The Zaan region, just a stone’s throw from Amsterdam, offers a beautiful blend of Dutch history, nature, and modern charm.
It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the big city but still offers lots to explore for a weekend trip. Let’s check out this two days itinerary to give you some inspo. ✨
What is the Zaan region?
First things first, let’s talk about what the Zaan region, or what the Zaanstreek, even is.
The region is in the northern part of the Netherlands, close to Amsterdam. It’s named after the Zaan River, and famous for its historic windmills, wooden houses, and traditional architecture.
It also has a very rich history, as it played a vital role during the Dutch Golden Age, becoming one of the first industrialised areas in the world.
All in all, the Zaan region is the perfect spot to dive into all things Dutch, from old-timey windmills to lush nature and quaint architecture.
For the best insider tips on what to do, see, or eat, in the Zaan region, check out Zaans.nl. Their website has the best information on how to enjoy the Zaan region — all in English. ☀️
Day one: Get acquainted with Zaandam
We recommend starting your Zaans weekend by exploring all of the most popular spots. 👇
Start the day at the iconic Zaanse Schans
When in the Zaanstreek, a visit to the Zaanse Schans is an absolute must — so why not kick off your trip at this postcard-perfect location?
The open-air museum is filled with windmills, cheese, and quaint architecture as far as the eye can see.
READ MORE | The Zaanse Schans by drone is insanely beautiful: photo & video report
Whether you’re here for the history or just looking to get that perfect Instagram shot, the Zaanse Schans’ quintessential Dutchness has got you covered.
Enjoy a lunch by the canal
After soaking in the charm of the Zaanse Schans, it’s time to head to Zaandam and refuel with a relaxing canal-side lunch.
For something cosy, check out Het Zaanse Pannenkoekpaleis, which sells delicious pannenkoeken (Dutch pancakes), ice cream, and other sweet treats. Not in the mood for a sweet treat? Verrassing aan de Zaan has you covered for anything from soup to a classic hamburger.
If you can’t seem to find the perfect waterfront restaurant, you can always just grab something to go and sit by the canal. Pssst… We recommend Roxy’s Deli for some delicious takeaway tostis!
Spend the afternoon in the historic city centre
Zaandam’s city centre is a perfect blend of the old and new. The main shopping street, the Gedempte Gracht, is filled with a variety of stores, from local boutiques to big brands.
But there’s history hidden between the modern facades as well. The Claude Monet Atelier hosts paintings of the famous French painter’s time in the city, while a quick detour will take you to the beautiful Czaar Peterhuisje, one of the oldest wooden houses in the Netherlands.
Spend the afternoon wandering through Zaandam, pick up a souvenir or two, and enjoy the local vibe.
Join a fun pre-dinner workshop
Before dinner, why not spice things up with a fun workshop or tasting? Many venues offer workshops where you can get inspired by the local crafts from the region.
If you’re a beer lover, you should consider a guided tour of the famous HOOP brewery. You’re guaranteed fun, knowledge and, of course, some delicious beer.
If you’re more after something sweet, a class by Smells like Chocolate might be just up your alley for all things chocolate and cacao.
💡 Tip: Check out the Zaans.nl agenda to see what’s going on in the Zaan region while you’re visiting!
Catch some Zzz’s at the iconic Inntel Hotel
No visit to Zaandam is complete without checking into the Inntel Hotel.
This eye-catching hotel is hard to miss when walking through Zaandam, thanks to its unique look of traditional Dutch houses stacked on top of each other.
The Inntel Hotel gives you the full Zaandam experience — you’ll have all the comforts of modern luxury while being surrounded by the unique historical Dutch architecture.
Spending the night here is an experience in itself, and we’re sure you won’t regret it.
Day two: Get off the beaten path
After a day spent exploring the hotspots, it’s time to get off the beaten path and check out some of the lesser-known areas of the Zaanstreek.
Go for a morning stroll in Wormerveer
Start your second day with a peaceful stroll along the Zaan River in the town of Wormerveer. This charming place offers a more laid-back vibe than bustling Zaandam, with rows of typical Dutch houses and quiet streets.
The Zaan River adds to the tranquillity of the area, making it a perfect spot to sip on your morning coffee and take in the beautiful views.
Spend your lunch hours at the HEMbrug terrain
Next up, take a short bus (or cycle, or drive!) to the HEMbrug Terrain. This former industrial site has been transformed into a cultural hotspot and is home to creative studios, galleries, and quirky shops.
READ MORE | This hidden gem is the perfect day trip from Amsterdam: Discover the HEMbrugterrein
Grab lunch at one of the local cafes — Café BIND for a cosy vibe and great coffee, or LAB-44 for some lekkere pizza.
After lunch, take a walk around the area and pop by the open-air HEMbrug Museum for a dive into the area’s industrial past or the Museum of Humanity for a change of perspective.
End your trip in nature at Het Twiske
After a long weekend of exploring, close it out with a peaceful afternoon in Het Twiske, a large recreational area just outside the Zaanstreek.
Whether you’re in the mood for a scenic bike ride, a lakeside picnic, or just some quiet time in nature, this spot has it all. You can even rent a canoe if you’re feeling adventurous!
READ MORE | Hiking around the Zaanstreek: 9 perfect walks in the ultimate Dutch region
It’s the ideal place to unwind, reflect on your trip, and enjoy a serene end to your Zaanstreek getaway.
Hungry for more? If you can’t get enough of the Zaan region, head to Zaans.nl to find even more of the best things to do while visiting the area.
How to get to the Zaanstreek?
Getting to the Zaan region is a breeze, especially if you’re coming from Amsterdam. To do so, hop on a train at Centraal Station and you’ll arrive in Zaandam in 12 minutes.
For those who prefer cycling, the journey takes about 45 minutes and offers a scenic ride through the Dutch countryside.
If you’re driving, it’s an easy 20-minute ride from the city, with plenty of parking options around Zaandam and the surrounding towns.
To find the best route from wherever you may be, Google Maps is your best friend.
Windmills, canals, quirky shops — what’s not to love about the Zaanstreek? With a two-day trip to the region, you can get a taste of it all.
How would you spend your time in the Zaanstreek? Share your ideas in the comments!