Language
The official language of the Netherlands is Dutch. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas and by many locals.
Currency
The currency of the Netherlands is the Euro (€).
Distance
The distance between Zelhem and Giethoorn is approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles).
How to Reach
There are several ways to reach Giethoorn from Zelhem:
- By car: The fastest way to get to Giethoorn from Zelhem is by car. The drive takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- By train: There is no direct train from Zelhem to Giethoorn. However, you can take a train from Zelhem to Zwolle and then transfer to a bus to Giethoorn. The total journey time is about 2 hours.
- By bus: There is a direct bus from Zelhem to Giethoorn. The journey time is about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Expenses
The cost of getting to Giethoorn from Zelhem will vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose.
- By car: The cost of petrol will vary depending on the fuel efficiency of your car and the current price of petrol.
- By train: The cost of a train ticket from Zelhem to Zwolle is about €15. The cost of a bus ticket from Zwolle to Giethoorn is about €10.
- By bus: The cost of a bus ticket from Zelhem to Giethoorn is about €20.
Best time to go
The best time to visit Giethoorn is during the spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the canals are lined with blooming flowers.
What to Eat
Giethoorn is known for its traditional Dutch cuisine. Some of the most popular dishes include:
- Poffertjes: These are small, fluffy pancakes that are served with butter and syrup.
- Stroopwafels: These are thin, wafer-like cookies that are filled with caramel syrup.
- Haring: This is a type of raw herring that is served with onions and pickles.
Where to Go
Giethoorn is a small town, but there are plenty of things to see and do.
- The canals: Giethoorn is known for its beautiful canals. You can take a boat tour or rent a canoe to explore them.
- The windmills: Giethoorn is home to several traditional windmills. You can visit the De Hoop windmill, which is one of the oldest windmills in the Netherlands.
- The museums: Giethoorn has several museums, including the Giethoorn Museum, which tells the story of the town's history.
FAQ
- Is Giethoorn worth visiting?
- Yes, Giethoorn is a beautiful and unique town that is definitely worth visiting.
- How long should I spend in Giethoorn?
- You can easily spend a day or two in Giethoorn. This will give you enough time to explore the canals, visit the museums, and try the local cuisine.
- Can I swim in the canals?
- No, swimming in the canals is not allowed.