Eating Amsterdam: Food Tour and Canal Cruise

Getting a taste of Amsterdam’s vibrant food scene combined with a leisurely canal cruise makes for a memorable way to see the city through the eyes of a local. This Eating Amsterdam: Food Tour and Canal Cruise has a stellar reputation, boasting a 5.0 out of 5 stars based on 391 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate. For around $172.63 per person, you’ll spend about three and a half hours exploring neighborhoods, sampling Dutch favorites, and cruising past historic sights. What really stands out is the expertly curated variety of tastings and the fact that all food and drinks are included, making it a straightforward, enjoyable experience without hidden costs.

I particularly appreciate how guides like Paul and Danielle aren’t just passionate about food; they also weave in engaging stories about Amsterdam’s neighborhoods and culture. One highlight is the canal cruise, where you can relax on a vintage boat, sipping local beer or coffee and enjoying views of Amsterdam’s picturesque waterways. The variety of stops— from the Jordaan to Noordermarkt—offer a genuine taste of everyday Dutch life and food. However, it’s worth noting that, since the tour requires a minimum of four guests, last-minute bookings during off-peak times might be tricky, and punctuality is key to catch the boat departure.

This tour packs great value and authentic insights into a compact format. If you’re a foodie eager to try local delicacies like Herring, Gouda cheese, and Rendang Sandwich, while soaking up the city’s charm on the water, this is a worthwhile choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch flavors: You’ll sample local favorites like herring, cheese, apple pie, and bitterballen, learning the stories behind each dish.
• Rich neighborhood stories: Guides share fascinating details about Amsterdam’s districts, especially the historic Jordaan and the lively Noordermarkt area.
• Leisurely canal cruise: An hour on an authentic vintage boat provides a relaxing way to see the city’s waterways and architecture.
• All-inclusive price: Food, drinks, and the canal ride are covered, offering hassle-free enjoyment without extra payments.
• Personalized guides: Our reviews praise guides like Paul, Danielle, and Gerard for their warmth, humor, and depth of knowledge.
• Small group setting: Limited to 12 travelers, the tour feels intimate and allows for more personal interaction.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting at Noordermarkt 44, the tour kicks off in the charming Jordaan neighborhood, known for its narrow streets, canals, and artistic vibe. Here, you’ll spend about 15 minutes wandering the historic streets, where guide Gerard or Elena may share insights about the neighborhood’s transformation from 17th-century slum to trendy hub. One reviewer described Gerard as “warm and willing to answer questions,” setting the tone for an inclusive experience.

Next, the group visits Noordermarkt, a bustling market area behind the Noorderkerk, for a slice of homemade apple pie at Café Hegeraad. This family-owned brown cafe is praised for its “delicious, homemade apple pie”—a comforting taste of Dutch family traditions. You’ll spend about 15 minutes here, soaking in the lively market ambiance, which offers a glimpse into locals’ daily life.

Onward to Haarlemmerstraat, where you’ll sample Herring served with a pickle slice, and enjoy fried cod—classic Dutch seafood treats. Reviews highlight the high quality of these offerings—notably, one reviewer raved about the best Herring of Amsterdam. Guides like Danielle are said to give background on the dishes, enhancing the tasting experience with stories about tradition and regional variation.

At Tweede Tuindwarsstraat, you’ll get to taste four types of Gouda cheese. A cheese shop here is renowned for its variety—some reviewers call it “world-famous”—and it’s a fun way to learn about Dutch dairy production. A guide’s insight about cheese making and regional differences adds a layer of appreciation to this flavorful stop.

Later, at Westerkerk, you’ll visit Bocas, a cozy cafe where you might try a Rendang Sandwich made with locally baked bread and flavorful beef curry. According to reviews, this stop combines “delicious bread with rich, flavorful fillings”, giving you a true taste of Dutch fusion cuisine.

The group then heads to Brouwersgracht for Indonesian and Surinamese food at Swietie Sarang—a standout for many due to its authentic flavors and family-friendly atmosphere. This diverse stop exemplifies the multicultural influences in Amsterdam’s cuisine.

The tour concludes near Anne Frank’s House, with a group walk past the historic site, setting the stage for the cruise. Here, you’ll board a stunning vintage boat for an hour-long canal cruise through the city’s iconic waterways. Guides like Macia or Gerard often share fascinating stories about the city’s architecture and history, while you relax and sip beers, local liquor (jenever), or coffee/tea. Reviewers love the relaxing pace and the chance to see Amsterdam’s historic buildings from the water.

The Canal Cruise: A Highlight

The one-hour cruise is more than just a scenic ride. It’s an opportunity to unwind, take photos, and absorb the city’s beauty from a different perspective. Reviewers have lauded the “beautiful boat” and the skipper’s engaging chatter. Many mention that this is a perfect way to cap off an active and flavor-filled afternoon.

Guides and Personal Touch

Reviewers consistently rave about guides like Paul, Danielle, Elena, Gerard, and Macia, who bring enthusiasm, humor, and local knowledge to the experience. One mentioned that Paul’s friendliness made “everyone feel welcomed,” while another appreciated Danielle’s “interesting stories about Dutch culture.” It’s clear that the personal touch and storytelling are key to making this tour memorable.

Value and Practicalities

For just over $170, you get seven tastings, a variety of drinks, a guided city walk, and a canal cruise, all within three and a half hours. Considering individual tasting prices in Amsterdam, this represents good value, especially given the small group size and expert guides. The tour operates with a minimum of four guests, so flexibility is needed if booking during quieter times. It’s also recommended to arrive 15 minutes early to ensure you catch the boat departure—miss it, and you’ll need to reschedule or miss out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to sample authentic Dutch dishes in a lively, social setting. It’s also suited for travelers who want a light walking tour with small-group intimacy, along with a relaxing canal cruise to break up the day. Families are welcomed, as some reviews mention children enjoying the stops and being included in the experience. It’s ideal for those interested in local culture, cuisine, and scenic views without any fast-paced or overly commercialized activities.

FAQ

How many tastings are included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy seven tastings across six different locations, including cheese, seafood, pie, and more.

Is the canal cruise included in the price?
Yes, the one-hour canal cruise is part of the experience and included in the ticket price.

Can I get a vegetarian or gluten-free option?
Yes, you can email ahead to advise dietary requirements like vegetarian or gluten-free diets.

What is the starting point for the tour?
The tour begins at Noordermarkt 44, in the Jordaan neighborhood.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a relaxed, personal experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including walking and the cruise.

Is there any gratuity included?
No, tips are not included but appreciated for excellent guides.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended given the neighborhood strolls. Check the weather—an umbrella or raincoat might be wise in case of rain.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and children are welcome. However, some reviews note guides being flexible with children’s needs.

Final Thoughts

The Eating Amsterdam: Food Tour and Canal Cruise offers a well-rounded introduction to the city’s flavors and waterways, guided by friendly experts who add depth to every stop. The carefully curated tastings, from Dutch cheese and herring to Indonesian dishes, showcase the city’s multicultural food scene, while the canal cruise provides a restful look at Amsterdam’s historic architecture from the water. The small-group format and inclusive pricing create a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers who want a taste of the real city without feeling rushed.

This experience is best suited for those who love food, enjoy storytelling, and want a comfortable way to see Amsterdam’s sights. It’s ideal for first-time visitors curious about Dutch cuisine, families looking for a fun activity, or anyone wanting a gentle yet flavorful exploration of one of Europe’s most picturesque cities. The professional guides and authentic atmosphere ensure you leave with not only delicious memories but also stories to tell back home.

In the end, this tour exemplifies how good food and scenic views can combine seamlessly into a memorable afternoon. It’s a great way to get to know Amsterdam beyond the typical tourist spots, making it a worthwhile choice for your travel to this charming city.