Giethoorn & Windmill Country A Journey Through Old Holland

A Practical Guide to the Giethoorn & Windmill Country Tour: Old Holland’s Charm in Comfort

This private day trip offers a chance to enjoy two of the Netherlands’ most iconic sights—Giethoorn, the village often called the Venice of the North, and a scenic windmill experience in North Holland. Our review is based on information from travelers who have experienced this tour firsthand, and it highlights what makes it worthwhile—and what to consider before booking.

What we really love about this experience is the flexibility of the private tour, allowing us to tailor the day to our interests, and the chance to see both the tranquil waterways of Giethoorn and the picturesque windmills in one seamless journey. The comfort of traveling in a private vehicle with a knowledgeable guide adds significantly to the overall enjoyment. A potential drawback is that it’s a full day—so, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more relaxed pace, you’ll want to plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who want authentic Dutch experiences without the hassle of public transport, those eager for scenic landscapes, and anyone curious about how the Dutch have ingeniously tamed and decorated their environment. It’s perfect for day-trippers wanting an immersive taste of Old Holland, especially if you appreciate personalized guides and flexible itineraries.

Key Points

• Private, flexible experience: Customizable itinerary with hotel pickup and drop-off
• Authentic highlights: Canal cruise in Giethoorn and windmill visits in peaceful or lively settings
• Scenic drives: Cross the Markerwaarddijk with spectacular lake views, showcasing Dutch engineering
• Educational and engaging: Guides share insights into water management, local culture, and history
• All-inclusive comforts: Transportation, parking, and fuel are covered, with options for upgrades
• Authentic atmosphere: Visit less touristy windmills or the bustling Zaanse Schans

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering Old Holland in a Day

This tour provides a well-rounded glimpse into what makes the Netherlands unique—its relationship with water, ingenious land reclamation, and charming rural villages. We’ll start by leaving behind the busy city of Amsterdam, heading north through the flat Dutch landscape, where you might notice how much of the land lies below sea level. The drive itself is a lesson in Dutch engineering and resilience, setting the tone for the day.

Why We Love the Itinerary

The first stop, Giethoorn, is the star attraction. Known as the “Venice of the North,” it’s a place where canals replace streets, and boats are the primary mode of transport. The boat cruise, lasting about an hour, is a gentle, scenic ride past traditional thatched-roof houses, wooden bridges, and gardens bursting with flowers. It’s a peaceful setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Many travelers comment positively on the serenity of Giethoorn. One quote from a review sums it up: “We loved the way the village’s quiet paths, flower gardens, and waterways created such a calming atmosphere.” A stroll afterward allows you to explore at your own pace—perhaps stopping for coffee or browsing local shops.

Crossing the Markerwaarddijk

Next, your guide will take you across the remarkable Markerwaarddijk, a long dam connecting the lakes of Markermeer and IJsselmeer. The drive offers sweeping views of water on both sides—an inspiring reminder of Dutch ingenuity in managing water levels and reclaiming land. It’s a striking visual experience, especially if you appreciate landscapes that showcase human engineering harmonized with nature.

Windmill Choices: Peaceful or Bustling?

In the afternoon, the tour offers a choice between two windmill experiences:

Schermerhorn Windmill Museum: A peaceful, less touristy spot where you can visit an active polder mill used for land drainage. It’s quiet, educational, and surrounded by beautiful fields. If tranquility and learning about water management appeal to you, this is the perfect stop.

Zaanse Schans: The more lively and popular option, this open-air museum boasts historic windmills, traditional houses, craft workshops, and shops. It’s a lively place where you’ll see the iconic windmills up close and get a taste of Dutch craft traditions.

Both options highlight the Dutch relationship with water and wind, but the choice depends on whether you prefer a calm, authentic experience or a lively, comprehensive site with more attractions.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Guides Share

Throughout the tour, guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, effortlessly sharing insights into Dutch culture, engineering, and village life. Reviewers mention that the guide’s commentary enhances the experience, making the sightseeing feel personal and informative rather than just a checklist of sights.

The Detailed Breakdown

Start with hotel pickup in Amsterdam or Schiphol, which ensures a stress-free beginning. The drive to Giethoorn takes approximately 1.5 hours, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenery. Once there, the boat cruise and guided walk in Giethoorn** are the core activities. The boat ride, in particular, is a highlight, offering a unique perspective on the village’s picturesque thatched roofs and flower gardens.

After exploring Giethoorn’s quiet paths and shops, the group continues over the Markerwaarddijk—a feat of Dutch water engineering. The scenic drive provides stunning views of lakes on either side, making it a photographer’s dream.

In the afternoon, the choice of windmill visit allows you to tailor your experience. If you select Schermerhorn, you’ll see a working mill used to drain land—fascinating for those interested in Dutch land reclamation. Alternatively, Zaanse Schans offers a more lively setting with multiple windmills, craft shops, and a chance to watch traditional wooden shoe-making or cheese tasting.

The entire day is about balance—combining peaceful, authentic experiences with engaging sights, all in a comfortable private vehicle with an expert guide.

Additional Perks & Practical Details

The tour includes parking fees, fuel, and transportation costs, making it a good value for a full day of sightseeing without worrying about logistics. The small “Taste of Holland” goody bag adds a nice touch, giving you a sample of local treats.

For those with specific interests, the itinerary is flexible—your guide can adjust to your pace or focus on particular sights. The group size is limited for intimacy, allowing for personalized attention and a more relaxed experience.

Weather and Comfort

Dutch weather can be unpredictable, so packing rain gear, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen is recommended. The tour runs in a private vehicle, ensuring comfort regardless of weather, and the guide is happy to accommodate weather-related needs.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the Dutch landscape, culture, and ingenuity. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic, less commercialized sights and prefer a personalized experience. The combination of a serene canal cruise, scenic drives, and windmill visits makes for a memorable day.

We loved the way the guide’s insights brought the sights to life, making us appreciate how Dutch people have historically worked with water and wind to create their beautiful environment. The beautiful views, combined with the chance to learn about land reclamation and traditional crafts, make this a meaningful and picturesque journey.

While it’s a full day, the pace feels relaxed thanks to the private setup and thoughtful itinerary. For anyone wanting to glimpse a quieter, more authentic side of Holland—away from busy tourist spots—this trip hits that sweet spot of value, authenticity, and comfort.

In summary, whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Holland traveler, this experience blends scenic beauty, local culture, and engineering marvels into a day that’s both educational and restorative. It’s a solid choice for those eager to see Old Holland at its peaceful best.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for most ages, especially since it’s a private tour with flexible pacing. However, it’s not designed for wheelchair users, as noted in the info.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and rain gear are recommended. Dutch weather can be unpredictable, so prepare for any conditions.

How long is the drive from Amsterdam?
The drive to Giethoorn takes about 1.5 hours, providing plenty of time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Can I choose between the windmill stops?
Yes, you can select either Schermerhorn Windmill Museum or Zaanse Schans, depending on your interests—peaceful authenticity or lively tourist experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, private transportation, the boat cruise, scenic drives, windmill visits, parking, and fuel. Food, admission fees, and souvenirs are extra.

How flexible is the itinerary?
The tour is private and customizable, allowing your guide to adjust stops or pace based on your interests.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs in a private vehicle, so you stay comfortable. It’s wise to bring rain gear, but the experience is still enjoyable no matter the weather.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but you will have time for coffee, lunch, or browsing shops during free moments. The “Taste of Holland” goody bag is included.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s best to reserve beforehand, especially if you want to book during peak season or specific times. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This private tour of Giethoorn and Windmill Country offers a delightful, authentic taste of Holland’s timeless charm—perfect for those seeking a personalized, scenic, and culturally rich day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: