From Amsterdam: Private Tour to Giethoorn

A detailed look at the private day tour from Amsterdam to Giethoorn

If you’re visiting Amsterdam and craving a taste of something truly unique, a private tour to Giethoorn might be just what you need. Known affectionately as the “Dutch Venice,” this village is famous for its lack of roads and canals lined with thatched-roof farms and wooden bridges. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, I’ve seen enough honest reviews and itineraries to get a good sense of what travelers can expect—and what’s worth loving or maybe skipping.

What really catches the eye here are a couple of standout features: first, the private, guided nature of the trip makes it feel more tailored and relaxed, and second, the one-hour boat trip in Giethoorn offers a rare, peaceful perspective on a town that’s often all about tranquil waterways. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for a meal if you’re hungry after the boat ride.

This tour is best suited for travelers who like a comfortable, well-organized day outside the bustling city, especially those interested in culture, history, and scenic views. It’s a solid choice for those wanting a comprehensive look at a part of the Netherlands that feels almost like stepping into another world—without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The private group setup provides a more intimate and flexible tour experience.
• Cultural and Scenic Highlights: Includes stops at Lelystad, a replica of the Batavia, and a scenic drive through reclaimed land and national parks.
• Unique Boat Ride: An hour-long trip through Giethoorn’s canals offers a special view of the charming village.
• Educational Value: Discover the story behind Flevoland and how land was reclaimed from water.
• Cost and Duration: Priced at $597 for up to four people, lasting about 9 hours—full value for a full day out.
• Limited Meal Options: No included lunch, so plan to enjoy the local restaurants during free time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Giethoorn: The Heart of the Tour

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Amsterdam, which instantly makes this feel like a hassle-free escape. From there, the journey takes you across the province of Flevoland—a fascinating area because it’s entirely reclaimed land. As your guide shares stories about this impressive feat of Dutch engineering, you’ll get a sense of the incredible work that made this landscape possible.

Driving through the Weerribben-Wieden National Park adds a touch of natural beauty, with lush greenery and water that set the scene for your eventual arrival in Giethoorn. This area is often called the “Dutch Venice,” and for good reason—the absence of roads in the village means water is the only way in and out. It’s a place that feels almost timeless, with thatched roof farms, narrow wooden bridges, and peaceful canals.

Lelystad and the Batavia Replica

A stop in Lelystad offers more than just a quick break. Here, you’ll find the replica of the Batavia, a 17th-century Dutch East India Company galleon. The ship is a reminder of the Netherlands’ maritime past and provides a tangible connection to history. It’s a favorite among travelers who enjoy seeing authentic historical replicas, and some reviews mention that the ship’s size and detail make it worth the visit.

You’ll also see the Exposure statue by Antony Gormley, which adds another layer of cultural interest. While these stops are brief, they help paint a broader picture of the region’s significance beyond just Giethoorn.

The Magic of Giethoorn

Once you arrive in Giethoorn, the magic really begins. You’ll hop onto a one-hour boat ride that takes you through the canals, offering a serene view of the old farms, quaint wooden bridges, and leafy surroundings. It’s a quiet, calming experience, perfect for taking photos or just soaking in the peaceful atmosphere. Several reviews praise the boat ride for its stunning views—something that many travelers find to be the highlight.

During your free time, you can explore the tiny village on foot, admire the architecture, or sit down at one of the local restaurants. Since lunch isn’t included, it’s wise to budget some time for a meal—many visitors mention that Giethoorn has some lovely options for a relaxed, tasty lunch.

The Scenic Return

On the way back, your guide leads you through the Houtribdijk, a dike connecting North Holland and Flevoland. This stretch provides more scenic views and makes for a perfect photo opportunity, especially for those interested in the engineering marvels of the Dutch landscape.

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Is It Worth the Price?

At $597 for a private group of up to four, this tour is a bit of an investment but can be justified by the personalized service, the comprehensive itinerary, and the exclusive boat trip. It’s not the cheapest day trip from Amsterdam, but considering the length of the tour (about 9 hours) and the inclusion of a private vehicle, a live guide, and the boat ride, many travelers see it as good value—especially if you prefer a more tailored experience rather than a crowded group tour.

If you’re someone who appreciates scenic drives, learning about Dutch land reclamation, and enjoys quiet, picturesque villages, this tour offers a chance to tick all those boxes comfortably.

Practical Details and Considerations

Since the tour is conducted in English with a live guide, it’s accessible for most travelers. The pickup at your hotel eliminates the stress of navigating public transport, and the private group format ensures a more relaxed and flexible day.

The duration of 9 hours means you’ll get a good mix of traveling, sightseeing, and free time, but it’s worth planning your day around that. Keep in mind that food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning to eat in Giethoorn is advisable.

The tour’s availability and starting times vary, so it’s best to check ahead and reserve in advance. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers a bit of peace of mind if your plans change.

Final thoughts: Who is this tour best for?

This private tour is a great pick for travelers who want a comfortable and detailed day outside of Amsterdam without the hassle of organizing transport and visits themselves. It’s especially suited for those who value scenic views, historical insights, and a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for small groups or couples who want an intimate experience, and it’s ideal if you’re interested in the engineering marvels of land reclamation and traditional Dutch villages.

While it’s not a low-cost option, the personalized attention and exclusive boat ride add a special touch that many solo or group travelers find worth the price. If you love photography, quiet water scenes, and a taste of Dutch history and landscape, this tour will serve you well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. You’ll have free time in Giethoorn to find a restaurant or bring snacks, so plan accordingly.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat trip in Giethoorn lasts approximately one hour, giving you ample time to enjoy the views and take photos.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for up to 4 people, which makes it more personalized and flexible.

What’s covered in the price?
Your fee covers the private vehicle, a live English-speaking guide, and the boat trip with tea or coffee included.

Where does the tour start?
The guide will pick you up from your hotel reception in Amsterdam, making for a seamless start.

Are there any additional costs?
Food, drinks, and personal expenses during free time are not included, so you’ll want to budget for meals and souvenirs.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, children who enjoy boat rides and scenic walks will likely find this experience enjoyable.

In the end, if you’re after an authentic, relaxing day exploring Dutch landscapes and charming waterways, this private tour offers a well-rounded, beautifully paced experience. Just remember to bring your camera, plan for some lunch, and prepare to unwind amid some of the Netherlands’ most picturesque scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: