Zaanse Schans

The Zaanse Schans offers visitors a glimpse of the Zaanstreek region in the 17th and 18th century. Museums, mills, craftsmen and visitors centre all help illustrate what life was like back then.

In the 18th century this area had over 1,000 windmills, of which now only 12 are left. Children's activities are organised regularly.

Close by Zaanse Schans is the oldest wooden house in the Zaanstreek region. The Czaar Peterhuisje  (Tsar Peter House) is named after Peter the Great, who lodged here for seven nights in 1697.

Zaans Museum

Take a journey from the very first windmills and green wooden houses to modern factories and admire traditional Dutch paintings, costumes, and artefacts. Zaans Museum  is located at the Zaanse Schans.

Claude Monet

French artist Claude Monet visited the Zaan region in 1871. What he saw inspired him so much that he produced 25 paintings here. One of his painting The Voorzaan and the Westerhem and a presentation of all his Zaan-related works are on display at the Zaans Museum.

Chocolate and biscuit factory

A treat for young and old alike, the Verkade Experience takes you back to the chocolate and biscuit factory of the early 20th century, where the original machines are still churning away.

Zaanse Schans

directions_bus Bus 391
train Zaandijk Zaanse Schans
directions_boat Zaanferry
directions_bike 19.4 km

* Includes access to 1 Windmill of choice, Zaans Museum, The Zaan Time Museum, Weaver's House, Cooperage, and Jisper House

official website
www.dezaanseschans.nl