From Zaandijk you probably have the most beautiful view of the Zaanse Schans, which is located opposite. And of all the villages within the municipality you will find the most Zaan-style façades here, particularly in Gortershoek (a conservation village). They show up everywhere: the green painted showcase façades with white frames. Not to mention the De Bleeke Dood corn mill: this early industrial monument is a true work of art in itself. Also, take a look inside the Honig Breethuis at number eighty, where part of the collection of the Zaans Museum can be seen, and gives a good idea of how the people here lived a few centuries ago.
But back to the Zaanse Schans, which lies on the other side of the Zaan. Once devised to save endangered Zaandam buildings from oblivion, this old neighbourhood in the Kalverpolder has since grown into a major attraction. People travel from across the globe to see this unique piece of the Netherlands - with its windmills, wooden houses and workshops - with their own eyes. It is here that Holland in the 18th and 19th centuries are brought back to life. Walk past the warehouse where clogs are made or enjoy the aroma of fresh bread at the bakery museum. Also not to be missed: the cheese dairy, tin works and the various windmills of course!