From Amsterdam: Giethoorn Day Trip with Canal & Village Tour

Quick overview: What makes this tour special?

This highly-rated day trip from Amsterdam offers an authentic glimpse into the peaceful beauty of Giethoorn, famously called the ‘Venice of the North.’ For just $65 per person, you’ll enjoy a combination of luxury transportation, a guided canal cruise, and ample free time to wander through the charming, car-free streets.

What stands out most? The personalized touch of friendly guides like Mike, the opportunity to sample delicious Dutch cheeses, and the stunning scenery that makes this village such a popular escape from the city buzz.

A slight consideration? The lack of included lunch means you’ll want to bring snacks or plan for a quick bite in Giethoorn.

This tour is ideal for those who love nature, quaint villages, and relaxed sightseeing—perfect for photographers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone needing a peaceful retreat from Amsterdam’s lively streets.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Top-rated experience with consistently glowing reviews and a 4.9/5 rating.
• Inclusive canal cruise with informative commentary from experienced skippers.
• Free time allows for wandering, shopping, and sampling local treats.
• Cheese tasting at Henri Willig adds a delicious, authentic Dutch touch.
• Comfortable transport from Amsterdam with a well-organized pick-up point.
• Affordable value considering the transportation, cruise, and tasting included.

A detailed look at the Giethoorn day trip experience

How the tour begins: Easy and convenient pickup

The adventure starts at restaurant Market 27 at Metro station Noord, just a 4-minute ride from Amsterdam Central Station via the North-South Line (M52). This location is practical for city travelers, and the trip departs around 9 am, giving you a head start before the crowds arrive. Many reviews highlight the smooth check-in and friendly staff, making the beginning of the day stress-free.

The journey: Comfortable, scenic ride

In about 1 hour and 20 minutes, the luxury coach whisks you out of the city, heading toward the tranquil North Holland countryside. The coach ride itself has been praised for its ease and comfort, turning the transfer into part of the experience rather than a chore.

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First stop: The cheese tasting at Henri Willig

Right next to the boat dock, you’ll find the Henri Willig cheese store. Here, you’ll get to sample a wide range of authentic Dutch cheeses, which is a delightful introduction to the local flavors. Reviewers have mentioned that the cheese tasting is generous and provides insight into Dutch dairy traditions—an unexpected highlight for many.

The canal cruise: A highlight of the trip

Next comes the main event: the canal trip through Giethoorn. Led by an experienced skipper, you’ll glide along the peaceful waterways, passing wooden bridges, lush gardens, and traditional thatched-roof houses.

One review enthusiastically described it as a “scenic cruise” that felt like being in a fairy tale, emphasizing the calm and picturesque nature of the village. The captain shared stories about the local history and culture, making the cruise both relaxing and educational. Because the boat operates with a friendly guide, you’ll find yourself engaged, even if you’re not familiar with Dutch villages.

Free time: Explore at your own pace

Post-cruise, you’ll have ample free time to walk around, explore the quaint streets, peek into local shops, or relax in cafes. Reviewers like Becca noted that this time allowed her to see parts of Giethoorn she might not have otherwise, making it an opportunity for casual wandering and photography.

Several visitors appreciated the well-balanced schedule, where the cruise length was perfect—not too long to be tiring, but enough to soak in the scenery. Others mentioned that arriving early meant they avoided crowds, a tip recommended by guides like Mike, who shared that starting early helps secure better photos and a quieter experience.

What makes Giethoorn special?

This village’s charm lies in its absence of cars, replaced by canals and footpaths, giving it a peaceful, almost storybook atmosphere. The wooden bridges and lush greenery create a perfect backdrop for memorable photos. The reviews highlight that Giethoorn feels like stepping into a fairytale, with many visitors comparing it to a “mini Venice”—without the gondolas, but just as enchanting.

Final notes: Comfort, timing, and flexibility

The entire day lasts roughly 8 hours, with the return trip wrapping up at the same meeting point. Reviewers like Chris appreciated how the tour’s timing allowed for a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of transportation or planning. The tour’s value is clear—considering the transportation, guided commentary, cheese tasting, and free exploration—most find the price of $65 well worth it.

Authentic insights from previous travelers

Many reviews focus on the quality of guides like Mike, who are described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. For example, Jyotirmay appreciated that Mike went out of his way to help retrieve a lost phone, highlighting the personal care provided.

Guests also praise the relaxing pace and well-organized schedule. Nadia mentioned her “peaceful” experience and how the boat captain’s warmth and humor made the boat ride memorable. Multiple reviews note good value for money—covering transportation, sightseeing, and tasting—making this a cost-effective way to visit Giethoorn without stress.

Practical considerations

While the tour does not include lunch, many reviewers suggest bringing snacks or planning for a quick meal during free time. The meeting point is easy to access, and the early departure is a bonus for avoiding crowds and capturing beautiful photos without many other travelers in the shot.

The group size seems manageable, with many reviewers mentioning a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The timing and punctuality are consistently praised, which is important when fitting in a full day of sightseeing.

Who will love this tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a relaxing escape from the bustling streets of Amsterdam. It’s well-suited for photographers, culture buffs, or anyone wanting to see a quintessential Dutch village without the hassle of organizing transport or tours independently.

Families and couples will appreciate the peaceful setting and the opportunity to wander at their own pace. However, if you’re looking for a luxurious, gourmet experience, this tour might feel more about scenic enjoyment and culture rather than fine dining.

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

Absolutely. For $65, you’re getting a well-organized, authentic experience that combines transportation, guided insights, a scenic boat cruise, and free time to soak in the village’s charm. The positive reviews underscore the professionalism and friendliness of guides like Mike, who go the extra mile to make your day special.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic day out that shows you a different side of the Netherlands—away from the crowded cities—this tour delivers in spades. It’s a fantastic choice whether you’re visiting Amsterdam for a few days or looking to add a memorable side trip to your Dutch adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes luxury coach transportation from a convenient meeting point in Amsterdam to Giethoorn and back.

How long is the drive from Amsterdam?
The journey takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it a manageable day trip with minimal travel fatigue.

What is the meeting point?
The tour departs from restaurant Market 27 at Metro station Noord, just a short metro ride from Amsterdam Central Station.

Can I purchase this tour and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later, allowing flexibility in your travel planning.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat during your free time in Giethoorn.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery, and comfortable shoes for walking around the village.

How long do I get to explore Giethoorn?
After the canal cruise, you’ll have plenty of free time—typically around two to two-and-a-half hours—to explore, shop, or relax.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed pace and scenic nature of the trip make it suitable for most ages, especially those who enjoy gentle walking and boat rides.

This guided day trip to Giethoorn offers a balanced mix of comfort, culture, and stunning scenery—perfect for anyone wanting to see a different side of the Netherlands without fuss. Whether you’re snapping photos on the wooden bridges, sampling Dutch cheeses, or simply soaking in the serenity, this tour promises a peaceful, picture-perfect escape.

You can check availability for your dates here: