Day trip Giethoorn
Amsterdam to Giethoorn: Day Trip with Boat Tour and Skipper Included
This all-inclusive tour is designed to give you a stress-free and unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful villages in the Netherlands.
Complete Tour Package: Transfer & Guided Boat Cruise
Chosen by 85% of our guests
Round-trip price: €59,- per person – all costs included, no hidden fees
Traveling from Amsterdam to Giethoorn: Distance, Time & Best Options
The travel connection between Giethoorn and Amsterdam (giethoorn amsterdam) is popular due to the unique character of this picturesque town, often called the ‘Venice of the North’ for its extensive canals and lack of roads in many areas. The distance from Amsterdam to Giethoorn is about 113 km by car and 90 km (55 miles) by train, with journey times averaging around 1 hour 27 minutes by car and 1 hour 41 minutes by train. Driving is the easiest and most flexible way to reach Giethoorn, and the central area of the town is car-free, with designated parking available outside the village centre.
Why Choose Transport Including a Boat Tour in Giethoorn?
A boat tour combined with transport means total relaxation. No waiting times, no stress, and no tight schedules. Upon arrival, you step straight onto the boat. The package includes not only transportation and a boat tour, but also additional services such as guidance and local recommendations to enhance your experience.
For only €59 per person, you travel from Amsterdam to Giethoorn including a canal cruise with skipper. A train ticket alone already costs €59, and boat tickets are expected to cost €12 per person in 2026.
Did you know the train journey takes over 2.5 hours? That’s almost 2 extra hours lost from your vacation day.
Multiple departure times available: Choose between 08:45, 09:45, or 10:45, giving you full flexibility to plan your day.
Scenic journey through Dutch history: Travel past the historic fishing harbor of Urk and the UNESCO World Heritage site Schokland, crossing over 40 km of iconic Dutch polder landscapes.
Central drop-off location in Giethoorn: Arrival at Henri Willig Restaurant, just 50 meters from the main canals and boat docks. There are hotels and other amenities nearby for those who wish to extend their stay or need convenient accommodation options.
How the Giethoorn Tour Works – Step by Step
Step 1: Meet us in Amsterdam
Arrive at Amsterdam Noord – Market 27 at your selected departure time. The location is easily accessible via Metro line 52 (5-minute walk from Noorderpark Station) and offers free parking nearby, helping you avoid expensive city-center fees.
Step 2: Relax and enjoy the journey
Take your reserved seat on our modern coach. Enjoy live commentary from our professional driver highlighting Dutch countryside landmarks, use the onboard toilet, and admire traditional farmhouses passing by your window.
Step 3: Arrival in Giethoorn
We arrive at Henri Willig Restaurant, Dominee T.O. Hylkemaweg 39, which is right next to the main bus stop in Giethoorn. From the bus stop, follow the clear direction signs to the centre of the village, where you will find the boat dock for your canal cruise. Our instructions provide every detail you need for a smooth transition from the bus stop to the centre and your boat.
Step 4: Explore Giethoorn
Your walking tour takes place in the centre of Giethoorn. Walk along wooden bridges, peaceful waterways, and watch boats glide through the canals that make this village so special. During your free time, you may also visit local museums to discover their unique collections of artifacts and artworks.
Step 5: Return to the bus on time
Please arrive 5–10 minutes before departure at the bus stop location listed on your voucher (Dominee T.O. Hylkemaweg 39). Always check your exact return time, as departure times may vary.
Step 6: Back to Amsterdam
After a calm 1.5-hour bus ride, we arrive back in Amsterdam – Market 27
Service Details & Pricing
Everything you need to know about booking your trip to this popular destination in netherlands Giethoorn.
Round-trip price: €59,- per person – all costs included, no hidden fees
📅 Operating period: Daily service from March 23 to December 24
📍 Departure location: Amsterdam Noord – Market 27
📍 Drop-off point: Henri Willig Restaurant, Dominee T.O. Hylkemaweg 39, 8355 CE Giethoorn
Our Partner Tulip Tours Holland
All your transportation, boat tickets, expert guides, and professional chauffeurs are seamlessly organized through our trusted partner, Tulip Tours Holland.
All transportation services are organized in collaboration with our wonderful partner, Tulip Tours Holland. Through this platform, all your tickets are arranged: transportation, boat tickets, friendly guides, and highly professional chauffeurs.
We always depart from our fixed location in Amsterdam. From this central spot, we’re immediately on the highway and on our way to the beautiful village of Giethoorn. Did you know you can also enjoy a coffee or even have lunch at our departure point? Make sure to arrive on time—we’ll make your day a memorable one!
Departure times from Amsterdam: 8:45 AM | 9:45 AM | 10:45 AM
Return times from Giethoorn: 2:30 PM | 3:30 PM | 5:00 PM
Want to travel later back to Amsterdam? While automatic booking for later times is not yet available, you can arrange it at the departure point or at our desk in one of the Giethoorn locations.
Explore Giethoorn Your Way - ather options
If you’d like to choose other options from us, check out these two alternatives. You can either visit Giethoorn and enjoy a relaxing walk through the village, or rent your own boat and explore the canals at your own pace. Both options are available — take a look at these alternatives!
Self-Guided Boat Tour with transportation
Navigate Giethoorn’s scenic canals by boat and explore the charming village at your own pace.
