Giethoorn, all you need to know for your visit

Giethoorn, village without roads

The tiny town in The Netherlands which you can only visit by foot, bike or whisper boat. Watch our 5 minute documentary.

Our tips

Giethoorn is a small town in the east of The Netherlands. Located about an 1,5 hour drive from Amsterdam, the Dutch Venice is truly magnificent! There are a lots of trees and flowers which make the village very nice, especially in the spring and summer. Don’t forget to take your camera with you!

You can visit Giethoorn by boat, but we can also recommend a very nice walk along the dorpsgracht. You can also visit the nearby national park Weerribben-Wieden, when you would like to stay longer.

Is Giethoorn open during Covid-19?

Yes, Giethoorn is not a park but a public area. Keep in mind, that the government has instituted Covid-19 measures, which are frequently changing. For example, terraces can be closed and boats may not be rented.

Can I visit in one day?

Visiting Giethoorn in just one day is possible. If you travel by train/bus, pay attention the last bus back to station. If you want to see more than just the village itself, we recommend to stay a few days longer.

What is the history of Giethoorn?

Giethoorn was founded in the 13th century. The canals where created by digging peat. Peat was used as a fuel. Giethoorn became a tourist destination in the 1960’s. Nowadays the resident maintain beautiful gardens.

When is the best time to visit?

Giethoorn is very popular among foreign tourists. It can therefore be very busy during the summer holidays. At the moment it is quiet because of Covid-19.

No roads. Just boats.

How to visit

You can travel by train to station Steenwijk. From there you can travel by bus, take line 70 or the Giethoorn Express (only in the summer).

How to rent a boat

There are several rental company’s. Walk along the Cornelisgracht or Dorpsgracht to hire a small boat, canoe or hop on one of the tour boats.

Where to eat

The are many restraurants along the canals. Don’t expect McDonalds or Starbucks. All restaurants are locally owned and operated. Enjoy!