Stroll amongst historic warehouses and trendy quays
The Municipality of Zaanstad invites you on a journey of discovery full of contrasts. Explore the revitalised city centre of Zaandam with its surprising shops and canals, or cycle along the Zaanwand for a glimpse of the impressive industrial heritage. The routes take you from the tourist bustle around the windmills to the tranquil streets of Haaldersbroek and the vast polders of the Guisveld. And there’s always a tasty stop along the way: a traditionally baked pancake by the windmill, a freshly roasted coffee in an old warehouse, or a sunny terrace on the quay where large seagoing vessels still sail majestically past.
A stage for Zaanse flair and creativity
With a heart that beats for innovation and craftsmanship, Zaanstad is buzzing with a drive for renewal. From the colourful Zaanferry connecting the city with Amsterdam to cultural hubs in old factories and the lively events on the Dam – this is where the Zaanse identity is celebrated. Culture lovers lose themselves in the Zaans Museum or the Czaar Peterhuisje, whilst foodies indulge in the many ‘food concepts’ that evoke the region’s rich culinary history. Here, the scent of the past and the taste of tomorrow meet on every street corner.
The whole region on the horizon
Whether you want to sail along the historic Zaanwand, go shopping in the colourful city centre or seek out the tranquillity of the surrounding peat meadows; in Zaanstad, the world is at your feet. The city is the perfect base: compact enough to explore on foot, yet with the expanse of the polder as its back garden. Taste authentic Zaan mustard, discover hidden galleries in old warehouses or look out over the river that gives the city its soul. Within fifteen minutes, you’ll be in the heart of nature or in the heart of the capital.
Zaanstad is quirky, rugged and unspoilt, with a charm found nowhere else in the Netherlands. Here you can feel the pulse of industry and the tranquillity of its heritage. Choose your route and discover the colourful heart of the Zaan region!
