Giethoorn Private Tour, Canal Cruise and Windmills from Amsterdam

Discover the Charm of the Netherlands with a Private Full-Day Tour

This private full-day tour from Amsterdam costs $531.25 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours. It is designed for travelers eager to explore the Netherlands’ picturesque countryside in comfort and style. The tour includes hotel pickup in a luxury Mercedes, making the entire day seamless and hassle-free. Highlights include visiting the quaint village of Giethoorn with its tranquil canals, seeing historic windmills at Zaanse Schans, and enjoying local cheese tastings.

What sets this tour apart is its personalized approach—you won’t share the experience with strangers, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. While the price may seem high, the inclusion of admission tickets, a canal cruise, and the opportunity to drive a boat makes it a compelling choice for those who want a comprehensive and relaxed Dutch countryside experience.

Key Points

• Private, personalized tour with no other groups involved
• Includes hotel pickup and luxury transportation (Mercedes vehicle)
• Visits Giethoorn, Zaanse Schans windmills, cheese tastings, and a canal cruise
• Total duration of approximately 8 hours with flexible stops for lunch or strolling
• All main entrance fees and cruise tickets are included in the price

Pickup from Amsterdam in a Luxury Mercedes

The tour begins with hotel pickup, ensuring a comfortable start to the day. The transportation is a private, air-conditioned Mercedes vehicle, equipped with Wi-Fi and bottled water. This upfront convenience allows for a relaxed journey through the Dutch countryside, with no need to worry about booking separate transport or navigating public transit.

Travel times are reasonable, with about an hour’s drive from central Amsterdam to the first stops. The private setup means the pace is flexible, and the driver acts as a host, providing local insights while ensuring a smooth ride throughout the day.

Visiting Zaanse Schans Windmills and Heritage Attractions

The first part of the tour takes you to Zaanse Schans, where seven historic windmills stand as a testament to Dutch engineering and tradition. You can visit up to four windmills, including the paint windmill, sawmill, and spice mill. Admission to the windmill park and parking are included, so there are no surprises.

Inside the windmills, you see how they operated historically, and in some cases, you can enter the buildings to get a closer look. The paint windmill, notably the one where Rembrandt bought his paint, offers a glimpse into the Dutch artistic heritage. This stop provides plenty of opportunities for photos of the iconic windmills against the sky.

Seeing How Wooden Clogs Are Made in the Netherlands

Another highlight at Zaanse Schans is the wooden shoe factory, where clog-making demonstrations reveal the craftsmanship behind this traditional Dutch craft. Visitors can observe how wooden shoes are produced today, and there is a chance to purchase souvenirs like clogs, which make charming keepsakes.

This stop combines a cultural experience with shopping, and the demonstrations are engaging, offering insight into a craft that has been part of Dutch life for centuries.

Tasting Gouda Cheese at Henri Willig

The tour includes a visit to Henri Willig Kaas B.V., where over 30 types of Gouda cheese are available for sampling. Free tastings let visitors indulge in some of the best Dutch cheeses, often considered among the finest in the world.

Cheese lovers can also purchase their favorites, with the option to ship cheese home if there’s limited luggage space. This stop offers a delicious break, with the opportunity to try various flavors and deepen understanding of the Dutch cheese-making tradition.

Exploring the Idyllic Village of Giethoorn

The journey continues to Giethoorn, often called the “Dutch Venice” thanks to its canal-lined streets and charming wooden bridges. This village is renowned for its peaceful atmosphere and scenic beauty.

A guided canal cruise lasting about one hour takes visitors underneath linden trees and past traditional farmhouses. The tour offers the option to drive a small boat independently, providing a hands-on experience of navigating the serene canals.

Afterward, visitors can stroll through the town, admire the thatched-roof homes, or enjoy lunch at local restaurants. The combination of nature, architecture, and tranquility makes Giethoorn a highlight of the day.

Lunch and Leisure Time in Giethoorn

Following the boat tour, there is about an hour for free time. Visitors can choose to have lunch at one of the town’s restaurants, which are noted for their cozy ambiance and Dutch cuisine, or simply enjoy walking over bridges and along canals.

This flexibility means the tour can be tailored to individual preferences—whether relaxing with a meal or exploring the quaint streets further. The pace remains relaxed, allowing ample time to soak in the village’s peaceful vibe.

Optional Self-Driving Boat Experience

One of the tour’s unique features is the opportunity to drive a boat yourself through Giethoorn’s canals. Travelers interested in this option should inform the driver beforehand. This interactive element adds enjoyment and a sense of adventure, making the visit more memorable.

Because this activity is optional, it accommodates different comfort levels. The boat ride, combined with the guided tour, provides a well-rounded experience of the village’s waterways.

Authentic Windmill Tours and Cultural Demonstrations

Each windmill at Zaanse Schans offers a distinct glimpse into Dutch heritage. Visitors can enter the windmills to see inside workings and observe demonstrations—from sawmill operations to spice grinding.

The inclusion of admission tickets ensures no extra costs during the visit, and the photo opportunities are plentiful. The windmills’ architecture and history are explained by guides or signage, adding educational value to this scenic stop.

The Convenience and Personalization of a Private Tour

Choosing this private tour means all arrangements are tailored for comfort and flexibility. The driver acts as a guide in many ways, providing background and answering questions, though a dedicated guide service is not included.

The small group size or exclusive nature of the experience means a more relaxed pace, with ample opportunity for personalized attention. This setup is ideal for those who prefer a curated day without the crowds or schedules of larger tours.

Reviews Highlight the Strong Points

While the tour’s price might seem steep, reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics. Guides like Gavin, Hassan, Singh, and Gillio are noted for their friendly demeanor and helpful insights.

Travelers also emphasize the stunning views at Giethoorn and Zaanse Schans, along with the delicious cheese tastings and enjoyable boat rides. Some mention that timing and pace are well managed, making for a relaxing day in the countryside.

The Sum Up: An Elegant Dutch Countryside Experience

This full-day private tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the Netherlands’ scenic and cultural highlights. It balances historic windmills, charming villages, and local delicacies with the comfort of private transportation and personalized service.

While the cost is higher than group alternatives, the inclusion of admission fees, a canal cruise, optional boat driving, and flexible stops provides good value for those seeking a comprehensive, relaxed day outside of Amsterdam.

Ideal for those who want an intimate, guided experience with plenty of visual and tasting delights, this tour caters well to visitors looking for a luxurious and authentic Dutch countryside adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
All admission tickets for windmills, cheese tastings, the canal cruise, and parking fees are included. The tour also provides hotel pickup, private Mercedes transport, Wi-Fi, and bottled water.

How long is the tour?
The total duration is approximately 8 hours, with most stops lasting around 30 minutes to 2 hours. This allows for a relaxed exploration of each site.

Can I drive the boat myself?
Yes, the option to drive a small boat in Giethoorn is available. Travelers should inform their driver in advance to arrange this activity.

Is this tour suitable for all physical levels?
Yes, the tour involves easy walking and gentle boat rides. It is suitable for most travelers, though those with mobility concerns should consider the walking involved at Giethoorn.

Are there options to customize the tour?
Since the tour is private, stops such as lunch or additional time at specific sites can be tailored to preferences, subject to driver availability.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is offered by VIP Travel & Limousine Services, known for their professional and attentive service.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity is not included but is optional based on satisfaction.