Giethoorn: Canal Cruise Giethoorn Village and Lake

Giethoorn, often called the "Venice of the North," offers visitors a unique canal cruise experience. Travelers can glide through the picturesque village and serene lake aboard whisper-quiet electric boats, admiring the thatched-roof houses and historic bridges. With audio guides in multiple languages, the tour provides insights into Giethoorn’s rich heritage. This car-free environment ensures a tranquil journey, showcasing the natural beauty that has captivated visitors for generations. But the true allure of Giethoorn lies in what awaits beyond the canals.

Key Points

• The Giethoorn Canal Cruise offers a unique experience exploring the picturesque car-free village of Giethoorn via its scenic canals and thatched-roof houses.
• The 1-hour tour departs from and returns to the same location, Dominee T.O. Hylkemaweg 1, providing a rundown of Giethoorn’s history and architecture.
• Environmentally-friendly electric boats ensure a comfortable ride, while accessibility features like wheelchair lifts and luggage storage enhance the overall experience.
• Audio guides in 9 languages enhance the learning experience, allowing visitors to enjoy Giethoorn’s 17th- and 18th-century charm.
• The tour is priced from $10.90 per person, with flexible booking and cancellation policies, making it an accessible and convenient option for visitors.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of Giethoorn Tour

Giethoorn, a car-free village in the Netherlands, offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience its picturesque canals and thatched-roof houses on a guided boat tour.

The 1-hour tour departs from Dominee T.O. Hylkemaweg 1 and returns to the same location after a leisurely cruise along the calm waters of Weerribben-Wieden lake.

Guests can learn about the local history from the captain or an audio guide available in 9 languages.

The environmentally-friendly, electric boats provide a comfortable ride regardless of weather, allowing passengers to fully enjoy Giethoorn’s charming 17th- and 18th-century architecture and scenery.

Tour Highlights and Features

One of the highlights of the Giethoorn Canal Cruise is the opportunity to glide past scenic bridges, charming houses, and the calm waters of Weerribben-Wieden lake.

Visitors can learn about local history from the captain or audio guide available in 9 languages. The tour showcases the picturesque 17th- and 18th-century thatched-roof houses and arched foot bridges that make Giethoorn a unique car-free village.

The canal cruise offers audio guides in 9 languages, highlighting Giethoorn’s picturesque 17th- and 18th-century thatched houses and foot bridges.

The environmentally-friendly, whisper-quiet electric boats ensure a comfortable experience regardless of weather.

With features like wheelchair accessibility and luggage storage, the Giethoorn Canal Cruise provides an engaging and accessible way to explore this enchanting destination.

Booking Information

Visitors can book the Giethoorn Canal Cruise from $10.90 per person.

Booking is flexible – you can reserve now and pay later. You can also cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour offers priority ticket scanning at the Giethoorn Company Zwaantje ticket office. This ensures a smooth check-in process.

Visitors should note that larger dogs require a separate ticket costing €1. Luggage storage is available at the check-in ticket box for a fee.

Accessibility and Restrictions

The Giethoorn Canal Cruise is wheelchair accessible via a lift, and electric wheelchairs are allowed on the boats. Dogs are permitted onboard, though larger pups require a ticket. Smoking, large bags, and non-folding strollers aren’t allowed. For storage, there’s a paid luggage area at the check-in ticket box.

| Accessibility | Allowed | Prohibited |

| — | — | — |

| Wheelchair Accessible | Dogs (Lap) | Smoking |

| Electric Wheelchairs | Dogs (Larger, Ticket) | Large Bags |

| Luggage Storage (Paid) | N/A | Non-Folding Strollers |

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Customer Feedback

Customers have rated the Giethoorn Canal Cruise highly, with an overall score of 4.3 out of 5 stars based on 93 reviews.

The Giethoorn Canal Cruise boasts an impressive 4.3-star rating from 93 enthusiastic customer reviews.

Ratings for the guides and transportation both scored 4.5/5, while value for money received 4.4/5.

Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s scenic beauty and informative guides, who provide commentary in 9 languages.

The electric boats, which operate quietly and are environmentally-friendly, also contribute to a comfortable experience regardless of weather conditions.

Exploring Weerribben-Wieden National Park

As the Giethoorn Canal Cruise winds its way through the town’s waterways, passengers have the opportunity to explore the serene Weerribben-Wieden National Park.

This protected wetland area is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including rare bird species and thriving vegetation. Visitors can spot wildlife like waterfowl, deer, and even the elusive otter.

The park’s network of canals and lakes provides a peaceful setting for cruising, canoeing, or simply admiring the picturesque landscapes.

The tranquil environment offers a welcome respite from the bustle of daily life.

Discovering Giethoorn’s Rich History

Although Giethoorn is renowned for its picturesque canals and scenic beauty, the village’s history is equally captivating. Settled in the 13th century by peat cutters, Giethoorn has evolved from a humble farming community to a popular tourist destination.

Some key historical facts about Giethoorn include:

• The village’s name derives from the "goat horns" found in the area’s peat soil.

• Giethoorn was once accessible only by boat, leading to its nickname "Venice of the North".

• Many of Giethoorn’s traditional thatched-roof houses date back to the 17th and 18th centuries.

• The village played a role in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule in the 16th century.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

To make the most of your visit to Giethoorn, there are a few practical tips to keep in mind.

Book your canal cruise in advance to secure your preferred timeslot. Upon arrival, head to the Giethoorn Company Zwaantje ticket office for priority entry.

Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be doing some walking between the boat dock and scenic spots. If traveling with a larger group or those with mobility needs, be sure to request wheelchair-accessible or dog-friendly boats.

Lastly, leave any oversized bags and strollers at your accommodation to avoid restrictions on the boats.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Giethoorn?

The best time to visit Giethoorn is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the charming village is in full bloom. Visitors can enjoy the scenic canals and picturesque landscapes.

Are There Any Discounts Available for the Canal Cruise?

Yes, there are discounts available for the canal cruise. The tour has flexible booking options, and customers can reserve now and pay later, with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?

Passengers are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, they’re advised to avoid consuming messy or smelly items that could disturb other passengers’ experience. The tour company recommends enjoying the scenery and local cuisine during the trip.

Are There Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available on the boats during the Giethoorn tour. Passengers can use the onboard restrooms throughout the 1-hour cruise for their convenience.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Canal Cruise?

While the standard Giethoorn canal cruise lasts 1 hour, extended tours aren’t available. However, visitors can book multiple tickets for back-to-back cruises to spend more time exploring the picturesque village and its waterways.

The Sum Up

Giethoorn’s captivating canal cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience the village’s natural beauty and architectural heritage. Visitors can glide through the tranquil waterways, admiring the charming thatched-roof houses and scenic bridges while learning about the area’s rich history. With its car-free environment and whisper-quiet electric boats, the tour provides a truly immersive and peaceful exploration of this enchanting "Venice of the North."

You can check availability for your dates here: