Quick Details
This wonderful tour covers two magnificent Dutch highlights in only one day! Enjoy a visit to the Dutch heritage site of the ‘Zaanse Schans’ and ‘The Venice of the North’, ‘Giethoorn’. Your guide will drive you through magnificent Dutch polder landscape with ribbons of farmland, most of the day you’ll find yourself below sea-level.
Your private guide will drive you directly to the Zaanse Schans and walk with you around this historic Dutch heritage site where you’ll encounter various different artisans. Feel free to look over their shoulders and and learn how products were fabricated in the 17thand 18th century.
After the Zaanse Schans your guide will drive you directly you to Giethoorn (90 min) taking you across the famous Houtribdijk, a 27 km (16 mi) dam. This dam spans Lake IJssel (IJsselmeer) from east to west and connects the cities of Lelystad and Enkhuizen. From both sides of Lake IJssel you’ll have stunning views over the water where you will by pass by locks and the only Naviduct worldwide were you’ll find yourself 10 meters (32 ft) below sea level!
The second highlight of the day is the picturesque village of Giethoorn. 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.
Zaanse Schans
After leaving Amsterdam your guide will drive you through countryside carpeted with peat bogs, the sea level here can dip below 6ft in some places. There have always been people from abroad who wanted to discover the Zaan region, the best known being Tsar Peter the Great and the famous impressionist Claude Monet. The Zaanse Schans is now a Dutch heritage site, here you can experience the famous aspects of Dutch manufacturing, visit an old working windmill and learn how products were fabricated in the 17th and 18th century.
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 its unique fairy-tale vibe. Join your guide for a private canal cruise to experience the beauty, peace and tranquility of this magical village.
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