The Zaanse Schans

With an number of visitors of over 1.3 million a year, the Zaanse Schans has made a name for itself both domestically and abroad. With its historical wooden houses, warehouses, farms and windmills, this open-air museum by the river Zaan paints an accurate picture of life as it used to be.

The historical buildings are all in the unique timber architecture of the 18th and 19th centuries so typical of the Zaan region. The Zaanse Schans is explored on foot and when you take in the unique peat meadow landscape you are surrounded by the stunning buildings. There are numerous demonstrations such as cheese-making, wooden shoe making, woodworking, liqueur distilling and pewter casting. You can also take a boat trip. Admission is free, but some attractions charge a fee.