best canal tour amsterdam

Are you looking for the best canal tour in Amsterdam? Good news! At AmsterdamTravelTips.com, we've done the research for you.

The number of canal tours and boat trips in Amsterdam is so vast that it's easy to get lost. After taking several tours ourselves, we've concluded that there's a big difference in quality and entertainment value.

To make sure you choose the best boat trip, we've created an overview of our favorite canal tours in Amsterdam.

What's the best canal tour in Amsterdam

Is there really one "best" canal tour? Honestly, we don't think there is a single one that can be considered the "best" for everyone.

Each person is different, and what one might love, another may not enjoy.

Nonetheless, we’ve put together a great list of our 5 favorite boat trips at the moment. If you're looking for a fun canal tour in Amsterdam, the following 5 options are definitely worth considering.

You can find detailed information on five popular boat trips including the Lovers Canal Cruise, New York Pizza Canal Cruise, Wine & Cheese Canal Cruise, Dinner Cruise, and more, highlighting their features, what’s great about them, and what could be improved.

1. Lovers Canal Tour

Lovers Rondvaart boot
Our score
9.8

Price

Pick-up points

Route

The Lovers Canal Cruise is one of the most popular and classic options for a canal tour in Amsterdam. This 1-hour boat ride takes you along the famous canals of Amsterdam, offering great views of the city’s historical buildings and iconic bridges.

This tour is ideal if you're looking for a relaxing way to explore the city. The boat is equipped with comfortable seats, and an audio guide is provided in multiple languages. You can choose to sit inside or outside depending on the weather.

What we like

  • Comfortable boat with indoor and outdoor seating
  • Informative audio guide in multiple languages
  • Covers the city's most famous canals

What we don't like

  • The tour could be more interactive or have live commentary.

2. New York pizza Canal Boat

new york pizza canal cruise
Our score
9.6 

Price

Pick-up points

Route

If you're a pizza lover, this canal tour is a fun twist on the traditional boat ride. Enjoy a delicious pizza while cruising through the canals of Amsterdam.

During the tour, you can choose from a selection of pizzas, all from New York Pizza, a well-known chain in the city.

This tour is perfect for those who want to combine a relaxing boat ride with a tasty treat. The boat has a cozy atmosphere, and you can even enjoy your pizza on the deck when the weather is nice.

What we liked

  • Delicious pizza included
  • A unique and fun experience
  • Great for pizza lovers

We didn't like

  • More drink options could be included in the package

3. Wine & Cheese canal tour Amsteradm

WIJN & KAAS RONDVAART IN AMSTERDAM
Our score
9.2 

Price

Pick-up points

Route

For wine and cheese lovers, this canal cruise offers a delightful experience. Enjoy a selection of wines and Dutch cheeses while cruising along the scenic canals of Amsterdam. This tour provides a more intimate and relaxed experience compared to other boat trips.

It’s a great option for couples or those looking for a more sophisticated experience. The boat is typically smaller and more personal, which creates a charming atmosphere.

What we like

  • The perfect combination of wine, cheese, and scenic views
  • A more intimate and relaxing experience
  • Ideal for a romantic outing or special occasion

What we don't like

  • The tour is relatively short, and some might want more time to savor the experience

4. Dinercruise Amsterdam

Dinner cruise amsterdam
Our score
9.2 

Price

Pick-up points

Route

For a truly unique and memorable experience, consider booking a dinner cruise. This tour allows you to enjoy a three-course meal while cruising through the picturesque canals of Amsterdam. It's a perfect way to spend an evening, with great food, views, and atmosphere.

The food is typically high quality, and the staff is friendly. This is one of the best ways to experience the city’s beauty while enjoying a leisurely meal.

What we like

  • A delicious three-course dinner included
  • Great views of Amsterdam at night
  • A unique and romantic way to experience the city

What we don't like

  • The cruise can be a bit on the pricey side, but it's worth it for the experience

5. Semi Open canal cruise Amsterdam

semi o 4
Our score
9.1 

Price

Pick-up points

Route

For a more exclusive experience, a private canal cruise offers the ultimate flexibility and comfort.

Whether you're planning a special event, a family outing, or simply want a more personal tour, you can rent a private boat and customize the trip to your preferences.

You can choose your route, enjoy drinks, and relax with your friends or family. This is one of the best ways to see the city in a more private and relaxed setting.

What we like

  • Totally customizable experience
  • Ideal for special events or groups
  • Exclusive and private

What we don't like

  • This option is more expensive than public cruises, but it’s great for those looking for a unique experience

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the canal tours?

The duration varies depending on the tour:

  • Lovers Canal Cruise: Approximately 1 hour.
  • New York Pizza Canal Cruise: Approximately 1.5 hours.
  • Wine & Cheese Canal Cruise: Approximately 1.5 hours.
  • Dinner Cruise: Approximately 2.5 hours.
  • Private Canal Cruise: Duration can be customized based on your preferences.

Are the canal tours suitable for children?

Yes, most canal tours are family-friendly. The Lovers Canal Cruise and Private Canal Cruise are particularly suitable for children. However, the Wine & Cheese Canal Cruise and Dinner Cruise are designed for adults due to the inclusion of alcoholic beverages.

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?

It's recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to ensure availability.

Are the boats covered in case of bad weather?

Yes, most boats are equipped with covers or indoor seating to protect passengers from adverse weather conditions.

Can I bring my own food or drinks on the cruise?

For the Lovers Canal Cruise, outside food and drinks are not permitted. However, for the New York Pizza Canal Cruise, Wine & Cheese Canal Cruise, and Dinner Cruise, food and drinks are provided as part of the package. For the Private Canal Cruise, you can discuss catering options with the provider.

Are the canal tours available in multiple languages?

Yes, many tours offer audio guides in multiple languages. For instance, the Lovers Canal Cruise provides commentary in 19 different languages.

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