easy
7 hours
Suitable for most fitness levels due to the gentle nature of boating and leisurely walking
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.
Set in the province of Overijssel in the Netherlands, Giethoorn offers a rare escape where waterways replace roads, crafting a village that feels suspended in time. Amsterdam Transfer Services delivers a seamless journey from the bustling Dutch capital to this tranquil enclave on their 7-hour Giethoorn Tour, perfect for travelers craving a slow-paced, waterborne adventure. The highlight is a serene cruise in a traditional punter boat—flat-bottomed, manually propelled with a pole—a method developed for navigating the shallow, reed-lined canals that lace through the village. Punting here isn’t just transportation; it’s a chance to absorb Giethoorn’s signature charm: quaint thatched-roof cottages, wooden footbridges, and gardens carefully tended by locals.
Beyond the water, the tour invites you to stroll the quiet paths, where the soundscape is dominated by bird calls and the gentle lapping of water, a contrast to Amsterdam’s urban din. A waterside lunch on a terrace overlooking the canals adds a layer of local flavor, often featuring fresh Dutch fare sourced from the region. This company stands out in the Netherlands’ outdoor scene by bridging city and countryside with comfort and style, using private transfers that ensure you maximize your day.
Giethoorn itself has a compelling history as a peat-harvesting community, dating back to the 13th century, with its waterways originally dug for transporting goods. Today, it’s a protected cultural landscape, with strict regulations preserving its unique waterscape and historic architecture. For outdoor enthusiasts seeking a gentle, scenic alternative to the country’s famed bike tours, the village provides an unforgettable format—slow travel that invites appreciation of nature, heritage, and craftsmanship.
Amsterdam Transfer Services’ Giethoorn Tour is a standout in regional outdoor travel by combining ease of access, cultural immersion, and the rare chance to experience a village without cars, making every moment both peaceful and memorable.
The wooden boats can get slippery, so shoes with good traction help keep you steady while punting.
Weather can shift quickly near the water, so layering helps you stay comfortable during the boat ride and walks.
The village’s unique architecture and peaceful canals make for excellent photo opportunities throughout the day.
Though some restaurants accept cards, having some cash on hand ensures an easy, relaxed lunch by the water.
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.
Strict regulations protect Giethoorn’s historic waterways and architecture, ensuring sustainable tourism and preservation of its natural waterways.
Protects you during unexpected rain showers while on the water or walking.
spring specific
Necessary for walking on footpaths and boarding boats safely.
Helps reduce glare reflecting off the water during sunny days.
summer specific
Capture the unique architecture and natural scenes throughout the tour.