DETAILS

 A short drive to Zaanse Schans will allow you to discover the typical Dutch countryside of polders and little canals.Zaanse Schans is a well-known windmill village, with wooden houses and old fashioned little shops. On your arrival, your local guide will take you through the re-created town where you will visit one of the windmills. From here, you can enjoy the lovely views over the River Zaan. The majority of houses here are made of green-painted wood, typical of the Zaan area and as you stroll through the streets, you can see craftsmen practising the trades of yesterday and get a glimpse of what Dutch life was once like. You will have the opportunity to visit a cheese factory, as well as experience the established Dutch art of clog-making at a nearby wooden shoe factory.

 You will then drive to your next stop, the quaint Dutch village of Marken. On arrival, stroll through this lovely fishing village, situated on the banks of the former Zuider Zee, an area that dates back to the 13th century when monks constructed dikes for protection from the sea. The distinctive, traditional green and white clapboard houses of Marken have remained unchanged throughout centuries. Many of the local residents still wear the traditional and colourful costumes, which add a special attraction to the village. You will have a chance to step inside one of the little houses and admire the interior of the early 1900’s.

 You will then return to your vehicle and head for the town of Volendam, last highlight of this tour. Enjoy a guided visit of Volendam, one of those picture-perfect places associated with Holland. The village of Volendam is six centuries old and you will find narrow canals, drawbridges and a charming little harbour with typical Dutch boats. Enjoy some free time to browse through the small village shops, filled with an array of typical Dutch treats and souvenirs. Then board your private vehicle and return to the ship in Amsterdam.

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