Hop On Hop Off Holland

This Hop On, Hop Off tour through Holland’s picturesque countryside is the perfect way to explore outside the city and experience the rich culture! The tour includes seven stops which all promise a unique insight into Dutch history and tradition. There are buses every 30 minutes from each stop which provides the perfect amount of freedom to enjoy your favorite area at your own leisure! Also included is an audio walking tour for each stop.
The stops include: Broek in Waterland, Monnickendam, Cheese Farm Jacobshoeve, Volendam, Edam, Purmerend, and Zaanse Schans.
The first stop on the tour is to Broek in Waterland. This small village with a population of less than 2500 is definitely worth a visit. As this town was a popular residence for wealthy merchants and seafarers in the 17th and 18th centuries, much of the history has been well-preserved.
Monnickendam is the second stop on the tour and is rich in history. Although it is a small fishing village today, it holds much historical significance as a port in earlier centuries. Notable architecture includes the fourteenth century church of St. Nicholas, which was later renovated in 1602, and the synagogue which was built in 1894.
The third stop, the Cheese Farm “Jacobshoeve,” is a unique opportunity to witness the process of cheese making as well as experience a free guided tour of the Farm. This is, of course, a must-do whilst in the Netherlands!
The next two stops include Volendam and Edam. Both are known for their fishing boats and scenery. Traditional Dutch costumes are still worn by some residents in Volendam, which was also once a retreat for famous artists. Both Picasso and Renoir spent time in this beautiful village during the 20th century. While smaller than Voldendam, Edam holds particular fame for its cheese and old city centre.
The sixth stop is Purmerend, a city surrounded by polders. A polder a tract of low land reclaimed from the sea and protected by dikes. This is especially prevalent in the Netherlands so be sure not to miss this stop!
Last, but certainly not least, is Zaanse Schans. This area is a major attraction particularly because of its abundance of well-preserved historic windmills and houses. There are also several museums in the neighborhood highlighting Dutch culture and traditions, including a clog warehouse! The windmills in Zaanse Schans really bring Dutch history to life and is a must-see during this Hop On, Hop Off excursion.
As each stop is unique and provides its own slice of culture, this tour is perfect for discovering and exploring the Dutch countryside. Spending as much or as little time at each stop gives you the perfect flexibility that cannot be found elsewhere. When planning your trip to Holland, be sure not to miss this gem of a tour which is suitable for all!
Highlights:
• Enjoy the flexibility of a bus coming every 30 minutes to each stop
• Explore the Dutch countryside
• Experience traditional Dutch culture
• View the scenic windmills of Zaanse Schans
• Enjoy the fishing village of Volendam
• Discover the old centre of Edam
• Taste and experience the making of traditional Dutch cheese
• Adventure in villages where famous artists have gained inspiration
• Visit a traditional clog warehouse