Giethoorn Day Trip from Amsterdam with Cruise & Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and looking to escape the busy city for something more tranquil, a day trip to Giethoorn might just be the perfect choice. This tour offers a chance to see one of the Netherlands’ lesser-known gems, a village famous for its peaceful waterways and charming scenery. While it might not be a trip that suits everyone—especially if weather isn’t cooperating—it’s an experience that can delight those who love quiet, picturesque spots and easy-paced exploration.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines comfortable transportation with a flexible, self-guided approach. The included canal cruise and walking tour give you a good sense of the village’s unique vibe without the rush of a tightly packed schedule. Plus, the fact that it’s reasonably priced—around $83 per person—makes it accessible for many travelers.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the experience is heavily weather-dependent, and some reviews mention rain impacting the visit and boat trip. Also, the boat tour seen in promotional photos isn’t always what you get, which can be a bit disappointing if you’re expecting picture-perfect scenes. This trip is best suited for those who enjoy calm, scenic outings and don’t mind a bit of unpredictable weather.

If you’re someone who enjoys discovering quiet villages at your own pace or wants a manageable day trip out of Amsterdam, this tour could fit the bill nicely. It’s less about ticking off sight after sight and more about soaking in the atmosphere of a true Dutch treasure.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation from Amsterdam in a luxury coach makes for a stress-free journey.
• Flexible self-guided exploration allows you to soak in Giethoorn at your own pace, with free time and an audio-guided walking tour.
• The canal cruise offers a different perspective of the village, with live commentary highlighting local details.
• Weather can impact the experience, especially during rainy days, which some travelers have noted.
• The tour includes a detailed itinerary, with stops in Flevoland and Giethoorn, giving you a broad view of the Dutch landscape.
• At around $83, this offers good value, considering transportation, boat trips, and independence built into the package.

The Breakdown of the Tour

Starting from Amsterdam

The trip begins in the morning at the This is Holland facility in Overhoeksplein, a convenient spot near public transportation options. The luxury coach ride to Giethoorn takes about an hour and a half, with scenic views of the Dutch countryside along the way. This part is smooth and relatively comfortable, setting the tone for the day.

Flevoland Province Stop

The first stop is in Flevoland, a modern Dutch province created on land reclaimed from the IJsselmeer in 1986. Here, you’ll get a brief 60-minute look at this remarkable feat of land reclamation, a fascinating piece of Dutch engineering. Since this part is simply a viewing stop, it’s more about providing context than sightseeing, but it’s interesting nonetheless—especially if you’re curious about how the Netherlands manages its below-sea-level land.

Arriving in Giethoorn

The real highlight begins here. Giethoorn is a tiny village known for having no roads in its center—residents and visitors get around mainly by boat or on foot. Often called the “Venice of the North,” it’s easy to see why when you see the peaceful waterways and quaint thatched-roof cottages.

The tour includes a three-hour free exploration period, which gives you plenty of time to wander the narrow lanes, admire the architecture, or sit down at a local café. Several reviews highlight how adorable and charming the village is—“the town was adorable,” as one reviewer put it.

Canal Cruise

The real treat of this tour is the one-hour boat ride through Giethoorn’s canals. Using an authentic boat with a live guide, you’ll get to see parts of the village inaccessible on foot. The boat’s live commentary adds a personal touch, highlighting local history and pointing out interesting sights along the way.

Multiple reviewers mention how knowledgeable the boat captain was and how the scenic views during the cruise showcased the best of Giethoorn. As one review states, “the canal boat tour shows the best scenery of Giethoorn including areas that can’t be reached or even viewed on foot,” which makes this part especially worthwhile.

Return to Amsterdam

After the boat tour, you’ll head back to Amsterdam in the late afternoon, arriving after about an hour-and-a-half drive. The return trip is a relaxed way to wind down and reflect on the day’s sights.

What’s Included—and What’s Not

The tour package covers transportation in a luxury coach, the canal cruise with live commentary, and a downloadable walking tour for independent exploration. Plus, you’ll receive a multilingual leaflet highlighting Giethoorn’s main sights.

However, lunch isn’t included, a typical feature of many day trips. There are plenty of dining options near the boat tour, with some reviewers recommending the local De Rietstulp restaurant for authentic Dutch and international dishes.

The tour’s price point is quite reasonable, especially considering the included boat rides and flexibility. While you might find similar experiences at a higher cost, this one offers a good balance of guided elements and free time.

What the Reviews Say: Real Travelers’ Insights

The overall rating is about 4.3-4.5 out of 5, based on nine reviews, making it a solid choice for many. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, the stunning views, and the good organization.

One reviewer commented, “The trip was ok, the boat was not what is shown on the picture. It was raining all day long and no change was made by the tour company,” highlighting how weather can impact the experience. Conversely, others found the local guide’s commentary very helpful and appreciated the well-organized nature of the trip.

Some visitors noted that Giethoorn can be crowded during peak times, and the boat rides, while scenic, sometimes felt a bit “Disneyland-like” due to the influx of travelers. Nonetheless, most agree that the village is worth visiting, especially if you’re seeking a peaceful and picturesque escape.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: The tour begins at 10:00 am, so plan to arrive a little earlier to settle in.
• Weather: It’s wise to check the forecast before booking, as heavy rain can diminish the experience and affect boat trips.
• Duration: Expect around 8 hours total, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.
• Group size: Limited to 50 travelers, so it’s not overly crowded but still sizable.
• Mobility: The tour involves walking and boat riding, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers looking for a relaxed, scenic day away from city hustle. Perfect for those who enjoy self-guided exploration combined with guided elements, and who value authentic, picturesque villages. If you’re comfortable with weather variability and enjoy gentle boat rides, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding.

While it might not be the best choice for someone seeking a highly structured or crowded tourist trap, it suits those who want to see a quieter side of the Netherlands at their own pace.

Final Thoughts

This Giethoorn day trip from Amsterdam offers a charming slice of Dutch life, with the combination of scenic boat rides, tranquil walking routes, and the scenic beauty of the village itself. It’s a solid value, especially if you appreciate flexible itineraries and enjoy discovering lesser-known spots without the rush.

The tour’s success hinges on good weather and a sense of curiosity about local life. If you’re prepared for the possibility of rain and like the idea of exploring a peaceful village that’s more about atmosphere than big attractions, this trip could become a highlight of your Dutch adventure.

For those who crave authentic scenery, local insights, and a break from city crowds, this Giethoorn experience can be just the right fit. Just keep expectations in check on rainy days, and you’ll come away with some lovely memories.

FAQs

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch isn’t included, but there are plenty of dining options during the day, such as local restaurants near Giethoorn.

What is the meeting point?
The tour departs from This Is Holland at Overhoeksplein 51, Amsterdam, a location that’s easy to reach via public transport.

How long is the total trip?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and free time.

Can I explore Giethoorn on my own?
Yes, the tour provides ample free time, and you can use the included digital walking tour to guide your independent exploration.

What’s the boat cruise like?
The boat ride lasts about an hour, with a live commentary from a local skipper, offering scenic views and insights into the village.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but consider mobility needs if walking or boat riding could be challenging.

How is the weather handled?
Rain can impact the experience—some reviews mention disappointment in rainy weather, so check the forecast beforehand.

What reviews say about this tour?
Most praise the organization, guides, and scenery, though some mention the weather and boat photos not matching reality as downsides.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, allowing flexibility if needed.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic escape just a short trip from Amsterdam, this Giethoorn tour offers a nice blend of guided fun and free exploration—just be prepared for the weather and manage expectations accordingly.