Giethoorn & Windmill Country A Journey Through Old Holland

An Authentic Day in Old Holland: Giethoorn & Windmill Country

Imagine a day where you escape the buzz of Amsterdam to explore two of the Netherlands’ most iconic sights—the tranquil water village of Giethoorn and the classic windmills dotting the Dutch landscape. This private tour, costing around a full day’s worth of time, offers a flexible, comfortable way to see picturesque canals, historic windmills, and scenic lakes with a knowledgeable local guide.

The experience is perfect for those who want to combine a relaxing boat cruise, a walking exploration of a quaint village, and a scenic drive over the famous Markerwaarddijk. What we especially like are the intimate, off-the-beaten-path encounters in Giethoorn’s peaceful setting and the choice between lively Zaanse Schans or peaceful Schermerhorn—both fantastic options to see windmills, but each with a different vibe.

A potential consideration is the cost involved, as admission fees to windmills or museums are not included, and optional boat upgrades are extra. Also, since the tour is designed for private groups, it might be less suited for travelers seeking large-group or budget options. This tour is especially ideal for those interested in authentic, well-paced Dutch experiences and who prefer a personalized, guided approach.

If you’re looking for a day trip that balances scenery, history, and comfort, this experience will suit you well, especially if you value customizable itineraries and insider insights from your guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Comfort and Flexibility: Private transportation with customizable itinerary ensures a relaxed, personal experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit a working windmill and stroll through the peaceful village of Giethoorn.
• Scenic Drive: Cross the Markerwaarddijk for breathtaking lake views and impressive Dutch engineering.
• Two Windmill Options: Choose between the tranquil Schermerhorn windmill or the bustling Zaanse Schans.
• Inclusion of a Canal Cruise: Enjoy a boat ride through Giethoorn’s famous canals, a highlight for many visitors.
• Value for Money: All transportation, parking, and fuel costs are included—admission fees are extra.

Exploring the Highlights in Detail

The Charm of Giethoorn

We loved the way Giethoorn feels like stepping into a fairy tale—canals replacing streets, quaint thatched-roof houses, and a serenity that’s hard to find in city life. The boat cruise, led by your guide, offers a gentle glide past flower-filled gardens and arched wooden bridges, perfect for snapping photos or simply soaking in the view. As one traveler put it, “The boat ride was a peaceful highlight, and our guide shared interesting stories about village life.”

After the cruise, we enjoyed a stroll along quiet paths, with time to browse local shops or sip coffee in cozy cafes. It’s clear that Giethoorn is less about tourist spectacle and more about an authentic glimpse of Dutch rural life—a peaceful contrast to Amsterdam’s hustle.

Crossing the Markerwaarddijk

One of the tour’s standout moments is crossing the Markerwaarddijk, a marvel of Dutch water management. The long dam road offers breathtaking panoramic views on both sides—lakes, fields, and sky blending into a picture-perfect landscape. It’s not just a drive; it’s a chance to reflect on how the Dutch have mastered water control over the centuries. Some reviews mention how a simple drive over the dike turns into a photo opportunity, with views that seem almost unreal.

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The Windmill Choices: Schermerhorn vs. Zaanse Schans

In the afternoon, your guide will ask whether you prefer visiting the Schermerhorn Windmill Museum or the popular Zaanse Schans. Both are fantastic, each offering a different experience.

Schermerhorn provides a tranquil setting, with a working polder windmill, used for draining land. It’s a peaceful farm-like environment with fewer travelers, perfect for those wanting an authentic, quiet encounter with Dutch water management history. The surrounding fields are beautiful, and many reviewers comment on how off the beaten path this stop feels—less commercialized, more genuine.

Zaanse Schans, on the other hand, is a lively open-air museum. Here, you’ll find multiple historic windmills, traditional houses, craft workshops, and shops selling local products. It’s more touristy and bustling but offers a wider variety of sights and activities, making it a lively cap to your day. Many travelers appreciate the chance to see multiple windmills in one place and to experience Dutch craftsmanship firsthand.

The Guided Experience

Throughout the day, your guide will share stories about Dutch culture, engineering, and village life—adding context that transforms this into more than just sightseeing. The reviews praise guides like Niels, who is described as knowledgeable and friendly, making the day both informative and enjoyable. The flexibility of the itinerary allows for additional time at places you find most interesting, ensuring a tailored experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Pickup from your hotel in Amsterdam or Schiphol, ensuring a smooth start.
• Transfer (about 1.5 hours) through the flat Dutch landscape—an opportunity to ask questions or relax.
• Giethoorn Boat Cruise (1 hour): Glide through canals in a serene environment, passing charming houses and gardens.
• Village Walk (1 hour): Stroll along peaceful paths, browse shops, or enjoy coffee.
• Scenic Views Drive (1.5 hours): Cross the Markerwaarddijk for stunning lake vistas—an impressive feat of Dutch water control.
• Windmill Visit (1 hour): Choose your preferred windmill experience.
• Drop-off back in Amsterdam or Schiphol, completing a full, enriching day.

Practical Tips for Your Day

Since the weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable, pack comfortable shoes suitable for walking, and bring a rain jacket or umbrella just in case. A camera is a must—these landscapes and villages look like they’re straight out of a painting.

The tour costs include parking fees and fuel, but keep in mind that entrance fees to windmills or museums are not included—so budget for those if you want to go inside or do additional activities. Optional boat upgrades are available if you want a more luxurious or extended cruise in Giethoorn.

The vehicle used for transport is a comfortable 4-seat car, but larger or luxury options can be arranged if you contact the provider beforehand. This is a good choice if you prefer a more private, intimate setting.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a personalized, well-paced tour with a knowledgeable guide. It’s ideal if you love picturesque scenery, quiet villages, and historic windmills, but don’t want to be part of a large group. Great for those who appreciate authentic rural life and are comfortable in a private vehicle.

If you’re interested in learning about Dutch water management or want to see genuine village life without crowds, this tour offers a perfect mix of education and relaxation. It’s also a good choice for families, couples, or solo travelers who prefer a deliberate pace and insider insights.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re seeking a full, authentic taste of the Dutch countryside with the comfort of private transport and expert guidance, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of canal cruising, scenic drives, and windmill visits balances sightseeing with serene moments that are hard to find in busy cities.

For those who enjoy photography, history, and rural charm, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s particularly suitable for travelers wanting a flexible, intimate experience rather than large crowds or overly commercialized attractions.

In short, if you want to see how the Dutch have mastered water and wind in a relaxed, enriching way, this is a day well spent—an authentic slice of Old Holland at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What locations does the tour pick up and drop off from?
Pickup and drop-off are available at your lodging in the Amsterdam area or Schiphol Airport, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts about 8.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. However, there are opportunities to enjoy coffee and browse local cafes in Giethoorn.

Can I upgrade the boat cruise?
Yes, optional boat upgrades are available in Giethoorn for those wanting a more luxurious or extended cruise.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, this tour isn’t recommended for wheelchair users due to the nature of the visits and walking involved.

Are admission fees to windmills or museums included?
No, these are extra. You might find it worthwhile to budget for entrance fees if you plan to go inside the windmills or museums.

This private journey through Old Holland offers more than just sights; it provides a gentle, insightful look into Dutch ingenuity, rural life, and timeless scenery, all in one well-organized, flexible day. Whether you’re a photography buff, history lover, or simply seeking a peaceful escape, this tour promises a memorable slice of Dutch culture with plenty of opportunities for authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: