Giethoorn & Windmill Country A Journey Through Old Holland

Traveling through the Netherlands often feels like stepping into a postcard — and this private tour promises just that. If you’re after a day that combines the peaceful beauty of Giethoorn’s waterways with the iconic windmills of the Dutch countryside, this experience offers a well-rounded look at what makes the Netherlands special. While it’s not a full-blown history lesson, it’s a great way to see some of the most picture-perfect spots with a knowledgeable guide.

What really catches our eye about this tour are two key things: First, the flexibility of the itinerary, allowing you to tailor your experience—whether you want more time on the water or at the windmills. Second, the private nature of the trip, which means you’re not sharing with a big group, making for a more relaxed and personable outing. The only consideration? You’ll need to plan for roughly 8.5 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day’s excursion and not in a rush.

This experience is ideal if you’re craving an authentic, scenic glimpse of Holland outside the city hustle. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate comfort, local insights, and a bit of versatility in their day. If you’re visiting Amsterdam and want to see the countryside without fussing over logistics, this tour might be just what you need.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience: Customizable itinerary with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Comfortable transportation: Travel in a cozy 4-seat vehicle with a friendly guide.
• Stunning scenery: Cross the Markerwaarddijk and enjoy water views from both sides.
• Authentic visits: Explore Giethoorn’s canals and either the peaceful Schermerhorn or lively Zaanse Schans windmills.
• Educational value: Learn about Dutch water management and engineering from your guide.
• Balanced pace: An 8.5-hour tour that balances sightseeing, walking, and relaxing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Journey Begins: Hotel Pickup and Transfer

Starting from your Amsterdam lodging, the tour kicks off with a convenient pickup. This is a real plus — no need to worry about how to get to Giethoorn, especially if you’re unfamiliar with Dutch transport options. The drive itself is part of the fun, offering a chance to get a quick overview of the flat, water-dominated Dutch landscape.

It’s a 1.5-hour drive northward, which might seem long, but it’s comfortable in your private vehicle. Your guide often shares insights about how much of the Netherlands is below sea level, reclaimed land, and water management innovations — topics that add context to your sightseeing.

Exploring Giethoorn: The Venice of the North

Once you arrive at Giethoorn, known locally as the “Venice of the North,” the real magic begins. The village’s hallmark is its network of canals replacing streets, with boats as the main mode of transport. We loved how the guide’s commentary brought the tranquil setting to life, pointing out traditional thatched-roof houses and flower-filled gardens.

The highlight here is a boat cruise lasting about an hour. The boats are quiet and charming, allowing you to soak in the peaceful scenery without the noise or crowds often associated with popular tourist spots. Several reviews mention how relaxing and picturesque the cruise is, with one traveler noting, “This was a highlight — so peaceful, and the views are just like a fairytale.”

After the cruise, there’s typically some free time to wander along the village paths, browse small shops, or stop for coffee and lunch. Many visitors appreciate how unspoiled and authentic Giethoorn feels, especially compared to more commercialized spots.

Crossing the Markerwaarddijk: Water Views and Engineering Marvels

Next, the tour moves across the Markerwaarddijk, a spectacular dam road that divides the Markermeer and IJsselmeer lakes. The drive over the dike lasts about 1.5 hours, offering sweeping vistas on both sides of the water. It’s a great chance to appreciate Dutch water engineering, which has reclaimed and protected vast amounts of land.

Traveling over the dike is often described as a scenic highlight — with many reviewers mentioning how the view of the lakes is breathtaking, especially on a clear day. It’s a reminder of how Dutch ingenuity has shaped their land and protected it from flooding.

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Windmill Visits: Two Distinct Experiences

The last part of the tour gives you a choice between visiting either the Schermerhorn Windmill Museum or the Zaanse Schans. Both are fantastic but offer different vibes.

Schermerhorn Windmill Museum is the quieter, more authentic option. It’s set in a peaceful countryside environment, where you can see a working polder windmill in action. It’s educational, less crowded, and gives a real sense of how windmills have been used to drain land and manage water. Several reviews highlight the tranquility here, with one saying, “It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for seeing how these windmills operate without the crowds.”

Zaanse Schans is a lively open-air museum packed with historic windmills, craft shops, and traditional Dutch houses. It’s busier, but a favorite for those wanting a more dynamic experience with plenty of photo opportunities, demonstrations, and souvenirs. Many visitors enjoy the lively atmosphere, commenting that it’s “a must-see if you want a taste of Dutch culture in a lively setting.”

Your guide will tailor the visit based on your interests and the time available, ensuring you get the most out of either option.

Return and Drop-Off

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll be driven back to your original pickup point in Amsterdam or Schiphol. The relaxed pace and personal attention make this a more intimate experience — you’re not just a number on a bus, but a guest with a guide who wants you to enjoy the day at your own pace.

Considering the Value

The cost includes everything — private transportation, boat cruise, visits to windmills, scenic drive, and even a small “Taste of Holland” goodie bag. While you’ll need to cover any meals, entrance fees, or souvenirs, the core experience feels like a well-rounded snapshot of Dutch rural life and engineering prowess.

Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated the knowledge shared by guides about Dutch culture, water management, and the local way of life. This adds depth to what might otherwise be just pretty scenery.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re after a relaxed, personalized look at some of the Netherlands’ most iconic sights, this tour checks all the boxes. It’s suitable for those who want a stress-free day without the hassle of arranging transport or figuring out logistics. It’s also great for travelers who value engaging guides and authentic experiences over commercialized tourist traps.

It’s less ideal if you prefer a very fast-paced, action-packed day or have mobility issues, as some walking and boat riding are involved. Also, if you’re traveling with young children, the quiet, scenic nature may appeal, but check the specific activities and timing to ensure it suits your family.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
This tour involves walking along village paths and some boat riding, but it’s not specifically designed for wheelchair users. If you have mobility concerns, it’s best to contact the provider to discuss options.

How long is the drive from Amsterdam?
The transfer to Giethoorn and the windmill area takes about 1.5 hours each way, making the total trip around 8.5 hours including sightseeing.

Can I choose between the two windmill options?
Yes. The tour offers a choice between the quiet Schermerhorn Windmill Museum, which is less crowded and more authentic, and the lively Zaanse Schans with more activities and shops.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, a boat cruise in Giethoorn, the scenic drive over the Markerwaarddijk, a visit to a windmill, and a small “Taste of Holland” goodie bag.

Are meals included?
No, you’ll need to plan for your own food and drinks. There’s time for coffee or lunch in Giethoorn, but meals are not part of the package.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The itinerary is customizable. Your guide will tailor the stops and pace to your interests, making it a personalized experience.

Is this tour good for families or children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the calm, scenic nature and the boat cruise can appeal to families with older children. Keep in mind the duration and walking involved.

Final Thoughts

This private day tour provides an excellent way to experience some of the Netherlands’ most charming sights without feeling rushed. It balances scenic beauty with educational insight, all delivered with the comfort of private transportation and a knowledgeable guide. Whether you’re fascinated by water management, want picturesque villages, or love traditional windmills, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of old Holland.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate personalized service, are comfortable with a full day out, and want flexibility in their sightseeing. If you’re looking for a memorable, authentic, and comfortable way to see the Dutch countryside, this tour is worth considering.

This experience hits the sweet spot for those wanting a genuine, laid-back glimpse of Holland’s iconic landscapes, with enough flexibility and comfort to make it a highlight of any trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: