Giethoorn, the "Venice of the Netherlands," captivates visitors with its enchanting charm. This guided tour promises to whisk you away from Amsterdam to explore the car-free village‘s picturesque waterways and thatched-roof cottages. Embarking on a scenic 1-hour canal cruise, you’ll enjoy expert commentary as you glide through the tranquil canals. But the experience doesn’t end there. Indulge in a delightful cheese platter while on board, savouring the flavours of the region. With 2.5 hours of free time to wander the village at your leisure, you’ll have ample opportunity to learn about Giethoorn’s unique beauty. What secrets will you uncover in this enchanting destination?
Key Points
- The tour includes a 1-hour guided cruise through Giethoorn’s picturesque canals and a cheese platter during the cruise.
- Travelers have 2.5 hours of free time to explore the car-free streets and charming architecture of Giethoorn.
- Transportation is provided via a comfortable single-deck bus with pickup and drop-off in central Amsterdam.
- The tour is available in Spanish and English, and a free cancellation policy is included.
- The tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, and guests should consider their needs when booking.
Tour Overview
What does this guided tour of Giethoorn entail?
The tour offers visitors a chance to experience the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’ with a scenic cruise and cheese platter included.
Over the course of 7 hours, travelers will enjoy a 1.5-hour bus ride each way to Giethoorn, where they’ll embark on a 1-hour guided cruise with live commentary.
During the cruise, they’ll be served a delightful cheese platter.
Afterward, guests will have 2.5 hours of free time to explore the charming village.
An optional 30-minute meal break at a local restaurant is also available.
With the tour guide available in Spanish and English, as well as a free cancellation policy, this is an accessible and flexible way to discover the unique beauty of Giethoorn.
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Itinerary Details
The tour commences from De Ruijterkade 105 in central Amsterdam, marking the starting point for the day’s excursion.
Travelers will embark on a 1-hour guided cruise through the charming canals of Giethoorn, known as the ‘Venice of the Netherlands,’ accompanied by a live commentary.
During the cruise, they’ll savor a delectable cheese platter, seeing the picturesque surroundings.
After the cruise, guests are treated to 2.5 hours of free time to freely explore the quaint village, with an optional 30-minute break for a meal at a local restaurant.
The tour ensures a well-rounded experience, seamlessly blending transportation, sightseeing, and culinary delights for an unforgettable day in this Dutch gem.
Transportation and Accessibility
Comfortable transportation via single-deck bus is provided for the journey, with pick-up and drop-off conveniently located in central Amsterdam. The buses are equipped to transport guests safely and comfortably to the picturesque village of Giethoorn.
However, the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as the maximum group size is limited to 60 travelers. While the tour is designed to be accessible to most, those with special mobility needs may find the experience challenging.
Once there, you will embark on a guided cruise through the charming canals, taking in the serene atmosphere and stunning scenery. Guests are advised to consider their individual requirements when booking this excursion.
Inclusions and Exclusions
This guided tour of Giethoorn includes round-trip transportation via comfortable single-deck bus, a 1-hour cruise through the village’s picturesque canals with a delightful cheese platter, and all applicable taxes and fees.
However, the package excludes any additional food and drinks beyond the provided cheese platter, as well as gratuities for the tour guide and other service providers, which are optional.
The tour includes the following:
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Transportation to and from central Amsterdam
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1-hour guided canal cruise
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Cheese platter served during the cruise
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All taxes, fees, and handling charges
Guests are responsible for covering the cost of any optional meals, as well as providing tips to the tour guide and other staff at their own discretion.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyScenic Cruise Experience
A 1-hour guided cruise provides visitors with a serene journey through Giethoorn’s picturesque canals, where they’ll witness the charming thatched-roof cottages and tranquil waterways that earned the village its nickname, the ‘Venice of the Netherlands’.
Along the way, a knowledgeable guide shares captivating insights about Giethoorn’s history and culture, allowing guests to fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
As the boat glides effortlessly through the water, travelers can savor a delightful cheese platter, complementing the scenic surroundings.
This leisurely cruise offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the quaint beauty and serene ambiance that have made Giethoorn a beloved destination among visitors to the Netherlands.
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Cheese Platter on Board
What better way to take in the serene ambiance of Giethoorn’s picturesque canals than by savoring a delightful cheese platter while cruising through the tranquil waterways?
As the boat glides effortlessly, guests can indulge in a carefully curated selection of local cheeses, complementing the scenic surroundings and offering a true taste of the region’s culinary delights.
The cheese platter includes:
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Gouda, a firm, golden-hued cheese with a rich, creamy flavor.
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Maasdam, a semi-soft cheese with a nutty aroma and subtle sweetness.
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Boerenkaas, a traditional farmhouse cheese with a robust, earthy profile.
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Leerdammer, a semi-hard cheese with a distinctive, slightly sweet taste.
This delightful experience allows visitors to fully appreciate the unique charm of Giethoorn while savoring the local flavors.
Free Exploration Time
After seeing the tranquil canals and savoring the local cheese platter, visitors can now embark on a self-guided exploration of the charming village of Giethoorn, affording them the opportunity to discover its quaint beauty at their own pace.
With 2.5 hours of free time, guests can wander through the car-free streets, admiring the iconic thatched-roof houses that line the picturesque waterways.
They’ll have the chance to stumble upon hidden gems, such as cozy cafes, artisan boutiques, and historic landmarks.
This unstructured time allows travelers to truly soak in the unique atmosphere of Giethoorn, creating lasting memories of their Dutch adventure at their own leisurely rhythm.
Important Considerations
Travelers should bring along an umbrella, camera, and comfortable shoes to fully enjoy the guided tour and explore Giethoorn’s picturesque landscapes. Pets aren’t permitted on the excursion.
While the itinerary is typically followed, minor variations may occur based on the tour guide and local traffic conditions. Children aged 3 and younger can join the tour free of charge, provided they don’t occupy a dedicated seat. Importantly, the tour operates rain or shine, ensuring a seamless experience regardless of the weather.
Key considerations for the Giethoorn tour include:
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Recommended items: umbrella, camera, comfortable shoes.
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No pets allowed.
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Possible itinerary variations due to guide and traffic.
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Free entry for children 3 and under.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?
Yes, this tour can be booked for a private group. The maximum group size is 60 travelers, so you can reserve the entire tour just for your private party. Additional fees may apply for a private group booking.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
The tour doesn’t explicitly offer discounts for seniors or students. However, the overall price per person can be as low as €62.81, potentially providing savings compared to regular rates. Customers should check with the tour operator for any available concessions.
How Often Do the Tours Depart From Amsterdam?
The tours depart from Amsterdam multiple times per day, offering flexibility for travelers. Specific departure times may vary, so customers should check the schedule or contact the tour operator for the most up-to-date information.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers cannot bring their own food and drinks on the cruise portion of the tour. The tour includes a cheese platter served during the 1-hour guided cruise, but no other food or drinks are provided beyond that.
Is the Tour Guide Available to Answer Questions During Free Time?
The tour guide is available to answer questions during the free time in Giethoorn. They can provide additional information and recommendations to enhance the participants’ exploration of the village and ensure they make the most of the free time.
Recap
This guided tour of Giethoorn provides a delightful opportunity to experience the quaint, car-free village‘s charming canals and picturesque thatched-roof cottages.
The scenic 1-hour cruise, accompanied by expert commentary, and the included cheese platter, offer a well-rounded encounter with the town’s unique character.
With ample free time for personal exploration, this tour promises a memorable day immersed in Giethoorn’s enchanting beauty, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an immersive journey.
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