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Book your Giethoorn small-group canal tour from Leeuwarden, Friesland

Explore the picture-postcard village of Giethoorn, often called the Dutch Venice, and discover why this canal-lined gem of the Netherlands is one of the country’s most popular tourist villages; with its canals as your main thoroughfares, you’ll move through the historic old town only by boat or on foot, because no cars are allowed and the hamlet’s roots stretch back to the Middle Ages. After a short walking tour led by your driver/guide, you’ll have leisure time to wander the lanes and glide the waterways at your own pace, while your guide shares the town’s unique character and practical insider tips on the best local restaurants, shops, attractions and activities. This full-day experience makes for a memorable outing from Amsterdam, with a late-afternoon return drive, and is ideal if you’re planning tours, sightseeing, Water-Based activities or family-friendly adventures from Leeuwarden in Friesland.

About this activity in Leeuwarden

Cancellation policy
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Highlights

  • Explore Giethoorn, the picture-postcard Dutch village famed for its canals and nicknamed the Dutch Venice; you'll see historic thatched-roof homes and medieval architecture along peaceful waterways.
  • Get around like a local - the old town is car-free, so you'll experience the village by boat and on foot, enjoying tranquil canals and charming bridges.
  • Enjoy a guided short walking tour that reveals the area’s unique character and insider tips on the best local restaurants, shops and attractions to explore during your free time.
  • Relax during the return drive to Amsterdam while reflecting on a full day of sightseeing in one of the Netherlands’ most scenic destinations.

Important Information

  • This destination is best experienced on foot and by boat; bring comfortable shoes and light outerwear for changing weather on the canals.
  • You’ll have leisure time to explore independently after the guided walk - plan for casual sightseeing, photos and optional dining at local cafés.
  • The historic core is car-free and dates back to the Middle Ages, so expect narrow paths and bridges; it’s suitable for all fitness levels but not ideal for large wheeled luggage.
  • Confirm your pickup details in advance and keep your booking voucher handy; travel time and meeting arrangements may vary depending on the scheduled departure.

Meeting Point

Meet at your confirmed pickup location with your driver/guide as indicated on your booking voucher; exact time and meeting point will be provided in your confirmation so you can start the Giethoorn experience on time.

Includes

  • Amsterdam canal cruise voucher included when you select that option - a convenient add-on if you’re pairing your Leeuwarden, Friesland outing with a city cruise.
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges are covered, so you see the full price upfront for your booking in the region.
  • Hot lunch provided during the experience to keep you fuelled while you explore the area.
  • Transport by luxurious minivan is included, offering comfortable transfers across Friesland and to nearby highlights.
  • A bottle of water is provided to keep you refreshed throughout the day.
  • "This is Holland" voucher included if you choose that option, useful when combining local attractions with your stay in Leeuwarden.
  • English-speaking driver/guide accompanies the group, so you’ll have clear local commentary and assistance during the trip.
  • Coffee with apple pie served as a relaxed refreshment stop during the itinerary.
  • Canal cruise included as part of the experience, perfect for sightseeing from the water in nearby waterways.
  • Free Wi‑Fi aboard keeps you connected while travelling between sites in the area.

Excludes

  • Gratuities are optional and not included - tipping is at your discretion for service in Leeuwarden and beyond.
  • Food and drinks beyond those specifically listed are not included in the price.

Other

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels, making this activity accessible whether you’re exploring Friesland with family or friends.

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Know more about Leeuwarden

Giethoorn is nicknamed the Dutch Venice because its historic old town is crisscrossed by canals and you can only get around by boat or on foot. On this trip your English-speaking driver/guide leads a short walking tour and you’ll have free time to discover the canals at leisure, including an included canal cruise when you choose that option.
Yes. The itinerary combines a relaxed walking tour, boat-based sightseeing and free time to explore, making it family-friendly and suitable for all ages and physical fitness levels.
You can do both. The old town dates back to the Middle Ages and is pedestrian-only, so you’ll walk its quaint streets during the guided segment and then choose to explore the canals by boat or continue sightseeing on foot during your free time.
You travel in comfort by luxurious minivan from Leeuwarden, Friesland to Giethoorn. Your driver/guide handles the transfers, gives insider tips on local restaurants and shops, and drives you back to Amsterdam in the late afternoon.
The experience includes a guided short walking tour of the village, time at leisure to explore by foot or boat, a canal cruise (if selected), coffee with apple pie, lunch, bottled water and an English-speaking driver/guide who shares local tips about restaurants, shops and attractions.
The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. Because the village is car-free and exploration involves walking and boat travel, the pace is relaxed and appropriate for most travelers.