Amstel River Tours
10 Reviews
The Amstel is the great river that runs through Amsterdam and whose water was diverted into the city’s famous canals. The city was first built around the river, giving it the name Amstel Dam, and today the waterway is flows past modern buildings and charming houseboats before winding its way into the Dutch countryside.
The Basics
Follow the path along the Amstel to find a number of city landmarks including the Hermitage Museum, the Royal Theater Carre, and the iconic Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug). Once you get to Amsterdam South, the river makes way for a beautiful path along which locals cycle, sail, and enjoy a stroll before turning into bucolic meadows and rural villages.
Most tours in Amsterdam include a stop along the Amstel. If you want to explore like a local, hop on a bike tour to explore the city’s highlights, including the Amstel path. Numerous river cruise options are also available to see the city via the Amstel and numerous canals. To save on admission fees, combine attractions such as the Rembrandt House Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and Keukenhof Gardens (in the spring) with a city tour of Amsterdam.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The Amstel is easily accessible from many points in Amsterdam. The best way to experience it, and many city landmarks, is on a river and canal cruise. If you prefer to stay on land, head to the Hermitage Museum and the Skinny Bridge to walk along the riverbank without leaving the city.
When to Get There
Amsterdam sees huge crowds of travelers during the summer months. Try to visit during spring or autumn, when there are fewer people and less chance for rain. The city really comes alive when the tulips are in bloom, generally between the end of March and the end of May.
The Lifeblood of Amsterdam
The Amstel is more than just a transportation waterway in Amsterdam. Since the days of early settlers, the river has provided the most vital irrigation resource and was even diverted to the Amstel Brewery to keep its stock of beer chilled. The river was also an inspiration for many artists, including Rembrandt and Mondrian. The dams, which wind their way through Amsterdam and the Netherlands, are a feat of engineering and provide water and transportation for thousands of Dutch citizens.
The Basics
Follow the path along the Amstel to find a number of city landmarks including the Hermitage Museum, the Royal Theater Carre, and the iconic Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug). Once you get to Amsterdam South, the river makes way for a beautiful path along which locals cycle, sail, and enjoy a stroll before turning into bucolic meadows and rural villages.
Most tours in Amsterdam include a stop along the Amstel. If you want to explore like a local, hop on a bike tour to explore the city’s highlights, including the Amstel path. Numerous river cruise options are also available to see the city via the Amstel and numerous canals. To save on admission fees, combine attractions such as the Rembrandt House Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and Keukenhof Gardens (in the spring) with a city tour of Amsterdam.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Amstel is a must-visit for all visitors to Amsterdam, as it is the city’s main watery artery.
- Don comfortable walking shoes to enjoy strolling along the riverside path.
- Boat tours of Amsterdam make it easy for wheelchair users and those with limited mobility to see the Amstel and the city’s main attractions.
How to Get There
The Amstel is easily accessible from many points in Amsterdam. The best way to experience it, and many city landmarks, is on a river and canal cruise. If you prefer to stay on land, head to the Hermitage Museum and the Skinny Bridge to walk along the riverbank without leaving the city.
When to Get There
Amsterdam sees huge crowds of travelers during the summer months. Try to visit during spring or autumn, when there are fewer people and less chance for rain. The city really comes alive when the tulips are in bloom, generally between the end of March and the end of May.
The Lifeblood of Amsterdam
The Amstel is more than just a transportation waterway in Amsterdam. Since the days of early settlers, the river has provided the most vital irrigation resource and was even diverted to the Amstel Brewery to keep its stock of beer chilled. The river was also an inspiration for many artists, including Rembrandt and Mondrian. The dams, which wind their way through Amsterdam and the Netherlands, are a feat of engineering and provide water and transportation for thousands of Dutch citizens.
Address: Amstel River, Amsterdam, Netherlands
78 Tours and Activities to Experience Amstel River
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Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise with 4-Course Dinner and Drinks
This Amsterdam dinner cruise pairs a freshly prepared 4-course meal with the illuminated sights around the city’s romantic canals. Dine on top-quality food—with your choice of meat, fish, or vegetarian dishes—on one of the few Amsterdam sightseeing boats to offer meals that are cooked on board. Sip a welcome drink from the bar and savor the sights, including attractions like the Anne Frank House and Hermitage Museum. Beer, wine, or soda are included along with coffee and tea on your excursion.
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From
$122.28
From
$122.28
Amsterdam Canal Cruise in Classic River Boat With Drinks & Dutch Cheese
Cruise down the famous canals of Amsterdam during this 75-minute boat tour. Hop aboard the classic wooden saloon boat and sit back and enjoy the beautiful city pass you by. See landmarks while nibbling on Dutch cheese and having a drink.
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From
$35.82
From
$35.82
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Open boat tour - All drinks included - 60 Minutes - Live guide
The best way to explore the UNESCO-listed Amsterdam Canal Ring is indisputably by boat. Get a different perspective of the Dutch capital while avoiding the crowds on land during this relaxing canal cruise that, unlike other similar tours, includes unlimited Heineken beer, wine, and soft drinks for a budget-friendly price. Plus, several departure times throughout the day mean you can slot the cruise into almost any schedule.
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From
$28.16
From
$28.16
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
Private Tour: Anne Frank & the Jewish History of Amsterdam (4 hours)
Learn about Amsterdam's Jewish history on this private tour. Visit what was once the Jewish Quarter, with its old Synagogue and former Jewish theater (Hollandse Schouwburg) before heading to the Anne Frank House via tram. Here you have the option of going inside to see where the famous diarist hid until she was finally captured during WWII. Tickets are not included, but we can advise you on the best way to visit after the tour.
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From
$112.40
Price varies by group size
From
$112.40
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Amsterdam Small-Group, Guided Evening Canal Cruise with Bar on Board
Come and join us on one of our legendary and Tripadvisor top 3 boat tours and get ready to cruise along the Amsterdam canals on our unique, electric boats. We have small open boats so you are able to enjoy the full experience!
On our 1 hour evening cruise you will explore Amsterdam, its famous landmarks, culture, and rich trading history whilst relaxing on our luxury boat. At night all the bridges light up in the city so it will feel like sailing through a fairytale. The cruise will be done with a small group of people, so expect an interactive tour, with enough space for questions and any needed recommendations for your further stay in Amsterdam. Our canal cruise is a great alternative compared to those old-school tourist canal boats that your grandma probably recommended.
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From
$22.23
From
$22.23
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Romantic Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise With Wine and Dutch Cheese
Unwind from busy sightseeing or set the mood for a romantic night on this relaxing candlelight cruise along Amsterdam’s fabled canals. Aboard a glass-enclosed boat, admire beautiful waterfront views of the UNESCO-listed canals as you sip wine and enjoy delicious snacks. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day and cozy up with that special someone.
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From
$52.49
From
$52.49
Amsterdam Canal Cruise in Luxury River Boat - Small Group - from AnneFrank House
Glide through Amsterdam's canals in style and comfort aboard a luxury open-air boat with no windows or walls between you and the sights. Settle into comfy cushioned seats, and warm up with provided blankets and a drink from the cash bar if the weather is chilly. The cruise departs multiple times daily from the Anne Frank House, so it's easy to fit into most sightseeing itineraries.
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From
$22.23
From
$22.23
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Sebi Boat Tours
We are Sebi Boat Tours, two true Amsterdammers who want to share their love for this beautiful city. With our 100% electric boat which is open on sunny days and closed on rainy and windy days and has a toilet, we will provide a 2 hour intimate canal tour. We will pass all the highlights Amsterdam has to offer including the world famous canal belt, The Jordaan, The red light district, the river Amstel, the maritime area and places, where big tour boats cannot go. On the way we will make a stop at Amsterdam's best boat caterer, childhood friends of ours, to pick up some traditional Dutch snacks while you enjoy a wide variety of complementary drinks. All this while Captain Sebi will pass on his years of knowledge of the city and canals, on current events and Amsterdam people in Dutch, English and German!
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From
$60.09
From
$60.09
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Amsterdam Private Bike Tour with a Local
Explore Amsterdam the way it was meant to be seen—by bike! On this private tour, hop aboard a quality rental bike and follow a local guide on a personalized tour of the city's most interesting neighborhoods, scenic paths and iconic attractions. It’s a great way to soak up the sights and atmosphere in one of Europe’s most bike-friendly cities.
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From
$87.70
Price varies by group size
From
$87.70
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
2.5 hours Amsterdam Pedicab Tour
This private sightseeing tour of Amsterdam takes you around the historic city center by rickshaw (aka pedicab). Travel with ease while your driver-guide narrates the highlights; you’ll pass by the Anne Frank House, Van Gogh Museum, and other attractions. With a customized itinerary, your driver makes brief stops at Vondelpark or other scenic spots. Pickup and drop-off include hotels and cruise port.
