20 minutes drive from Amsterdam, you will find the Zaan region, Western Europe's oldest industrial area. In the past there used to be running more than 500 windmills here. Now a days, ten pairs of sails continue to turn in the historical village of Zaanse Schans. It's picturesque mills are still used for sawing wood and grinding flower, spices and oil. Exiting demonstrations accros the entire site will acquaint you with all kind of traditional Dutch crafts.

Besides the Windmills, The country side offers polders, water, wind, cheese, clogs and many other things that are typically Dutch. This day trip to the Dutch countryside and visits to the fishing villages Volendam and Marken is a must during your holidays in the Netherlands. Discover the region’s history at a fascinating museum, do a tasting at a cheese factory, visit an authentic Dutch bakery and much more and enjoy free time at the lovely fishing harbor on the Markermeer lake.