Giethoorn Village Travel Guide: Discover the Venice of the Netherlands

Welcome to Giethoorn, one of the most charming and unique villages in all of Europe. Nestled in the province of Overijssel, Giethoorn is often referred to as the “Venice of the Netherlands”—but instead of gondolas and marble palazzos, you'll find wooden bridges, quiet canals, cozy cafés, and thatched-roof farmhouses.
 

As your guide, I’m here to help you explore this idyllic destination that feels like it’s been pulled from the pages of a storybook. Whether you’re looking for peace and quiet, scenic beauty, or romantic boat rides, Giethoorn is a must-visit spot in the Netherlands.

📍 Quick Facts About Giethoorn

Province: Overijssel, the Netherlands

Population: ~2,600

Famous For: No roads in the historic center, canals, thatched cottages

Nickname: Venice of the North

Best Time to Visit: April to October

🚆 How to Get to Giethoorn

🚄 By Public Transport

From Amsterdam:

Take the train to Steenwijk (approx. 2 hours)

Then take Bus 70 to Giethoorn (20 mins)

Alternatively, book a Giethoorn day trip tour from Amsterdam for convenience

🚗 By Car

Giethoorn is about:

1.5 hours from Amsterdam

1 hour from Zwolle

Free parking is available near the entrance of the village—cars are not allowed in the historic center

🛶 Top Things to Do in Giethoorn

1. 🚣 Rent a Boat (Whisper Boat or Canoe)

The best way to experience Giethoorn is from the water. Rent an electric “whisper boat” (silent and easy to steer), kayak, or guided canal boat.

Explore quiet canals lined with thatched cottages and lush gardens

Boat rentals are typically by the hour (prices start at €15–€20/hour)

Local tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds

2. 🌿 Stroll or Cycle Along the Canals

If boating isn't for you, you can walk or rent a bike along the narrow paths beside the canals.

Over 170 charming wooden bridges connect the village

Stop for photos, admire flower-filled gardens, and enjoy a slower pace of life

3. 🏡 Visit the Olde Maat Uus Museum

This historic farmhouse-turned-museum gives visitors insight into what life was like in Giethoorn hundreds of years ago.

Features antique tools, traditional dress, and farming equipment

Entry: ~€5 per adult

A great cultural stop for understanding the village’s history

4. 🍽️ Dine by the Water

Giethoorn has a delightful selection of waterside cafés and restaurants offering everything from Dutch pancakes to gourmet cuisine.

Popular Choices:

De Lindenhof – Michelin-starred dining in a luxurious canal-side villa

Grand Café Fanfare – Inspired by the 1958 Dutch film Fanfare shot in Giethoorn

De Sloothaak – Charming restaurant with fresh, seasonal menus and terrace dining

5. 🎨 Visit Local Art Galleries & Craft Shops

The peaceful surroundings have inspired many artists. Giethoorn is home to several small galleries where you can browse or purchase Dutch artwork and local crafts.

De Oude Aarde – A gallery and museum of minerals and fossils

Glaskunst Giethoorn – Beautiful hand-blown glasswork

Great options for picking up unique, non-touristy souvenirs

6. 🦆 Explore Weerribben-Wieden National Park

Just outside Giethoorn lies one of the largest freshwater wetlands in Europe: the Weerribben-Wieden National Park.

Ideal for hiking, birdwatching, canoeing, and eco-tours

Spot rare plants, otters, and countless bird species

The park is accessible by boat or bike from Giethoorn

🏡 Where to Stay in Giethoorn

Despite its small size, Giethoorn offers a variety of accommodations:

✨ Romantic & Luxury

Hotel De Harmonie – Family-run, elegant hotel with canal views

Hotel Giethoorn – Chic, modern rooms in the heart of the village

De Lindenhof – Michelin-starred stay with gourmet dining

🛏️ Mid-Range & Cozy

B&B Mol/Groenewegen – Friendly hosts, charming rooms

Gieters Grietje – Canal-side private cottage with full kitchen

💰 Budget

Camping d’Hof – For nature lovers, pitch a tent or rent a tiny house

Hostel Giethoorn – Affordable, clean, and centrally located

📸 Most Instagrammable Spots

The arched wooden bridges over narrow canals

Thatched cottages with colorful flower gardens

Early morning boat rides through misty canals

Reflections in the water at sunset

🗓️ Best Time to Visit Giethoorn

🧭 One-Day Itinerary for Giethoorn

Morning

Arrive early and enjoy breakfast at Café de Sloothaak

Rent a whisper boat for 2 hours and cruise the canals

Midday

Visit Olde Maat Uus Museum

Lunch at Grand Café Fanfare by the water

Afternoon

Take a short bike ride into Weerribben-Wieden National Park

Stop by De Oude Aarde for a quick visit

Evening

Dine at De Lindenhof for a fine-dining experience

Return to your accommodation or head back to Amsterdam

🧠 Fun Facts About Giethoorn

Giethoorn was founded in 1230 by peat diggers

The village has no roads in its center—only footpaths and canals

There are over 170 bridges in the village

It became famous internationally thanks to the 1958 Dutch comedy film Fanfare

It’s a favorite spot for Chinese tourists, often featured in East Asian travel shows

🧳 What to Pack

Comfortable walking shoes or sandals

A lightweight raincoat or poncho (weather can change quickly)

Sunscreen and a hat (especially for boating)

A camera or smartphone for stunning shots

If visiting in winter: gloves and warm layers

✅ Travel Tips

Book boat rentals in advance during high season (June–August)

Try visiting early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds

Cash and cards are widely accepted, but small vendors may prefer cash

Respect the private homes—many cottages are inhabited year-round

🎭 Special Events in Giethoorn

Giethoorn Floating Flower Parade (July) – Boats decorated with blooms

Fanfare Reenactments – Occasionally celebrated in honor of the famous film

Ice Skating on the Canals (winter) – If temperatures drop low enough

🌍 Nearby Attractions and Day Trips

Blokzijl – Quaint harbor town with charming architecture (20 mins)

Steenwijk – Nearest town for shopping and public transport

Zwolle – Historic city with museums, dining, and nightlife (45 mins by car)

Enkhuizen – For open-air museums and maritime history (2 hours)

✨ Why Visit Giethoorn?

Giethoorn offers a peaceful, car-free escape from city life. It’s not just a pretty face—it’s a place to unwind, connect with nature, and experience a unique part of Dutch culture that’s timeless, romantic, and picturesque.

Whether you're planning a family-friendly getaway, a romantic retreat, or a solo photography trip, Giethoorn has something magical for everyone.