch pancakes I was raving about. Seriously, they’re the perfect snack to refuel after all that walking. There are plenty of little cafes and restaurants where you can try them. After that, take some time to explore the harbor. It’s the heart of Volendam, and there's always something going on. You might see fishermen bringing in their catch of the day, or just people enjoying the beautiful scenery.

Don't forget to snap some pictures of the colorful houses along the canal. They’re a photographer’s dream! And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can even rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside. The great thing about Volendam is that you can explore at your own pace. There's no pressure to rush, just enjoy the scenery and the atmosphere. And trust me, it's easy to spend a couple of hours just wandering around and soaking it all in. It’s like the perfect blend of history, culture, and delicious treats. What’s not to love?

Windmills and Wooden Shoes at Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans: A Step Back in Time

so we've had our fill of cheese and pancakes, now it's time for the main event – Zaanse Schans. This place is like a living museum, but way more fun. I'm talking about real, working windmills from the 17th and 18th centuries! It's not just one or two, but eight of them, all lined up along the river. The first time I saw them, I was honestly blown away. They're huge and majestic, and it's incredible to see them in action. They're not just for show; they're actually still being used to grind spices, saw wood, and even make oil.

Getting to Zaanse Schans from Volendam is easy, just hop on another bus. It's a pretty short ride, and before you know it, you'll be surrounded by these incredible windmills. It’s like walking into a painting, the whole place is so picturesque. And it's not just the windmills, the little green houses and the canals add to the charm. If you're into history, you'll be in heaven, but even if you're not, it's hard not to be impressed by the beauty of this place.

Clogs and Craftsmanship: The Wooden Shoe Experience

But wait, there's more! Zaanse Schans isn't just about windmills, it's also where you can see how traditional Dutch clogs, or wooden shoes, are made. I mean, who wouldn't want to see that? There’s a workshop where they demonstrate the whole process, from a block of wood to a finished shoe. It’s seriously impressive to watch. I remember thinking, ‘Wow, that’s a lot of work for a pair of shoes!’ But they're not just any shoes, they're part of Dutch culture and history.

You can also try on some clogs, and even buy a pair if you're feeling adventurous. They’re surprisingly comfortable, although I wouldn’t recommend going for a run in them. Besides the clog workshop, there are also shops where you can buy other souvenirs, like Delftware and other traditional Dutch crafts. It's a great place to pick up something unique to remember your trip. And honestly, seeing the windmills and the clogs together is like the perfect Dutch experience. It’s a combo that really captures the essence of this place.

Wrapping Up: A Scenic Bus Ride Back

After a full day of cheese, cute villages, and windmills, it's time to head back to Amsterdam. The bus ride back is actually pretty scenic, you'll get to see more of the Dutch countryside. It’s a nice way to relax and reflect on all the amazing things you've seen. I remember sitting on the bus, thinking about how much I had enjoyed the day, and how different it was from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam. It's amazing how much you can experience in just one day trip.

This day trip is perfect for anyone who wants to see more of the Netherlands than just Amsterdam. It's a chance to experience the real Dutch culture, and it's a great way to get out of the city for a bit. So, if you're planning a trip to Amsterdam, make sure to add this day trip to your list. You won’t regret it! It's a day filled with history, culture, and lots of fun, and it's something you'll remember for a long time. Trust me, I’ve done it a few times, and it never gets old.

Wrapping Up Our Windmill Adventure

So, there you have it – a whirlwind day trip to windmills from Amsterdam, packed with cheese, charming villages, and those iconic windmills. It's more than just a tour; it's a chance to experience the heart of Dutch culture. From the ferry ride to the cheese tasting, and the clogs to the windmills, every moment offered a glimpse into a different world. If you're looking for an escape from the city that's both beautiful and fascinating, this is it. I hope my little guide has inspired you to take the plunge and see the Dutch countryside for yourself. You might just find that a day trip to windmills from Amsterdam is exactly what you need.