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Zaanse Schans

Is it doable to see the Anne Frank house in the early morning and then take the train to Zaanse Schans and return by train for an approximate 4:30 train to Germany? I realize it will be a tight time frame but was hoping it's possible. Thank you

Posted by
333 posts

I'd say no. You will likely have to choose one or the other. Zaanse Schans is lovely and interesting, but takes a good half day with travel. I went a few years ago as a day tour with a tour company. We loved ZS but it can get crowded and to do it justice you need a few hours there and your travel time. For the Anne Frank Huis you'll want to buy your tickets online ASAP and choose an entry time, or you'll spend your whole day in line! A suggestion is to do the Anne Frank Huis, then just a few doors down you can buy tickets for a canal ride (which will take you past one old windmill). Then come back and just walk around the Princengracht area, which is very pretty! There are restaurants and shops and the lovely Ode Kirk next door. You didn't say if you were there for a few days or just this one..? Anyway, that would be my suggestion. Technically, you might be able to do both, but I can't see how you could do both pleasantly and in a worthwhile manner with those time constraints.
Lisa

Posted by
2487 posts

It is doable provided you have a well-timed ticket for the Anne Frank Huis (early morning or early afternoon). Without a ticket it's impossible with your schedule: the ticket sale starts at 15:30.
The Zaanse Schans doesn't take much time. It's a 20-minute train ride from Amsterdam Centraal to Zaandijk-Zaanse Schans, leaving every 15 mins. From the railway station it's a short walk. You can stay as long or as short as you want.

Posted by
318 posts

If I recall, Anne Frank house was open well into the evening. One option might be Zaanse Schans first thing in the morning, and you'd be back in plenty of time for an early-evening appointment at Anne Frank house.

Posted by
38 posts

Thank you all for your advice. It definitely helps to make a decision. I will give all this info to my family and we will have to decide. I will definitely be getting tickets for the Anne Frank house 2 months in advance. Thank you!