Published on 6 September 2024 Last updated on 22 July 2026
Are you planning a day trip or a weekend in Amsterdam soon? Then I definitely recommend taking a canal cruise through the city’s famous canals. I’ve personally taken several different canal cruises in Amsterdam, so I know which ones are truly worth it. To help you choose, I’ve selected the 4 best canal cruises. That way, you can easily pick the one that best suits your visit to Amsterdam.
1. Tour of Amsterdam with cheese and wine
Discover beautiful Amsterdam on a covered canal cruise in a luxurious classic boat. I’ve taken this cruise several times myself, and it remains a fantastic way to experience the city from the water. Along the way, you can enjoy delicious drinks and Dutch cheese while cruising past some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful sights.
This canal cruise through the centre of Amsterdam is, in my opinion, one of the best cruises in the city. I’ve taken this cruise several times myself, and it’s an ideal way to see a lot of Amsterdam in a short amount of time. You’ll board a comfortable boat and cruise through the beautiful canal belt, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the cruise, you’ll pass historic canals, characteristic merchant houses from the Dutch Golden Age, the iconic Magere Brug, and many other famous landmarks. Along the way, the audio guide, available in 19 different languages, will tell you all about Amsterdam’s history and its top attractions.
Practical Information
Departure point: The exact boarding location depends on the option you choose.
3. Evening Canal Cruise Through Amsterdam’s Canals
An evening canal cruise through Amsterdam is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to experience the city. I’ve taken this cruise several times myself, and each time I’m impressed by the atmosphere. As the sun sets, the canals, bridges, and historic canal houses are beautifully illuminated, giving Amsterdam an almost magical appearance.
During the cruise, you can enjoy tasty snacks such as chips, popcorn, stroopwafels, and salted peanuts. You can also choose from soft drinks, beer, or a glass of wine while relaxing as you cruise through the illuminated canals.
4. Canal Cruise in Amsterdam with Unlimited Drinks
Would you like to relax on a canal cruise while enjoying unlimited drinks during your visit to Amsterdam? Then this cruise is an excellent choice. I’ve taken this cruise several times myself, and it’s a wonderful way to discover the city from the water.
You’ll board a comfortable canal boat and cruise through Amsterdam’s beautiful canals. Along the way, you’ll pass historic canal houses, charming bridges, and other famous landmarks. While enjoying the views, you can make unlimited use of the open bar, which includes beer, wine, and soft drinks. This makes the cruise ideal if you want to experience Amsterdam in a fun and relaxing way.
Because I live in Eindhoven, about 125 kilometres from Amsterdam, I visit the city regularly. During these visits, I’ve taken several canal cruises. Even though I’m Dutch, I still find it special to experience Amsterdam from the water every time. You see the city from a completely different perspective than when you’re walking through its streets.
Personally, I prefer the smaller canal boats, such as the ones I recommend in this blog. These boats offer a more intimate atmosphere and can often navigate narrower canals that the larger sightseeing boats cannot reach. I also find that the captains and guides provide more personal and detailed commentary.
My favourite canal cruise is without a doubt an evening cruise. As soon as it gets dark and the bridges and historic canal houses are beautifully illuminated, Amsterdam takes on an almost magical atmosphere. That’s what makes an evening canal cruise such a memorable experience for me every time.
Disadvantages of a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Canal cruises in Amsterdam are extremely popular, which means there are many different operators to choose from. As a result, the quality can vary considerably. Budget cruises may seem appealing, but they don’t always offer the best value for money.
On traditional large sightseeing boats, you’re often sharing the boat with dozens of other passengers. In addition, the route is fixed, and you can’t get off during the cruise. In bad weather, an open boat may be less comfortable, while a covered boat can sometimes make it harder to enjoy the views due to condensation or reflections on the windows.
Advantages of a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
A canal cruise is a relaxing and unique way to discover Amsterdam. From the water, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the historic canals, characteristic canal houses, and famous landmarks that together form part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also avoid the busy streets and have plenty of opportunities to take beautiful photos of the city.
Based on my own experience, I highly recommend a canal cruise to anyone visiting Amsterdam. It’s one of the best ways to get to know the city and gives you a completely different perspective on the Dutch capital.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
What Is the Best Canal Cruise in Amsterdam?
Which canal cruise is best depends on your preferences. If you want to see as much of the city as possible, a classic canal cruise is an excellent choice. If you’re looking for a more atmospheric experience, I recommend an evening cruise. I’ve taken several different canal cruises multiple times, and on this page I share my personal favourites.
