Giethoorn walking tour & city guide
A village of canals, thatched roofs and no roads.
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Giethoorn, in the province of Overijssel, is a fairytale village where canals replace streets. Thatched-roof farmhouses sit on little islands connected by more than 170 wooden footbridges, and the quietest way to get around is by 'whisper boat', a small electric boat you can rent and steer yourself.
The village on the water
Giethoorn's canals were dug by peat cutters centuries ago, and the old village center has no roads for cars. Footpaths and bridges run alongside the main canal, past beautiful gardens and houses with reed roofs, many of which are more than 200 years old.
The village became famous after the 1958 Dutch film Fanfare was shot here, and today it attracts visitors from all over the world. A few small museums show what life was like for the farmers and peat workers.
The national park
Giethoorn lies at the edge of the Weerribben-Wieden National Park, the largest wetland in northwest Europe. Lakes, reed beds and channels are home to otters, birds and rare butterflies, and can be explored by canoe, boat or bicycle.
Visiting tips
Giethoorn gets very busy in summer, especially in the middle of the day. Come early in the morning or in the evening for peaceful views, or visit in spring or autumn. In very cold winters, the canals sometimes freeze and become skating paths.
Top sights in Giethoorn
- 1
Dorpsgracht
The main village canal with its footpath.
- 2
Whisper boat ride
Steer an electric boat through the canals.
- 3
Wooden footbridges
Over 170 bridges connecting the islands.
- 4
Museum Giethoorn 't Olde Maat Uus
A farmhouse museum of village life.
- 5
Weerribben-Wieden National Park
A huge wetland of lakes and reeds.
- 6
Bovenwijde lake
A large lake on the village's edge.
Food markets & where to eat in Giethoorn
Canal-side terraces
Cafés along the main canal.
Village center
Pancake houses and ice cream shops.
Nearby Steenwijk
A small town with local bakeries and market.
Food to try in Giethoorn
Dutch pancakes
Large thin pancakes with sweet or savory toppings.
Smoked eel
A traditional delicacy of the wetlands.
Apple pie
With whipped cream, on a sunny terrace.
Poffertjes
Small fluffy pancakes with butter and sugar.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Giethoorn
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in GiethoornCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Giethoorn.
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