Amsterdam Sightseeing Canal Cruise with Audio Guide
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Amsterdam Sightseeing Canal Cruise with Audio Guide

Active
(815 reviews)
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Step aboard a glass-topped sightseeing boat with this 1-hour Amsterdam canal cruise, and see the city sights by water. Then, cruise along the city’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canals to see the "skinny bridge" of Magere Brug, the affluent Golden Bend district, the Anne Frank House and more, as you learn about Amsterdam’s history from an audio guide. Boats depart at frequent intervals from morning till mid-evening.

Each boat tour follows a different route, so not all sights are guaranteed to be seen every time. This way, every cruise offers a unique and surprising experience.

Available options

From Rijksmuseum

Starting point:<br/>Stadhouderskade 511, 1071 ZD Amsterdam, Netherlands

From Leidsekade

Starting point:<br/>Rederij Lovers B.V., Leidsekade t/o 97, 1017 PN Amsterdam, Netherlands

From Anne Frank House

Starting point:<br/>Lovers canal cruise Anne Frank, Leliegracht 51, 1016 GT Amsterdam, Netherlands

From Central Station

Starting point:<br/>Rederij Lovers B.V., Prins Hendrikkade 25, 1012 TL Amsterdam, Netherlands

What's included

1-Hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Audio guide in several languages

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1 Pass by

Lovers Canal Cruises began offering boat tours in Amsterdam in the 1950s, becoming one of the city's most popular ways to explore its historic canals. With a fleet of glass-roofed boats, the company provides scenic and narrated cruises showcasing Amsterdam's architecture, bridges, and waterways.

2
Stop 2 Pass by

The Central Station in Amsterdam was designed by Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers and constructed between 1881 and 1889 on three artificial islands in the IJ lake. Its Gothic/Renaissance Revival style and iron platform roof reflect both historical grandeur and modern engineering of the time.

3
Stop 3 Pass by

The Magere Brug, or "Skinny Bridge," is a historic wooden drawbridge over the Amstel River in Amsterdam, originally built in 1691 and rebuilt in 1934 in the same traditional style. Known for its elegant design and nightly illumination, it has become one of the city's most iconic and photographed bridges.

4

The Keizersgracht, named after Emperor Maximilian I, was constructed in 1612 as the widest of the main canals in Amsterdam's canal belt, showcasing grand merchant houses and reflecting the city's growing wealth.

5
Stop 5 Pass by

The Herengracht, also dug in 1612, was the most prestigious canal, home to the city's elite and lined with stately mansions known as the “Golden Bend.”

6

The Prinsengracht, one of Amsterdam’s main canals, was dug in the early 17th century during the city’s major expansion known as the Grachtengordel project. Named after the Prince of Orange, it became a desirable residential area, lined with elegant canal houses and cultural landmarks.

7
Stop 7 Pass by

Amsterdam’s Red Light District, known locally as De Wallen, is the city’s oldest neighborhood, dating back to the 14th century when it served as a harbor area. Today, it’s a regulated zone combining historic buildings, legalized sex work, and a mix of tourism, nightlife, and cultural heritage.

8
Stop 8 Pass by

The Westerkerk in Amsterdam, completed in 1631, is a prime example of Dutch Renaissance architecture and is famous for its tall, ornate tower known as the Westertoren. It has played a significant role in the city’s religious and cultural life, and is also famously near Anne Frank’s house.

9
Stop 9 Pass by

The 9 Straatjes (Nine Streets) in Amsterdam is a charming neighborhood of nine narrow streets in the canal belt, known for its unique boutiques, vintage shops, and cozy cafés. Developed in the 17th century, it has become a trendy area blending historic charm with modern culture.

10
Stop 10 Pass by

The Amstel River runs through Amsterdam and was central to the city’s founding and development, giving the city its name. It has historically been a vital waterway for trade and transport, lined with iconic bridges and historic buildings along its banks.

11
Stop 11 Pass by

The Scheepvaartmuseum in Amsterdam, housed in a historic 17th-century warehouse, showcases the rich maritime history of the Netherlands with a vast collection of ships, maps, and nautical artifacts. Renovated in 2011, it offers engaging exhibitions highlighting the country’s connection to the sea.

12
Stop 12 Pass by

NEMO Science Museum in Amsterdam, designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano, opened in 1997 with its iconic green, ship-like structure rising above the Oosterdok. It serves as an interactive science and technology center, especially geared toward children and families, promoting hands-on learning and curiosity.