How Long Does a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam Take?
Most canal cruises last around 1 hour. There are also longer cruises of 1.5 to 2 hours, often including snacks and drinks.
Is It Worth Booking a Canal Cruise in Advance?
Yes, especially during weekends, holidays, and the peak tourist season, it’s a good idea to book your canal cruise in advance. This way, you can be sure there’s availability at your preferred time.
Is a Canal Cruise Still Enjoyable When It Rains?
Absolutely. Most canal boats are covered and have large windows, allowing you to comfortably enjoy the canals and the city’s landmarks even in bad weather.
What Will You See During a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam?
During a canal cruise, you’ll pass famous landmarks such as the Magere Brug, Westerkerk, Prinsengracht, Herengracht, the Jordaan district, and the historic canal houses dating back to the Dutch Golden Age.
Is an Evening Canal Cruise Worth It?
Yes, an evening canal cruise is definitely worth it. Once it gets dark, the bridges and canals are beautifully illuminated, giving Amsterdam a unique and charming atmosphere.
Are There Canal Cruises That Include Food and Drinks?
Yes, there are several canal cruises that include drinks or even a full lunch, drinks package, or dinner. You can also choose cruises with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks.
How Much Does a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam Cost?
The price of a canal cruise depends on the type of boat and the duration of the cruise. A standard canal cruise is often available from around €20 per person, while luxury cruises that include food and drinks are more expensive.
More Travel Tips for Amsterdam
Are you planning a trip to Amsterdam? Below you’ll find more articles with useful tips and practical information to help you plan your visit.
Hi, I’m Edward, a passionate city break enthusiast with over 15 years of travel experience. During that time, I’ve explored dozens of cities across Europe and the United States. On Cities To Travel, I share my firsthand experiences and practical travel tips to help you plan the perfect city break—from must-see attractions and day-by-day itineraries to hotel recommendations and transportation advice for every destination.
Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
Canal Cruise in Amsterdam: Which One Is the Best?
Are you planning a day trip or a weekend in Amsterdam soon? Then I definitely recommend taking a canal cruise through the city’s famous canals. I’ve personally taken several different canal cruises in Amsterdam, so I know which ones are truly worth it. To help you choose, I’ve selected the 4 best canal cruises. That way, you can easily pick the one that best suits your visit to Amsterdam.
1. Tour of Amsterdam with cheese and wine
Discover beautiful Amsterdam on a covered canal cruise in a luxurious classic boat. I’ve taken this cruise several times myself, and it remains a fantastic way to experience the city from the water. Along the way, you can enjoy delicious drinks and Dutch cheese while cruising past some of Amsterdam’s most beautiful sights.
During the canal cruise, you will pass:
Practical Information
2. Canal Cruise Through Amsterdam City Centre
This canal cruise through the centre of Amsterdam is, in my opinion, one of the best cruises in the city. I’ve taken this cruise several times myself, and it’s an ideal way to see a lot of Amsterdam in a short amount of time. You’ll board a comfortable boat and cruise through the beautiful canal belt, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
During the cruise, you’ll pass historic canals, characteristic merchant houses from the Dutch Golden Age, the iconic Magere Brug, and many other famous landmarks. Along the way, the audio guide, available in 19 different languages, will tell you all about Amsterdam’s history and its top attractions.
Practical Information
3. Evening Canal Cruise Through Amsterdam’s Canals
An evening canal cruise through Amsterdam is, in my opinion, one of the best ways to experience the city. I’ve taken this cruise several times myself, and each time I’m impressed by the atmosphere. As the sun sets, the canals, bridges, and historic canal houses are beautifully illuminated, giving Amsterdam an almost magical appearance.
During the cruise, you can enjoy tasty snacks such as chips, popcorn, stroopwafels, and salted peanuts. You can also choose from soft drinks, beer, or a glass of wine while relaxing as you cruise through the illuminated canals.
Along the way, you will pass:
Practical Information
4. Canal Cruise in Amsterdam with Unlimited Drinks
Would you like to relax on a canal cruise while enjoying unlimited drinks during your visit to Amsterdam? Then this cruise is an excellent choice. I’ve taken this cruise several times myself, and it’s a wonderful way to discover the city from the water.
You’ll board a comfortable canal boat and cruise through Amsterdam’s beautiful canals. Along the way, you’ll pass historic canal houses, charming bridges, and other famous landmarks. While enjoying the views, you can make unlimited use of the open bar, which includes beer, wine, and soft drinks. This makes the cruise ideal if you want to experience Amsterdam in a fun and relaxing way.
