Giethoorn, Netherlands Travel Guide

Discover Giethoorn: The Venice of the North, where serene canals, thatched cottages, and lush greenery create a fairytale escape in the heart of the Netherlands.

Giethoorn, often referred to as the 'Venice of the North,' is a picturesque village in the Netherlands renowned for its serene canals, charming thatched-roof cottages, and lush greenery. This car-free village offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing visitors to explore its unique landscape by boat, bicycle, or on foot. The village's main mode of transport is through its network of canals, which are best explored by renting a whisper boat or a traditional Dutch punt. As you glide through the waterways, you'll be captivated by the beautiful gardens, quaint bridges, and historic farmhouses that give Giethoorn its fairytale-like ambiance. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, walking and cycling paths wind through the village, providing ample opportunities to take in the stunning scenery. Giethoorn is not just about its scenic beauty; it also boasts several intriguing museums and cultural attractions. The Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus offers a glimpse into the village's history and traditional way of life, while the De Oude Aarde museum showcases an impressive collection of minerals and fossils. After a day of exploration, visitors can relax at one of the many cozy cafes and restaurants, savoring local Dutch delicacies while enjoying the serene views. Despite its small size, Giethoorn is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. Its tranquil atmosphere, combined with its unique charm and rich cultural heritage, makes it a must-visit location for anyone traveling to the Netherlands.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Giethoorn.

Rent a whisper boat to navigate the canals silently and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience.
Bring a picnic and enjoy a meal by the water's edge at one of the many scenic spots.
Check out local museums like Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus for insight into the village's history.
Don't forget to rent a bicycle to explore the beautiful countryside surrounding Giethoorn.

Explore Giethoorn: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Giethoorn

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Wouda pumping station

Discover the engineering brilliance of the Wouda Pumping Station in Lemmer, a UNESCO World Heritage site that defines Dutch water management.

4.6

Gloria Maris Giethoorn

Experience the serene beauty and local craftsmanship at Gloria Maris Giethoorn, a must-see destination for tourists exploring the Dutch countryside.

4.5

Domino's Pizza Heerenveen

Experience delicious pizzas at Domino's Pizza Heerenveen, a top choice for quick meals in the heart of the city, perfect for tourists and locals alike.

3.4

Nationaal Tinnen Figuren Museum

Discover the artistry and history of miniature tin figures at the captivating Nationaal Tinnen Figuren Museum in Ommen, Netherlands.

4.2

Best landmarks in Giethoorn

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Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus

Explore the rich heritage of Giethoorn at Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus, a charming local history museum that captures the essence of this picturesque village.

4.5

Giethoorn Center

Experience the serene beauty of Giethoorn Center, a car-free village in the Netherlands, known for its enchanting canals and charming thatched-roof houses.

4.8

Giethoorn Netherlands

Experience serene canals and charming thatched-roof cottages in Giethoorn, a picturesque village known as the 'Venice of the North' in the Netherlands.

4.7

Gloria Maris Giethoorn

Explore the heart of Giethoorn at Gloria Maris, where local crafts and the charm of Dutch culture await every visitor.

4.5

Best restaurants in Giethoorn

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Ristorante Fratelli

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Ristorante Fratelli in Giethoorn – where every meal is a celebration of flavors amidst scenic beauty.

4.0

Grachthof Giethoorn | Restaurant & Bootverhuur

Experience exquisite dining and scenic boat rentals at Grachthof Giethoorn, nestled in the heart of Holland's enchanting canal village.

4.0

Grand Café Fanfare

Savor local flavors at Grand Café Fanfare in Giethoorn - a culinary gem amidst scenic canals.

4.1

Smit's Paviljoen

Experience delightful Dutch cuisine at Smit's Paviljoen while enjoying scenic boat rentals in the picturesque village of Giethoorn.

3.9

Best bars in Giethoorn

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Grachthof Giethoorn | Restaurant & Bootverhuur

Experience delightful dining and scenic boat rentals at Grachthof Giethoorn, where culinary flavors meet the serenity of Giethoorn's waterways.

4.0

Grand Café Fanfare

Discover the flavors of Giethoorn at Grand Café Fanfare, where local cuisine meets serene canal views in a charming atmosphere.

4.1

Smit's Paviljoen

Discover the charm of Giethoorn with exquisite dining at Smit's Paviljoen, your gateway to culinary delights and stunning canal views.

3.9

Café Restaurant De Rietstulp

Discover the enchanting Café Restaurant De Rietstulp in Giethoorn, where delightful dining meets breathtaking canal views.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Giethoorn

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Grand Café Fanfare

Discover the delightful flavors of Giethoorn at Grand Café Fanfare, a culinary haven surrounded by picturesque canals and charming scenery.

4.1

Club Smithy`s Palace

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Club Smithy's Palace, Eesveen's premier disco club offering an unforgettable experience of music and dance.

4.3

Club 24

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Lemmer at Club 24, where electrifying music and a lively atmosphere await every night.

3.5

Bar street The Beugel

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Bar Street The Beugel, where music, friends, and unforgettable moments await in Echtenerbrug.

5.0

Best shops in Giethoorn

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PLUS Giethoorn

Experience the essence of Giethoorn's local flavors at PLUS Giethoorn, your go-to supermarket for fresh produce and Dutch specialties.

4.3

Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Giethoorn at Museum 't Olde Maat Uus, where history and craftsmanship come alive in a charming setting.

4.5

Museum De Oude Aarde

Discover the Earth's treasures at Museum De Oude Aarde in Giethoorn, featuring stunning minerals, fossils, and engaging exhibits for all ages.

