Is a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam Worth It? (Spoiler: Yes!)

If there’s one thing you absolutely can’t miss in Amsterdam, it’s gliding along its famous canals. With over 100 kilometers of waterways weaving through the city, it’s no wonder Amsterdam is nicknamed the “Venice of the North.” But you might be wondering: is a canal cruise in Amsterdam really worth it? As a solo traveler who hopped on one, I can confidently say – yes!

Where to stay in Amsterdam
Luxury: Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam
Mid-Range: DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station
Budget: Durty Nelly’s Inn

Colorful flowers and tree trunk with colorful houses along a canal with bicycles and green trees in the background - located in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Bicycles lined up on railing with colorful houses along a canal with green trees in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Why Take a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam?

First off, the canals themselves are UNESCO World Heritage – listed, which should already tell you how special they are. But beyond the fancy title, cruising the canals gives you a completely different perspective of the city. After a long day of tourist-ing, it’s nice to have a moment to sit back, relax, and watch historic houses, arched bridges, and lively neighborhoods float past.

It’s the kind of experience that makes you pinch yourself and go, “Wow, I’m actually in Amsterdam!!”

Check out this Amsterdam cruise here:
Amsterdam: Classic Saloon Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine

Cute dutch buildings on a cnaal cruise in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Bridge on a canal cruise in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Types of Canal Cruises

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to canal tours, which is part of the fun. A few options include:

Classic Sightseeing Cruises: Great if it’s your first time in Amsterdam. They usually last about an hour and include an audio guide with city facts.
Open-Boat Cruises: Perfect for sunny days, these smaller boats let you feel the breeze and snap Instagram-worthy photos without glass in the way.
Evening or Candlelight Cruises: For a more romantic vibe (yes, even solo travelers deserve a little romance), glide past the lit-up canals at night.
Specialty Cruises: Think pizza cruises, wine and cheese cruises, or even pancake cruises. Because why just cruise when you can feast?

Window on a canal boat with canal and houses and trees in Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Tips for Enjoying Your Cruise

Book Ahead: Popular times (like evenings and weekends) sell out quickly.
Go for Smaller Boats: They can access narrower canals and feel more personal.
Bring a Jacket/Rain Jacket: Even in summer, the breeze can get chilly on the water.
Check the Weather: Rainy cruises have their own charm, but an open boat in a downpour might not be the vibe if it’s pouring. Luckily, there are plenty of covered boat options!

Totally Worth It

Whether you choose a quick sightseeing tour or a two-hour dinner cruise, floating through Amsterdam’s canals is one of those experiences that lives up to the hype. While it’s a touristy thing to tick off the list – it’s also a chance to see the city in its best light (literally).

So yes, take the cruise because #wheninamsterdam! You’ll step off with a smile, a camera roll full of photos, and maybe even fall in love with Amsterdam a little more.

Netherlands Helpful Links

Where to stay in Amsterdam
Luxury: Park Plaza Victoria Amsterdam
Mid-Range: DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station
Budget: Durty Nelly’s Inn

Top Tours from Amsterdam
– Amsterdam: Van Gogh Museum Ticket
– Amsterdam: Classic Saloon Boat Cruise with Cheese & Wine
– Amsterdam: Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam & Marken Bus Tour
– Amsterdam: Half Day Tour Tulip Fields and Tulip Experience
– Amsterdam: A’DAM Lookout Entry Ticket with 1 drink

How to Get Around The Netherlands
Getting around The Netherlands is surprisingly easy once you know your options.

Trains are hands-down the best way to travel between major cities (check out Rail Europe for tickets and trip planning), while booking a rental car give you the freedom to explore the countryside, coastal roads, and tiny villages at your own pace.

The Netherlands SIM Card: Airalo eSIM
Staying connected in The Netherlands is a must for maps, transport apps, bookings, and Googling “best stroopwafels near me” (trust me). I used Airalo, an eSIM app that lets you download a data plan before you even land.

There’s no need to swap physical SIM cards or hunt down a store at the airport. Just activate your eSIM and you’re online the moment you arrive – easy, affordable, and super convenient.

👉 Get your Europe eSIM with Airalo here

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links – at no extra cost to you.