Practical Information
My Experience with Canal Cruises in Amsterdam
My Experience with Canal Cruises in Amsterdam
Because I live in Eindhoven, about 125 kilometres from Amsterdam, I visit the city regularly. During these visits, I’ve taken several canal cruises. Even though I’m Dutch, I still find it special to experience Amsterdam from the water every time. You see the city from a completely different perspective than when you’re walking through its streets.
Personally, I prefer the smaller canal boats, such as the ones I recommend in this blog. These boats offer a more intimate atmosphere and can often navigate narrower canals that the larger sightseeing boats cannot reach. I also find that the captains and guides provide more personal and detailed commentary.
My favourite canal cruise is without a doubt an evening cruise. As soon as it gets dark and the bridges and historic canal houses are beautifully illuminated, Amsterdam takes on an almost magical atmosphere. That’s what makes an evening canal cruise such a memorable experience for me every time.
Disadvantages of a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Canal cruises in Amsterdam are extremely popular, which means there are many different operators to choose from. As a result, the quality can vary considerably. Budget cruises may seem appealing, but they don’t always offer the best value for money.
On traditional large sightseeing boats, you’re often sharing the boat with dozens of other passengers. In addition, the route is fixed, and you can’t get off during the cruise. In bad weather, an open boat may be less comfortable, while a covered boat can sometimes make it harder to enjoy the views due to condensation or reflections on the windows.
Advantages of a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
A canal cruise is a relaxing and unique way to discover Amsterdam. From the water, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the historic canals, characteristic canal houses, and famous landmarks that together form part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also avoid the busy streets and have plenty of opportunities to take beautiful photos of the city.
Based on my own experience, I highly recommend a canal cruise to anyone visiting Amsterdam. It’s one of the best ways to get to know the city and gives you a completely different perspective on the Dutch capital.
Frequently Asked Questions About a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
What Is the Best Canal Cruise in Amsterdam?
Which canal cruise is best depends on your preferences. If you want to see as much of the city as possible, a classic canal cruise is an excellent choice. If you’re looking for a more atmospheric experience, I recommend an evening cruise. I’ve taken several different canal cruises multiple times, and on this page I share my personal favourites.
How Long Does a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam Take?
Most canal cruises last around 1 hour. There are also longer cruises of 1.5 to 2 hours, often including snacks and drinks.
Is It Worth Booking a Canal Cruise in Advance?
Yes, especially during weekends, holidays, and the peak tourist season, it’s a good idea to book your canal cruise in advance. This way, you can be sure there’s availability at your preferred time.
Is a Canal Cruise Still Enjoyable When It Rains?
Absolutely. Most canal boats are covered and have large windows, allowing you to comfortably enjoy the canals and the city’s landmarks even in bad weather.
What Will You See During a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam?
During a canal cruise, you’ll pass famous landmarks such as the Magere Brug, Westerkerk, Prinsengracht, Herengracht, the Jordaan district, and the historic canal houses dating back to the Dutch Golden Age.
Is an Evening Canal Cruise Worth It?
Yes, an evening canal cruise is definitely worth it. Once it gets dark, the bridges and canals are beautifully illuminated, giving Amsterdam a unique and charming atmosphere.
Are There Canal Cruises That Include Food and Drinks?
Yes, there are several canal cruises that include drinks or even a full lunch, drinks package, or dinner. You can also choose cruises with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks.
How Much Does a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam Cost?
The price of a canal cruise depends on the type of boat and the duration of the cruise. A standard canal cruise is often available from around €20 per person, while luxury cruises that include food and drinks are more expensive.
More Travel Tips for Amsterdam
Are you planning a trip to Amsterdam? Below you’ll find more articles with useful tips and practical information to help you plan your visit.
Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam: Is it worth a visit?
Read more »Cheap traveling through Amsterdam: Tips and Information
Read more »Anne Frank museum Amsterdam: is it worth visiting?
Read more »These Are the Most Popular Tickets and Tours for a City Trip to Amsterdam
Over Cities To travel
Hi, I’m Edward, a passionate city break enthusiast with over 15 years of travel experience. During that time, I’ve explored dozens of cities across Europe and the United States. On Cities To Travel, I share my firsthand experiences and practical travel tips to help you plan the perfect city break—from must-see attractions and day-by-day itineraries to hotel recommendations and transportation advice for every destination.
Have any questions? Feel free to send me an email.
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