Giethoorn isn’t just another pretty Dutch village; it’s a place where waterways replace streets, and charming thatched-roof cottages line peaceful canals. What makes Giethoorn such a hit for tours is its authentic, unspoiled charm and the variety of ways to experience it—whether you prefer a quick boat cruise or a full-day adventure combining nearby attractions like Zaanse Schans. Among our favorites is the Amsterdam: Giethoorn Tour with Boat Ride & Afsluitdijk Visit, which offers a comprehensive taste of Dutch scenery plus a scenic drive through iconic landmarks. If you’re short on time, a quick Sightseeing Boat Tour provides a serene hour exploring the canals. For those seeking a personalized experience, a private open boat tour or a luxury private cruise with a local captain offers a relaxed, intimate way to soak in the scenery. Whether you want to glide quietly past windmills or explore with a knowledgeable guide, Giethoorn’s tours cater to all interests and schedules.
1. Amsterdam: Giethoorn Tour with Boat Ride & Afsluitdijk Visit
Ranking high with a 4.4/5 from over 2,500 reviews, this full-day trip is a favorite for those who want a comprehensive Dutch experience. Starting from Amsterdam’s De Ruijterkade, you’ll be transferred for about an hour to Giethoorn. The tour includes a guided walk through the picturesque town, where you’ll see restored farmhouses and traditional wooden bridges. One of the most distinctive features is the cruise past historic windmills, some dating back to the 18th century. The highlight is the boat cruise of North Holland, often aboard the Marken Express, which adds a relaxing element to the day. Also included is a stop at the Afsluitdijk, a marvel of Dutch engineering and a scenic highlight. This tour is ideal if you want a full immersion—combining nature, history, and culture—and are comfortable with a longer, 9-hour day.
Bottom line: This is perfect for travelers seeking an all-in day trip with expert guidance and a mix of sightseeing, boat cruising, and cultural highlights.
2. Giethoorn: Sightseeing Boat Tour
With a 4.6/5 rating from 251 reviews, this quick, 1-hour boat tour is an excellent choice for a relaxing, scenic exploration. Departing from Grand Café Henri Willig, the tour takes you through Giethoorn’s famous canals, often called the “Venice of the Netherlands”. As the guide shares stories about the heritage and culture of this unique village, you’ll float past charming cottages and lush surroundings. The boat is small enough to feel intimate, and the ride offers stunning views of Giethoornse Lake. Afterward, you can visit the nearby cheese shop, adding a tasty local touch. It’s a great option for travelers who want a short, leisurely experience without the commitment of a full-day tour.
Bottom line: Ideal if you want a quick, scenic escape into Giethoorn’s waterways and a taste of local cheese.
3. 1 Hour Private open boat tour with local captain
Rated an impressive 4.9/5 from 15 reviews, this private, one-hour boat tour offers flexibility and intimacy. Departing from Zuiderpad 14a, you’ll cruise through Giethoorn’s narrow canals on a new open-roof boat with soft cushions, perfect for warm days. The tour is led by an experienced local captain who can customize your experience, answer questions, and share insider tips. It’s an excellent choice for small groups, couples, or families who want a stress-free, personalized ride. Many travelers appreciate the unhurried pace and the chance to truly relax on the water, away from crowded boats.
Review highlights include comments like “the experience was simply superb,” and “the charming canals, picturesque cottages, and peaceful atmosphere created a truly magical experience.”
Bottom line: This private tour offers a tailored, relaxed way to see Giethoorn’s waterways—perfect for couples or small groups wanting a personal touch.
4. Giethoorn: Canal Cruise & lake Tour & Sightseeing Village
This 3-hour tour, rated 4.1/5 from 32 reviews, combines a cozy boat cruise with free time for exploration. Beginning at Dominee T.O. Hylkemaweg 15, you’ll enjoy an adjustable-window boat ride in heated comfort, allowing you to see Giethoorn’s beauty regardless of the weather. The guide provides insights into the village’s secrets and stories while you cruise, and afterward, you’re given a map to explore on your own. This setup is ideal if you enjoy a guided experience but also want time to wander, shop, or take photos at your own pace.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a guided cruise with some flexible free exploration afterward.
5. 1 Hour Luxury Private Closed Boat Tour with Local Guide
Rated 4.6/5, this luxury one-hour private cruise is perfect for travelers looking for comfort and exclusivity. Departing from Zuiderpad 14a, you’ll cruise in a heated boat with big windows and soft cushions, ensuring a cozy experience even on cooler days. Led by a local captain, the tour focuses on the most picturesque parts of Giethoorn—houses, wildlife, and the tranquil lake. Many reviewers mention how stress-free and charming the experience is, especially with the personalized attention.
Bottom line: Ideal for couples or small groups seeking a luxurious, intimate water tour with a local guide.
6. 10-Hour Day Tour to Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn
Holding a 4.7/5 rating, this all-day tour is for those who want to see more than just Giethoorn. Starting at Prins Hendrikkade 59, it combines visits to Zaanse Schans’s windmills and artisan demonstrations with a boat tour in Giethoorn. The day includes time for exploring the windmill village and sampling Dutch cheese and clogs. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a bit of everything—culture, scenery, and history—without the hassle of planning multiple trips. The 4-hour time in Giethoorn means you can soak in the village’s charms at a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a full day of Dutch highlights, especially if you’re eager to combine windmills and water villages.
7. 2 Hour Luxury Private Closed Boat Tour with Local Guide
This extended private cruise, rated 4.6/5, offers two hours of peaceful exploration around Giethoorn’s waterways. Departing from Zuiderpad 14a, you’ll enjoy the same luxurious amenities as the one-hour version but with more time to discover hidden corners, wildlife, and beautiful houses. The heated boat, big windows, and soft cushions make it an ideal choice for a leisurely, intimate experience. This tour suits those who want a deeper look at Giethoorn’s scenery without rushing.
Bottom line: Great for travelers who want a more in-depth private water experience in a comfortable setting.
8. Amsterdam: Windmills village & Giethoorn Private Tour by Car
Rated 4.7/5, this 10-hour private car tour offers flexibility and comfort. Beginning with a visit to Zaanse Schans, you’ll explore windmills and artisan workshops. Afterward, the journey continues to Giethoorn, dubbed the “Little Venice” of the Netherlands. The tour includes a guided village walk to learn about its history and culture. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer personalized transportation and want to see both iconic windmills and the water village in one day.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a private, all-inclusive experience with expert guidance.
9. From Amsterdam: Explore Giethoorn Private Guided Tour by Car
This 8-hour private car tour is an excellent way to relax and absorb the sights of Giethoorn. The guide takes you on a comfortable ride through the village, sharing stories along the way. It’s especially suited for visitors who prefer personalized, stress-free exploration with a focus on local life and hidden corners.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a relaxed, narrated journey rather than a busy itinerary.
10. Giethoorn centre: Private tour with local tourguide
Rated a perfect 5/5, this one-hour private boat tour in a luxury vessel is perfect for a quick, luxurious taste of Giethoorn’s waterways and city center. The small group size (up to 6 people) means a highly personalized experience. The guide takes you through both urban and nature areas, making it a flexible, private experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a short, personalized water tour with a friendly guide.
11. Private CUS Tour: Giethoorn & Windmill Zaanse
Rated 5/5, this customizable private tour offers tailored experiences from Amsterdam, with options to visit Zaanse Schans’s windmills and Giethoorn. The tour includes a private transfer, canal cruise, and visits to cheese and clog factories. You can customize the route to suit your interests, making it a flexible choice for small groups or families.
Bottom line: Excellent for travelers wanting a custom, private day trip with personalized stops.
12. Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn Private Tour + 1-Hr Canal Cruise
This half-day tour (around 6 hours), rated 4.7/5, combines a visit to Zaanse Schans’s windmills and cheese shop with a private canal cruise in Giethoorn. Starting from Amsterdam, you’ll spend about 1.5 hours in Zaanse Schans, then enjoy a 1-hour private boat ride in Giethoorn. It’s perfect if you want a well-rounded, flexible experience without a full-day commitment.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a balanced mix of windmill sightseeing and canal cruising.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Giethoorn, consider your budget, time availability, and interests. For a full-day experience with plenty of sights, the Amsterdam: Giethoorn Tour with Boat Ride & Afsluitdijk Visit offers a detailed overview. If you’re after a quick, peaceful cruise, the Sightseeing Boat Tour is perfect, especially for families or those on a schedule. For personalized, luxury experiences, the private boat tours (1-hour private open boat, 2-hour private cruise) are excellent choices.
Also, if you’re looking to combine Giethoorn with other Dutch highlights, the 10-hour day tour to Zaanse Schans and Giethoorn provides a well-rounded day, while private car tours (Windmills village & Giethoorn) offer the most flexibility.
Book early, especially in the high season, to secure your preferred time slot — these tours fill up fast.
To sum it up, Giethoorn offers a diverse array of tours suited for all kinds of travelers—from quick escapes to comprehensive day trips. Whether you want a luxurious private cruise, a guided cultural walk, or a full scenic tour combining windmills and water villages, there’s something here for you. For the best experience, match your choice to your interests, budget, and schedule—and don’t forget to book ahead to avoid missing out on these wonderful Dutch experiences.