Amsterdam is also known as the “Venice of the North” (Photo by Dr. Uwe Merkel).
Comparison: Canal Cruises in Amsterdam (2025)
What types of canal cruises are available?
There are many types of cruises and boat tours in Amsterdam. We’ve compared the most popular options to help you quickly find the tour that best fits your travel plans:
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| Classic Canal Cruise | Open Boat Cruise | Canal Cruise with Dining | Hop-on-Hop-off Boat | Evening Cruise | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | ~ 1 hour | ~ 1 – 1.5 hours | ~ 1 – 1.5 hours | Day Pass | ~ 1.5 hours |
| Price(2025) | from €15 p.p. | from €25 p.p. | from €40 p.p. | from €30 p.p. (24 hrs) | from €20 p.p. |
| Features | Audio guide, large covered boats (weatherproof), low price | Smaller boats, live guide, drinks included (optional) | 1. “Pizza Cruise incl. pizza & drinks 2. Dinner Cruise incl. 4-course menu | Flexible boarding and disembarking | Romantic, great photo spots along illuminated canals, optional drinks & snacks |
| Popular With | All visitors | Groups, families, photographers | Groups, couples, families | First-time visitors, families, time-limited travelers | Couples, photographers |
Overview of the Most Popular Canal Cruises in Amsterdam
Canal cruises are a favorite among both tourists and locals. From the water, the city reveals a completely different perspective—with stunning views of historic merchant houses, bridges, and hidden courtyards.
Here’s a closer look at the most popular canal cruises:
#1 Classic Canal Cruise
A classic canal cruise is the perfect introduction to Amsterdam – informative, relaxing, and ideal for first-time visitors.
Details:
- Duration: ~60 minutes
- Departure: Usually from Central Station, Anne Frank House, or Rijksmuseum
- Route: Along the main canals (e.g., Herengracht, Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht)
- Schedule: Every 15–30 mins from approx. 9 am–9 pm
- Highlights: Multilingual audio guides, covered boats
- Price: from €15 per person
- Best for: First-timers, culture lovers, solo travelers
- Drawbacks: Not wheelchair accessible, sometimes crowded, less personalized
👉Book your tickets for the Classic Canal Cruise online
The covered boats of the classic canal cruise offer a great experience in any weather (Image: © travelguide.amsterdam)
#2 Open Boat Cruise
A cruise on an open boat offers a more intimate and authentic experience—perfect in good weather and for those who want something more personal.
Details:
- Duration: ~60–90 minutes
- Departure: Often from Anne Frank House, Central Station, or Rijksmuseum
- Route: Smaller canals and hidden routes, off the main track
- Schedule: Daily, depending on weather, between 10 am–10 pm
- Highlights: Personal guide (often available in English), small groups, dogs allowed with some operators
- Price: from €20 per person
- Best for: Couples, solo travelers, repeat visitors, also suitable for first-timers
- Drawbacks: Not wheelchair accessible, limited seats, weather-dependent
👉Book Open Boat Canal Cruise Online
The canal cruise in an open boat offers many great photo opportunities (Image: © Bob C Images).
#3 Canal Cruise with Dining
These cruises combine the beauty of Amsterdam’s canals with culinary experiences like cheese tasting, pizza, or a gourmet 4-course dinner.
Details:
- Duration: ~75–120 minutes
- Departure: Mostly from Damrak, Central Station, or the Museum Harbour
- Schedule: Approx. 5–9 pm
- Highlights: Illuminated canals, cozy evening ambiance
- Price: from €40 per person (e.g., pizza cruise)
- Best for: Couples, groups, families, special occasions
- Drawbacks: Not wheelchair accessible, fixed menu options
👉Book a Dinner or Pizza Canal Cruise online here
A different kind of meal – on a boat tour on the canals in Amsterdam in the evening (Image: © Manuel Barroso).
#4 Evening Canal Cruise
A cruise at sunset or after dark shows Amsterdam in a magical, romantic light – calm, peaceful, and perfect for photography.
Details:
- Duration: ~90 minutes
- Departure: Usually from Leidseplein near the Rijksmuseum
- Schedule: Every 30 minutes from approx. 6:30–10 pm
- Highlights: Romantic vibe, lights on bridges and buildings, stunning photo spots
- Price: from €20 per person
- Best for: Couples, families, photography lovers
- Drawbacks: Fewer sightseeing explanations, less visibility in the dark
👉Book an Evening Canal Cruise Online
The canals of Amsterdam offer a beautiful evening atmosphere and great photo opportunities (image: © Cor Oosterbeek).
