Even after four visits, one thing that sticks out most to me about Amsterdam is the first time I went on a ship after sunset and saw the city lit up in such a sickly lovely way. Even if canal cruises in Amsterdam are overused, I can attest that they are excellent.
Cringeworthy puns aside, here's some interesting information for you if a traditional canal trip sounds too mundane for your exciting travel plans:
Cruise companies operating on the Amsterdam canals have become more competent in recent years, understanding that modern tourists want more than to sit quietly and stare out the window.
Amsterdam Canal Cruises with a Fun Theme
In Amsterdam, the most excellent canal cruises go above and above by providing amenities like complimentary beverages and a full meal.
1.5-Hour Evening Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
Experience the sights and lights of the city from the water on a canal trip that departs in the evening. Enjoy a drink from the bar as you glide by some of the most prominent and attractive locations in the world during this 90-minute cruise over the picturesque canals of the Dutch capital.
Some landmarks include the Skinny Bridge and the Golden Bend, which span the river and are especially lovely when lit up at night. In addition to pointing out notable restaurants and nightclubs, your guide will regale you with tales of the past as you cruise around the picturesque canals of Amsterdam.
Volendam, Marken, Windmills, and Free 1-Hour Canal Cruise
This half-day excursion into the lush Dutch countryside includes a free sail down the famous canals of Amsterdam, proving once again that some of life's finest pleasures are without cost.
You will explore the ancient windmills and timbered homes of Zaanse Schans and then have lunch at a typical fish restaurant in the picturesque fishing hamlet of Volendam on your journey into a rural windmill and dike paradise.
After that, we'll take a ferry to the island of Marken, where we'll stop at a cheese shop that uses age-old Dutch techniques and a wooden shoemaker. This rural tour comes with a free one-hour canal cruise that may be used anytime during your stay in Amsterdam.
A Trip Down the City's Canals
A 75-minute trip along Amsterdam's most recognizable rivers will allow you to take in some of the city's most iconic landmarks. Canals run throughout Amsterdam, so seeing the city from the water is a must.
Unique sights of the city's historic core, centuries-old structures, and contemporary buildings that define the city as we know it in the 21st century will greet you as you set sail on this trip.
The historic district and Overhoeks are two of the highlights of this cruise. You'll find a mix of homes, shops, offices, and cultural institutions in this newest section of the city.
Amsterdam: Van Gogh Museum Ticket with City Canal Cruise
Combining a ride around Amsterdam's canals with a visit to see Vincent van Gogh's post-impressionist masterpieces is a great way to see both attractions without spending too much time or money.
The first stop on your magical journey should be the Van Gogh Museum, which has a fantastic collection of works by one of the essential artists in Western art. They date from 1889 to 1890 and feature Sunflowers, The Bedroom, and Wheatfield with Crows.
After that, take a relaxing boat ride around the canals of the hip and trendy De Pijp neighborhood, passing through historic merchant homes and several bridges and houseboats.
Amsterdam: Boat-Optional Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Amsterdam offers everything: hip clubs, neighborhoods, relaxing canals, and historical landmarks. Take a bus and boat trip that allows you to hop on and off at your convenience to explore the highlights of the Dutch capital in the time you have.
Two hop-off boat routes and eleven bus stops make up this action-packed adventure. Nearby prominent sights at each station include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, the Church of St. Nicholas, and the Red Light District.
Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise with 4-Course
Amsterdam's canals provide a picturesque backdrop to a candlelit dinner for two. As you dine on a four-course dinner prepared and cooked right on board, you can take in the sights of the city as it lights up, from the Skinny Bridge to the Hermitage Museum.
You may eat outside or in the lower saloon, and the menu has meat, fish, and vegetarian options. All drinks—beers, wines, and cocktails, as well as sodas, teas, and coffees—are included in the price of this Amsterdam canal cruise.