Amsterdam to Zaanse Schans by bike

Zaanse Schans, with its working windmills and green wooden houses on the river Zaan, is one of the easiest day trips from Amsterdam by bike. The route leaves Centraal Station westwards along the IJ, through the old harbour area, across the North Sea Canal on the small free Hempont ferry, and then north through Zaandam.

Entry to the village is free; the windmills and museums charge separately. In summer, get there early to beat the crowds, then ride back the same way or take the train from Koog-Zaandijk station.