Venice of the North: Tips for visiting Giethoorn

Many places proudly claim the title Venice of the North, including Amsterdam, Cambridge, and Bruges. However, one lesser-known but equally enchanting contender is the picturesque village of Giethoorn, centrally located in the Netherlands. Just a 1.5-hour drive from Amsterdam, Giethoorn is an ideal destination for a day trip. In this article I’ll share the best tips for visiting Giethoorn!

When to Visit Giethoorn

Giethoorn’s charm attracts thousands of tourists, particularly in the summer months. To avoid the crowds, the best time to visit is during spring or early autumn. The vibrant flowers and lush greenery are still on display, but the atmosphere is quieter and more relaxed. Visiting in winter offers a completely tranquil experience, though the lack of blooming flowers and greenery might make it less picturesque.

The photos in this guide were taken in September—a great time to enjoy pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of colorful blooms. Even on a cloudy day, Giethoorn’s idyllic beauty shines through.

Exploring Giethoorn by Boat

One of the highlights of Giethoorn is its network of canals, which earned it its nickname. Renting a boat is an absolute must for experiencing the village’s charm. While larger tour boats are available, renting your own small boat is far more enjoyable and gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Recommended Boating Route

Start in the heart of Giethoorn and cruise through its scenic canals. From there, navigate to the serene Bovenwijde Lake, where you can make a round trip and return to the village via a different route.

Tip: Stop at the small island on Bovenwijde Lake for a picnic, it offers a peaceful spot to relax. Alternatively, dock at Smit’s Paviljoen for a refreshing drink or a delicious cocktail with a view.

Things to Do in Giethoorn

Besides exploring by boat, Giethoorn has plenty more to offer! Take some time to wander through its charming streets and discover unique shops and museums. One of my favorite shops is De Oude Aarde (The Ancient Earth), where you’ll find beautiful gemstones and gemstone jewelry. If you’re interested in traditional crafts, make sure to visit Rhoda Pottery to learn more about the art of pottery. For a step back in time, check out Museum ‘t Olde Maat Uus, where you can see how the locals of Giethoorn used to live. And for a bit of fun, why not dress up in traditional Dutch clothing and get your photo taken? It’s a great souvenir to remember your trip!

Where to eat in Giethoorn

In terms of food there also lots of options to choose from in Giethoorn. I recommend trying delicious tradional dutch pancakes at De Witte Hoeve. Another notable restaurant is the Fanfare, where you can spot musical instruments hanging at the ceiling!

Why Visit Giethoorn?

Giethoorn is a magical destination that lives up to its reputation as the Venice of the North. Its tranquil canals, charming shops, and authentic Dutch experiences make it a must-visit location. Whether you’re a tourist exploring the Netherlands or a local seeking a peaceful escape, Giethoorn should definitely be on your bucketlist!

Need more tips for beautiful places to visit in the Netherlands? Check out my Netherlands page!