Giethoorn, Netherlands: The Fairytale Village You’ve Never Heard Of
One of the most famous villages in the world is located in the north of The Netherlands. This village is known as the “Venice of the North,” If you’ve ever dreamed of gliding through a quiet village on a boat instead of walking down streets, Giethoorn is exactly the storybook escape you’re looking for. Giethoorn is famous for its canals, quaint thatched-roof cottages, and peaceful charm. It’s one of those places that feels too magical to be real and yet, it is. I recently visited for my second time and it absolutely lives up to the hype (and maybe even surpassed it!). Here’s everything you need to know before you visit, from renting a boat to finding the best spots to explore.
Where is Giethoorn?
Giethoorn is located in the province of Overijssel in the northeast of the Netherlands. It’s part of the municipality of Steenwijkerland and nestled within the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, one of the most beautiful wetland areas in Europe.
How to Get to Giethoorn
If you’re traveling from Amsterdam, it takes about two hours to reach Giethoorn. You can take a train to Steenwijk and then hop on a bus or taxi to Giethoorn (about 15 minutes from the station). Alternatively, if you’re driving, there’s parking available just outside the village. Cars aren’t allowed in the centre, which only adds to the peaceful atmosphere.
Though if you are coming by car there are a range of parking options. If you are renting a boat most times there will be a car park for the boat renting so you can park there for free.
Renting a Boat
If you’re in Giethoorn of course the best way to explore it is by water. So the absolute must do activity in Giethoorn is renting a boat to explore the village’s canals. There are different types of boats available:
Whisper Boats (electric boats): Quiet and easy to operate, perfect for beginners.
Punter Boats: Traditional wooden boats that can be rowed or equipped with a motor.
Guided Boat Tours: If you’re not up for steering yourself, join a group tour to learn more about the village’s history and sights. Just note these can sell out fast especially in high season.
Most rentals are available by the hour, and I highly recommend going for at least two hours to really soak in the surroundings. It’s honestly one of the most relaxing experiences I’ve ever had and there’s something magical about gliding past flower lined cottages and over tiny arched bridges.
Tip: Arrive early in the morning to avoid peak boat traffic especially during the summer. You can so many videos of the canals getting packed with tourists on boats and trust me its real. Even when it isn’t peak season in Giethoorn you will most certainly spot a boat traffic jam. So my main tip is get there are early as possible. The both times I have visited we got there for 10am during peak season and no one was on the water. Then an hour or 2 later the canals are packed.
Also make sure to book any rented boats in advance if you can. Most of the time you might be able to find a boat on the day. But to ensure you can get rent a boat I would advise booking in advance. You can find a list of boat rentals on the Giethoorn website and book directly from there. Bonus is sometimes the prices are slightly cheaper online.
Best Time to Visit
Giethoorn is known all around the world as being one of the most beautiful villages. As well as being beautiful this village is also very small so when it’s peak season its busy( and I mean busy!) So it’s good to know in advance when the best time is to visit because each season offers something different:
Spring (April-May): Tulips start blooming and the weather is mild.
Summer (June-August): Warmest time, but also the busiest. Expect lots of tourists and packed canals.
Autumn (September-October): Fewer tourists, beautiful foliage.
Winter (November-March): Quietest season. Some canals freeze, and the whole village looks like a winter wonderland.
If you want to avoid crowds but still enjoy decent weather, late spring or early autumn is your best bet. I usually aim to go either end of April or early May and this way you still get the good weather but avoid the massive crowds.
What to Do
Besides boating, there’s plenty of things to do in Giethoorn:
1. Stroll or Cycle the Village Paths
Wander along the narrow footpaths and charming bridges, or rent a bike to explore more of the surrounding countryside. There’s very little traffic, so it’s perfect for a slow and peaceful walk. Also ideal if you’re not a fan of cycling in The Netherlands as it’s very quiet.
2. Visit Museum Giethoorn ‘t Olde Maat Uus
This open air museum offers a glimpse into what life was like in Giethoorn centuries ago. Set in an old farmhouse it showcases traditional tools, furniture, and stories from the village’s past. It’s small but really insightful, especially if you love local history. The museum also has some really fun interactive parts like old dutch games. Though don’t let the games being aimed at kids fool you. I found them pretty hard especially the stelt lopens… they took a lot of work.
Entry to the museum costs €7.50 for an adult but if you hold a Museumkaart its free.
3. Explore the Weerribben-Wieden National Park
If you’re a nature lover, don’t skip this nearby national park. You can kayak, hike, or even take an eco-friendly boat tour through the marshes, reed beds, and lakes. It feels like stepping into another world.
4. Eat by the Water
There are lots of cute cafés and restaurants right along the canals. I stopped at a place where I could watch boats pass by while enjoying a nice sandwich and a coffee. Many spots offer traditional Dutch food and fresh fish. Just to note if you are visiting during peak season most places might be very full so it’s good to go early.
Prices around Giethoorn can also be pretty high as it is a tourist destination so expect to be paying for a bit more for you cup of coffee.
Some food spots to check out:
Grand Café Fanfare: Named after the Dutch film shot in Giethoorn.
De Sloothaak: Cozy restaurant with local dishes.
Café de Otterskooi: Great for a casual bite and canal views.
My Top Tips for Visiting Giethoorn
Book your boat rental in advance, especially in high season.
Wear comfy shoes if you plan to walk a lot.
Bring water and snacks, especially if you’re visiting on a hot day.
Watch out for cyclists and other boats, especially on narrow paths and turns.
Respect the locals: Remember, this is a real village where people live. Keep noise down and be mindful. Please do not go on any bridges that are crossed off or specifically say to stay off. These bridges are apart of private properties so just be mindful.
Conclusion…
Giethoorn honestly feels like something from a fairytale. It’s a peaceful retreat from the hustle of city life, and boating through the canals is just as magical as you might imagine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic day trip, a family adventure, or just a beautiful place to unwind, Giethoorn delivers.
My biggest tip? Go slow. It’s a place meant to be savoured. Drift through the canals, soak in the scenery, and let Giethoorn’s quiet charm work its magic. Just remember to be mindful of the villages residence and if you are choosing to rent a boat to be careful on where you dock your boat. If you do end up putting it anywhere you may come back to your boat being gone.