The Zaanse Schans in Zaandam is a unique place where you feel as though you've stepped back in time. This iconic location offers a mix of historical buildings, working windmills, and charming crafts, all surrounded by the beautiful Dutch polder landscape. During our visit, we discovered the rich history and traditions that make this region so special. So Zaanse schans is definitely worth visiting. Below, I’ll take you through the highlights of our day.
The Zaans Museum: A Dive Into the heyday of Dutch history!
Our day began at the Zaans Museum, where we were transported to the heyday of Dutch history. Here, we learned about the products that were produced or processed in this region: oil, wood, starch, rice, cocoa, paper, and more. The museum offers a fascinating insight into how these trades and goods turned the Netherlands into a global trading power.
One of the highlights of the museum is the Verkade Experience. This interactive part of the museum is a must-visit, especially for chocolate and cookie lovers. We discovered the history of the famous Verkade factory, from its founding in the early 20th century to the production processes behind the delicious chocolate and cookies for which Verkade is known. Authentic machines and nostalgic packaging made us feel like we had stepped into the past. For kids, this museum is a lot of fun, with games where they can produce, package, and even taste cookies!
Extra Tip! Until January 24, you can visit the exhibition Ode to the Netherlands by Jimmy Nelson. The renowned photographer based this exhibition on his book Between the Sea and the Sky.
Practical Information:
Opening Hours: Daily from 10 AM to 5 PM.
Tickets: Zaans Museum only: €14.50; kids aged 4-17: €7.50. Free with the I Amsterdam Card (read more about this in my blog about Amsterdam).
For a more extensive experience, choose the Zaanse Schans ticket (€29.50; kids aged 4-17: €20), which includes access to the Zaans Museum, Windmill Museum, open windmills, Weaver's House, Cooperage, Kalverringdijk Period Room, and Museum Zaanse Tijd.
Free Access: The open-air museum itself is free to visit and does not require a ticket.
Windmill Het Jonge Schaap: The Craft of Sawing Wood
After our visit to the museum, we walked to Windmill Het Jonge Schaap, a stunning example of Dutch windmill architecture. This sawmill, a replica of a 17th-century original, demonstrated how wood was once cut using wind power. It was fascinating to see the process in action and learn how these mills were essential for shipbuilding and trade in the region.
Interestingly, this mill still uses traditional wind-powered sawing methods today. The association managing the mill has an agreement with the city of Haarlem: trees that need to be cut down are sawn at Het Jonge Schaap and later returned as benches to the parks where the trees originated.
Other Windmills to Visit at the Zaanse Schans:
De Kat: A paint mill.
De Zoeker: Used for oil, Arachide oil, also used for cooking
De Bonte Hen: An oil mill dating back to 1693.
Strolling Through the Zaanse Schans and Oude Zaandijk
Is Zaanse schans worth visiting?
The charm of the Zaanse Schans lies not only in its windmills but also in its picturesque setting of wooden houses, narrow streets, and scenic views over the water. As we strolled through the area, we soaked in the authentic atmosphere. Along the way, we passed artisans making traditional wooden clogs and producing cheese.
Did you know? You can also visit the oldest historical Albert Heijn grocery store here!
Our walk led us to Oude Zaandijk, where we admired several stunning historical houses. These houses, with their green wooden facades and white trim, are a beautiful example of the region’s rich history. It felt almost like stepping into a painting by one of the Dutch masters.
Ending the Day at Brouwerij Hoop
After a day filled with history and craftsmanship, it was time to relax. Our final stop was at Brouwerij Hoop, where we enjoyed locally brewed beer and a delicious snack. This modern brewery combines traditional flavors with a creative twist, and its cozy interior was the perfect place to wrap up our day.
Practical Tips for Visiting the Zaanse Schans
Getting There: The Zaanse Schans is easily accessible by train from Amsterdam (about 20 minutes) or by car. There is ample parking available.
Opening Hours: Many museums and windmills are open daily, but check the hours in advance, especially outside peak season.
Food & Drinks: In addition to Brouwerij Hoop, there are several restaurants and cafés in the area for a bite to eat or a drink.
A day at the Zaanse Schans offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re drawn to crafts, architecture, or simply enjoying the beautiful Dutch landscape, this region has something for everyone.
Staying in Zaandam?
We stayed at the Inntel Hotel Zaandam. You can read more about our stay in a separate blog.
I would love this; there is something so appealing about windmills, and the combination of museums and picturesque houses makes for a lovely day out. Mr Wren would love it if I suggested we stop by Brouwerij Hoop, too.
Thanks for bringing this to my attention!