- 7 hours
- Countryside, Zaanse Schans
Tour Amsterdam’s countryside, enjoy views of rustic windmills, wooden clog factories, and quaint little towns along the way.
Quick Details
Experience the fairy tale villages Giethoorn and Hasselt
This magical tour visits two fairy-tale villages in one day, specifically the authentic villages of Giethoorn and Hasselt. Giethoorn, picturesque and only accessible by boat or on foot have been charmingly named ‘The Venice of the North’. Hasselt known as ‘Little Amsterdam’ is a long forgotten Hanseatic city where time has just stood still. Two magical treats that are definitely off the beaten path. During this journey you’ll find yourself most of the day below sea-level as we drive through typically Dutch landscapes featuring polders.
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Giethoorn
There are many Dutch towns, cities and villages that merit a visit but Giethoorn is definitely something special. Often referred to as the ‘Little Venice of The Netherlands’ this picturesque little village is only accessible by boat or on foot due to an absence of roads and cars. Located in the north of the country Giethoorn consists of a group of islands interconnected by approximately 175 bridges. Expect beautiful canals, picturesque wooden bridges, farmhouses with traditional thatched roofs completing the unique fairy-tale vibe. Join your guide for a private canal cruise to experience the beauty, peace and tranquility of this magical village.Hasselt
In Medieval times Hasselt was a major player and rich member of the Hanseatic Trading League. After losing business to other better located trading posts Hasselt slipped into relative obscurity, today it remains a small and pretty fortified town of 7,000 inhabitants. A myriad of people have passed through Hasselt, many of them being pilgrims on the way to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. Hasselt is definitely off the beaten path but gives a great impression of typically Dutch life. -
Your private guide will drive you directly to the picturesque village of Giethoorn (90 min). The centre of the village is car-free so the only way to get around is by boat or on foot. Your guide will transform himself into your captain and welcome you on board a typical ‘punter’, a small Dutch flat bottomed boat designed to sail in shallow waters for a private one hour tour through Giethoorn. After you’re back on dry land you’ll join your guide for a short walking tour giving you another perspective on this picture perfect little village. After leaving Giethoorn you’ll drive through the countryside to Hasselt, a storybook village off the beaten path. In Hasselt you’ll wander with your guide through the old town’s cobblestone streets, learn about its history and why it’s named ‘Little Amsterdam’.
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The itinerary is flexible, we do not rush guests around and we walk at your pace
Dress comfortably in layers and bring a jacket
Cobblestones and steps may be involved in your excursion
All admission fees and parking costs are inclusive
All tours begin and end in Amsterdam at your holiday accommodation
We are certified guides and licensed Dekra D1 chauffeurs
The car is an airconditioned Chrysler minivan
Traffic can cause delays
Lunch / Dinner and Gratuities are exclusive
Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted