Things To Do
in Zaandijk
Zaandijk is a small historic village in North Holland, just north of Zaandam, offering a quintessential Dutch countryside feel with easy city access. It sits along the Zaan River, where canal belts and green wooden houses create photogenic streetscapes. The area serves as a gateway to the famous Zaanse Schans windmills and traditional crafts, while remaining conveniently connected to Amsterdam by rail.
The village is highly walkable and bike-friendly, making it ideal for relaxed day trips that blend heritage, nature, and culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey by visiting the iconic Zaanse Schans, where you can experience traditional Dutch windmills and historic wooden houses. Wander through the picturesque village and observe the craftsmen at work, creating cheese and wooden shoes. A delightful breakfast at a local café will give you the energy for a day of exploration.
After lunch, take a guided tour of one of the windmills, learning about their importance in Dutch history and agriculture. Visit the bakery museum to enjoy some fresh Dutch pastries while indulging in the local flavors. Spend some time biking along the scenic dike paths that offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
As the sun sets, enjoy a scenic boat ride along the Zaan River, soaking in the charming landscapes and vibrant colors of the evening sky. Return to Zaanse Schans for dinner at a traditional restaurant, savoring authentic Dutch dishes in a warm, inviting atmosphere. Conclude your day by taking a leisurely stroll through the illuminated village, admiring the sights bathed in evening light.
Kick off your day at the Zaans Museum, located right next to Zaanse Schans, to understand the rich heritage of the Zaan region. The exhibits showcase local craft, history, and the vibrant culture that shaped this unique area. An early visit ensures fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate experience with the displays.
After a museum tour, picnic by the nearby Zaan River, enjoying local delicacies you've picked up along the way. Spend the afternoon exploring the adjacent Cacao Museum where you can learn about the chocolate-making process and even participate in a workshop. This interactive experience adds a sweet touch to your itinerary.
As dusk approaches, head back to Zaanse Schans for a leisurely walk along the riverbanks. Choose a cozy spot to have dinner, perhaps sampling some fresh herring or pancakes. The day's experiences and flavors create a relaxing end to a fulfilling day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥪Lunch for two at mid-range cafe/restaurant | $25-45 |
| 🏨Hotel or guesthouse per night | $70-120 |
| 🚆One-way local transport | $3-4 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quaint, canal-adjacent village with easy access to windmills and museums
- Excellent base for day trips to Amsterdam and nature reserves
- Limited nightlife within Zaandijk itself
- Some attractions can be crowded during peak tourist season
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Zaandijk
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic windmills along the Zaan River, especially striking at golden hour with reflections in the water.
Quaint canal scenes framed by traditional green-painted houses and quaint bridges—perfect for intimate street photography.
Classic viewpoints of boats, mills, and the waterway from graceful bridges in Zaandijk.
Pastoral lanes leading to working cheese farms, ideal for candid shots of Dutch rural life.
Long, calm evenings along the canal with silhouettes of windmills in the distance.
Food in Zaandijk
Zaandijk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Potatoes mashed with kale or sauerkraut, typically served with rookworst (smoked sausage) or another meat; a hearty staple you’ll find in many local venues.
Must-Try!
Mini fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, best enjoyed at bakeries or market stalls near Zaanse Schans.
Golden croquettes filled with a seasoned beef ragout; a popular snack served with mustard at many Dutch pubs.
Raw herring typically eaten with onions on a small bread roll; a classic street-food experience sold by vendors along the canal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with fresh produce, cheeses, baked goods, and light street bites; a good spot to sample local snacks.
Market stalls near the windmills offering stroopwafels, cheeses, and traditional crafts—great for souvenir shopping and tasting.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting with 'Goedemorgen'/'Hallo' is common; use 'u' for formal address with strangers and elders.
Keep right on bike paths, ring a bell when passing pedestrians, and use dedicated lanes when available.
Respect queues, speak in moderate tones, and avoid loud interruptions in public spaces.
Respect private properties and follow signs around windmills and farms; don't lean on barriers.
Safety
Tipping in Zaandijk
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. If service charges are not included, rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated in restaurants and cafes.
Cash is accepted in many places, but debit/credit cards and contactless payments are widespread. Most venues also support mobile payment apps.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, comfortably warm temperatures, and frequent outdoor activities along the river and in nature reserves; occasional showers are possible; bring light rain gear and sun protection.
Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic canal walks and fewer crowds midweek; pack layers and a light waterproof jacket.
Chillier conditions with shorter days; indoor attractions and cozy cafés are popular; winds from the North Sea can be brisk—dress warmly and in layers.
Rising temperatures and blooming gardens around Zaandijk; great for outdoor photography and cycling; expect intermittent rain showers; carry a compact umbrella.
Zaandijk at Night
Hiking in Zaandijk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large nature area north of Amsterdam with trails, lakes, and birdwatching; suitable for longer hikes and cycling.
Wetland reserve near Zaandijk with boardwalks and scenic water views—great for easy hikes and nature photography.
Gentle trails around the windmill village offering picturesque views of mills, water, and traditional Dutch farmhouses.
Airports
How to reach Zaandijk by plane.
Major international hub located about 14-20 miles from Zaandijk; direct train or bus connections to Zaandijk are readily available, with a typical journey of about 20-30 minutes to Zaandijk–Zaandam area.
A smaller international airport farther south; accessible by train and road but ~1.5-2 hours travel time to Zaandijk, making it less convenient for quick trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing families and communities forming the cultural core of Zaandijk.
A mix of international residents who study or work in the greater Zaanstad region.
Visitors drawn to Zaanse Schans windmills and the Zaandijk canal scenery.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widespread activity in the Netherlands; excellent infrastructure and scenic routes around Zaandijk.
Popular among locals; local clubs and casual games are common in nearby towns.
Common in Dutch communities with clubs in the Zaandam area.
The network of canals and the Zaan River provide opportunities for water sports and scenic sails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zaandijk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in most places; look for vegetable-forward dishes, salads, and cheese-based plates; mention vegetarisch to staff and staff can adapt.