Giethoorn is a charming Dutch town that’s often called the "Venice of the Netherlands." On this small-group tour from Amsterdam, you’ll have the chance to experience its tranquil beauty firsthand. You’ll travel comfortably by minivan and enjoy a serene boat ride through the town’s picturesque canals, surrounded by historic thatched-roof cottages. With free time for independent sightseeing, you’ll be able to explore Giethoorn’s must-see attractions and get a true taste of its enchanting atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape or a unique cultural experience, this tour promises to…

Contents show

About Your Stay

This small-group tour from Amsterdam takes visitors to the picturesque village of Giethoorn, known as the "Venice of the Netherlands."
The tour includes a serene 1-hour boat ride through Giethoorn’s canals, providing an immersive experience of the village’s natural beauty and historic thatched-roof cottages.
After the boat ride, guests have free time to explore Giethoorn’s pedestrian-only center and visit key attractions recommended by the guide.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 people and includes comfortable Mercedes minivan transfer from Amsterdam addresses.
The tour departs from Amsterdam and ends at the Centraal railway station, with a moderate level of physical fitness required for participation.

Tour Overview

The Giethoorn Small-Group Tour from Amsterdam offers travelers a chance to explore the picturesque "Venice of the Netherlands" in a personalized setting.

This small-group tour, limited to a maximum of 8 people, provides a comfortable Mercedes minivan transfer from Amsterdam addresses.

Giethoorn, known for its charming canals and serene atmosphere, is an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts.

The tour includes a 1-hour boat ride, allowing guests to experience the town both on land and water.

With free time for independent sightseeing and a included lunch, this tour provides a well-rounded and memorable experience.

Looking for more options in Amsterdam? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Highlights of the Itinerary

A 1-hour boat ride through Giethoorn’s picturesque canals provides an intimate perspective of the town.

Gliding past historic thatched-roof cottages and bridges, you’ll witness the village’s serene atmosphere first-hand.

During free time, explore Giethoorn’s pedestrian-only center, strolling along cobblestone paths and admiring the quaint shops and cafés.

For a change of pace, the tour also offers the option to end at the lively beach town of Zandvoort aan Zee.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy an included lunch, with dining recommendations from your knowledgeable guide to enhance your culinary experience.

Boat Ride Through Giethoorn

As the highlight of the tour, travelers embark on a serene 1-hour boat ride through Giethoorn’s picturesque canals.

The boat glides peacefully past thatched-roof cottages, wooden bridges, and lush greenery. Captains provide insights into the village’s unique history and lifestyle.

Guests can admire the tranquil waterways and capture stunning photographs. The boat ride offers a chance to explore Giethoorn at a leisurely pace, immersing visitors in the village’s natural beauty and charming ambiance.

This intimate water-based experience is a quintessential part of any visit to the "Venice of the Netherlands".

Independent Sightseeing Opportunities

After the boat ride, guests have ample free time to explore Giethoorn’s charming streets and sights independently. The village is renowned for its car-free canals, picturesque thatched-roof cottages, and quaint bridges. To make the most of this time, the tour guide provides recommendations on must-see attractions and the best spots for photography.

Top Sights	Key Highlights
De Oude Aarde	Local craft shop showcasing traditional Giethoorn pottery
Fanfare Café	Cozy waterfront café with scenic canal views
Sint Urbanus Church	17th-century Dutch Reformed church known for its wooden interior
De Bloemendaeler Molen	Historic windmill located on the village’s edge

This free time allows travelers to truly enjoy the tranquil, picturesque ambiance that defines Giethoorn.

Dining Recommendations

What does the tour guide recommend for dining in Giethoorn?

The guide provides specific dining recommendations to tour participants. They suggest trying local delicacies like croquettes, poffertjes (mini pancakes), and fresh fish.

The guide knows the best spots to enjoy these regional specialties in a charming setting along the canals.

Lunch is included in the tour, but guests also have free time to explore Giethoorn’s cafes and restaurants independently.

Whether it’s a cozy waterfront cafe or a historic inn, the guide ensures travelers savor the unique culinary experiences that make Giethoorn a beloved destination.

There's plenty more to explore in Amsterdam

Meeting Point and Logistics

Where does the tour start? The tour departs from the NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace, located at Prins Hendrikkade 59-72 in Amsterdam.

Travelers will meet at this central location, where they’ll board the comfortable Mercedes minivan for the journey to Giethoorn. The tour ends at Amsterdam Centraal railway station, so guests can easily continue their day in the city.

The tour starts promptly at 10:30 AM. Confirmation of the booking is received unless it’s within 2 hours of the start time.

The tour includes a 1-hour boat ride in the picturesque "Venice of the Netherlands," as well as free time for independent exploration.

Tour Details and Requirements

The tour includes a 1-hour boat ride through the picturesque canals of Giethoorn, allowing guests to explore the village both by land and water.

During the free time, visitors can wander the charming streets and enjoy independent sightseeing.

Lunch is provided, with specific dining recommendations from the guide.

While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required.

The tour requires a minimum group size of 5 people, and guests can cancel up to 24 hours prior for a full refund.

Prices start from $121.75 per person.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

The tour consistently received high ratings from travelers, with 99% of the 278 reviews recommending it. Guests praised the organization, guide knowledge, and flexibility of the experience.

Tour guide Aku was particularly noted for their friendliness, attentiveness, and ability to adapt the itinerary based on weather conditions. Travelers appreciated the small group size, which created a more intimate experience.

Positive remarks highlighted the beauty of Giethoorn and the peacefulness of the boat ride, making it an ideal photography location.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There’s no minimum age requirement specified for this tour. It’s suitable for travelers of all ages, though infants may require car seats. The tour’s focus is on the picturesque Giethoorn canal village, making it an enjoyable experience for families and individuals alike.

Is Gratuity for the Guide Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price doesn’t include gratuity for the guide. It’s customary to tip the guide at your discretion based on the quality of service provided.

Can Passengers Bring Their Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Ride?

Passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the boat ride. The tour guide allows and encourages guests to pack a picnic lunch or snacks to enjoy during the scenic canal cruise through Giethoorn.

Are There Any Language Options Available for the Tour Besides English?

The tour offers multi-lingual options beyond just English. Dutch, French, German, and Spanish-speaking guides are available upon request when booking the tour, providing a more personalized experience for non-English speakers.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Requests or Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for special requests or private groups. Travelers can coordinate with the tour provider to tailor the itinerary and experience to their preferences. Private tours may offer more flexibility and personalization.

Final Verdict On This Stay

This small-group tour offers a unique opportunity to experience the enchanting charm of Giethoorn, often referred to as the "Venice of the Netherlands." Guests can enjoy a serene boat ride through the town’s picturesque canals, surrounded by historic thatched-roof cottages, and have free time for independent sightseeing. With a comfortable Mercedes minivan transportation and a maximum of 8 participants, this immersive experience provides a tranquil and intimate adventure.