Top Netherlands Carnival in 2026

Take in the Dutch capital’s yearly Winter Light Art Festival from a different perspective on this boat tour. Sail through Amsterdam’s canals from a fully-heated boat and enjoy a glass of Gluhwein or two. A romantic date night activity and a comfortable way to see the spectacular light displays, this 90-minute tour is a great way to wrap up a day spent in this European city.

The best way to get around Amsterdam is on foot, but don’t let the cold weather put you off. This small-group winter walking tour shows off the city at its most atmospheric. Admire the UNESCO-listed canals, see landmarks such as the Royal Palace, the Munttoren, and the Flower Market dusted with snow, and more.

Step aboard a canal cruise with hop-on, ho-off privileges to see Amsterdam in a flexible way over the course of 24 hours. Stops include central Amsterdam locations such as the Museum District, City Hall, the Anne Frank House, Central Station, and others. Enjoy the peaceful cruise down the waterways with audio commentary in multiple languages.

In the depths of winter, Amsterdam comes alive with light sculptures and illuminations, all part of the Amsterdam Light Festival. Experience it in style on this canal cruise aboard a cozy, fully heated boat. Your captain is your live guide, sharing secrets of the city and this season’s artworks alike, and the open bar serves up snacks, Amsterdam beers, European wines, mulled wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.

During the short days and long dark nights in Winter, Amsterdam becomes a place of Magic and Wonder. About 20 Light Art Works will be shown in and around the city’s Canals. Imagine yourself: A glass of wine in your hands, the sound of water lapping softly against the sides of the boat as we drift beneath Amsterdam’s iconic bridges, Magical Artworks and past its magnificent 17th-century canal houses. On board this amazingly comfortable and quiet electric boat, you’ll have, a glass of wine, a panoramic view of the city, and a front-row seat to these wonderful art exhibitions. Especially, as onboard you can go up close and even through these pieces! We have been closely involved with this festival. We’ll discuss the artist’s inspiration, what moves them, and what they want to express through their work. We’ll share ideas, insights, and opinions and hopefully, we’ll all leave more inspired, knowledgeable, and enthusiastic about art and what it can offer us.

Every winter, Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canals come alive with glittering light sculptures and installations—and this private canal boat tour is the perfect way to view them. Bundle up in cozy clothes, meet your vessel in the city center, and hop aboard. You’ll glide through the city’s picturesque waterways, get up close with the light show, and enjoy hot Gluhwein and traditional Dutch snacks aboard your comfortable, heated boat.

Avoid crowds and long walks while still enjoying the magic of the Amsterdam Light Festival by experiencing it from the comfort of a heated, covered boat. Departing conveniently from Central Station, this canal cruise offers unlimited drinks and panoramic views of the city’s light installations. With an official audio guide included, learn the stories behind each artwork as you sail past. Sit back, relax, and make the most of photo ops from the lounge deck (or through the skylight)—no stress, just a smooth and cozy evening on the water.

In December and January, Amsterdam is illuminated with unique artwork for the Amsterdam Light Festival. Experience it like a local—on two wheels—on this bike tour. There’s no need to worry about researching the route: Your guide looks after navigation with a break for a hot drink to beat the cold, too. Explore in a small group or upgrade for an even more personal experience on a private tour.

This 1.5-hour guided Amsterdam Light Festival bike tour offers an intimate journey through the city’s illuminated streets and canals, showcasing its iconic landmarks in a whole new light. Cycling, Amsterdam’s favorite way to explore, lets you fully experience the magic of this annual event while connecting with the city’s vibrant culture. Along the way, we’ll stop at stunning light installations, perfect for capturing unforgettable photos, as we share stories about Amsterdam’s history, art, and traditions. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned explorer, this tour combines adventure and cultural discovery for an enchanting evening ride!

Join a knowledgeable host for a 2-hour walking tour through the magical heart of Amsterdam during the Light Festival. Discover the city’s historic canals illuminated by stunning light sculptures, art installations, and projections created by artists from around the world. As we stroll through the charming old town, you’ll see Amsterdam transformed into an open-air gallery, a unique experience only available during the festival period. Along the way, you’ll learn about the city, the artists, and the stories behind the light artworks, seeing Amsterdam through the lens of festivity and creativity. Choose a private tour to enjoy this special experience at your own pace, taking in the lights, reflections, and atmosphere of a truly enchanting evening. Perfect for photography lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to see the city in a whole new light!

Cruise through Amsterdam's shimmering canals during the Amsterdam Light Festival and take in the illuminated art with a German audio guide that fills you in on the stories you don't know. Enjoy clear, unobstructed views from your heated, covered boat with unlimited drinks. This shorter tour is perfect for visitors exploring Amsterdam during the winter season.

Book your own personal canal boat cruise for the Amsterdam Light Festival, which takes place on select dates from November through January. Aboard a 12-seater private boat just for your sole group, you’ll experience the festival’s art displays and light sculptures without the crowds. Just leave the navigation to the boat’s captain, and enjoy a welcome drink plus complimentary coffee or tea once on board.

Enjoy Amsterdam's winter illuminations, without having to plan a walking route to see them all, with this private canal cruise. Take in the Amsterdam Light Festival displays as you sit back and relax in a boat, as your skipper provides commentary on the sights you see. Celebrate the occasion with complimentary soda, beer, and sparkling wine as you sail.

Discover Amsterdam on a scenic canal cruise through the city's historic waterways. During this approximately 60-minute cruise, you'll sail past the Amsterdam Light Festival artworks and admire a selection of illuminated installations. Experience the city from the water as the canals are transformed into a unique open-air exhibition of light and art. A range of drinks, including mulled wine, wine, beer, and soft drinks, is available on board. Guests who select the unlimited drinks option can enjoy these beverages throughout the cruise, or upgrade onboard! This option also includes one traditional Dutch stroopwafel or one portion of salted snacks. -Experienced German-speaking guide. The photos give an impression of the experience from past years. We cannot guarantee any of the shown artworks. Amsterdam Boat Experience is not an official partner of Amsterdam Light Festival 2026/2027.