Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, is often referred to as the “Venice of the North” due to its many beautiful canals. Taking a city cruise is one of the best ways to explore Amsterdam and take in its stunning scenery. With so many different options available, it can be difficult to choose the perfect cruise for you. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best city cruises in Amsterdam, each offering its unique selling point, whether it’s a relaxing ride, a cultural experience or a romantic evening. So sit back, relax and discover the canal city in style with our top picks.
The 10 Best City Cruises in Amsterdam
- Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option
- Amsterdam: City Canal Cruise
- Amsterdam: Smoke and Lounge 70-Minute Boat Cruise
- Amsterdam: Evening Canal Cruise
- Amsterdam: Canal Booze Cruise
- Amsterdam: 1-Hour Canal Cruise with GPS Audio Guide
- Amsterdam: Luxury Canal Cruise with Onboard Bar
- Amsterdam: City Canal Cruise and Heineken Experience Ticket
- Amsterdam: Evening Canal Cruise
- Amsterdam: The Bulldog Smoke-Friendly Cruise with 2 Drinks
The 10 Best City Cruises in Amsterdam
1. Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine Option
Relax and enjoy a 1-hour canal cruise through the UNESCO Heritage listed Golden Age Canals of Amsterdam. This tour passes by city highlights such as the Skinny Bridge, the Red Light District, and the Old Harbor. You’ll have the option to choose between a standard tour or a tour with unlimited Dutch cheese, wine, and other drink options. Soak up panoramic views of the city’s sights from the comfort of the boat while listening to an interactive tour with a friendly hostess and skipper. Kiss your loved ones under the famous Skinny Bridge and enjoy the atmosphere of Amsterdam at a leisurely pace on this classic boat cruise. This tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and please remember to bring warm clothing. Departure points may vary depending on the option booked. Children must be accompanied by an adult and the minimum drinking age is 18. Please note that this experience is not suitable for party people and unaccompanied minors are not allowed.
2. Amsterdam: City Canal Cruise
Explore Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage canals in style with this City Canal Cruise. Glide through the 17th century merchant houses, charming bridges, and the bustling Dutch cyclists, while catching a breeze in your hair. The 75-minute cruise takes you to the top sights of the city, including the famous Skinny Bridge and Golden Bend, passing under bridges and past bikers for Instagrammable photo opportunities. Enjoy the audio commentary in 19 languages and free “Kids Cruise” audio story and booklet with every kids’ ticket. Complimentary earphones are available, and if you select the option, a snack box awaits you onboard. The meeting point may vary depending on the option booked, with different pier departures available. Please note that cancellations within 24 hours of departure are not possible, and it is recommended to bring your own headphones if possible. This is a great addition to any traveler’s Amsterdam itinerary.
3. Amsterdam: Smoke and Lounge 70-Minute Boat Cruise
Experience Amsterdam in a unique way with the Smoke and Lounge 70-Minute Boat Cruise. Enjoy the beautiful sights of historic Amsterdam from the water while relaxing on a comfy lounge boat. Sip on your favorite drink and smoke some cannabis or try the hookah/shisha available for purchase onboard. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with other like-minded individuals while enjoying a 420-friendly canal cruise. The tour includes a 70-minute boat ride with an English or Dutch-speaking captain, music, and two free drinks of your choice – beer, wine, or soda. However, please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or children under the age of 18. Meet at the Oudezijds Voorburgwal 228, 20 meters away from The Bulldog Hotel at the boat dock. Please arrive 15 minutes before the activity starts, and remember to bring your own cannabis supplies. This tour is not a party or drinking boat for bachelor party groups and the like; it’s a relaxing boat ride where you can smoke and drink with other guests.
4. Amsterdam: Evening Canal Cruise
Experience the unique beauty of Amsterdam at night on an evening canal cruise. Cruise the scenic UNESCO world heritage canals and marvel at the stunning views from the water. Discover a new side of the city as you pass by iconic landmarks such as the Westerkerk, A’DAM Tower, and Rijksmuseum. Admire the picturesque canal houses and elegant bridges as they light up in vibrant colors. With photo opportunities aplenty, this cruise is sure to provide an Instagram-worthy experience. The 75-minute City Canal Cruise includes audio commentary in 19 languages and is wheelchair accessible. Kids can also enjoy a free “Kids Cruise” audio story and booklet with every kids ticket bought. Want a snack on board? Opt for a snack box add-on. Join us at the dock, located at Stadhouderskade 501 opposite the Hard Rock Cafe. It’s a 2-minute walk from Leidseplein, which is accessible via trams 1, 2, 5, 11, and 12. Don’t forget to bring your own earphones or headphones to listen to the audio commentary and help us reduce waste. Experience the best of Amsterdam by night with this unforgettable canal cruise.
5. Amsterdam: Canal Booze Cruise
This tour is perfect for those who want to experience Amsterdam’s famous canals while enjoying a cold beer or wine. Cruise along the city’s main canals and see hidden gems only a local skipper and host will know. You can choose from a private or shared cruise and enjoy unlimited drinks from the open bar. The tour is not suitable for children under 18 years. The meeting point may vary depending on the option booked. Please bring a passport or ID card and a driver’s license. Remember, music is not allowed on the canals. This Booze Cruise is just one of the 10 best city cruises you can experience in Amsterdam.
6. Amsterdam: 1-Hour Canal Cruise with GPS Audio Guide
Embark on a 1-hour canal cruise through the UNESCO-listed canal district in Amsterdam and admire the elegant houses lining the canals, as well as the lovely churches and bridges. With the GPS audio guide provided, you can learn more about Amsterdam’s history and culture. The meeting point may vary depending on the option booked, which includes the Anne Frank House, Central Station, and Leidse Square. Please note that the duration of the cruise is 1 hour but the total duration of the experience might be up to 90 minutes in peak season, due to the time it takes to board the boat. Children under 4 years old are free of charge if they do not occupy their own seat, while child tickets are available for those aged 4-13 years old.
7. Amsterdam: Luxury Canal Cruise with Onboard Bar
Admire Amsterdam’s famous landmarks from a 100% electric boat while enjoying a relaxing hour-long canal cruise. Learn about the city’s history and culture as you sail down the historic canals, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Skinny Bridge and the Hermitage Museum, and discovering the city’s museum quarter. You’ll also have the chance to see trendy waterside neighborhoods and the posh Amstel Hotel. Stay refreshed with onboard drinks while taking in the picturesque views. The tour includes live commentary from the boat’s local skipper and host, snacks, and gratuities. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. Meeting points vary depending on the option booked, and it is recommended to come prepared with warm clothing, a sun hat, and sunscreen. From March to October, the tour is operated on open boats, and in case of rain, you may be booked on a tour with a closed-cover classic boat. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the beauty of Amsterdam from the water.
8. Amsterdam: City Canal Cruise and Heineken Experience Ticket
Explore the charming canals of Amsterdam with a City Canal Cruise and Heineken Experience ticket. Board a comfortable boat and enjoy a 75-minute ride through the picturesque waterways of Amsterdam, passing by stunning historic buildings and scenic bridges. After the cruise, head to the world-famous Heineken brewery to learn about the brewing process and history of this iconic Dutch beer. With skip-the-line access, you can avoid the queues and make the most of your time in Amsterdam. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Amsterdam’s canals and enjoy a delicious beer in one afternoon.
9. Amsterdam: Evening Canal Cruise
Experience Amsterdam’s charm like never before on a fascinating evening canal cruise. Sail through the city’s stunning UNESCO-listed canals, with picturesque canal houses, colorful neighborhoods, and historic monuments coming alive at night. Witness the city’s illuminated beauties and snap mesmerizing photos with spectacular views of the metropolis skyline. Learn more about Amsterdam’s rich history and the Golden Age period from the onboard commentary. Sail past Amsterdam’s top attractions, including the Anne Frank House Golden Bend, and Westerkerk. Access a GPS audio guide in 19 different languages (Canal Cruise) for a smooth and informed experience. Join our 1-hour evening canal cruise, check-in at LOVERS Canal Cruises located at Prins Hendrikkade 25 in front of central station of Amsterdam, and present your voucher to join the tour. Please note that wheelchair users cannot participate in this tour. Children aged 3 years or younger can join the tour for free but they shouldn’t occupy their own seat. Children aged between 4-13 years will be charged a child fee. Get ready to be mesmerized by Amsterdam’s dazzling night views from the comfort of your boat.
10. Amsterdam: The Bulldog Smoke-Friendly Cruise with 2 Drinks
Experience Amsterdam in a unique way with this Bulldog Smoke-Friendly Cruise. Relax with a drink in hand as you take in the beauty of the city’s canals. Away from the crowds, you’ll get to experience the vibe of Amsterdam’s Redlight District and capture pictures of the strange Dancing Houses to share on social media. Admire the views of a range of Amsterdam’s houseboats and the famous Skinny Bridge. You’ll even get to see the beauty of the bridge from Monet’s “View on the Groenburgwal”. This 60-minute cruise includes two drinks, a guide providing fascinating insights into the attractions, and a toilet on board (only on Shipdock). The cruise is wheelchair accessible (only on Shipdock). However, this tour is not suitable for children under 14 years or people with motion sickness. The meeting point is behind Krasnapolsky Hotel in Dam Square and is close to Bulldog Hotel. Bring a sun hat, food and sunscreen, and in case of heavy rain, the tour may be canceled with a full refund provided. Note: the tour may take a different route and only one boat is wheelchair accessible – so please enquire before booking.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam
If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, you probably have a lot of questions. Amsterdam is widely known for its beautiful canals and liberal attitude towards drugs and sex work, but there’s much more to this city than that. In this blog post, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Amsterdam to help you plan your trip.1. Is Amsterdam safe?
Yes, Amsterdam is relatively safe compared to other major cities in Europe. However, tourists should still take basic safety precautions such as staying in well-lit areas at night, not leaving their bags unattended, and being vigilant in crowded areas. There are also pickpockets and petty thieves that operate in touristy areas, so keep an eye on your belongings at all times.2. What’s the best time of year to visit Amsterdam?
The best time to visit Amsterdam is from April to September. During this time, the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, Amsterdam can be crowded during the summer months, so if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, visit in the shoulder season (April to May or September to October).3. Is marijuana legal in Amsterdam?
Marijuana is not technically legal in Amsterdam, but it is tolerated. There are over 200 coffee shops in Amsterdam where you can purchase and consume marijuana in a safe and regulated environment. However, only Dutch residents are allowed to buy cannabis in these shops, meaning tourists cannot legally buy or possess marijuana in Amsterdam.4. What’s the best way to get around Amsterdam?
The best way to get around Amsterdam is by bike or on foot. Amsterdam is a compact city with a well-connected public transportation system, but cycling is the most popular mode of transportation in the city. You can rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in the city, or use one of the city’s bike-sharing programs such as OV-Fiets or Swapfiets.5. What are the must-see attractions in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam is packed with amazing sights and attractions, but some of the must-sees are:- The Rijksmuseum: one of the most famous museums in the world, home to an extensive collection of Dutch art and history.- The Van Gogh Museum: housing the largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings in the world.- The Anne Frank House: a poignant museum dedicated to the life of Anne Frank and the Holocaust.- The Canal Ring: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Amsterdam’s canal ring is one of the city’s most iconic features.- Vondelpark: Amsterdam’s largest park, perfect for a picnic, a jog, or a leisurely stroll.6. Is tipping mandatory in Amsterdam?
No, tipping is not mandatory in Amsterdam. However, it is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants and cafes if you receive good service. It is also common to round up the bill when paying at bars or taxi stands.7. What’s the currency in Amsterdam?
The currency in the Netherlands is the Euro. ATMs are widely available throughout the city and most shops and restaurants accept debit and credit cards.8. Is English widely spoken in Amsterdam?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Amsterdam, so you shouldn’t have any trouble communicating with locals. Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, but most Dutch people speak English fluently. In conclusion, Amsterdam is a vibrant and exciting city that’s worth a visit. By taking basic safety precautions, visiting during the right time of year, and knowing the local customs, you can have a fantastic time in one of Europe’s most historically-rich cities.Table of Contents
