Top Mills in Zaandam, Netherlands

The food here is simple but absolutely delicious. Service is very friendly, family run. Definitely worth coming by, I’d especially recommend their cakes

De Kat was originally an oil mill but was rebuilt after a fire and is since a chalk mill. The chalk is combined with pigments to make paints. We had the I Amsterdam Card so we could go in for free, otherwise I think it's 2 or 3 euros to enter, but it's really worth it. You can climb up the steep stairs to go into the room with gears, and from there out onto the deck. From there you can see the blades (sails) upclose and also take a nice panoramic photo of other nearby mills. Definitely don't miss.

Very cool exhibit of what it looks like inside a windmill. You also learn about how it operates with education video. Definitely go outside on the deck and feel the power of the wind!!

Wow, great attractions, beautiful place to visit, close to the train station lovely place

Beautiful amd breath taking. Did a 3 hour tour from Amsterdam. Made our weekend extra special. Felt so peaceful and calm with breath taking views.

Great place to visit, you can see several windmills.
You can easily get there by a train.

The most interesting windmill in Zaanse Schans, definitely worth the visit.
Seems to be the most popular though, the place was too crowded on a Sunday afternoon. They should regulate the number of visitors coming in.

Beware staircases inside are steep and I saw many elderly people struggling with it.
If you are coming with kids, keep on eye on them.

Also on windy days be careful not to get too close to the windmill sails on the observation deck because they are turning very quickly 😅

Small windmill, the visit is a bit expensive for what it’s worth (visit can be done in 5”).

Awesome place to enter during your visit to Zanse Schans. You can see how the windmill produces paint powder with its gears system. It’s also possible to climb to the top and enjoy the amazing views. The tickets cost 5,50 per adult and 3,50 kids. There’s also a small shop for souvenirs inside.

Very interesting and highly entertaining working windmill. The wooden machineries inside are an attraction in itself especially when working - definetely worth the 5.5 eur entrance fee.
Get on the top floor outside, see the panorama and maybe you'll be lucky to actually see how the windmill is rotated into the wind
Very crowded in the afternoon - so if you get there when is crowded, just pass on the the last mills - There are almost no turists visiting those.

This windmill allows you to go upstairs to oversee the village, the entry costs 5.5 euros. I think it was a special experience, though the tour was rather short.

Very sweet family business. Would love to visit again.

A great place to visit, see the sights and learn about these wonderful windmills.

A must-do experience if you visit the Netherlands, go inside a windmill! We got there early, just before the tour buses. This particular windmill did not get too busy. You can go inside and climb right out on the deck when the windmill is doing its thing. Very cool on a beautiful day. Plus, it's amazing to see and hear the inside...

A windmill built in 1672. You can enter the landing around the windmill for a small admission fee. You will have the opportunity to take many photos and videos around the footpath outside. Nice walking track along the river.

Sehr schöner Ort, der für den Tourismus geeignet ist.
Der Spaziergang ist kostenlos und der Eintritt zu den Mühlen kostet 5 €.
Ich empfehle, wie an jedem Touristenort, angesichts der Menschenmenge vorsichtig mit der Tasche umzugehen!

Exploring the Dutch Delight of Zaanse Schans

When it comes to picturesque and quintessentially Dutch destinations, Zaanse Schans stands out as a charming open-air museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Netherlands. Located just a short distance from Amsterdam, this unique village offers visitors a delightful glimpse into the country's past, with its well-preserved windmills, traditional wooden houses, and vibrant crafts.

Upon arrival at Zaanse Schans, it's easy to feel as though you've stepped back in time. The village is a living testament to the industrial revolution that took place in the 18th and 19th centuries, with its iconic windmills serving as symbols of the area's once-thriving milling industry. As you stroll along the cobbled streets, you'll encounter a variety of working windmills, each with its own distinct purpose, from grinding spices and cocoa to sawing timber.

One of the highlights of any visit to Zaanse Schans is the opportunity to step inside these historical windmills. The friendly and knowledgeable millers are more than happy to share their expertise and give you a glimpse into the fascinating world of milling. Witness the creaking wooden machinery in action and learn about the traditional methods that were employed to harness the power of the wind. From the aroma of freshly ground spices to the rhythmic sound of the millstones, the sensory experience is truly captivating.

