4.6(65 reviews)
Amsterdam Canal History Cruise
From€23.95
1h 30m
Amsterdam, Netherlands
About this activity
Discover Amsterdam's rich history on a 90-minute canal cruise led by a professional historian, offering insights into the city's past and landmarks.
Highlights
- Explore Amsterdam's UNESCO World Heritage canals
- Learn about the city's rich history from a historian
- Enjoy a comfortable ride on a classic saloon boat
- See iconic landmarks like the Anne Frank House
- Relax with onboard beverages available for purchase
Full description
Set sail through Amsterdam's UNESCO World Heritage canals on a 90-minute cruise led by a professional historian. This journey offers a unique perspective on the city's rich history, passing by iconic landmarks such as the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum. Aboard a classic saloon boat, you'll enjoy comfortable seating and the option to purchase beverages from the onboard bar. This tour provides an engaging and informative experience, perfect for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Don't miss the chance to see Amsterdam from a new vantage point and deepen your understanding of its storied past.
Included / Excluded
- Guided tour by professional historian
- Live commentary on board
- Transport by classic saloon boat with onboard bar
- Meals and beverages not specified
Itinerary
1
Pass by: Cruise along the most beautiful areas and listen to live commentary
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2
Pass by: Sail underneath the Skinny Bridge
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3
Pass by: Check out this this beautiful church
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4
Pass by: The Amstel is the biggest canal of all, and Amsterdam was founded from this canal which was originally a river. Fisherman builds a "dam" and called is Amsterdam.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5
Pass by: Since most canals in Amsterdam make a curve, seeing through so many bridges at once is very rare!
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6
Pass by: Dutch National Opera (DNO; formerly De Nederlandse Opera, now De Nationale Opera in Dutch) is a Dutch opera company based in Amsterdam, Netherlands. Its present home base is the Dutch National Opera & Ballet housed in the Stopera building, a modern building designed by Cees Dam and Wilhelm Holzbauer which opened in 1986.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7
Pass by: The three main canals (Herengracht, Prinsengracht, and Keizersgracht), dug in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age, form concentric belts around the city, known as the Grachtengordel. Alongside the main canals are 1550 monumental buildings. The 17th-century canal ring area, including the Prinsengracht, Keizersgracht, Herengracht, and Jordaan, were listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, contributing to Amsterdam's fame as the "Venice of the North"
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8
Pass by: The itinerary is a little different for each departure location. Each itinerary has its own charm! Please contact our support team for more information on this.
Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
Meeting point
Start Location
Unknown location
Important information
Know before you book
- The tour is conducted in English; ensure you are comfortable with the language.
- The boat is partially covered; bring a light jacket in cooler weather.
- Food and additional beverages are not included; plan accordingly if you have dietary needs.
Know before you go
- The tour lasts 90 minutes; arrive at least 15 minutes early for check-in.
- Dress appropriately for the weather; the boat is partially covered but open to the elements.
- Parking is limited; consider using public transportation or arriving early to secure a spot.
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Accessibility
- Stroller Accessible
- Service Animals Allowed
- Easy Public Transport
- Infants Required On Laps
- Infant Seats Available
Good to know
- Tour available for free for infants (0-2 years old)
- No toilets on board
- If rain is forecast, the boats will be covered. This will influence the visibility. You can change your ticket free of charge in case of rain.
- Large bachelor and birthday groups are not allowed on this trip. Please get in touch with the supplier directly to book a private boat.
Traveler reviews
4.665 reviews
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Kevin+Max 10/10 would recommend
Our guides Max and Kevin were great. Kept our drinks full, had great tidbits of trivia and knowledge about the city, and kept us laughing. A short hour and easy to get tickets just a few minutes prior. Excellent choice for an early or late afternoon cruise if you are looking to learn a little and relax for a bit on the canals.
MNCheeseHeadMay 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Was a great tour
A very enjoyable and informative cruise with a few cocktails. Syr and Edward were great guides with great humourous antidotes.
JonoinmuskokaMay 20, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Variable and nocturnal aquatic nature show
Simply wonderful, advice, to redo , the important thing is to drink a lot before going up, from Alessandro CNC and Tiziano Ramos
F7609ABalessandrocApr 17, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Relaxing and informative
Rick was smart and funny. We enjoyed every minute.
V9292JLlydiapApr 16, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Highly recommended!
Top: Nice boat, great crew (Tim & Leon), lots of info, good mood, delicious drinks, hassle-free booking.
jaquelinet436Apr 14, 2026TRIPADVISOR
Additional information
Tour available for free for infants (0-2 years old)
No toilets on board
If rain is forecast, the boats will be covered. This will influence the visibility. You can change your ticket free of charge in case of rain.
Large bachelor and birthday groups are not allowed on this trip. Please get in touch with the supplier directly to book a private boat.