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From
$247.03
Price varies by group size
From
$247.03
Price varies by group size
Private Amsterdam’s Bike & Bites Like a Local Tour (E-Bike Option Included)
From savory to sweet, fall in love with the flavours of Amsterdam. See a stroopwafel made before your very own eyes then get some Belgian fries from a spot with over 29 different dips. Then it’s time to for uncooked fish dipped in raw onion. The locals will tell you it’s delicious but one thing is certain; the unique taste will be like nothing you’ve experienced before.
Pedal over one of the most picturesque bridges in Amsterdam, Magere Brug, and cycle past the must-see Rijksmuseum. Get a taste of local life at two buzzing markets. Then pedal through Supi Square and soak up the sights of the city as you pass by Amsterdam’s beautiful architecture.
Explore one of the oldest areas of Amsterdam with historic and beautiful buildings. Follow your host down quiet streets and discover a truly authentic bar with over 300 varieties of beer. Take a moment to relax and sip on a local brew or alternatively a delicious coffee to end this privately guided experience with.
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From
$140.81
Price varies by group size
From
$140.81
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Private Champagne Cruise in Amsterdam
Sip Champagne as you glide along Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canals on a private, 1.5-hour salon boat cruise. Board a classic, electric 1920s salon boat with a private captain at the helm, and enjoy the sophisticated atmosphere as you explore the delightful De Jordaan neighborhood. Cruise the flower-lined waterways past 17th-century merchants’ houses, bridges and churches; and hear about the area’s history and landmarks. Along the way, celebrate the occasion with a complimentary glass of Champagne and unlimited free drinks from the open bar. Choose from different departure times during the day.
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From
$121.85
From
$121.85
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Hop-On Hop-Off Amsterdam Canal Sightseeing Cruise
With the hop-on hop-off boat day pass, enjoy an easy overview of Amsterdam at a pace that suits you. Step aboard boats that operate along Amsterdam's canals and travel along the route that passes highlights like the Anne Frank House and the Heineken Experience. While on board, listen to engaging commentary on the city and sights you see along the way. Choose between a 24- or 48-hour pass, and get on and off as often as you like.
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From
$30.88
From
$30.88
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Amsterdam Countryside Bike Tour Including Cheese Tasting and Clog Demonstration
Cycle away from the urban noise and disappear into the countryside on this guided bike tour from Amsterdam. Visit a historical windmill, a farmhouse and factory, where you’ll sample Dutch cheese and watch how wooden clogs are made. This leisurely ride takes you along the Amstel River, past country villages and verdant fields dotted with cows. Learn about rural Dutch traditions and history, and wrap up your tour exploring Amsterdam’s parks including Vondelpark, Amsterdamse Bos and Beatrixpark.
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From
$51.88
From
$51.88
Amsterdam 1-Hour Canal Cruise from Central Station
Discover the beautiful city of Amsterdam, known as the ‘Venice of the North,’ from the water on this sightseeing cruise. After reserving your preferred departure time, skip past any lines and set off on the UNESCO-listed waterways aboard a glass-topped canal boat. Glide under pretty bridges, past 17th-century buildings and landmarks like the Anne Frank House, and learn about the city’s history from the audio guide. Upgrade your canal cruise with a 1-Day Amsterdam Public Transport ticket which is valid on trams, buses, ferries, and the metro.
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From
$16.06
From
$16.06
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Skip-the-line Rijksmuseum & Amsterdam City Center Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max
Skip the line at the popular Rijksmuseum, as well as get a comprehensive walking tour of Amsterdam's historic center during this half-day tour. Travel with a small group, which ensures personalized attention and the chance to ask questions. Your ticket to the Rijksmuseum is valid all day long, so you can explore at your leisure after the conclusion of your tour.
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From
$221.26
Price varies by group size
From
$221.26
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Skip-the-line & Private Guided Tour: Rembrandt House & Neighborhood Guided Tour
Walk in the steps of the famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt, during this 2.5-hour walking tour. Stroll through the Spiegalquarter, the artist’s old neighborhood, and visit areas like the Emperor’s Canal and Waterloo Square that he used to frequent. Then skip the long lines and explore Rembrandt’s 17th-century home filled with period pieces, personal items, and etchings from the artist.