4.5

Giethoorn Center

Experience the enchanting canals and serene beauty of Giethoorn Center, a hidden gem in the heart of the Netherlands.

4.8

Explore Giethoorn on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Giethoorn, mapped for you.

Giethoorn Essentials

Giethoorn is located in the province of Overijssel in the Netherlands. The nearest major city is Zwolle, which is approximately 30 kilometers away. The closest international airports are Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) and Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ). From Amsterdam, you can take a direct train to Steenwijk, which takes around 1.5 hours. From Steenwijk, local buses (line 70) run to Giethoorn, taking about 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to Giethoorn, which is approximately a 90-minute drive from Amsterdam.
Giethoorn is best explored by boat, given its extensive network of canals. You can rent a whisper boat, canoe, or take a guided canal tour. Bicycles are also popular for getting around, and there are numerous rental shops in the village. Walking is another great way to explore Giethoorn, as many attractions are within walking distance. Public transportation options are limited within the village, but taxis are available for longer trips.
The official currency in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Giethoorn, including Visa and MasterCard. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available in the village, but having a small amount of cash on hand can be convenient.
Giethoorn is generally a very safe destination for tourists. The crime rate is low, and violent crimes are rare. However, like any popular tourist destination, it is wise to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Giethoorn.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. The nearest hospital is in Steenwijk, which is a short drive away. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are local pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and practically, especially if you plan to explore the canals by boat. Casual attire is generally acceptable. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. There are no specific religious dress codes, but modesty is appreciated in places of worship. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding trains and buses. Don't be loud or disruptive on public transportation. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Goedemorgen'. A handshake is common among locals. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local delicacies such as Dutch pancakes and fresh fish. Don't forget to tip in restaurants; a 5-10% tip is customary.
To experience Giethoorn like a local, visit during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn when the village is less crowded. Rent a whisper boat early in the morning to enjoy the serene canals before the crowds arrive. Explore the lesser-known parts of the village, such as the northern area, which offers a quieter experience. Engage with locals at small cafes and shops; they are often willing to share stories and tips about the best spots in Giethoorn.

When is the best time to visit Giethoorn?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Giethoorn

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Giethoorn. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [hah-loh]
- GoodbyeDoei
  [doo-i]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNee
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeAlsjeblieft
  [ahls-yuh-bleeft]
- Thank youDank je
  [dahnk yuh]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [soh-ree]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [hoo gah-t het]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?
  [khoot. en met yow]
- Do you speak English?Spreek je Engels?
  [sprek yuh ang-uhls]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ik buh-gryp het neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk wil graag de menukaart zien, alsjeblieft
  [ik vil khrahkh duh meh-noo-kahrt seen, ahls-yuh-bleeft]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ik ayt khayn flays]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alsjeblieft
  [ik vil khrahkh buh-tah-luhn, ahls-yuh-bleeft]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [gah vekh]
- Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel duh poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel ayn dohk-tuhr]
- I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ik ben vuhr-dwahlt]
- I'm illIk ben ziek
  [ik ben zik]
- I'd like to buy...Ik wil graag kopen...
  [ik vil khrahkh koh-pen]
- I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
  [ik kayk ayluhn mahr]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hoo-veyl kost het]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [daht is tuh dyur]
- Can you lower the price?Kan je de prijs verlagen?
  [kahn yuh duh preys vuh-rah-ghun]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hoo laht is het]
- It's one o'clockHet is een uur
  [het is ayn oor]
- Half past (10)Half elf
  [hahlf elf]
- MorningOchtend
  [ohk-tuhnt]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [mi-dahkh]
- EveningAvond
  [ah-vohnt]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [khis-tuh-ruhn]
- TodayVandaag
  [vahn-dahkh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-khun]
- 1Een
  [ayn]
- 2Twee
  [tweh]
- 3Drie
  [dree]
- 4Vier
  [feer]
- 5Vijf
  [fayf]
- 6Zes
  [zehs]
- 7Zeven
  [zay-vuhn]
- 8Acht
  [ahkh-t]
- 9Negen
  [nay-ghun]
- 10Tien
  [teen]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?
  [vahr is ayn/deh]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vaht is het ah-drehs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kan je me (op de kaart) laten zien?
  [kahn yuh meh (op deh kahrt) lah-tuhn seen]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [vahn-ehr is deh fohl-huhn-duh bus]
- A ticket (to ....)Een kaartje (naar ....)
  [ayn kahrt-yuh (nahr)]

History of Giethoorn

Giethoorn, often referred to as the 'Venice of the North,' was founded in the early 13th century by fugitive monks. The name 'Giethoorn' is derived from 'Geytenhoren' (goat horns), referencing the discovery of numerous goat horns in the area, remnants of a 10th-century flood.
In the 16th century, Giethoorn's landscape was significantly shaped by extensive peat digging. The extraction of peat for fuel led to the creation of numerous lakes and canals. Over time, these waterways became the primary method of transportation within the village, giving Giethoorn its unique character.
Giethoorn is renowned for its intricate network of canals and over 180 wooden bridges. These bridges, built between the 18th and 19th centuries, are crucial for connecting the island-like parcels of land. The village's architecture and waterways provide a picturesque setting that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.
The village began to attract tourists in the mid-20th century, drawn by its tranquil canals, thatched-roof cottages, and serene atmosphere. The development of tourism infrastructure, including boat rentals and guided tours, has made Giethoorn a popular destination for visitors from around the world.
Giethoorn celebrates its rich cultural heritage through various local festivals and events. The annual Gondelvaart (Gondola Parade) is a highlight, featuring beautifully decorated boats parading through the canals. This tradition, along with local crafts and folklore, preserves the village's historical and cultural identity.