Giethoorn, often referred to as the "Venice of the North," is a picturesque car-free village that captivates visitors with its enchanting canals and charming cottages. Embarking on a private tour from Amsterdam, travelers can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and rich history of this unique destination. The 9-hour adventure includes hotel pickup, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, and a serene one-hour boat trip with complimentary refreshments. Explore the intricate waterways, discover the hidden gems, and gain a deeper appreciation for the harmonious relationship between nature and human ingenuity that defines Giethoorn‘s allure. For those seeking an unforgettable experience, this private tour promises to captivate and inspire.
Key Points
- This private tour from Amsterdam takes visitors to the picturesque town of Giethoorn, known as the "Green Venice" of the Netherlands.
- The 9-hour tour includes hotel pickup, a live English-speaking guide, and a 1-hour boat trip through Giethoorn’s scenic canals.
- Highlights of the tour include visiting the replica of the 17th-century galleon Batavia and exploring the history and natural beauty of Flevoland.
- Travelers can enjoy Giethoorn’s car-free streets, quaint cottages, and local shops and cafes during free time.
- The tour also includes a scenic drive through the Weerribben-Wieden National Park and crossing the Houtribdijk, an engineering marvel connecting North Holland and Flevoland.
Tour Overview
This private tour from Amsterdam to Giethourn, known as the ‘Green Venice’ of the Netherlands, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the charming, car-free village and its picturesque canals and houses.
Priced at $573.23 per group of up to 4 participants, the tour lasts 9 hours and includes hotel pickup, a live English-speaking guide, and a 1-hour boat trip through the famous Giethourn canals.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides flexibility and peace of mind.
Whether you’re seeking an immersive cultural experience or simply want to marvel at the tranquil beauty of this Dutch gem, this private tour is an excellent choice.
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Destination Highlights
Giethoorn, known as the ‘Green Venice‘ of the Netherlands, captivates visitors with its complete lack of roads, allowing them to explore the charming village and its picturesque canals and houses by boat.
During the private tour, guests will embark on a 1-hour boat trip through these serene waterways, with tea or coffee included.
The tour also includes a visit to the replica of the Batavia, a 17th-century galleon, and the chance to discover the history of Flevoland, the largest man-made polder in the world.
With its unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, Giethoorn promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
Itinerary Details
The private tour departs from the participant’s hotel in Amsterdam, with the journey taking them through the picturesque Flevoland region and the Weerribben-Wieden National Park.
Upon arrival in Lelystad, the group will have the opportunity to visit a replica of the Batavia, a 17th-century galleon, as well as the striking ‘Exposure’ sculpture by Antony Gormley.
Afterwards, they’ll enjoy free time in the charming car-free town of Giethoorn, where they can wander the picturesque canals, snap photos of the quaint houses, and grab a bite to eat.
On the return trip, the tour will traverse the Houtribdijk, which connects North Holland and Flevoland and divides the Ijsselmeer and Markermeer lakes.
Transportation and Guidance
The private tour provides participants with a comfortable vehicle and a knowledgeable live guide throughout the journey, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
The guide offers insights and assistance, sharing the history and highlights of the destinations along the way.
Travelers are picked up directly from their hotel in Amsterdam and embark on a scenic drive through the Flevoland and Weerribben-Wieden National Park.
The guide ensures participants make the most of their time, managing logistics and providing recommendations to enhance the excursion.
With the guide’s expertise, guests can focus on seeing the picturesque canals and charming architecture of Giethoorn without worrying about navigation or transportation.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyBoat Trip and Refreshments
A highlight of the private tour is the included one-hour boat trip through Giethoorn’s picturesque canals, during which guests can enjoy complementary tea or coffee as they leisurely navigate the tranquil waterways.
Gliding past the charming thatched-roof cottages and lush vegetation along the canal banks, visitors are transported to a serene, car-free world where the gentle lapping of the water and chirping of birds create a peaceful ambiance.
The boat tour provides an intimate and immersive way to experience Giethoorn’s unique landscape, allowing guests to fully appreciate the town’s centuries-old history and natural beauty.
This relaxing interlude on the water is a truly memorable part of the overall private tour experience.
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Exploring Giethoorn
After the serene boat ride through Giethoorn’s picturesque canals, visitors can now explore the unique car-free town on foot, wandering its quaint streets and alleyways lined with charming thatched-roof cottages.
Giethoorn, often referred to as the ‘Venice of the North,’ is a picturesque village with no roads, only scenic waterways and footpaths connecting the homes and businesses.
Travelers can meander through this peaceful setting, taking in the historic architecture, stopping for photos, and discovering local shops and cafes.
With its serene atmosphere and absence of vehicles, Giethoorn offers a truly tranquil and immersive experience, allowing visitors to step back in time and appreciate the town’s charming ambiance and traditional way of life.
Connecting Flevoland and North Holland
During the return trip, the private tour traverses the Houtribdijk, a remarkable engineering feat that seamlessly connects the provinces of North Holland and Flevoland by dividing the vast Ijsselmeer and Markermeer lakes. This 20-mile-long dike, built in the 1970s, serves as a vital transportation link, allowing travelers to explore the diverse landscapes of the region.
Along the way, the tour guide provides insights into the history and significance of this impressive structure, which:
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Reclaimed over 400 square miles of land from the former Zuiderzee, creating the new province of Flevoland
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Protects the surrounding areas from flooding, ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities
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Offers stunning vistas of the two lakes and the rolling Dutch countryside
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Plays a crucial role in the region’s water management and environmental conservation efforts
Booking and Availability
Travelers can easily check the availability of the private tour to Giethoorn and secure their spot through the convenient reserve-now-pay-later option offered by the tour provider.
The tour operates with multiple starting times throughout the day, so guests can choose the option that best fits their schedule. By reserving in advance, travelers can guarantee their place on the tour and pay later, allowing them to plan their trip with flexibility.
The tour provider recommends booking early, as spaces are limited. With a private vehicle, live guide, and included boat trip, this immersive Giethoorn experience is sure to fill up quickly. Savvy travelers will want to lock in their reservation as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no specific dress code for this tour. Participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and footwear, as the tour may involve walking and exploring outdoor areas. The guide will provide any necessary information about appropriate attire.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour operator does not provide meals, but encourages guests to explore the local cuisine and shops in Giethoorn during the free time allotted on the itinerary.
Is the Tour Suitable for People With Disabilities?
The tour is generally accessible for people with disabilities, though accommodations may vary. Travelers should inquire about specific accessibility requirements when booking to ensure the tour meets their needs. The tour provider can advise on any necessary arrangements.
Can I Book the Tour for a Larger Group?
Yes, the tour can accommodate larger groups. The tour price is per group of up to 4 participants, so you can book the tour for a group size larger than 4 by paying the per-group rate.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The tour does not have any age restrictions, as it is suitable for participants of all ages. Children are welcome to join the tour, providing they are accompanied by an adult.
Recap
This private tour from Amsterdam offers a truly enchanting experience in the car-free village of Giethoorn, often referred to as the ‘Green Venice’ of the Netherlands.
Guests will enjoy a serene boat trip along the picturesque canals, while seeing the charming cottages and rich history of this unique destination.
With hotel pickup, an English-speaking guide, and complimentary refreshments, this 9-hour adventure is the perfect way to escape the city and explore the tranquil beauty of Giethoorn.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Private Tours in Giethoorn
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