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Museum · Zaandam, Holanda Setentrional
Zaans Museum
Museum of the history of the Zaan region, located within the Zaanse Schans, with costumes, painted furniture, objects from the area's major industries and the Verkade Experience, about biscuits and chocolate.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Zaans Museum
The Zaans Museum is located at the entrance to the Zaanse Schans and tells the story of life and industry in the Zaan region. It opened in 1998 in a modern glass-and-wood building with views of the windmills, and received a mention in the European Museum of the Year award in 2001.
The collection displays regional costumes, furniture painted in the Zaan style, and household objects from the area, as well as items from companies founded there, such as Verkade, Honig, Albert Heijn and Bruynzeel. The museum also has a painting by Claude Monet, who painted the region in 1871.
Inside the museum is the Verkade Experience, which houses the collection of the Verkade factory, of biscuits and chocolate. There are old production lines that operate for visitors, posters, tins and the brand's sticker albums, as well as games where the visitor plays the role of a factory worker.
The museum also manages historic houses in the Zaanse Schans itself, such as the cooperage and the weaver's house, and the Czaar Peterhuisje in central Zaandam.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1½ to 2 hours, including the Verkade Experience.
Best time
Midday, as a break between the windmills, or on a rainy day. The museum is usually open every day; check opening times. The ticket office accepts cards only.
How to get there
It is at the entrance to the Zaanse Schans, about a 15-minute walk from Zaandijk Zaanse Schans station. The bus stop from Amsterdam Centraal is next to the museum.
Tip
The museum café has windows overlooking the windmill panorama. If you plan to visit several museums in the Zaanse Schans, check whether the combined ticket includes the Zaans Museum.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Zaans Museum
Where is the Verkade Experience located?
Inside the Zaans Museum, in the Zaanse Schans. The visit is included with the museum ticket.
Does the museum accept cash?
The ticket office only accepts debit or credit cards. Check before you go.
Is it a good activity for children?
Yes. The working biscuit and chocolate machines and the games in the Verkade Experience usually appeal to children.