Amsterdam Canal Tours

The best and most affordable boat tours in Amsterdam

Amsterdam Canal Tours

  • all types of boat tours
  • clearly categorised
  • the very best offers
  • compare them yourself
  • all types of boat tours
  • clearly categorised
  • the very best offers
  • compare them yourself

A canal tour, the undisputed number 1 thing to do in amsterdam!

A canal tour is a definite must do for everyone visiting Amsterdam. Without a doubt the Amsterdam city centre is one of the most beautiful in the world. The main reason for that is the gorgeous canal system. Centuries ago is was developed as a means of transport. Now the canals form the unique backdrop of the city. There’s no better way to enjoy this than by taking a canal tour in one of its many forms. Below you will find all types of boat tours, with the best offers in each category.

1. Self-Drive Boat Rental (TIP!)

  • A boat for yourself
  • An authentic experience
  • Enjoy your own food and drinks onboard
  • Great value for money
  • A lot of freedom

2. Standard Canal Cruise

  • Experience the highlights in an efficient way
  • Includes commentary on highlights
  • Possible on a small budget
  • Wide range of departure times and locations

3. Private Boat Tour with Skipper

  • Exclusively with your own group
  • Flexible in duration, routes and stops
  • Many catering options
  • Pick up and return wherever you like

4. Standard Canal Cruise Open Boat

  • Get a quick overview of the highlights 
  • Great view of the city on an open boat
  • With skipper and guide
  • Beverages on board

5. Hop on – Hop off Canal Cruises

  • Use as you wish within 24 hours
  • Easy to combine with other activities
  • Good value for money
  • Nice alternative for taxi or public transport

6. Dinner Cruises

  • A combination of hospitality and sightseeing
  • Usually at night: great atmospheric mood
  • Fun with kids

7. Luxury Private Boat Tours

  • The most beatiful boats
  • The best food and drinks on board
  • Exclusively for your own party
  • Tailored to your wishes
Amsterdam Harbour Cruise by Stromma

8. Harbour Cruises

  • Experience the unknown side of Amsterdam
  • Interesting contrast to the old city center
  • Escape from the busy city center
  • Fascinating architecture

9. Active Canal Tours

  • Nice combination of sightseeing and some action
  • Adventurous and original way of experiencing the canals
  • Fun with kids
  • Affordable 
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Amsterdam Canal Tour Selector

Do you need some help making the right choice? Then we recommend to consult the Amsterdam Canal Tour Selector.

To the Amsterdam Canal Tour Selector

The best deals

Are you looking for  excellent value for money? Then we recommend to go directly to the Best Amsterdam Boat Deals.

To the Best Amsterdam Boat Deals

BOOK YOUR BOAT TOUR IN ADVANCE

A boat tour on the Amsterdam canals is by far the most popular attraction in the Netherlands. It is the favourite way of sightseeing and relaxing for locals and tourists alike. Therefore, most companies offering boat tours are very busy on weekends and holidays, often resulting in long waiting times or even fully booked tours. Also several tour types require some preparation and cannot be booked last minute at all. Therefore, we strongly advise to book your canal tour in advance.