Giethoorn and Afsluitdijk Day Trip From Amsterdam With Boat Trip

Giethoorn and Afsluitdijk, two of the Netherlands’ most captivating destinations, offer a unique day trip from Amsterdam. Discover the quaint, canal-lined village of Giethoorn, known as the "Venice of the North," before marveling at the impressive engineering feat of the Afsluitdijk. This guided excursion promises a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural wonder, delivering an unforgettable experience for those seeking to delve deeper into the Netherlands’ hidden gems.

Key Points

• Explore the picturesque "Little Venice of the Netherlands" – Giethoorn, accessible only by boat or on foot, with its thatched-roof farmhouses and serene canals.
• Discover the charming ambiance of Giethoorn, with its wooden bridges, quaint cottages, and peaceful atmosphere, providing a tranquil escape from Amsterdam.
• Journey through the Dutch countryside, including a stop at the iconic Afsluitdijk, a 20-mile causeway that connects North Holland and Friesland and serves as a critical flood barrier.
• Appreciate the engineering marvel of the Afsluitdijk and its role in safeguarding the Netherlands against the North Sea.
• Book a day trip from Amsterdam with a maximum group size of 80 travelers, including a boat cruise in Giethoorn, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

Exploring the "Little Venice" of the Netherlands

Giethoorn, the idyllic Dutch village often referred to as the "Little Venice of the Netherlands," captivates visitors with its quaint charm and tranquil waterways.

Accessible only by boat or on foot, the town’s car-free streets are lined with charming thatched-roof farmhouses connected by arched wooden bridges.

During the boat tour, travelers glide along the picturesque canals, admiring the peaceful setting and unique architecture.

With its serene atmosphere and picture-perfect scenery, Giethoorn offers a delightful escape from the bustling city, allowing visitors to enjoy the Netherlands’ rural beauty and timeless ambiance.

Discovering the Wonders of Giethoorn

As visitors arrive in this tranquil Dutch hamlet, they are immediately captivated by Giethoorn’s charming ambiance and unique character.

Wooden bridges arch over the picturesque canals, connecting the quaint thatched-roof cottages and farmhouses. The only sounds are the gentle lapping of water and the occasional motor of a small boat.

Visitors can explore the car-free village by foot or hire a whisper-quiet electric boat, gliding past the lush greenery and historic dwellings.

With its serene atmosphere and picture-perfect scenery, Giethoorn offers a peaceful escape from the bustling streets of Amsterdam, transporting visitors to a bygone era.

A Journey Through the Dutch Countryside

Departing from the heart of Amsterdam, the day trip transports visitors through the picturesque Dutch countryside, offering a glimpse into the nation’s remarkable engineering feats and enchanting rural landscapes.

The scenic journey includes:

• A 1.5-hour bus ride past windmills, polders, and quaint villages
• A stop at the iconic Afsluitdijk, a 20-mile dike that protects the region from flooding
• Admiring the engineering marvel that connects North Holland and Friesland
• Enjoying the serene boat cruise through the charming canals of Giethoorn
• Exploring the car-free village with its wooden bridges and thatched-roof farmhouses.

Marveling at the Afsluitdijk Engineering Feat

Along the scenic route, the tour takes visitors to the iconic Afsluitdijk, an engineering marvel that has protected the region from devastating floods for decades.

This 20-mile (32-km) causeway connects the northern provinces of North Holland and Friesland, forming a critical barrier against the North Sea.

Travelers have the opportunity to make a photo stop and marvel at the sheer scale and impressive design of this feat of Dutch engineering.

The Afsluitdijk’s strategic importance and its role in safeguarding the Netherlands from flooding make it a must-see attraction on this day trip from Amsterdam.

Tour Logistics and Meeting Point

The tour departs from Tours & Tickets Amsterdam, located at De Ruijterkade 34, 1012 AA Amsterdam, with a scheduled departure time of 10:00 am.

The maximum group size is 80 travelers, and the tour is conducted in an air-conditioned coach.

Some key tour logistics to note:

• Confirmation is received at the time of booking
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but is stroller accessible
• The meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour starts
• Exclusions include gratuities, personal expenses, food, and hotel transfers.

Inclusions, Exclusions, and Cancellation Policy

The tour includes transportation via air-conditioned coach and a 1-hour boat cruise through the picturesque waterways of Giethoorn. However, other expenses such as gratuities, personal items, and food and drinks are not covered. Guests have the flexibility to cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience starts without any penalties.

Inclusions	Exclusions	Cancellation Policy
– Transportation – 1-hour boat tour	– Gratuities – Personal expenses – Food and drinks	– Free cancellation up to 24 hours before experience starts

Traveler Reviews and Experiences

The tour receives an average rating of 4.2 based on 135 reviews.

Travelers praise the beauty of Giethoorn and the enjoyable boat cruise:

• Positive feedback on the picturesque village and its unique charm
• Enjoyment of the relaxing boat ride through the canals
• Some critiques on the tour guide’s commentary and lack of stops at the Afsluitdijk
• Suggestions for better management of pick-up locations and additional points of interest during the tour

Despite minor issues, the tour is recommended for its opportunity to experience the Netherlands’ iconic "Little Venice" destination.

Preparing for Your Giethoorn and Afsluitdijk Adventure

What should travelers keep in mind when preparing for their Giethoorn and Afsluitdijk adventure?

Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as the tour involves walking through Giethoorn’s car-free village.

Bring a light jacket or sweater, as the weather can be variable, especially on the boat ride.

Pack any necessary medications, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the picturesque landscapes.

Be prepared for a full day of sightseeing, with ample time to explore Giethoorn and make photo stops at the iconic Afsluitdijk.

Lastly, bring some cash for any personal expenses, such as snacks or souvenirs, as the tour does not include meals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size Limit for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is 80 travelers. This information is provided under the "Tour Logistics" section of the knowledge given.

Can Wheelchair and Stroller Users Join the Tour?

The tour is stroller accessible, but not wheelchair accessible. Group size is limited to a maximum of 80 travelers. Visitors with mobility needs should inquire about tour accommodations before booking.

Are Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off Included in the Tour?

Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included in the tour. The tour departs from and returns to the specified meeting point in Amsterdam, without any additional hotel transportation provided.

Are Food and Drinks Provided During the Boat Cruise?

No, food and drinks are not provided during the boat cruise. The tour package includes only the 1-hour boat tour through Giethoorn’s waterways. Any food or drinks must be purchased separately by the travelers.

Can I Make Changes to My Booking After the Tour Is Booked?

Yes, you can make changes to your booking after it is made, but there may be additional fees or restrictions. It’s best to contact the tour operator directly to inquire about their specific change and cancellation policies.

The Sum Up

Set out on a captivating day trip from Amsterdam to explore the picturesque Giethoorn and marvel at the engineering prowess of the Afsluitdijk. Indulge in a serene boat cruise through Giethoorn’s charming canals, surrounded by thatched-roof farmhouses and wooden bridges. Then, witness the grandeur of the Afsluitdijk, a crucial barrier against the North Sea. This excursion offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and architectural marvels.