How to Choose the Perfect Canal Cruise in Amsterdam | Your 2026 Guide

How to Choose the Perfect Canal Cruise for Your Amsterdam Trip

A canal cruise is as essential to Amsterdam as tulips and windmills. But the choices can be overwhelming: big boats, small boats, food tours, hop-on-hop-off... How do you know which one is right for you?

Don't worry! This guide will help you find the perfect canal cruise that perfectly matches your preferences. Just ask yourself the following questions.

1. Who Are You Traveling With? (Your Travel Style)

The best tour heavily depends on your travel companions.

• For Couples: A romantic evening cruise, perhaps with wine and cheese, is ideal. A smaller, open boat offers a more intimate atmosphere.

• For Families: Look for family-friendly options. A Pizza Cruise is a huge hit with kids, or a shorter 1-hour tour is great for keeping their attention.

• For Groups: For larger groups, a private tour can be the best and often most affordable option. You get the entire boat to yourselves!

• For Solo Travelers: A classic tour or a hop-on-hop-off cruise is perfect for flexibility, meeting other people, and exploring the city.

2. What Do You Want to See and Do? (Your Interests)

Are you focused purely on sightseeing, or are you looking for a complete experience?

• For History Buffs: A classic tour with a detailed audio guide is perfect for learning all about the history of the Canal Belt.

• For Foodies: Choose a culinary cruise. Enjoy Dutch cheese, wine, a full dinner, or just a few drinks as the scenery glides by.

• For Photographers: An open boat offers the best, unobstructed views for photos. The best light is often in the late afternoon (the "golden hour").

3. When Do You Want to Go? (The Time of Day)

Every time of day has its own unique charm.

• During the Day: Best for clear sightseeing and admiring the architecture of the gabled houses.

• Evening/Night: Ideal for a magical, romantic atmosphere with all the lights (see our other blog post on this!).

4. How Much Flexibility Do You Need? (The Tour Type)

• Fixed Route: Most tours are 60-90 minutes and follow a set route. Perfect for sitting back and enjoying the ride.

• Maximum Flexibility: The Hop-On, Hop-Off boats allow you to disembark at various stops to visit museums or other attractions and then hop back on later.

Conclusion: Your Perfect Tour Awaits

By considering your travel style, interests, and schedule, you can quickly narrow down the options. There isn't one single best canal cruise – there's only the one that's best for you.

Ready to make your choice? Compare all our canal cruises here and book the adventure that’s your perfect match!