About 1–1.5 hours
Canal cruise
The classic way to see the UNESCO canal ring. Choose a large covered boat with an audio guide or a small open boat with a local skipper.
Tip: Evening cruises are quieter and the bridges are lit up after dark.
A good tour shows you more in two hours than you would find in a day on your own. Compare the main types of tours in Amsterdam, what they cost in time, who they suit, and how to choose a good one.
Last checked: September 2026
The classic way to see the UNESCO canal ring. Choose a large covered boat with an audio guide or a small open boat with a local skipper.
Tip: Evening cruises are quieter and the bridges are lit up after dark.
Ride like a local with a guide who knows the rules and the quiet routes, from the canals to the parks.
Tip: Ideal on your first day: you learn how cycling in Amsterdam works before you rent a bike on your own.
History, architecture and stories of the old centre and the Jordaan, often with a small group.
Tip: Tip-based “free” walking tours are popular: book a spot online and tip your guide what you think it was worth.
Taste cheese, herring, bitterballen, stroopwafels and more in the Jordaan or De Pijp.
Tip: Come hungry: tastings usually add up to a full lunch.
A guided visit to the Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh Museum focuses on the highlights and the stories behind them.
Tip: Guided tours usually include your timed entry ticket.
Walks about the history of the oldest part of the city. By law, tours may not stop at or pass the windows.
Tip: Choose a tour that focuses on history and architecture, and never photograph sex workers.
Windmills, wooden houses and craft workshops. Walking around the village is free.
Tip: Arrive before 10:00 to beat the tour buses.
Millions of tulips and other spring bulbs in flower. Open 19 March – 10 May in 2026.
Tip: Book entrance and transport together: there is no train station at the gardens.
A canal cruise is the easiest introduction to the city. If you want to be more active, a guided bike tour on your first day also teaches you how to cycle safely in Amsterdam.
Most classic canal cruises take around 60 to 90 minutes.
Many tours sold online offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Check the terms of your tour before you book.
History tours of the area still run, but tours may no longer stop at or pass the windows.