Direct Transfer to Giethoorn
Explore Giethoorn at your pace with our transfer option! We’ll take you from Amsterdam to Giethoorn and back.
Forget About 2.5-Hour Train Connections and Expensive Taxis
If you prefer public transport, take the train from Amsterdam Central to Steenwijk, then transfer to Bus 70 or 270 to reach Giethoorn. The bus stop is a short walk from the village centre, where boat rentals and main attractions are located.
If you prefer public transport, the recommended route is to take a train from Amsterdam Central to Steenwijk, operated by the train company Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS). see our public transport information.
Trains run approximately 231 times per day, with the first train departing at 00:01 AM and the last at 11:55 PM, and typically require one transfer. One-way train ticket prices range from €23,-.
After arriving in Steenwijk, transfer to Bus 70 or Bus 270, which operate between Steenwijk and Giethoorn. The bus journey takes about 15 minutes, with Bus 70 leaving Steenwijk Station every hour on weekdays and a different schedule on weekends. The main bus stop in Giethoorn is at Dominee Hylkemaweg, about a 10-minute walk from the village centre. From the bus stop, follow the signs and directions toward the centre, where the main attractions and boat rentals are located. Local buses typically accept only card payments. for only €2,63 you are in giethoorn.
For real-time train and bus schedules, use the 9292 app or Omio for official and up-to-date information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do we depart and return to Amsterdam?
Our primary departure is at 8:45 AM from central Amsterdam, arriving in Giethoorn by approximately 10:30 AM. Return departure is typically mid-to-late afternoon, getting you back to Amsterdam by early evening. Check your specific tour for exact times – we offer multiple departure options on weekends and during high season.
Can I book boat tours once I arrive in Giethoorn?
Absolutely. Giethoorn has numerous boat rental companies and tour operators directly in the village. If you’ve chosen our transfer-only option, you can easily arrange a boat ride, canal cruise, or rental on arrival. During peak week days in summer, booking ahead may secure better availability, but walk-up options exist.
What should I bring for the boat tour?
Wear comfortable layers, as breezes on the water can feel cooler than on land. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat in summer. A light waterproof jacket is helpful for unpredictable Dutch weather. Don’t forget your camera or phone – you’ll want to capture the scenery and photos of the stunning views.
Are there restaurants and shops in Giethoorn village?
Yes, Giethoorn offers plenty of dining and shopping options. Canal-side restaurants serve lunch ranging from traditional Dutch pancakes to international cuisine. Multiple cafés provide coffee, tea, and sweets. Souvenir shops sell everything from postcards and magnets to traditional clogs and local cheeses. You’ll have ample time to explore all the attractions.
Is the tour suitable for children and elderly travelers?
Our bus tour is comfortable for all ages. In Giethoorn, the main walking paths are generally accessible, though some bridges have steps. Larger tour boats are easier to board for those with mobility concerns. For families, the small boat rentals and canal cruise experiences delight children of all ages. Contact us if you have specific accessibility questions.
What happens if weather conditions are poor?
Dutch weather can be unpredictable, but Giethoorn remains charming in all conditions. Light rain rarely stops boat tours – covered salon boats provide shelter. In case of severe weather, we’ll communicate any schedule adjustments. Most visitors find that even cloudy days offer beautiful, atmospheric photos of the canals.
How does this compare to taking the train?
Train travel to Giethoorn requires multiple connections – typically Amsterdam to Zwolle, Zwolle to Steenwijk, then bus 70 to the village. Total travel time is approximately 2.5 hours each way, and tickets cost around €60 return. Our direct bus takes just 1 hour 20 minutes for €49 return – saving you time, money, and the stress of navigating Dutch public transport.
Can I visit Zaanse Schans on the same day?
Our Giethoorn tours focus exclusively on this special destination, giving you maximum time to discover everything the village offers. For visitors wanting to combine attractions, we recommend separate day trips to fully experience each location without rushing.
Book Your Giethoorn Adventure Today
You’ve read about the Venice of the Netherlands – now it’s time to experience it yourself.
Here’s what you get when you book with us:
✓ The fastest route from Amsterdam – just 1 hour 20 minutes door to door
✓ The best value – only €59 compared to €70+ for complicated train journeys
✓ Maximum time in Giethoorn – arrive by 10:30 AM with the entire day ahead
✓ Three tour options – choose the experience that matches your travel style
✓ Central departure – easy pick up point accessible from anywhere in Amsterdam
Don’t spend your precious holiday time figuring out train connections. While other tourists are still waiting for their second transfer at Steenwijk station, you’ll be boarding a canal cruise through the most picturesque village in the Netherlands.
Tickets sell out quickly during peak season. Weekends and summer weeks book especially fast as more tourists discover this enchanting destination.
Have questions about which tour option is right for you? Visit our website or contact our helpful team. We’re here to ensure your Giethoorn trip becomes the highlight of your Netherlands itinerary.
Tips:
Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid crowds.
Book boat rentals and tickets in advance, especially in peak season.
Use official websites or ticket sellers for the most reliable information and services.
Bring or download a map to help navigate the town and find key spots.
Always check real-time schedules for trains and buses, as journey times and services may vary by week and day.
We take care of everything for you — from transportation to boat tickets — so you never have to worry about missing your cruise or finding your way back. Your bus will be waiting at a fixed time to return you safely to Amsterdam.