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Things to do in Zaandam: A Guide to the Dutch City

The small city of Zaandam is nestled in the heart of the Netherlands, just north of Amsterdam. With its quaint cobblestone streets, picturesque canals, and well-preserved traditional architecture, Zaandam is a paradise for travelers seeking a charming, laid-back respite from the bustling cities of the Netherlands. Zaandam is brimming with activities and attractions for every type of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day spent strolling around the city’s historic center or an action-packed adventure exploring the countryside, Zaandam has something for everyone.

1. Wander Through the Zaans Museum

The Zaans Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Zaandam. Located in the heart of the city, the museum is dedicated to preserving and celebrating the traditional culture and customs of the region. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits, such as a replica of a traditional Zaandam windmill, a replica of a traditional Dutch clog workshop, and a recreation of a historic Zaanse house. The museum also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including concerts, workshops, and lectures on the history of Zaandam.

Beyond its traditional cultural exhibits, the Zaans Museum also boasts a variety of modern art galleries featuring the works of local and international artists. The museum also has an extensive collection of artifacts, ranging from ancient pottery to vintage photographs, all of which offer visitors a unique insight into the history of the city.

The Zaans Museum is open from 10am to 5pm from Tuesday to Sunday, and admission is free for under 18’s.

2. Explore the Zaanse Schans

The Zaanse Schans is a must-see attraction when visiting Zaandam. This open-air museum features a collection of traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, all of which have been carefully preserved to show visitors what life was like in the 17th and 18th centuries. Visitors can explore the grounds on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the area. The Zaanse Schans also has a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it the perfect place to spend a day.

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The Zaanse Schans is open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Sunday, and admission is free for under 18’s.

The Zaanse Schans is a great place to watch a variety of traditional Dutch activities, such as cheese-making, wood-turning, and clog-making. Visitors can also explore the area’s many windmills and take a boat ride along the Zaan river. The Zaanse Schans is the perfect place to spend a day learning about the history and culture of Zaandam.

3. Enjoy the Waterside Views at the Zaanse Haven

The Zaanse Haven is a stunning waterside park located in the heart of Zaandam. The park is home to a variety of attractions, including a bird sanctuary, a playground, and a number of restaurants and cafes. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the park’s pathways, enjoy the stunning views of the Zaan river, and watch the boats glide by.

The Zaanse Haven is open from dawn to dusk, and admission is free for all visitors. The park is a great place to spend an afternoon relaxing or taking a romantic stroll along the river.

4. Visit the Zaans Medical Center

The Zaans Medical Center is a state-of-the-art healthcare facility located in the heart of Zaandam. The center offers a wide range of services, including primary care, specialty care, women’s health, and mental health. The center also features a variety of specialized facilities, such as a pharmacy, a laboratory, and a radiology department. The Zaans Medical Center is open from 8am to 8pm from Monday to Friday and from 9am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday.

The Zaans Medical Center is a great place to get the care you need while in Zaandam. The center’s staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the facility is equipped with the latest technology to ensure the best possible care for patients.

5. Take a Boat Tour of the Zaan River

The Zaan river is a beautiful body of water that runs through the heart of Zaandam. Taking a boat tour of the river is the perfect way to explore the city and its surroundings. During the tour, visitors will get a unique perspective on the city, as they cruise past historic buildings, traditional windmills, and picturesque canals. Visitors can choose from a variety of boat tours, ranging from short sightseeing trips to full day excursions.

The boat tours usually depart from the Zaanse Haven and are available from Monday to Sunday. Prices vary depending on the length of the tour, but most tours cost between 15 and 25 euros per person.

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6. Shop at the Zaanse Markt

The Zaanse Markt is one of the oldest and largest markets in the Netherlands. Located in the heart of Zaandam, the market features a variety of stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, jewelry, homewares, and more. The market is open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Saturday, and admission is free for all visitors.

The Zaanse Markt is a great place to pick up souvenirs and gifts while in Zaandam. The market is also home to a variety of food stalls, so visitors can sample some of the city’s local cuisine.

7. Visit the Zaandam Animal Park

The Zaandam Animal Park is a great place to visit for animal-lovers of all ages. Located just outside the city center, the park is home to a variety of animals, including deer, goats, sheep, and birds. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the park, feed the animals, or take part in one of the park’s many activities, such as pony rides and animal encounters.

The Zaandam Animal Park is open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Sunday, and admission is free for under 18’s. The park is a great place to spend an afternoon enjoying the outdoors and getting up close and personal with some of the city’s furry friends.

8. Indulge at the Zaandam Chocolate Factory

The Zaandam Chocolate Factory is a must-visit for any chocolate-lover visiting Zaandam. Located in the heart of the city, the factory offers visitors a unique insight into the art of chocolate-making. Visitors can tour the factory and watch the chocolatiers at work, sample some of the factory’s delicious creations, and shop for some of the city’s best chocolates.

The Zaandam Chocolate Factory is open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Sunday, and admission is free for all visitors. The factory is the perfect place to indulge in some of the city’s finest chocolates.

9. Explore the Zaandam Botanical Gardens

The Zaandam Botanical Gardens are a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. The gardens are home to a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a number of ponds and streams. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the gardens and admire the stunning scenery, or take part in one of the gardens’ many activities, such as bird-watching, photography, and art classes.

The Zaandam Botanical Gardens are open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Sunday, and admission is free for all visitors. The gardens are the perfect place to spend an afternoon in the fresh air, surrounded by nature.

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10. Visit the Zaandam Visitor Center

The Zaandam Visitor Center is a great place to start your exploration of the city. The center has a variety of information on the city’s attractions and activities, as well as maps and brochures to help visitors make the most of their time in Zaandam. The center also has a shop where visitors can pick up souvenirs and gifts.

The Zaandam Visitor Center is open from 9am to 5pm from Monday to Sunday, and admission is free for all visitors. The center is the perfect place to get some insider tips before you start exploring the city.

11. Take a Bike Tour of Zaandam

Biking is one of the best ways to explore Zaandam. The city is filled with scenic bike paths, making it easy to get around and explore the city. Visitors can rent a bicycle from one of the many bike rental shops in the city and take a self-guided tour of the city’s attractions. Visitors can also book a guided bike tour of the city for a more in-depth look at the city’s history and culture.

Bike rentals are available from 8am to 6pm from Monday to Saturday, and from 10am to 5pm on Sunday. Bike tours usually last around two hours and cost around 25 euros per person.

12. Spend an Evening at the Zaandam Theater

The Zaandam Theater is one of the city’s premier cultural venues. The theater hosts a variety of performances, ranging from classical music concerts to comedy shows. The theater also has a bar and restaurant, making it the perfect place to spend an evening enjoying the city’s culture and nightlife.

The Zaandam Theater is open from 9am to 11pm from Monday to Sunday, and tickets for performances can be purchased online. The theater is the perfect place to spend an evening enjoying some of the city’s best entertainment.

Summary

Zaandam is a charming Dutch city located just north of Amsterdam. The city is brimming with activities and attractions, ranging from traditional cultural attractions such as the Zaans Museum and the Zaanse Schans, to modern activities such as the Zaandam Chocolate Factory and the Zaandam Theater. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day spent strolling around the city’s historic center or an action-packed adventure exploring the countryside, Zaandam has something for everyone.