The "Venice of the Netherlands" Is Supposed to Be This Picturesque Town. from heritageericsson's blog

Charming is one of those overused adjectives. Nonetheless, there are several locations that do suit the phrazle bill. Giethoorn should be substituted here. This little gem in the northern Dutch province of Overijssel is home to hand-dug canals that have won it the moniker "Venice of the Netherlands" and recognition as one of the world's most beautiful cities. The 176 bridges, 18th-century thatched-roof homes, and verdant walkways only add to the area's allure.

There are fewer than 2,800 permanent inhabitants in this picturesque town, but visitors increase that number significantly. If there are so many people, how do they move around? Not automobiles, since wheels have no business in a fairy tale. Locals and the yearly influx of visitors alike prefer to get about by sailboat, foot, and bicycle.