Private Amsterdam Windmill Tour

Amsterdam Windmill Tour

Monnickendam Version

Hotel Pickup:

I will pick you up directly from your hotel in Amsterdam in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. This way, we can start the tour with ease.

Durgerdam, a Scenic Village on a Dike:

Our first stop is a charming village just outside Amsterdam, built on a dike. Here, we’ll discuss the Dutch water management system, which is one of the most impressive feats in human engineering. You’ll learn how much of the country came to be below sea level and see the landscape that the dikes protect.

Countryside Drive:

Next, we’ll take a scenic drive through lush farmland. As we travel, you’ll get a true feel for the Dutch landscape and rural life, not far from the hustle of the city but it seems like a different world.

Guided Walk in Monnickendam:

We’ll explore the historic harbor town of Monnickendam. I’ll guide you through pristine streets, share stories of the town’s rich history, and point out interesting architectural details. There’s so much to discover in this quaint setting.

Dutch Apple Pie & Coffee in Monnickendam:

We’ll take a snack break to enjoy some delicious Dutch apple pie, handmade in Monnickendam. Paired with a cup of coffee, it’s a perfect moment to relax and soak in the atmosphere.

Visit to Schermerhorn Windmills:

Next, we’ll visit one of the Netherlands’ most iconic symbols—a 17th-century windmill in Schermerhorn. You’ll step inside to learn about the windmill’s history and operation. If conditions allow, you’ll even see it in action as it pumps water, just as it has since 1639. With a real life windmill as well as diagrams and a detailed explanation you will get a great understanding of how Dutch windmills work and why they were adapted in so many different ways.

A Real Dutch Farm Experience:

Unlike many tours, we visit a genuine family farm. This farm has been run by the same family for over a century in the incredibly fertile Beemster Polder—farmland reclaimed from a lake in 1612! You’ll meet the dairy cows and watch the automated milking system in action. Depending on the season, you might also see tulip bulbs or potatoes being sorted. We’ll greet the free-range chickens living under walnut trees and even collect a box of their fresh eggs. This is a working farm, and we usually have the chance to meet one of the family members, as well as their friendliest farm dog, Bruce!

Local Dutch Snacks & Lunch Options:

Throughout the day, I provide a variety of authentic Dutch snacks to keep you fueled. We can stop for lunch at a local spot upon request or try some excellent Dutch fries made from local farm potatoes.

My tour is designed to take you off the beaten path, where you can see real Dutch life. You’ll return not only with beautiful memories but also with a deeper understanding of the country’s history, culture, and traditions.

Amsterdam Windmill Tour

Edam Version

What stays the same:

On both tours, the Durgerdam stop, the scenic drives, the lovely farm, and windmill visit all stay the same. I usually prefer to visit Monnickendam because it’s not at all touristy. However, Edam is also a lovely town, though we may encounter other tour groups. That said, Edam can be a better choice if you have children with you.

Great for Kids:

There’s a stunning candy store and a tourist cheese shop where we can taste various kinds of Edam and Gouda cheese. The Old House Museum, with its fun floating cellar, is also a great spot to explore.

No Dutch Apple Pie:

Please note that we don’t offer apple pie in Edam—only in the Monnickendam version of the tour. There are numerous food options in Edam however.