Amsterdam: Comfortable City Canal Cruise + Local Guide

Highlights

• Learn about the vibrant history of Amsterdam with our audioguide
• Scenic cruise through Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canals
• Onboard heating, Wi-Fi and toilet for comfort and convenience
• Discover Amsterdam beyond the canals with our Hidden Gem Map

Description

Discover Amsterdam’s story in the most comfortable and authentic way without walking from landmark to landmark. Instead sit back as you sail the same UNESCO-listed canals that Amsterdammers have used for transport, trade, and daily life for centuries. From the water, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the canals shaped the city’s history, character, and world-famous cityscape.

Glide past Amsterdam’s famous waterfront sights, from the 17th-century warehouses and historic canal houses to the striking NEMO Science Museum and elegant Skinny Bridge. As you cruise through the heart of the city, learn about the vibrant history of Amsterdam with an engaging audio guide available in 19 languages via the app, complemented by anecdotes from your captain.

Choose from three centrally located departure points, each easy to reach by public transport or on foot. Central Station and Damrak Pier 5 are both less than a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station, making them ideal for visitors arriving by train or staying in the city center. The Rijksmuseum departure point is located directly opposite the Rijksmuseum in the Museum Quarter, so you can easily combine a visit to Amsterdam’s leading museums with a canal cruise. It is also just a 10-minute walk from lively Leidseplein, with its cafés, restaurants, and tram connections. Enjoy a scenic 60-minute cruise or choose the extended 75-minute route when departing from the Rijksmuseum.

So, choose the most fitting departure point and set sail through the city, take in its historic canals, iconic sights, and picture-perfect views—creating special memories to take home with you.

Hidden Gem Map

Discover Amsterdam beyond the canals with our Hidden Gem Map, a special bonus with the Amsterdam Canal Cruise (100 Highlights). Available only for Canal cruise bookings on travel dates 17th of March till 30th of August. The 30th of August is the last day the map is included.

Curated by local guide Willemijn Van Breda, the map features 50 hidden gems across every district, plus 2 self-guided walking routes. You’ll also receive a fun city game with questions to play along the routes.

To collect your map + city game, show your cruise ticket QR code in the shop at your departure point. Book your Canal Cruise now and start uncovering Amsterdam’s hidden gems.

Departure from Central Station + Hidden Gems

Departure from Damrak Pier 5

Leidseplein departure end at Rijksmuseum + hidden Gems map

Departure from Rijksmuseum + hidden Gems map