Giethoorn Canal Tour by Amsterdam Transfer Services
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels due to the gentle nature of boating and leisurely walking
Overview
Glide through Giethoorn’s tranquil canals on a 7-hour tour with Amsterdam Transfer Services. Experience historic waterways, charming thatched cottages, and a relaxed waterside lunch, all just a short trip from Amsterdam.
Giethoorn Tour • 7 Hours
Private Minivan • Where houses are build on islands • All ages
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About This Adventure
Experience the enchanting village of Giethoorn, where you can glide along serene canals in a traditional punter boat, surrounded by charming thatched-roof houses. Enjoy a leisurely lunch by the water and explore on foot, all while traveling in comfort from Amsterdam. This unique adventure promises unforgettable memories in a picturesque setting.
Giethoorn is so peaceful and has such a simple beauty that it hardly seems real!
Duration
7 Hours
About
Giethoorn The authentic village of Giethoorn is about 1 hour 15 min drive from Amsterdam. Giethoorn is so peaceful and has such a simple beauty that it hardly seems real. gently gliding along small canals past old but pretty thatched-roof farmhouses. Many houses have been build on little islands.
More...
The transport in Giethoorn has always been done by ''Punters'', a Dutch flat bottomed ship designed to sail in shallow water. You can rent a punter yourself, sail around and discover Giethoorn from the water. You will have time to sail around, have lunch in one of the waterside restaurants and free time to explore the area on foot.
By private Minivan or Minibus
Private Tours are provided in a nice and comfortable Mercedes Benz minivan up to 7 people or a Mercedes Benz Minibus up to 19 people.
Our vehicles are equipped with any comfort as air conditioning, tinted windows, USB phone connections and free bottles of water for the passengers.
What to expect?
Your driver picks you up from your hotel or any other location and takes you to Giethoorn. You will have about 4 hours to visit Giethoorn.
After your visit to Giethoorn, your driver will pick you up again and drives you back. The driver can provide you with basic information but is not a tour guide.
Whats included?
- Comfortable Mercedes Minivan
- Professional English speaking driver
- Pick up/Drop off in Amsterdam
- Bottled Water on board
Extra options / Not included
- Licensed Tour Guide (+€390,- EUR - Select upon booking)
- Boat rental (Price depends on boat type - Select upon booking)
Private Tour Guide and Captain
If preferred, we can also arrange a private tour guide for your Giethoorn tour. Our guide can provide information on historical and cultural subjects. Also if you don’t like to ride a boat yourself, we can arrange a captain for you. Don’t you like the punter? We can also arrange luxury boats with drinks on board. It’s all possible.
On the way back to Amsterdam, your driver can take you across one of Hollands most interesting water engineering construction: the Afsluitdijk (Enclosing Dike). You will have a photo stop to enjoy the stunning view on the 32 kilometer long dike. (Additional costs may apply if you have reached the 7 hours. This is in consultation with the driver)
Availability groups 8-19 people
Please note: Groups larger than 7 passengers are subject to availability of our Minibus 19 seats vehicles. Please check availability first to avoid disappointments.
Shown price
The rate shown is only valid for tours with pick-up and drop-off address located in Amsterdam or Amsterdam Airport.
Adventure Tips
Wear Grippy Shoes
The wooden boats can get slippery, so shoes with good traction help keep you steady while punting.
Bring a Light Jacket
Weather can shift quickly near the water, so layering helps you stay comfortable during the boat ride and walks.
Pack a Camera
The village’s unique architecture and peaceful canals make for excellent photo opportunities throughout the day.
Cash for Lunch
Though some restaurants accept cards, having some cash on hand ensures an easy, relaxed lunch by the water.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mute swans commonly glide along the canals.
- Waterfowl such as kingfishers hover near reeds.
History
Founded in the 13th century as a peat-digging village, Giethoorn's canals were originally dug for transporting harvested peat, shaping its unique waterway system.
Conservation
Strict regulations protect Giethoorn’s historic waterways and architecture, ensuring sustainable tourism and preservation of its natural waterways.
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Adventure Hotspots in Amsterdam
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects you during unexpected rain showers while on the water or walking.
spring specific
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for walking on footpaths and boarding boats safely.
Sunglasses
Helps reduce glare reflecting off the water during sunny days.
summer specific
Camera
Capture the unique architecture and natural scenes throughout the tour.