Giethoorn, known as the "Venice of the Netherlands," is a picturesque town that captivates visitors with its charming canals, thatched-roof cottages, and quaint bridges. The Giethoorn Small-Group Tour from Amsterdam offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore this enchanting destination. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour provides a personalized experience for up to 8 people, with highlights including a relaxing boat ride and ample free time to wander the town’s tranquil streets. Whether you’re seeking a respite from the bustling city or simply a glimpse into the serene, old-world charm of the Netherlands, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression.
Key Points
- Guided small-group tour (max. 8 people) to the picturesque canal village of Giethoorn, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’.
- Includes a 1-hour boat ride through the charming canals and bridges, with a knowledgeable guide providing insights into the town’s history and culture.
- Transportation by comfortable Mercedes van with air conditioning from the meeting point in Amsterdam to Giethoorn and back.
- Opportunity to explore the quaint streets of Giethoorn independently, with options to visit local shops, cafes, and rent electric boats.
- Personalized experience with ample interaction with the guide, and the option to conclude the tour in Amsterdam or at the Zandvoort aan Zee beach.
It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a glimpse into the picturesque canal village of Giethoorn, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’ for its scenic beauty.
During the tour, you’ll enjoy a boat ride and a guide-led exploration of the highlights.
To ensure ample interaction with the knowledgeable guide, the tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers.
At the end of the tour, you can choose to finish in Amsterdam or head to the beach in Zandvoort aan Zee.
The comfortable Mercedes van with air conditioning provides a convenient transportation option throughout the experience.
Inclusions
This tour includes a professional and friendly guide who’ll lead the journey, providing insights and sharing the history of the picturesque Giethoorn.
Travelers can expect the following inclusions:
- A 1-hour boat trip to explore the charming canals and bridges of the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’
- A comfortable Mercedes van with air conditioning for transportation
- A delicious lunch to fuel the exploration
- Free time to wander the quaint streets and soak in the tranquil atmosphere independently
With these thoughtful inclusions, this small-group tour is designed to offer an immersive and memorable experience in the stunning Dutch village of Giethoorn.
Meeting and Pickup
Beginning at the NH Collection Amsterdam Barbizon Palace, opposite Amsterdam Central Station, travelers are picked up at 10:30 AM for the Giethoorn Small-Group Tour.
This convenient meeting point is easily accessible, allowing participants to arrive on time and start their journey.
The tour concludes at Amsterdam Centraal railway station, ensuring a seamless transition for those wishing to continue their exploration of the city.
With a comfortable Mercedes van equipped with air conditioning, the transportation provided throughout the tour enhances the overall experience, allowing travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of Giethoorn.
The meeting and pickup logistics are designed to ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour for all participants.
Confirmation and Accessibility
Confirmation is received at the time of booking, unless the tour is booked within 2 hours of the experience start time.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available for those travelling with young children.
The tour requires a minimum group size of 5 persons, and the maximum number of travelers per tour is 9.
Travelers can choose to finish the tour in Amsterdam or at the beach in Zandvoort aan Zee.
Cancellations made at least 24 hours before the start time are eligible for a full refund.
Changes to the booking less than 24 hours before the start time aren’t accepted.
The tour includes a comfortable Mercedes van with air conditioning and a professional, friendly guide.
Group Size
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers to ensure ample guide interaction and a personalized experience. This small-group size allows for more individualized attention from the knowledgeable tour guide.
It also creates a more intimate and engaging atmosphere, where travelers can freely ask questions and interact with one another. The tour operator has set a minimum group size of 5 persons for the tour to run, ensuring there are enough participants to make the experience worthwhile.
With a cap of 9 travelers, the tour strikes a balance between providing a personalized touch and maintaining a viable group size. This setup allows travelers to fully enjoy the beauty of Giethoorn without feeling overwhelmed by large crowds.
Cancellation Policy
Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel the tour at least 24 hours before the experience start time. However, no refund is provided for cancellations made less than 24 hours prior to the tour’s departure.
Plus, the tour operator doesn’t accept any changes to bookings within 24 hours of the scheduled start time.
The cancellation policy for this tour includes:
- Full refund for cancellations made at least 24 hours before the experience start time.
- No refund for cancellations less than 24 hours before the tour’s departure.
- No changes accepted within 24 hours of the scheduled start time.
Certainty in planning as the tour requires a minimum group size of 5 persons.
Boat Ride in Giethoorn
During the tour, travelers embark on a 1-hour boat ride through the picturesque canals of Giethoorn, offering a unique vantage point to admire the charming village known as the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’.
Gliding peacefully along the tranquil waterways, guests can marvel at the thatched-roof cottages, flower-filled gardens, and quaint bridges that line the banks.
The boat tour provides an intimate and relaxing way to experience the town’s old-world ambiance, as the guide shares insights into Giethoorn’s rich history and culture.
This scenic journey on the water is a highlight of the tour, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the idyllic beauty of this one-of-a-kind Dutch destination.
Exploration and Free Time
After the relaxing boat ride, the tour continues with a guide-led exploration of Giethoorn’s quaint streets and charming highlights.
Guests then enjoy free time to wander the village independently, allowing them to discover picturesque corners, sample local cuisine, and fully enjoy the tranquil atmosphere that earned Giethoorn its ‘Venice of the Netherlands’ moniker.
During the free time, travelers can:
- Stroll along the flower-lined canals and bridges, admiring the beautiful thatched-roof houses.
- Visit the local cheese shop to sample and purchase artisanal dairy products.
- Rent a small electric boat to explore the waterways at their own pace.
- Relax in one of the charming cafes, sipping coffee or hot chocolate while taking in the serene surroundings.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- Amsterdam Centraal Station – The Gateway to Amsterdam
- Things to do in Amsterdam – Visit Westerkerk and Climb Westertoren
- Where to eat in Amsterdam near het Leidseplein
- Where to Stay in Amsterdam: Hotel Van Onna
- Amsterdam Open Boat Canal Cruise With Onboard Bar
- Where to Eat in Amsterdam (Near the Anne Frank House)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Typical Weather Like in Giethoorn During the Tour?
The weather in Giethoorn is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15-20°C (59-68°F) during the tour season. Visitors can expect mostly sunny skies, but some light rain showers are also possible.
Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Included Lunch?
The tour includes a provided lunch, though any special dietary requirements should be communicated to the tour operator in advance. Travelers can discuss their needs when booking to ensure they’re accommodated during the tour.
Can We Stop for Coffee or Snacks During the Tour?
Yes, the tour allows time for coffee or snack breaks. Travelers can explore the charming village of Giethoorn and enjoy some local refreshments during the free time portion of the excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Boat Ride in Giethoorn?
The tour does not specify any age restrictions for the boat ride in Giethoorn. As long as participants can safely board and ride the boat, there are no minimum or maximum age limits enforced for this activity.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Explore More of Zandvoort Aan Zee?
The tour allows travelers to finish in Amsterdam or at the beach in Zandvoort aan Zee. However, there doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour to explore more of Zandvoort aan Zee beyond the endpoint of the excursion.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Amsterdam: Private Family or Couples Canals Photo Shoot
- The Story of Vincent Van Gogh Private Tour in Amsterdam
- Skip-the-line Jewish Historical Museum Private Tour
- From Amsterdam: Private Transfer To/Or From Eindhoven
- Amsterdam, Eastern Docklands Architecture: Private Tour
- De Haar Castle, Utrecht and Muiderslot From Amsterdam by Car
- Amsterdam: Private Walking Tour From Westerpark to Jordaan
- Amsterdam: Highlights Discovery Tour
- Amsterdam: Private Red Light District and Food Tour
- Amsterdam: Private Alternative Walking Tour
- Discover Amsterdams City Center in This Outside Escape Game Tour
- Amsterdam: Private Transfer To/From Antwerp
- Amsterdam: The Kattenkabinet Cat Museum Entry Ticket
- Skip-the-line Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, Rijksmuseum Tour
- Private Wine Tasting Tour in Amsterdam With Wine Guide
Recap
The Giethoorn Small-Group Tour from Amsterdam offers a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque ‘Venice of the Netherlands.’
Travelers can enjoy a personalized boat ride through the charming canals, admire the thatched-roof cottages and quaint bridges, and have free time to immerse in the town’s old-world ambiance.
With comfortable transportation, a delicious lunch, and the option to conclude in Amsterdam or at the Zandvoort aan Zee beach, this tour provides a memorable experience.
