The early morning light reflects off the peaceful canals as locals begin their day in Giethoorn, often called the “Venice of the North.” This enchanting Dutch village, where canals replace streets and boats replace cars, offers a serene escape from Amsterdam’s urban energy. With its thatched-roof cottages, wooden bridges, and lush gardens, Giethoorn has captured the hearts of travelers worldwide.
I’ve visited Giethoorn several times, and each trip reveals new charms of this unique car-free village. Based on my experiences, I’ve compiled these essential tips to help you plan the perfect day trip from Amsterdam. From transportation options to hidden photo spots and local cuisine recommendations, this guide will ensure your visit to this Dutch gem is memorable and hassle-free.
1. Choose the Best Transportation Option
Getting to Giethoorn from Amsterdam requires some planning, but the journey is straightforward, with several options to match your travel style:
By Car (My Top Recommendation)
- Driving takes approximately 1.5-2 hours, covering about 75 miles
- Route: Take the A1 highway toward Amersfoort, then merge onto A28 toward Zwolle
- After passing Zwolle, exit onto the N331 road leading directly to Giethoorn
- Free parking is available at the entrance to the village, just a 5-minute walk from the canals
- Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and visit nearby attractions
By Public Transportation
- Take a train from Amsterdam Central Station to Steenwijk (approximately 2 hours)
- From Steenwijk, catch bus number 70 to the “Blauwe Hand” bus stop for Giethoorn.
- Total journey time: Around 2.5-3 hours each way
- Cost: About €25 one way per person
Guided Tours
- Several companies offer day tours from Amsterdam to Giethoorn
- Tours typically include round-trip transportation and a boat tour
- Prices range from €75-€100 per person
- The best option if you prefer convenience and don’t want to navigate public transport
If you’re traveling with 2+ people, renting a car is often more economical than public transportation while offering greater flexibility. Just be sure to book your rental in advance during peak season (April-August).
2. Time Your Visit to Avoid the Crowds
Giethoorn’s beauty has made it increasingly popular in recent years, with over 200,000 tourists visiting annually. To experience the village’s tranquil charm without the crowds:
Best Months to Visit:
- September-October: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, beautiful autumn colors
- May-June: Lovely spring flowers and warmer weather before the summer holiday rush
- Avoid April: Peak season due to tulip season and spring holidays
Best Time of Day:
- Early Morning (Before 10 AM): Arrive early to experience peaceful canals before tour groups
- Late Afternoon (After 3 PM): Most tour buses depart by 3-4 PM, leaving the village considerably quieter
- Consider an Overnight Stay: Experience magical early mornings and evenings when day-trippers are gone.
If you must visit during peak season, schedule your trip for a weekday rather than a weekend when domestic tourism adds to the crowds. Giethoorn’s tranquility is its main charm, so timing your visit right makes all the difference.
3. Explore the Village by Boat
Experiencing Giethoorn from the water is essential – how the village was designed to be seen. There are several boating options to consider:
Rent Your Own Electric Boat
- Cost:€15-25 per hour, depending on boat size and season
- No special license required – boats move very slowly (approximately 6 km/h)
- Rental locations throughout the village, with higher concentrations near the village center
- Most rentals require a cash deposit (around €20-50)
- High season (April-October): Booking recommended, especially on weekends
- Low season (November-March): Fewer boats are available, and some rental places close
Guided Canal Cruises
- Cost: Around €10 for adults, €5 for children
- Duration: Typically 60 minutes
- Includes commentary about the village’s history and interesting facts
- Convenient for those who don’t want to navigate themselves
Insider Tips:
- Bring cash, as some smaller rental companies offer discounts for cash payments.
- Stock up on drinks and snacks at the Albert Heijn supermarket before entering the villa.ge
- Most boats are equipped with umbrellas for unexpected rain showers
- The quietest canals are found at the northern end of the village
- Book your boat for later in the afternoon when many tour groups have already left
Piloting your boat allows you to explore at your own pace, pause for photos, and venture into quieter canals where larger tour boats can’t go. It’s a relaxing experience even for inexperienced “captains.”
See Related: Most Famous Landmarks in the Netherlands
4. Walk the Scenic Footpaths and Bridges
Contrary to popular belief, Giethoorn does have footpaths and small bridges connecting the various parts of the village. Walking these paths offers a different perspective from the boat tours:
Best Walking Routes:
- Binnenpad: The main walking path that runs parallel to the central canal, offering stunning views
- Northern Village Loop: Less crowded area with beautiful historic cottages
- Dwarsgracht Area: A short distance from the main village with equally picturesque canals but fewer tourists
Walking Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths can be uneven in places
- Some bridges are quite narrow and steep – take care when crossing
- Most of the village can be explored on foot in 1-2 hours at a leisurely pace
- Walk beyond the central tourist area for a more authentic experience
- Many gardens are private property, so admire them from the paths
The footpaths provide excellent vantage points for photography, especially of the iconic small bridges crossing the canals. While biking is possible, the narrow paths and crowds make it challenging during peak hours, so walking is the better option for exploring the village.
5. Capture the Perfect Photos
Giethoorn is extraordinarily photogenic, with picture-perfect scenes around every corner. Here are the best spots to capture memorable photos:
Top Photo Locations:
- Binnenpad’s Central Bridges: Classic views of thatched cottages along the canal
- Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus: Historic farmhouses with beautiful gardens
- Northern Canal Bend: Fewer people and a lovely curve in the canal with multiple bridges
- Bovenwijde Lake: Wider views of the landscape where the canals open into the lake
- Sixty Bridge (Zestig Roeden): One of the most photographed spots with charming cottages
Photography Tips:
- Golden Hour: Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (6-8 PM in summer) offers the best light
- Reflections: Still water in the canals creates beautiful mirror reflections of cottages and bridges
- Go Beyond: Walk at least 10 minutes from the village center for less crowded shots.
- Unique Angles: Try shooting from bridges or your boat for different perspectives
- Seasonal Variations: Spring offers flowered gardens, while autumn provides colorful foliage
Remember to be respectful when photographing private homes. The residents of Giethoorn are accustomed to tourists but appreciate considerate behavior. Some of the most charming photos come from simply wandering the less traveled paths and discovering your perfect angle.
6. Sample Local Dutch Cuisine
After exploring Giethoorn’s picturesque canals, you’ll likely work up an appetite. The village offers several dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants:
Recommended Eateries:
- Restaurant de Lindenhof: Fine dining with authentic Dutch dishes and a beautiful canal-side location
- De Grachthof: Cozy spot for Dutch pancakes and traditional apple pie with fresh mint tea
- Fratelli: Family-friendly Italian restaurant with reasonable prices and outdoor seating
- Snackbar Geythorn: Perfect for a quick bite of Dutch fries with mayonnaise (bring cash)
- De Witte Hoeve: Pancake house and cafe in a historic building, offering local Giethoorn beer
Must-Try Dutch Specialties:
- Poffertjes: Mini pancakes dusted with powdered sugar
- Stroopwafels: Thin waffle cookies with caramel filling
- Bitterballen: Savory meat-based snacks, typically served with mustard
- Dutch Apple Pie: Deeper and richer than American versions, often served with whipped cream
- Local Cheese: Look for cheese shops offering samples of regional varieties
During peak hours (12-2 PM), restaurants can fill quickly. Consider making reservations in advance for lunch, especially if you have your heart set on a particular place with canal views. Alternatively, pick up supplies for a picnic from the Albert Heijn supermarket near the village entrance.
7. Visit Local Museums and Attractions
While Giethoorn’s main attraction is its picturesque setting, the village also offers several interesting museums and attractions worth visiting:
Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus
- A historical museum showcasing traditional life in Giethoorn
- Features an authentic farmhouse with period furniture and tools
- Entrance fee: Approximately €6.50 for adults
- Open: 10 AM – 5 PM most days (check seasonal hours)
De Oude Aarde (The Old Earth)
- A fascinating collection of gemstones and minerals
- Houses some rare specimens with interesting displays
- Entrance fee: Around €7.50 for adults
- Perfect activity if you encounter rainy weather
Weerribben-Wieden National Park
- Located near Giethoorn, this is the largest bog area in Northwest Europe
- Offers hiking trails, bird watching, and additional boating opportunities
- Consider spending an extra hour here if you’re traveling by car
- The visitor center provides maps and information about the unique ecosystem
Farm Cheese Shop
- Sample and purchase locally produced Dutch cheeses
- Learn about traditional cheese-making methods
- No entrance fee, just the temptation to buy delicious cheese
If you’re on a tight schedule for your day trip, prioritize the boat tour and walking through the village over the museums. However, if you have extra time or stay overnight, these attractions provide deeper insight into the region’s culture and history.
