Visit Zaanse Schans to See Traditional Dutch Clogs Being Made

Traditional Dutch Clogs

A popular Dutch icon, the clog has become a global export of sorts. Although, they are not commonly worn by the locals, it is still possible to spot the odd person sporting them, particularly in rural districts. These handcrafted wooden shoes have long been the protective covering of choice for workers and farm labourers. Skilled artisans carve out these beautiful shoes by hand, with the process itself making for an interesting sight. To witness clog making in person and to meet the skilled artisans, a trip to Zaanse Schans is highly recommended.

Attractions in Zaanse Schans

The clog artisan community at Zaanse Schans has been around since the XVIII century. The place itself is a photographer’s delight with its picture perfect assortment of barns, wooden windmills, and typical Dutch houses, all of which have been relocated here since 1961.
Coming here is a rewarding experience as besides clogmaking one can witness the art of cheese making, Dutch craft demonstration, food production and woodwork. There are also museums, traditional windmills and beautiful buildings, which call for a leisurely exploration of the region. Add to that the wealth of boutiques, souvenir shops and restaurants and you have a holidaymaker’s paradise.

Zaanse Schans Card

Although there is no admission fee for Zaanse Schans, some attractions charge, so it is advised to go for the Zaanse Schans card. This card gives you entry to several prominent museums. Attractive discounts can also be availed of at the museum shops, restaurants and craft workshops. For an additional price, admission to Museum of the Dutch Clock is included with the card. The card can be purchased at the Zaans Museum Information Centre or at one of the museums.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Zaanse Schans is from April to November when everything remains open. However, to avoid the crowds visit before 10:00 a.m. or between 16:00 p.m. and 18:00 p.m. Even during the high season, Mondays and Tuesdays are the quietest days in the week. In the low season, not all the attractions remain open throughout the week and opening times vary. Certain attractions remain closed on Mondays, so bear this in mind when scheduling a visit.

Getting to Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is an easy day trip from Amsterdam and is well-connected by bus, car, train and bicycle. A bus ride to the region is roughly 40 minutes. Connexxion bus 391 departs from Amsterdam Central Station every 15 minutes to Zaanse Schans.
Boarding the train at Amsterdam Central Station can get you to Koog-Zaandijk in 17 minutes. From here, Zaanse Schans takes around 15 minutes to reach by foot.
Onsite car and coach parking costs €10 and €20 for the day, respectively.
Campers can park only at the Koog-Zaandijk or Wormerveer Camper Service Points.
Disabled travellers will find disabled parking, toilets and bridges across Zaanse Schans, whilst wheelchairs can be booked in advance at the Zaans Museum. The Jonge Schaap Windmill can also be accessed by wheelchair.

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Author: Lana de Wit

Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky

My name is Lana de Wit, Guest Relations Manager at Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky. Together with the Guest Relations and Guest Services team we are making sure that all guests are having the best experience at our hotel and look after their special requests, celebrations and expectations. I get energy out of solving problems and striving for the best there is possible and I love the fact that every day is different and full of surprises. I always wanted to work at Krasnapolsky since I was a little girl, so being able to work here the past years has been a dream together with my fantastic colleagues. My biggest mission is to let every guest leave with extraordinary stories and unforgettable memories to take home. I look forward to welcoming you here in Amsterdam to give you the true Anantara experience!