Giethoorn. Dutch Venice

Sailing through the streets of Giethoorn

Giethoorn - The roads in Giethoorn are waterways. A comparison with Venice, Italy is therefore quickly made. Just like in real Venice, you do everything here by boat. The gondola in Giethoorn is called punter and the gondolier with paddle has been replaced by someone who pushes you with a long wooden stick or, if you go modern, a silent electric outboard.

Venice of the North

As mentioned, Giethoorn owes its nickname "Dutch Venice" to the many canals and bridges (more than 176!). But you should emphasise "Dutch" because in Giethoorn you will not find the San Marco square or Canal Grande. Another big difference is the prices for a drink or ice cream. These are a lot lower compared to the Italian example ...

Nickname

Giethoorn is not the only place nicknamed Venice of the North. Cities such as Saint Petersburg in Russia, Bruges and Amsterdam are also sometimes called tVenice of the North.

Giethoorn facts

Residents - 2500
Tourists - 800,000 per year, including many Chinese day trippers
When to go? - As long as the weather is good, all year round
Monopoly game - On the international Monopoly board, Giethoorn has a brown color and lies between 'Start' and 'Madrid'.