Editor Picks: Best Amsterdam Canal Tours

Very much the party boat, during the 1.5 hour cruise unlimited beer, wine and soft drinks are available as well as a choice of six different types of pizza. If that was not enough, Ben and Jerry’s ice cream is available to finish. And then there is more unlimited alcohol. All the while the cruise passes along the lovely canals, which are illuminated at night.

With 14 centrally-located stops along four different routes, the Amsterdam hop-on hop-off canal barges offer great value to anybody who wants to explore the canals by boat, and the back streets on foot. Tickets can be bought for either 24 or 48 hours and a recorded commentary is available on board in English. Tour boats have open tops, making them ideal for photography.

The romantic option ideal for couples is a cruise down the canals with a glass of wine, some fine cheese and candlelight playing upon the face of your loved one. Snacks and wine are included in the price of this two hour cruise. A variety of wines is served along with a selection of Dutch cheeses and other snacks such as nuts.

During this one hour cruise you can see some of the top sights in Amsterdam. The tour passes by, among other places, the Anne Frank House and the Golden Bend. Recorded commentaries are included in the price and are in a number of languages. Seeing Amsterdam from a canal boat is the only truly Dutch way to experience the city.

The DIY option on this list is for anybody who does not mind expending a little energy and would prefer to do the exploring on their own. Prices are for 1.5 hour rentals, and the boats can be picked up or dropped off at one of three piers in the city. This option allows you to stop and take photos whenever you feel the urge.