What to Do in Giethoorn – Best Activities & Tips
Giethoorn’s Best Activities – From Boat Tours to Scenic Walks
Ride through scenic routes, past lakes, windmills, and the stunning Weerribben-Wieden National Park.
Canal Cruise Giethoorn – Sail Through the Dutch Venice
Giethoorn is a stunning destination that’s best experienced through our guided tours from Amsterdam. Whether you want the ease of a public boat tour or the freedom of a self-guided adventure, we offer the perfect way to explore this fairytale village.
Giethoorn tour directly from Amsterdam. departure: 9:00 am
pick up point : Buiksloterweg 30 1031 CK Amsterdam
Public Boat with Skipper
Relax and let a professional skipper navigate you through the scenic waterways.
Self-Guided Adventure
Book your own boat and navigate through the canals at your own pace.
Which Boats Can You Rent in Giethoorn?
The Weerribben-Wieden region is known for its vast waterways, dotted with charming islands where picturesque houses have been built. Around Giethoorn, you’ll find numerous rental companies offering a variety of boats. In addition to the popular whisper boats, you can also rent sloops, SUPs, and even sailboats. For schools, sailing across the large lake and stopping at one of the islands for a picnic is a unique experience. However, the highlight remains a scenic boat tour through the village canal, where you can admire stunning gardens and traditional farmhouses—a true must-see!
- Whisper Boat (Seld Guided adventure )
- Luxury Sloop
- Canoe / Kayak
- SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboard)
- Public Canal Cruise (with Skipper)
- Sailboat
Walking in and Around Giethoorn
Giethoorn is a beautiful place for a scenic walk, whether along its charming canals or across its many wooden bridges. But did you know there are countless walking routes to explore? Discover the best trails and set out for a memorable journey.
Start your walk in Giethoorn and visit picturesque villages like Dwarsgracht and Wanneperveen, where you can experience the authentic charm of the Dutch waterland.
📍 Plan Your Giethoorn Water Villages Walk – Visit the website and choose the perfect route for your walking adventure!
Cycling in and Around Giethoorn
Giethoorn is an ideal central location to start your cycling adventure. Why? Because it offers plenty of restaurants, parking spaces, and a stunning natural environment. Surrounded by wetlands and scenic landscapes, it’s the perfect place to explore the Dutch countryside.
Enjoy beautiful cycling routes that take you from village to village. A recommended route includes passing through Dwarsgracht and Scheerwolde, then looping back to Giethoorn via Steenwijk.
📍 Plan Your Cycling Trip – Explore the best routes and experience Giethoorn on two wheels!
Fun Activities to Do in Giethoorn
1. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) 🏄♂️
Ever tried SUP? If not, this is your chance! Paddle while standing on a board and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. It’s a fun and relaxing way to explore Giethoorn’s canals at your own pace.
2. Pole Punting – A Local Tradition 🚣♂️
Experience Giethoorn the traditional way! Instead of using a motor, locals used a long pole to push their boats forward through the canals. Some residents still practice this unique method today, making it a true heritage experience.
3. Visit Het Kraggehuis Island 🌳🥪
Looking for a perfect picnic spot? Head to Het Kraggehuis Island, a serene place often visited by school groups who come to relax after sailing or canoeing adventures. It’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy nature.
Canoeing & Sailing in Giethoorn
Looking for fun outdoor activities in Giethoorn? Canoeing is a great way to explore the canals while staying active! You can follow the same routes as the boats but paddle at your own pace. Some trails even extend up to 40 km, perfect for a full-day adventure.
For those who love sailing, head to Bovenwijde Lake, a popular spot for sailing enthusiasts. If you’re visiting with a group, organizing a sailing activity is highly recommended for an unforgettable experience on the water.
