Giethoorm & Exploring the North of The Netherlands Tour

This 8-hour private tour from Amsterdam offers a charming exploration of North Holland’s most picturesque spots: Giethoorn and Hasselt. Priced at $318 per person, it provides an intimate way to experience two villages that seem straight out of a fairy tale. The tour features a 1-hour boat cruise in Giethoorn, known as the “Dutch Venice,” and a walk through Hasselt, a town that feels frozen in time.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the personalized approach with a private guide and flexible pacing. It’s perfect for those who enjoy strolling at their own speed, want to avoid large crowds, and appreciate detailed insights about local history and culture. While the duration is 8 hours, the comfort of private transportation and small-group attention ensure a relaxed experience, though it requires moderate walking and some steps on cobblestone streets. This tour suits travelers seeking a comfortable, well-rounded day of sightseeing with plenty of opportunities for great photos and quiet moments.

Key Points

• Private 8-hour day trip from Amsterdam to Giethoorn and Hasselt.
• Includes transportation, a canal cruise, and walking tours of both villages.
• Cost is $318 per person, offering a personalized experience.
• Giethoorn’s car-free center is explored via a 1-hour boat ride on a traditional ‘punter’.
• Hasselt’s cobbled streets reveal a calm, historic atmosphere that feels untouched by modern hustle.
• Guides are knowledgeable, with tours conducted in Dutch, English, or German for clarity.

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The Starting Point: Pickup and Transport in Style

This tour begins with hotel pickup in Amsterdam, making logistics simple and stress-free. The private Chrysler minivan offers air-conditioned comfort throughout the journey, with drop-off at your accommodation at the end. The driver is also the guide, so you benefit from local insights during the drive, which lasts approximately 75 minutes to Giethoorn. The small, private group ensures plenty of space and flexibility, unlike larger bus tours.

The transportation logistics are straightforward, and admission fees for parking and entry are included, removing worries about extra costs. Travelers are advised to dress comfortably, especially in layers, as some cobblestones and steps may be involved. The flexibility of the itinerary means you can enjoy the scenery at your own pace, making the day feel unhurried.

Navigating Giethoorn’s Canals: A Traditional Boat Ride

A highlight of this tour is the 1-hour private canal cruise in Giethoorn. Your guide transforms into your captain on a typical Dutch ‘punter’, a flat-bottomed boat designed for shallow waters, allowing for close-up views of the charming village.

Since Giethoorn’s center is entirely car-free, exploring by boat offers a unique perspective on the thatched-roof cottages and narrow waterways. The small boat makes it easy to glide past wooden bridges and lush gardens, creating perfect photo opportunities. The personalized cruise means you can ask questions and enjoy the serene atmosphere without the crowds typical of larger tours.

After the cruise, a short walking tour of Giethoorn allows for more leisurely exploration. Your guide offers details about the village’s history and architecture, enhancing your appreciation of this storybook setting. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as cobblestone streets and steps are involved.

Strolling Through Hasselt’s Historic Streets

Following Giethoorn, the tour heads inland to Hasselt, a village often described as “Little Amsterdam”. This off-the-beaten-path destination surprises visitors with its well-preserved cobblestone streets and historic charm.

Your guide leads a walking tour through Hasselt’s old town, sharing stories about its history and why it remains largely unchanged. The relaxed pace allows for taking in the scenery, observing local architecture, and exploring small shops and cafes. Hasselt’s quiet streets provide a calm contrast to the busier tourist spots, making it a refreshing stop.

This part of the trip is ideal for history enthusiasts and those who enjoy authentic, less touristy villages. The walk is manageable for most fitness levels, but cobblestones and steps should be considered.

Logistics: Seamless Transfers and Flexible Scheduling

The entire experience is designed for comfort and convenience. Pickup and drop-off are included at your hotel or accommodation in Amsterdam, so there’s no need to worry about taxis or public transport. The private vehicle ensures your group’s privacy and allows for customized pacing.

The itinerary’s flexibility means your guide can adjust the pace or revisit stops if desired. The tour begins and ends in Amsterdam, making it a perfect day trip. It’s worth noting that traffic delays can occur, but the experienced guide manages timing to maximize your sightseeing.

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What’s Included and What to Bring

Your ticket covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by comfortable car, walking tours in both villages, and the 1-hour canal cruise. All admission fees and parking costs are taken care of, so there are no hidden charges.

Meals and beverages are not included, so it’s wise to bring water, snacks, or lunch if you wish. Bottled water is available during the trip. Travelers should dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes, as walking involves cobblestones and some steps.

The tour is conducted in Dutch, English, or German, ensuring clear communication with guides fluent in those languages.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Personable

The guides on this tour are certified and licensed Dekra D1 chauffeurs, combining local expertise with professional driving skills. The reviews praise Steven for being an excellent guide who provides just the right amount of information without overwhelming.

Since the tour is private, guides can answer questions specific to your interests, making the experience highly personalized. They are attentive to your needs and cater to your pace, which is especially appreciated in the leisurely environment of Giethoorn and Hasselt.

Comparison with Similar Experiences

This tour stands out for its private group format and flexible itinerary, unlike many larger, more scripted options. The boat cruise and walking tours are core features, similar to other offerings, but the personalized guidance and small-group intimacy provide a more relaxed and engaging experience.

Other tours may include extra stops like Zaanse Schans or Zaanse mills, but this trip emphasizes quality over quantity, focusing on two authentic villages for a truly calm and scenic day.

Who Should Choose This Tour?

This private day trip is ideal for travelers who value comfort and personalized attention. It suits those interested in historic villages, picturesque landscapes, and local culture. It’s also perfect for small groups, couples, or families who prefer an unhurried, intimate experience.

Participants should be prepared for moderate walking and some cobblestone paths. Since lunch and drinks are not included, it’s best suited for those who plan to bring their own snacks or want to explore local dining options during free time.

Exploring Giethoorn and Hasselt: A Quiet Escape into the Past

This 8-hour private tour from Amsterdam successfully combines scenic boat rides, historic strolling, and quiet village atmospheres. The personal guide enhances the Day with stories and insights, making each stop more meaningful.

While not packed with multiple attractions or fast-paced activities, this tour offers a peaceful journey into two villages that feel untouched by modern development. It’s a great choice for those seeking a scenic, relaxed day that reveals the beauty of North Holland’s lesser-known treasures.

This tour provides a balanced mix of comfort, scenery, and cultural insight, making it a memorable addition to any Amsterdam itinerary, especially for travelers who appreciate small-group experiences and personalized service.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including transport, sightseeing, and walking tours.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour’s gentle pace and manageable walking make it suitable for most age groups. However, cobblestones and steps may be involved.

Is lunch included?
No, meals and beverages are not included, but bottled water is available, and you can bring snacks or plan to dine during free time.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are fluent in Dutch, English, and German.

How do I get picked up?
Pickup is included in your Amsterdam accommodation or nearby locations.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour private or group?
This is a private group tour, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What is the vehicle like?
The tour uses an air-conditioned Chrysler minivan for comfortable transportation.

Are admission fees included?
Yes, all admission and parking fees are covered in the ticket price.

Will I have free time during the tour?
The schedule is designed for a relaxed pace, with time allocated for exploration and questions at each stop.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably in layers and bring a jacket if needed; comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I customize my experience?
The itinerary is flexible, allowing the guide to adjust pace or revisit specific spots as desired.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby