How to Plan Your Amsterdam Canal Cruise and Xtracold Ice Bar Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, you won’t want to miss the city’s famous canals and ice bar. The best way to experience both of these highlights is with a combined tour. In this post, we’ll show you how to plan your Amsterdam canal cruise and Xtracold ice bar tour, with all the information you need to make the most of your experience.

Experience Highlights

This tour is an ideal way to experience the best of Amsterdam in one go. You’ll enjoy a 1-hour canal cruise of Amsterdam, sailing past attractions like the Anne Frank House and Skinny Bridge while seeing many of the city’s ornate merchant houses and house boats. The boat you’ll be on has a luxury glass-topped roof, so you can take in the panoramic views whilst staying warm and dry. After your cruise, you’ll make a skip-the-line entrance to the ice-cold Xtracold Icebar and sip on three complimentary drinks.

Full Tour Description

The tour begins with the canal cruise. As you’re drifting along the beautiful canals, you’ll get the opportunity to discover more about Amsterdam’s rich history and culture. Admire merchant buildings from the 16th and 17th centuries, which reflect Amsterdam’s Golden Age when trade flourished. You’ll see the iconic Skinny Bridge and many other famous landmarks while you are comfortably enjoying the view with ease. You can listen to an audio guide telling you about the city’s historical highlights.

Following your canal cruise, head to the Xtracold Icebar. Here you’ll find a unique and insta-worthy bar made entirely out of ice! Plus, you won’t have to worry about waiting in line with your skip-the-line ticket. Once you enter the bar, you’ll receive warm clothing to wear in the freezing temperature.

Then sit back and enjoy three complimentary drinks made from spirits served in glasses made entirely of ice – perfect to combat the chilly environment of the ice bar.

Booking Your Tour

Booking your tour is easy. You can find a link at the end of this post to book the tour here, through our partner GetYourGuide.

How to Get There

The canal cruise departs from and returns to one of two departure points: Stadhouderskade 550 or Prins Hendrikkade 25. Both of these are easily accessible on foot, by public transport or by taxi.

The Xtracold Icebar is located right in the city center close to Dam Square. This central location makes it easy to get there by foot or by using public transport, such as tram lines 1, 2, 4, 5, 9 or 16. Alternatively, you could take a taxi or use one of Amsterdam’s popular bike rentals to travel between the canal cruise and the Ice bar.

Tips for the Tour

Here are some tips to make the most out of your tour:

– Dress for the occasion, especially if you are taking the tour during the winter. Wrap up warm even when inside the glass-topped canal boat, as the temperature may be cool or cold while admiring the views from the water.
– Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture unique shots of the canals as well as the Xtracold Icebar, where everything is made entirely of ice.
– Plan your tour so that you have enough time to explore the city of Amsterdam by yourself. A canal cruise can be a great way to find your bearings and see the city’s top landmarks in a short time, while the ice bar offers a unique experience.

Conclusion

The Amsterdam canal cruise and Xtracold ice bar tour is an excellent way to experience two of the city’s must-see highlights. It offers a great way to explore Amsterdam’s famous canals while discovering the city’s historical background. And don’t forget to warm up with three complimentary drinks at the unique ice bar.

Be sure to follow our tips above to make your tour even more special. And remember to book the tour here to guarantee your spot!

Frequently Asked Questions About Amsterdam

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam, you probably have a few questions about what to expect. Amsterdam is an incredible city with a unique culture and atmosphere, so it’s natural to want to prepare yourself beforehand. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Amsterdam, along with some answers to help you plan your trip.

What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

The best time to visit Amsterdam is in the spring (March to May) or the fall (September to November). During these times, the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded than in the summer months. However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to bring a raincoat.

What is the best way to get around Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a compact city that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Bikes are available to rent throughout the city, and there are plenty of bike lanes to keep you safe. There is also an extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trams, and metros. You can buy tickets for public transportation from machines at stations or from most convenience stores.

How much does it cost to visit Amsterdam?

The cost of visiting Amsterdam depends on your budget and travel style. You can find budget accommodations starting at around €30 per night, while more luxurious hotels can cost upwards of €300 per night. Food and drink prices vary depending on where you go, but you can expect to pay around €15-20 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant. Museums and attractions often have entrance fees of around €10-15 per person.

Is Amsterdam safe?

Amsterdam is generally a safe city, but like any major city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to keep yourself and your belongings safe. Pickpocketing and bike theft are common, so keep an eye on your valuables and lock up your bike securely. It’s also a good idea to stay in well-lit areas after dark and to avoid walking alone in quiet areas.

What is the legal drinking and smoking age in Amsterdam?

The legal drinking age in Amsterdam is 18, and the legal smoking age is 18 for tobacco products and 21 for cannabis products. While cannabis is legal in the Netherlands, it is only permitted in designated coffee shops. It’s important to note that while cannabis may be legal, it is still illegal to use it in public or to drive under the influence.

What are the must-see attractions in Amsterdam?

There are so many amazing attractions in Amsterdam that it’s hard to choose just a few. Some of the most popular attractions include the Van Gogh Museum, the Anne Frank House, and the Rijksmuseum. You should also take a stroll through the Jordaan neighborhood, visit the flower market, and take a canal cruise to see the city from a different perspective.

What is the local cuisine like in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam’s cuisine is influenced by Dutch, Indonesian, and Surinamese flavors. Some popular dishes include stamppot, a mashed potato dish served with vegetables and sausage, and bitterballen, deep-fried balls of beef ragout served with mustard. You should also try Indonesian rijsttafel (rice table), which consists of numerous small dishes served with rice.

What is the weather like in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam’s weather can be unpredictable, but generally, it has mild winters and cool summers. The average temperature in the winter is around 5°C, while in the summer, it’s around 18°C. It’s always a good idea to bring a raincoat, as it can rain at any time of year.

Are public restrooms available in Amsterdam?

Yes, public restrooms are available throughout Amsterdam. You can find them at train stations, museums, and in many restaurants and cafes. It’s important to note that some public restrooms require payment, so it’s a good idea to keep some change on hand.

What should I know about tipping in Amsterdam?

Tipping is not mandatory in Amsterdam, but it is common to round up the bill or add a small amount for good service. In restaurants, you may see a service charge added to the bill, in which case it is not necessary to leave an additional tip. Tipping taxi drivers is also optional, but rounding up to the nearest euro is appreciated.

In conclusion, Amsterdam is a vibrant and unique city that is full of life and rich in culture. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you’ll be better equipped to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this amazing city.