#5 Hop-on-Hop-off-Boats
Hop-on hop-off boats allow you to explore the city by water and get on or off at various stops near key attractions.
Details:
- Duration: Flexible day use with 24-hour ticket
- Departure: Central stops like Central Station, Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum
- Route: Circular route with fixed stops near major landmarks
- Schedule: Approx. 9 am–6 pm, every 20–30 mins
- Highlights: Get on/off flexibly throughout the day
- Price: from €30 per person (24 hours)
- Best for: Active travelers, families
- Drawbacks: Longer waiting times possible, fewer onboard explanations
Hop-on hop-off can also be done by boat in Amsterdam (Image: © travelguide.amsterdam).
Canal Cruise with the “I amsterdam City Card”
The I amsterdam City Card includes a free 1-hour canal cruise with one of the major providers (e.g., Lovers or Stromma). No reservation required.
Benefits of the I amsterdam Card for Canal Cruises:
- No extra charge for the cruise
- Flexible use during your stay
- Ideal when combined with public transport and museum visits
Combo Tickets: Canal Cruise + Museum Entry
Combo tickets include entrance to major museums or attractions, plus a canal cruise – perfect for those who want to see a lot in a short time.
Popular Combo Offers:
#1 Canal Cruise + Rijksmuseum
Skip-the-line access + 1-hour cruise.
Price: ~€38 p.p.
#2 Canal Cruise + Van Gogh Museum
Skip-the-line access + 1-hour cruise.
Price: ~€40
#3 Moco Museum + Canal Cruise
Skip-the-line access + 1-hour cruise.
Price: ~€35 adults / €25 children (4–13)
#4 Canal Cruise + Heineken Experience
Includes 90-minute Heineken tour + ~45-minute cruise. (18+ only)
Price: ~€25
Practical Tips for Your Canal Cruise
✅ Dogs on Board
Some operators do not allow dogs (except assistance dogs). Check with the provider in advance.
✅ Accessibility
Some boats are wheelchair accessible. Smaller or open boats usually are not. Check the provider’s website for details.
✅ Languages & Audio Guides
Most classic tours offer audio guides in several languages including English, German, French, Spanish, and Italian. Open boats often have live commentary (mostly in English).
✅ Weather Conditions
Most cruises run year-round in all weather. Classic boats are covered and heated. Open boats run only in dry conditions. Bring rain gear, warm clothes, or sun protection depending on the season.
✅ Cruising with Kids
Shorter tours (30–60 mins) are ideal for families, especially on open boats or with child-friendly audio. Many operators offer family tickets or free rides for kids under 4.
Frequently asked questions – FAQ 2025
Are canal cruise boats wheelchair accessible?
Many large operators offer boats with flat entry and space for wheelchairs. Smaller or open boats usually are not.
Find more info, updated prices, and a comparison in our online guide.
Which is the best canal cruise in Amsterdam?
In our opinion, there is no such thing as “the best” canal cruise — after all, it largely depends on personal preference.
Based on our experience, the classic tour is ideal for first-time visitors because it is informative and comfortable. Those who prefer a more personalized experience can take a canal cruise in a smaller open boat with a personal guide. Couples often prefer an evening cruise with an atmosphere, while families can benefit from shorter tours or flexible hop-on, hop-off boats.
You can find further information, current prices, and our booking tips in our online travel guide.
Are canal cruises suitable for children?
Yes, many are great for families. Shorter or open-boat rides are ideal. Some providers offer family-friendly guides or discounts. Kids under 4 often ride for free.
More info and ticket tips are available in our guide.
Do canal cruises run in all weather?
Yes, classic cruises operate year-round. Boats are covered and heated. Open boats only run in dry weather. Cruises may be cancelled during storms or strong winds.
Full info and updated tips can be found in our guide.
Do I need to book my canal cruise in advance?
We recommend online booking—especially in peak season or for evening/special tours. Many sell out fast, especially in good weather.
See our guide for booking tips and current prices and comparisons.
Are dogs allowed on the boats?
You can find more information about canal cruises in Amsterdam, including current prices and our booking tips, in our online travel guide. You can also find a direct comparison there.