See Related: Best Museums in the Netherlands
8. Prepare for the Weather
The Netherlands is famous for its changeable weather, and Giethoorn is no exception. Being prepared will ensure your day trip remains enjoyable regardless of conditions:
Essential Items to Pack:
- Waterproof Jacket: Even in summer, rain showers can occur suddenly
- Sunscreen and Hat: When the sun is out, there’s limited shade on the boats
- Layers: Temperatures can change throughout the day, especially on the water
- Comfortable Waterproof Shoes: Paths can become muddy after rain
- Small Umbrella: Useful for both rain and sun protection
Seasonal Considerations:
- Spring (March-May): Bring layers as mornings can be chilly but afternoons pleasant
- Summer (June-August): It can be surprisingly hot on the water with minimal shade.
- Fall (September-November): Pack a warmer jacket, as winds can be brisk
- Winter (December-February): Fewer boats run, but on rare occasions when canals freeze, ice skating is possible
Most boat rental companies will postpone or cancel trips during severe weather, but light rain shouldn’t deter you. Some rental boats have canopies, and the village takes on a moody, atmospheric quality in gentle rainfall. Check the weather forecast before your trip, but remember that Dutch weather forecasts are unreliable beyond 24 hours.
9. Plan Your Ideal Itinerary
To make the most of your Giethoorn day trip from Amsterdam, here’s a suggested itinerary that balances the main attractions while avoiding the worst of the crowds:
Full-Day Itinerary (Self-Guided)
- 7:30 AM: Depart Amsterdam by car or catch an early train
- 9:30-10:00 AM: Arrive in Giethoorn
- 10:00-11:00 AM: Walk around the village before it gets crowded
- 11:00-12:30 PM: Rent a boat for a 1.5-hour self-guided tour
- 12:30-2:00 PM: Lunch at a local restaurant
- 2:00-3:00 PM: Visit Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus
- 3:00-4:30 PM: Further exploration of the quieter parts of the village
- 4:30-5:00 PM: Shop for souvenirs or enjoy Dutch apple pie at a café
- 5:00-7:00 PM: Return to Amsterdam
Half-Day Option (Guided Tour)
If you only have half a day, a guided tour from Amsterdam is your best option:
- Most tours depart around 9:00 AM and return by 5:00 PM
- They typically include a guided boat tour and some free time to explore
- Some tours combine Giethoorn with other attractions like Zaanse Schans
Extended Visit Option
For those with more time, consider staying overnight in Giethoorn to experience:
- Sunset and sunrise over the canals when day tourists are gone
- More relaxed exploration of nearby attractions like Weerribben-Wieden National Park
- Evening dining when restaurants are less crowded
Whatever option you choose, remember that Giethoorn is meant to be enjoyed leisurely. Don’t try to rush through it – the village’s charm lies in its tranquility and the opportunity to slow down and appreciate a different way of life.
See Related: Essential Travel Tips for Visiting the Netherlands
Final Thoughts
Giethoorn represents a glimpse into a uniquely Dutch way of life, where water and land intertwine to create something truly special. This car-free village offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Amsterdam and a chance to experience the Netherlands beyond its famous capital.
By planning with these essential tips, you’ll be able to easily navigate this popular destination and discover why Giethoorn has earned its reputation as one of the most beautiful villages in the Netherlands. From gliding along peaceful canals to savoring Dutch treats in a waterside café, a day trip to Giethoorn creates memories that will last long after your vacation ends.
Have you visited Giethoorn, or are you planning a trip soon? I’d love to hear about your experiences or answer any questions in the comments below. Happy travels!