Amsterdam: Light Festival Boat Tour with Hot Cocoa

What can be more beautiful than watching the Amsterdam Light Festival while cuddled up onboard a boat with hot cocoa? There’s a reason why thousands flock to the Dutch capital each winter – it’s l It’s an unforgettable experience that is simply not to be missed.

One of the most popular activities for the winter season is the Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour. On the Amsterdam Light Festival tour, you get to experience the light sculptures in all their glory from the comfort of a heated boat. What’s even better is that you get to enjoy hot cocoa on board, making it the perfect chilly-weather experience. It’s quite simply one of the best winter activities Amsterdam has to offer.

Where and When Can You Experience the Light Festival Boat Tour?

The Amsterdam Light Festival tours take place annually from late November until mid-January. Tours depart from Prinsengracht and Amsterdam’s Central Station. Make sure to book your tickets in advance, as these tours tend to be very popular and can sell out quickly.

You’ll be treated to a 2-hour long tour. During the tour, you will get to see the world’s most beautiful sculptures illuminated in all their glory along with plenty of places where you can take pictures and videos. These pictures will serve as lifelong memories of your unforgettable tour.

Why Should You Experience the Light Festival Boat Tour?

Amsterdam is globally renowned for its art and culture, and the Amsterdam Light Festival just adds to its stature. There’s nothing quite like seeing the spectacular light sculptures glisten and sparkle in the night sky. It becomes an immersive experience where you end up appreciating the awe-inspiring sculptures on board the boat while sipping on hot cocoa.

What’s more, you will also get to take a different route every evening, since there are various routes during each night. This allows you to experience something new each time and ensures you never get bored through your experience. There’s also a professional guide on board that provides in-depth commentary and closes the evening with a lovely hot chocolate treat at one of the city’s famous chocolate cafes.

Online Platforms Where You Can Book a Light Festival Tour

The best and easiest way to book a Light Festival boat tour is through one of many online tourism platforms. Some of the most popular ones include GetYourGuide, VDO Travel and Happy Trains Amsterdam.

If you’re looking for an amazing deal that includes skip-the-line entry, private guides, and plenty of time for exploring, GetYourGuide offers an amazing experience at a very competitive price point. You can book your tour here.

VDO Travel is one of the most established platforms in Amsterdam, providing many excellent holiday packages. If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience and want to couple it up with some great sightseeing stops, then VDO Travel might be a great option for you.

And lastly, Happy Trains Amsterdam is a great choice if you’re looking for low budget options while still experiencing a great tour. Onboard, snacks and alcoholic beverages are available along with some nice extras like headsets and blankets.

Our Verdict

There’s no better way to experience Amsterdam than from onboard a boat during the winter season and enjoying lovely hot cocoa while witnessing some amazing pieces of art in all their glory.

An Amsterdam Light Festival boat tour promises a unique experience that should absolutely not be missed – it’s romantic, immersive and a memorable experience no matter what time of year you enjoy it in. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable winter experience with hot cocoa, then a light festival boat tour definitely worth considering!

Make sure to check out websites such as GetYourGuide and VDO travel if you want to find an amazing deal so that you can experience this fantastic activity without burning too much of your pocket. Meanwhile, Happy Trains Amsterdam can be great choice if you’re looking for budget offerings while still having quality experiences.

So don’t wait any more and book yourself onto an Amsterdam Light Festival warm boat tour to make your winter even more special!

Insider’s Guide to Amsterdam

Local Attractions: Discover Hidden Gems Away from Tourist Crowds

Everyone knows about the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House, but Amsterdam has a lot more to offer aside from its famous landmarks. For a unique experience, visit the Micropia Museum, where you can explore the microscopic world of microbes and learn about their impact on our lives. Another hidden gem is the urban beach at Roest, where locals come to hang out, play beach volleyball, and enjoy the summer sun. You can also explore the picturesque neighborhoods of the Jordaan and de Pijp, which offer charming canals, trendy boutiques, and quaint cafes.

Dining Spots: Discover Local Cuisine and Its History in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is famous for its stroopwafels and bitterballen, but have you ever tried herring or Indonesian rijsttafel? Herring is a popular Dutch snack that can be found at various herring stalls around the city. The fish is served with onions and pickles and eaten whole, much to the surprise of tourists. Indonesian cuisine is also widely available in Amsterdam, reflecting the colonial history between the Netherlands and Indonesia. Try the rijsttafel, which features multiple small Indonesian dishes served with rice, for a unique culinary experience.

Cultural Experiences: Discover Amsterdam’s Traditions and Festivals

One of Amsterdam’s most famous traditions is the annual King’s Day, which takes place every year on April 27. The entire city turns orange as people gather to celebrate the birthday of King Willem-Alexander with parades, parties, and flea markets. Another unique festival is the Grachtenfestival, which showcases classical music on the canals every August. During the festival, you can enjoy performances on boats, in historic canal houses, and on outdoor stages.

Local History: A Glimpse of Amsterdam’s Past

Amsterdam has a rich history, and some of the most intriguing stories are those that are lesser-known. For example, did you know that Amsterdam was once the center of the tulip trade in the 17th century? At the Amsterdam Tulip Museum, you can learn about the fascinating history of this colorful flower and how it became a symbol of Dutch culture. Another interesting piece of history is the Begijnhof, a hidden courtyard in the city center that used to be a Catholic sisterhood’s residence during the Reformation.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Explore Amsterdam like a True Local

For an unforgettable experience, rent a bike and cycle through the Vondelpark, Amsterdam’s largest park. You can also take a canal cruise at night during the winter months to see the Light Festival, where the city is illuminated by light installations and art. After the cruise, warm up with some hot cocoa at a local cafe, such as Cafe de Jaren or Klein Kalfje. For something truly unique, visit the Electric Ladyland museum, which explores the wonders of fluorescent art and blacklight.

With its hidden gems, unique culinary culture, and fascinating history, Amsterdam is waiting to be discovered. Make your trip unforgettable by exploring the city’s traditions, festivals, and off-the-beaten-path experiences.