Apart from the windmills, Zaanse Schans is also home to a collection of traditional wooden houses and buildings, some of which date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. These well-preserved structures provide a glimpse into the architectural style and way of life of the Dutch countryside in bygone eras. Take a leisurely stroll and explore the interiors of the houses that have been transformed into museums, offering insights into the local customs, crafts, and trades that were once prevalent in the area.

For those interested in traditional crafts, Zaanse Schans is a haven. Numerous workshops and artisanal stores line the streets, showcasing the skills and techniques that have been passed down through generations. From wooden clog making to cheese production, watch skilled craftsmen and women at work and take home a unique piece of Dutch craftsmanship as a memento of your visit.

To enhance your Zaanse Schans experience, be sure to sample some of the local delicacies. Indulge in the mouthwatering flavors of traditional Dutch cheeses, such as Gouda and Edam, or treat yourself to the irresistible taste of freshly baked stroopwafels, thin waffles filled with sweet syrup. The charming cafes and restaurants in the village offer a perfect setting to relax, savor local delights, and soak up the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.

As the day draws to a close, Zaanse Schans transforms into a serene haven, away from the bustling city crowds. The windmills silhouette against the setting sun, casting a magical glow over the village. It's a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of this unique place.

Zaanse Schans is a true gem, preserving the traditions, history, and craftsmanship that define the Netherlands. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a charming escape, a visit to this idyllic village will leave you with memories to treasure. So, take a step back in time and immerse yourself in the beauty and heritage of Zaanse Schans—a truly Dutch delight.

It is a very beautiful place where you can see part of the history of the place. Each mill was like a small industry, each with its own role ... cutting wood, making colors with the power of the wind. The parking lot seemed quite spacious. Admission to the complex is not paid. It is paid only at the entrance inside the mills. There are souvenir shops, food, drinks. You can taste and buy local cheeses. It is a bit crowded but well worth a visit. It is very close to Amsterdam from where organized tours are made to visit the place

Interesting experience for a family, it is good they are still operating the windmill, you can still taste past medieval years experience, Mill owner was really kind person who knows his windmill very well, after a 15 minutes of demonstration both English and Spanish he will let you visit second floor of the windmill which you can see gears and other mechanics of windmill also you can take a pictures in balcony area.

Note: Stairs are too steep not might be hard for old people or families with small kids to climb but definitely worth the view.

Stop for a hot chocolate or slice of cake here….thanks Anny….this was a special break/rest on our walk ….. nice place…nice people 🤗

It was such a lovely place to visit and learn about some of holland's history. We also got to meet some of the workers of this mill. Its the last mill along the mill walkway. Its well known for producing oils.

Just took pictures from outside but it was awesome

Oil windmill: it grinds peanuts to make oil, and the remaining parts are used as cattle feed.

This windmill is known for making oils and still functions. They have guided and unguided tours.

Simple food but really good, wonderful location, glad I stopped by

The service is really nice ! Glad that one of the staff can speak English and help tourists like me out. The food is simple but great.

Passionate, warm, hospital guides. Best mill of the 'Zaanse Schans' because of that.

wonderful personalized experience! the woman running the tour was very cheerful, very accommodating and clearly had a passion for sharing the mill's history with the guests. she absolutely made the experience! unfortunately, the mill was not operating at the time of our visit as the wind was not strong enough, which was a bit disappointing, but the tour was lovely, personalized and i was happy to patronize the last mill on the walk
cash only - for the time being!

The whole place is very charming and beautiful. You have a total of 8 windmills one next to each other. Some of them have a small museum inside or just a small store. It's a very interesting place that definitely worth the visit.

tasty and very good sandwich!

Beatifull place with quiet grassy plains. People are on your service and always smiling. The windmils are a must see and I suggest buying a Zaanse Schans card with buch of discounts and cards.

Looks good from outside but did not find it worth paying and going inside. There are some good paintings inside though which I liked.