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From
$124.38
Price varies by group size
From
$124.38
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Amsterdam City Center & History Guided Walking Tour - Private Tour
Get a true insider's view of Amsterdam on this 2.5-hour private walking tour. Stroll around the city with the knowledgeable local guide and head to some lesser-known hidden gems in the city. Along the way, stop and learn about some of the major sites, too. Visit such spots as Dam Square, artists squats, leaning houses, Prinsengracht, Begijnof, the thinnest house, the oldest canals, the Sea Dike and China Town, The New Market Square (Nieuwmarkt) and the medieval city gate
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From
$90.34
Price varies by group size
From
$90.34
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Amsterdam Walking Tour
See the HIGHLIGHTS of AMSTERDAM in a 2,5 HOUR Walking tour and be photographed at the same time? Shoot Me! Photography takes you to the most epic places in Amsterdam with a professional PHOTOGRAPHER.
Tourists turn into models on this tour which takes you to all the famous places Amsterdam is known for. From a personal photoshoot with the Amsterdam skyline in the background, to a family portret near the canals in the city center. A perfect shot with your friends at Damsquare and a fun playful one of you on the Amstel. Its a guarantee you will go home with amazing pictures!
The Red light district, Anne Frank House and of course the Jordaan are also part of this tour.
The photographer takes amazing photos of you when and wherever you like.
AND Yes! ALL PHOTOS are INCLUDED.
You do not want to miss this…
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From
$46.81
Price varies by group size
From
$46.81
Price varies by group size
Amsterdam Small-Group Sightseeing Cruise With Drinks
LEEMSTAR AMSTERDAM CRUISES
We offer stylish, exclusive & more informative cruises!
That’s why we prefer to do 90 minute cruises instead of 60.
We use one of a kind ships, they distinguish themselves from the mainstream and most have historical value.
The captains are locals and prefer to operate in a personal setting and like to engage with the interests of our guests. Small groups, more information and the option to zoom in on subjects.
You will see more then the city centre. We visit the old city but you will also see more modern architecture & developments.
LEEMSTAR STANDS FOR:
+ STYLISH & EXCLUSIVE AMSTERDAM CRUISES
+ LOW NOISE ELECTRIC DRIVE & OPEN OR SEE THROUGH ALL AROUND THE BOAT!
+ LIVE GUIDING & ENGAGING CAPTAIN (english spoken)
GOOD TO KNOW:
All Saloonboats have heaters and blankets on board. Inside and outside seating. Check our website for more of our products.
Thank you!
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From
$48.17
From
$48.17
Absolutely Amsterdam: Tip-Based Walking Tour With Super Local Guide (2,5 Hours)
Discover the fascinating history of the most liberal city in the world with FreeDam Tours - the best-rated walking tour in Amsterdam!
On this unique tip-based tour * you will discover how freedom and tolerance shaped the city and its people throughout the ages.
Your super-local guide will combine beautiful sightseeing with exciting storytelling and cover everything you need to know about Amsterdam in one tour: history, modern life, culture, art, fun facts and personal stories for a unique insider’s perspective on life in Amsterdam.
Be prepared to challenge all your preconceived ideas about this city because after this tour you will never look and think of Amsterdam the same way!
* Tip-based walking tour means you can join this tour basically for free (you will only be charged the booking fee, marketing fee and tourist tax) after which you tip your guide what you think the tour was worth. That motivates us to give you the best tour and you get the best possible value!
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From
$8.03
From
$8.03
Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Recorded Commentary
From the peaceful atmosphere of a luxury, glass-enclosed boat, enjoy the highlights of Amsterdam along its UNESCO-listed canals during this cruise. Hear narrated commentary on the sites along the way, including the Anne Frank House, the Golden Bend, the National Maritime Museum, and the Skinny Bridge. With a variety of departure times available, this picturesque and comprehensive overview by water is easy to fit into your day of sightseeing.
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From
$18.53
From
$18.53
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Scenic highlights of Amsterdam 3 hours bike tour
Exploring Amsterdam’s history by bike gives you a chance to cover much more ground than you would on foot. This private bike tour is an ideal choice for those who want to orient themselves to the city. Customize your tour to the sights on your itinerary, or let your guide choose the highlights. Bike at a relaxing pace and enjoy a personalized tour.
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From
$98.81
Price varies by group size
From
$98.81
Price varies by group size
City Canal Cruise with Bar on board and Departure to Anne Frank House
Amsterdam is a a canal city so see it the best way possible: from the water. Aboard a well-equipped boat, cruise through the city's canals, soaking up the sights, while your skipper and hostess provides background information about each of the landmarks.
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From
$22.23
From
$22.23
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