Giethoorn | Check in at the fairy tale town and experience the most beautiful peaceful moments—fairy tale worlds really do exist!

Who would have thought! I stayed in Giethoorn, Netherlands for 3 days, and now I don’t want to go back to the city to work anymore 😭

Dear friends! There really is a real-life fairy tale town✨
Giethoorn in the Netherlands completely won me over. No cars, only small boats gliding over the water. The moment you step in, it feels like entering the Land of Oz, and even the air tastes sweeter than in the city!

This place is truly healing~ Being called the "Venice of the Netherlands" is no exaggeration 🌊
The canals wind around little houses with thatched roofs. Taking a boat before 9 AM is absolutely amazing! Rent a local whisper boat (silent electric boat), quietly drifting on the water, even the ducks aren’t afraid of you. The sunlight sparkles on the water, and every photo you take looks like wallpaper!

Here are 4 must-do things I’ve personally checked out for you👇

1. Choose an electric boat for the cruise! It’s silent and won’t disturb the birds on the shore. When you paddle under the bridges, you can even hear your own breathing—super relaxing~
2. Rent a bike and wander around! The country paths are lined with flowers. When you get tired, just stop by the river and daydream. The breeze smells like fresh grass 🌿
3. Highly recommend the Dutch pancakes at De Grachthoeve! They have both sweet and savory options. I ate two plates myself, and the view of the canal makes it even better~
4. Don’t miss the ceramic shops and weaving workshops! The handmade little cups are super cute. I brought two home as gifts, and my friends keep asking for the link!

Here are some photo tips that really work 📸
Go to the riverbank at sunrise! The light is soft, wear light-colored clothes, and the green background makes for a super fresh look~
If you want to capture reflections, find a quiet little river bay. The water is as still as a mirror, reflecting even the thatched roofs of the houses—so stunning it’ll make you scream!

I’ve tried all the food for you! Besides pancakes, you must try the local cheese—it pairs perfectly with bread and is heavenly~ Also, the apple pie at t Zwaantje restaurant’s terrace is a must! Sitting by the river eating pie while watching boats slowly drift by fills you with pure happiness 💯

Here’s the transportation guide so you won’t get lost 🚗
Take the train from Amsterdam Central Station to Steenwijk, about 1.5 hours, then transfer to bus 70 for 30 minutes straight to Giethoorn. Be sure to buy an OV card! It makes riding buses and trains super convenient without queuing for tickets~

Finally, some practical tips from my own experience!
May to August is the best time to visit—the canals are full of water lilies, pink and white, so beautiful~
The village is all cobblestone streets, wear sneakers! I wore leather shoes on the first day and my feet hurt so much I cried 😭
If you want to stay in a waterside B&B, book 3 months in advance! I didn’t book early and regretted it so much I was banging my thighs~
Also! Bring mosquito repellent spray! The mosquitoes by the river are vicious, don’t ask me how I know 🦟

Friends, what’s the most healing little town you’ve been to?
Or ask me for details about Giethoorn, like which pancake place is the best or the best angles for photos—I know it all! Quickly tell me in the comments, and next time I’ll share even more hidden gems~