Amsterdam Getaways: Zaandam & Zaanse Schaans
Amsterdam as the capital of the Netherlands, offers almost everything to a visitor: Whether you're interested in history, art, or countless other activities. There's hardly anything you won't be able to find here. Well, only if we overlook one tiny detail: the traditional side of the Netherlands and an original Dutch experience.
This article is dedicated to those who have already explored Amsterdam and are looking for a more authentic Dutch experience without venturing too far from the city. The places I'll be talking about are only 15–20 minutes away from Amsterdam by train!
Zaandam:
The first stop I'll be talking about is Zaandam. Although the town is mostly famous for the iconic Inntel Hotel building, I have to say that its overall architecture is just as distinctive. In fact, every time I visit Zaandam, I feel like I've stepped straight into a LEGO movie.
Unfortunately, as charming as it is, Zaandam is a quite small district. You can easily see everything the town has to offer in about two hours, probably even less then that. That's why I'd describe it as the perfect coffee stop on your way to our main destination, Zaanse Schans.
Zaanse Schaans:
Whenever someone visits me in Netherlands, the first thing I do is taking them to Zaanse Schans. So far, I haven't met anyone who doesn't fall in love with this place.
The moment you step off the train, you'll be greeted by the unmistakable smell of chocolate filling the air as it is one of Zaandam's signature features, thanks to the chocolate factory located there. Unfortunately, the factory itself isn't open to visitors, but don't worry, the town has much more to offer for its visitors!!
Consisting an iconic landscape covered with windmills and traditional Dutch houses, I'd describe this town as an open-air museum. And a good news, admission is currently free! (Of course, we're conveniently ignoring the small fortune we just spent on train tickets.)
→ I say "currently" because, unfortunately, starting in spring 2026, admission will cost €17.50. So make the most of it while it's still free! Click here for more detailed information about tickets.
So... What to do in Zaanse Schans? Firstly, for the photography lovers, this is the perfect location for filling your gallery and for those who like to stay online, it is very instagrammable!! Furthermore, you can learn how the famous cheese brand Henri Willig produce its cheese by visiting the cheese house in which you can also try different flavours. From the little pastry museum house, you can try the hot chocolate or a delicious chocolate waffle
However, you must not forget that we are in Netherlands, which means everything closes way earlier then they should. Thus, you must make sure to visit here before five o'clock. .
