This “Little Venice” on the water is just a 2-hour drive from Paris. And it’s the second most beautiful village in the world—no less…
With the arrival of summer and the heat, the desire to treat yourself to a getaway in the countryside and enjoy a change of scenery sets in. What if we told you that just 2 hours from Paris lies a village on the water that resembles Venice? With its bucolic charm and timeless atmosphere, Giethoorn is a destination that captivates travelers from around the world. And according to the famous guidebook Le Petit Futé, it’s a place “to discover at least once in a lifetime.”
Among the top three most beautiful villages in the world: Conques-en-Rouergue and Giethoorn
Lush vegetation, flowers, peaceful canals, and an atmosphere of absolute calm… In Giethoorn, the Netherlands, time seems to stand still. A true watery paradise, this village offers a fairytale setting. It’s no wonder, then, that the famous guidebook Le Petit Futé named it the second most beautiful village in the world in 2026.
Topping the list is Conques-en-Rouergue, in France. This magnificent medieval village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is also an iconic stop on the Way of St. James. But let’s get back to the one that took second place: Giethoorn…
The second most beautiful village in the world: a small haven of peace on the water, entirely pedestrian-friendly
Entirely pedestrian-friendly, this picturesque village promises travel enthusiasts an enchanting getaway. Here, there’s no car traffic: you get around on foot, by bike, or by boat, at the peaceful pace of the canals.
Often compared to Venice, this magnificent Dutch village, located in the municipality of Steenwijkerland, flourishes in the heart of a preserved nature reserve. Here, every corner seems straight out of a movie set. Charming farmhouses, thatched cottages with their famous “camel-back” roofs, and traditional homes built on small peat islands… All the houses are connected by charming wooden bridges. The village boasts no fewer than 176 of these little bridges.
A timeless getaway, just 2 hours from Paris
In Giethoorn, the best way to explore the area is, of course, by cruising along the canals. Whether by rowboat or aboard a small electric boat, you can admire the flower-filled gardens, the charming old-world houses, and the nature that surrounds you. It’s also a pleasure to sit down at a waterside restaurant terrace and savor the moment.
Surrounded by water, greenery, and a sense of peace, Giethoorn offers a true oasis of serenity, far from the hustle and bustle of Paris. It’s the perfect destination for a wonderful weekend getaway.
