1. Zaandam
Start your route in Zaandam, the gateway to the Zaan region.
Old Holland route (line 801/800)
Classic Holland in One Easy Trip
Do you want to discover the authentic, real Netherlands with windmills, historic villages, and harbors by the water? With the Old Holland route, you can easily travel past some of the most characteristic places in North Holland.
The route connects Zaandam, the Zaanse Schans, Purmerend, Volendam, and Edam in one relaxing day trip. Are you traveling from Amsterdam and want to go directly to the Zaanse Schans? Then you can also use the Zaanse Schans Express (800), which takes you straight from Amsterdam to the Zaanse Schans.
In Volendam, you can also board the Marken Express and enjoy a unique boat trip between Volendam and Marken. The crossing takes about 30 minutes and offers beautiful views of the water and harbor towns.
Along the way, you’ll discover different sides of the region: from historic windmills and traditional crafts to waterside villages, local museums, and lively squares with cozy terraces and places to have a drink or a meal.
Everything is located along one clear route, allowing you to visit multiple destinations in a single day. Get off wherever you like, take your time to stroll around, and then easily continue to the next spot. No rush, no hassle.
2. Zaanse Schans
At the Zaanse Schans, most visitors turn left towards the windmills, but you can do it differently. Turn right and take a walk along the peaceful Schanszichtpad Kalverpolder. An ideal spot to see the iconic windmills without the biggest crowds. Or visit the interactive Verkade Experience in the Zaans Museum and discover how the famous Verkade cookies and chocolate were made. A perfect first stop!
New stop!
3. Purmerend
Make a relaxing stop in Purmerend and have lunch at the lively Koemarkt. Afterwards, visit the Purmerends Museum and discover the history of this former market town in Waterland.
4. Volendam
Volendam is a lively harbor town on the IJsselmeer. Stroll along the dike, look out over the fishing boats in the harbor, and discover the small streets behind the quay. The village is known for its maritime history and cozy terraces with views over the harbor. At Restaurant Pieterman you can enjoy a drink on the sunny terrace.
From Volendam, you can also easily take the Marken Express for a short and beautiful crossing to the picturesque Marken.
5. Edam
The route ends in Edam, a compact and charming town where you can still clearly see the historical character of North Holland. If you are a cheese lover, Edam is the place to be. In summer, the Cheese Market truly comes to life. Stroll through the center along canals, little bridges, and monumental houses and discover why Edam has been such a special place for centuries.