13
Stop 13 Pass by

The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam was designed by architect Pierre Cuypers and officially opened in 1885, blending Gothic and Renaissance elements to house the Netherlands’ national art and history collection. It holds masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters, making it a cultural landmark of international renown.

14
Stop 14 Pass by

The Nieuwmarkt in Amsterdam emerged in the 17th century as a bustling public square, built on the site of the former city wall after the demolition of the Sint Antoniespoort. Its centerpiece, the Waag building, originally served as a city gate and later as a guildhall, anchoring the square's historical and social importance.

15
Stop 15 Pass by

The Bloemenmarkt in Amsterdam was established in 1862 and is the world’s only floating flower market, with stalls set on houseboats along the Singel canal. Originally created to supply fresh flowers daily by boat, it has since become a colorful tourist attraction selling bulbs, souvenirs, and plants.

16

Het IJ is a body of water and former bay in Amsterdam that connects the city to the North Sea, playing a crucial role in its maritime trade and development. Today, it serves as a vibrant waterfront area with ferries, cultural venues, and recreational activities.

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks

Available languages

Audio guide
HI DE RU KO PT CMN EN IT JV FR ES AR TH JA PL HE TR NL

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.8
449 reviews
5★
213
4★
84
3★
67
2★
34
1★
51
Tripadvisor 3.3
366 reviews
5★
100
4★
91
3★
53
2★
45
1★
77

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Check-in at Lovers 10 minutes before the reserved time

Meeting point

Canal Cruise from Rijksmuseum: check in at Lovers Canal Cruises, Stadhouderskade 511, Amsterdam.

Important notes

Please check in at the departure location 10 minutes before departure.

About Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the 'Venice of the North,' the city offers a rich blend of art, history, and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.

Museum 2-3 hours €20

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. It houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings in the world.

Museum 1.5-2 hours €20

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II.

Historical 1 hour €16

Dam Square

Dam Square is the central square of Amsterdam and a historic site. It is home to the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and various other landmarks.

Historical 1 hour Free

Jordaan

Jordaan is a picturesque and lively neighborhood known for its narrow streets, canals, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great place to explore, shop, and dine.

Neighborhood A few hours to explore Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining

Must-Try Local Dishes

Stroopwafel

A thin, round waffle made from two layers of baked dough joined by a caramel-like syrup filling

Dessert Vegetarian, contains wheat and sugar

Bitterballen

Deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a creamy, spiced ragout, typically made from beef or veal

Snack Contains meat, gluten, and dairy

Haring

Raw herring fish, traditionally served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by its tail and lowering it into your mouth

Dish Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians

Poffertjes

Miniature pancakes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast, served with powdered sugar and butter

Dessert Vegetarian, contains wheat, eggs, and dairy

Popular Activities

Canal kayaking Bike tours Escape rooms Canal cruises Visiting parks and gardens Spa and wellness treatments Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The peak tourist season in Amsterdam is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, but it's also the busiest and most expensive period.

15°C to 22°C 59°F to 72°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Dutch
  • Widely spoken: English, German, French
  • English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution

Amsterdam is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bike theft, can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport
  • • Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey

Getting there

By air
  • Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 17.5 km from city center
By train

Amsterdam Centraal

By bus

Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

Getting around

Public transport

Amsterdam's tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with 14 day and night tram lines. A single ticket costs €3.20, and day passes are available.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Amsterdam

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Jordaan De Pijp De Wallen (Red Light District) Museumplein Amsterdam-Noord

Day trips

Zaanse Schans
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day

A picturesque and open-air museum featuring traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of the region.

Haarlem
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day

A charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene, often considered a smaller and more relaxed version of Amsterdam.

Utrecht
50 km from Amsterdam • Full day

A vibrant and historic city known for its beautiful canals, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene, with a unique and charming atmosphere.

Festivals

King's Day (Koningsdag) • April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th is a Sunday) Amsterdam Pride • Late July to early August Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) • Mid-October

Pro tips

  • Use the OV-chipkaart for seamless and convenient public transport
  • Rent a bike to explore the city like a local, but be aware of cycling rules and etiquette
  • Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
  • Explore the city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm
  • Try local specialties, such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, and Dutch pancakes
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 14-99
1
Childs
Age 4-13
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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