See & do

  • Zaanse To do's

    The best activities to discover the Zaan region with.

  • Zaanish to do's

    The best activities to discover the Zaan region with.

Welcome to Zaandam, where history and creativity go hand in hand. From world-famous molens op de Zaanse Schans to modern street art and surprising museums: there is always something to experience here. Visit for a day (or longer!) and be inspired by the region's icons.

History & heritage - From mills to monuments

The Zaanse Zaanse Schans is perhaps the most famous part of Zaandam. Here, windmills stand proudly on the Zaan, just as they did centuries ago. But there is more: stroll through the old streets, visit the small but special Czaar Peterhuisje, or dive into a museum to really understand the story of the region. The past comes alive here.

More on history and heritage

Art and culture with a face

Zaandam is quirky - also when it comes to culture. Discover contemporary art in a former bullet factory at Het HEM, go on a street art scavenger hunt in the city or be surprised at het Zaantheater. There is always an exhibition, performance or creative spot that will give your day that extra something.

Art & culture in the Zaan region

Being outdoors in the Zaan region - By bicycle, on foot or by boat

  • Walking through the Zaan region

    Photo of woman running

    Put on your walking shoes and set off through the greenery, along the Zaan or through atmospheric villages with wooden houses and rich history. Along the way, you will encounter mills, locks and hidden paths that you will not find anywhere else. Perfect for a breath of fresh air and a good dose of inspiration.

    More about hiking

  • Cycling through the Zaan region

    Photo of two cyclists in the Zaan region.

    The Zaanstreek is made for cycling. Follow one of the marked cycling routes and be surprised by the varied landscape. From the historic molens op de Zaanse Schans to the wide views over the peat meadow area: each stretch of pedalling is different, but always with character.

    Read more about cycling

  • Sailing through the Zaanse

    Sloop on the Zaan in the Zaan bend

    On the water, you see the Zaan region from a completely different angle. Hire an electric boat, sloop or canoe and sail past old warehouses, windmills and modern architecture. En route, there are plenty of places to moor for a picnic or a coffee break. Quiet, atmospheric and surprisingly close by.

    More about boating

Shopping in Zaandam - from city to village street

From the lively centre of Zaandam to atmospheric villages with unique shops: in the Zaan region, you shop with character. Stroll through cosy streets, discover local boutiques and take time for a coffee stop along the way.

See all shopping areas
Photo on the Gedempte gracht in Zaandam of shoppers.

Events in the region - Always something to do

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