Top Amsterdam Canal Cruises - page 5

There are plenty of excellent Amsterdam canal cruises. These are the best tours available to book right now based on customer reviews and ratings:

• Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Live Guide and Onboard Bar
• Amsterdam Classic Boat Cruise with Live Guide, Drinks and Cheese
• All-Inclusive Amsterdam Canal Cruise by Captain Jack
• Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise with Live Guide and Onboard Bar
• Amsterdam Evening Cruise by Captain Jack Including Drinks

Yes, a canal cruise is one of the best things to do in Amsterdam. The canal system is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see when visiting the city. Exploring by boat provides an excellent opportunity to relax and discover Amsterdam from a different viewpoint––and many cruises even offer food and drinks onboard to enhance the experience.

Amsterdam canal cruises vary in price, starting from around $17 per person for a one-hour cruise. Expect to pay much more for longer or more luxurious cruises with fine dining and drinks packages or ticketed stop-offs at city attractions, such as the Van Gogh Museum.

Cruising Amsterdam's canals will give you fantastic panoramic views of the inner city from the water. Look for landmarks like the Skinny Bridge and Anne Frank House and iconic architecture, including the 700-year-old Oude Kerk (Old Church), the A'DAM Tower, classic canal houses, and the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood.

A canal cruise is a fantastic activity, day or night. During the day, you can sail to suit your activity schedule and enjoy incredible views from the boat. Evenings are more peaceful on the water, providing a unique way to enjoy the city's nighttime buzz at a slower pace. The canal views are captivating after dark as the city lights reflect on the water.

It is almost impossible to pinpoint Amsterdam’s prettiest canal, as so many beautiful ones exist. Brouwersgracht is flanked by magnificent restored warehouses featuring colorful shutters, plus floating houses and barges. The majestic Prinsengracht is lined with trees, quirky buildings, and moored-up boats, and from the Reguliersgracht, you can admire seven bridges illuminated by thousands of lights.

There are tons of fun tours and excursions in Amsterdam aside from canal cruises. According to previous travelers, these are the best activities to book for your next trip:

• Cooking Classes 

• Walking Tours

• Bike Rentals

• Dinner Cruises

• Night Cruises

Amsterdam canal cruise prices vary depending on duration and inclusions. If you’re looking for high-quality experiences on the lower end of the price range, these are the best tours to book now:

• 75 Minutes Canal Cruise Highlights of Amsterdam—Live Commentary

• Amsterdam Highlights Sightseeing Cruise with Audioguide

• Amsterdam Sightseeing Canal Cruise with Audio

• 75-minute Amsterdam Canal Cruise by Blue Boat Company

• Amsterdam 1-Hour Sightseeing Canal Cruise by Semi-Open Boat

When booking an Amsterdam canal cruise, explore all the options to find the perfect tour for you. Cruises depart from various locations, so factor in enough time to travel to your departure point. Be mindful of the weather, too—you may want to book a heated or covered boat if you visit in the colder, rainier months. Peak season (spring and summer) means high demand, so secure your booking well in advance to avoid disappointment.

The best way to enjoy a canal cruise in Amsterdam is to dress appropriately for the weather. Think comfy footwear, warm layers, and a rain-proof coat in winter, and don’t forget your hat and sunscreen in summer. Plan your journey to your cruise boarding point, giving yourself plenty of time before you depart—this will also give you the best chance of grabbing seats with optimal views.

The best time for Amsterdam canal cruises is April or May to enjoy the mild spring weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds than in summer. If you’re keen to visit in summer (June-August), expect higher prices and more tourists, and be prepared to book your canal cruise in advance. Fall (September-October) brings beautiful autumn colors with moderate crowds. If you’re looking for a less crowded experience, book morning cruises on weekdays in spring or fall.