Visiting Giethoorn: The Venice of the Netherlands
If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands and want to see something truly different, Giethoorn should be on your list. This small, peaceful village with its canals, cute thatched-roof houses, and quiet charm feels like a storybook come to life. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your visit.
🛶 What Is Giethoorn?
Giethoorn is a unique village in the province of Overijssel, known for having no roads in its old center. Instead, people get around by boat, bike, or on foot. That’s why it’s often called the “Venice of the Netherlands.” But where Venice is crowded and busy, Giethoorn is calm and relaxed.
The canals are lined with picture-perfect cottages, charming gardens, and little bridges — it’s one of those places that instantly makes you slow down and enjoy the moment.
🚉 How to Get to Giethoorn
Getting to Giethoorn is easy, though it does take some planning if you’re coming by public transport:
- By Train & Bus:
Take a train to Steenwijk Station (from Amsterdam it’s about 2 hours). From there, hop on bus 70, which takes you directly to the village. - By Car:
Driving takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from Amsterdam. There are parking lots just outside the village center, since the heart of Giethoorn is car-free.
⏰ How Much Time Do You Need?
You can explore Giethoorn in half a day, but to really enjoy it, I recommend setting aside a full day. It’s a place you don’t want to rush. Think of it more as a relaxing break in nature than a quick sightseeing stop.
If you’re short on time, 2–3 hours will let you walk around and take a quick boat tour, but it’ll feel a bit rushed.
If you want to stay overnight, there are some lovely places to sleep in and around the village.
👉 In the famous area there is
a Hostel: The Black sheep hostel
Accomodation: Oasis Giethoorn
🚤 Best Ways to Enjoy Giethoorn
The best way to experience Giethoorn is to get on the water. Here’s how to enjoy your visit:
1. Rent a Boat
Giethoorn is famous for its small electric “whisper boats” — easy to drive yourself and super quiet. You can also book guided tours if you’d rather just relax and take in the views.
See here for a The a daytrip from Amsterdam. Learn more about the water area of your guide while riding along polders and dikes, and then board a boat to view the farms, canals, and bridges of Giethoorn from a traditional perspective. Enjoy a carefree transfer to the remote location with transportation to and from the center of Amsterdam.
2. Walk or Cycle the Village
Strolling along the canals gives you a closer look at the houses and bridges. Rent a bike if you want to explore the surroundings too — there are plenty of peaceful cycling paths.
3. Sit at a Terrace
There are lovely cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy lunch or a drink by the water. A few cozy spots even have boat docks if you’re cruising around.
4. Visit a Local Museum
If you have the time, check out Museum Giethoorn ’t Olde Maat Uus — it gives you a look into old village life.
🌷 Best Time to Visit Giethoorn
Giethoorn is beautiful all year, but here’s when it shines:
- Spring (April–June): Green, quiet, and peaceful — a great time to visit.
- Summer: Popular with tourists. Great weather, but more crowds.
- Autumn: Fewer people and beautiful fall colors.
- Winter: Very calm, and if it freezes, you might see locals skating the canals.
👍 Final Tips for Visiting
- Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll do a lot of walking.
- Book your boat or tour ahead in spring/summer.
- Respect the peace — Giethoorn is still a real village where people live.
- Want to make it a full day? Combine your visit with Weerribben-Wieden National Park, just nearby.
🚣♂️ Why You Should Go
Giethoorn is a peaceful escape from the busy cities — the kind of place that lets you slow down, enjoy the scenery, and take great photos without the noise. Whether you’re visiting in tulip season or just want to see a quieter side of the Netherlands, it’s well worth the trip.
👉 Ready to explore Giethoorn with a tour from Amsterdam? Check here:
Giethoorn Daytrip from Amsterdam
Have you been to Giethoorn? Planning to go? Let me know what you think or tag me in your photos!