Dam Square vs Zaanse Schans

A side-by-side look at two of the Netherlands' favourite attractions — so you can pick the one that fits your trip.

Attractions · Amsterdam

Dam Square

4.5 · 28,100 reviews

Amsterdam's historic central square, home to the Royal Palace and National Monument.

View Dam Square
Attractions · Amsterdam

Zaanse Schans

4.7 · 38,210 reviews

Working windmills, wooden houses and a clog factory just 20 minutes from Amsterdam.

View Zaanse Schans
Feature
Dam Square
Zaanse Schans
Ticket price
Free
€18
Duration
1.5 hrs
1.5 hrs
Family friendly
4/5
3/5
Accessibility
Full step-free
Full step-free
Location
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Rating
4.5★
4.7★
Reviews
28,100
38,210
Popularity
100/100
100/100
Setting
Outdoor
Indoor & Outdoor
Best season
April – September
April – September

AI recommendations

Smart picks generated from ratings, reviews, price and setting.

Best for families
Dam Square

Dam Square scores 4/5 for family-friendliness with kid-friendly facilities.

Best for couples
Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans edges ahead with 4.7★ and a more intimate experience.

Best for rainy days
Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans is indoor & outdoor and a smart choice when it pours.

Best value
Dam Square

Free for 1.5 hrs — strong euro-per-hour on Dam Square.

Most popular
Zaanse Schans

Zaanse Schans leads with 38,210 reviews from travelers.

Compare other attractionsVisit Dam SquareVisit Zaanse Schans