Eating Amsterdam: Food Tour & Canals Cruise
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Join our unforgettable Amsterdam food tour, cruising along the iconic canals of the city on a beautifully restored wooden saloon boat.
Sip on jenever and indulge in steaming hot bitterballen, a beloved Dutch snack, as you take in the picturesque scenery. Explore Amsterdam’s hidden backstreets, where you’ll discover local favorite dishes and have the opportunity to meet the artisans behind the city’s incredible cuisine.
Immerse yourself in the rich culinary culture of Amsterdam while indulging your senses on this unique and delicious tour.
Available options
Private Food Tour
Extras: Special Dutch Craft Beer
Amsterdam Food & Canals Tour with Eating Europe
What's included
Take a city stroll and meet local artisans, listening to their intriguing stories
Local English-speaking guide
Cruise along Amsterdam’s canals on a beautiful wooden saloon boat, while sipping jenever
Try Dutch delicacies like crispy bitterballen and real apple pie
‘Food & the City’ Insider Tips
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Start with Amsterdam's most legendary apple pie at this 400-year-old brown café, with your choice of coffee, cappuccino, or tea. This family recipe has been attracted locals and visitors for generations, including Bill Clinton!
2
Start your journey in the Jordaan, a historic district shaped by workers, artists, and migrants. As you wander its canals and lanes, discover how its past forged the vibrant, close-knit neighborhood you see today.
3
Stop 3
Experience a traditional Dutch fishmonger and sample herring and kibbeling. See the fresh fish expertly prepared in the open kitchen, and enjoy a true taste of local culinary culture.
4
Stop 4
Savor four organic Goudas in the cozy, historic Café de Poort. Enjoy the depth of flavors from young to aged cheeses in a classic brown café beloved by locals for its authentic atmosphere.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Walk along one of Amsterdam's most beautiful canals, admiring the stunning 17th-century architecture while your guide shares stories of the city's Golden Age and its influence on Dutch cuisine.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
De Gangen Willemstraat, known as "the hallways" or "the slums," were once home to the city’s poorest residents. Cramped and overcrowded, these narrow alleys behind the houses were plagued by disease and hunger.
7
Stop 7
Mama Jane serves her homemade Surinamese rotirol, a flavorful highlight among authentic home-cooked meals from around the world. Discover this unique catering shop where women share their culinary heritage
8
Stop 8
Enjoy a classic Dutch delight with freshly made poffertjes. Light, fluffy mini pancakes served warm with butter and powdered sugar offer a sweet and authentic taste of the Netherlands!
9
Stop 9
Pass by
View the exterior of this poignant historical site as your guide provides context about Amsterdam during WWII and its impact on the city's culture and cuisine.
10
Stop 10
Savor crispy bitterballen with a glass of jenever at Café Dialoog, a charming brown café, blending traditional Dutch flavors with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
11
Stop 11
Step aboard a stunning vintage boat, cruise through the canals of Amsterdam, and learn all about its fascinating history!
What's not included
Gratuities / Tips for the guide
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Extra drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
50 reviews
5★
42
4★
2
3★
4
2★
1
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
446 reviews
5★
431
4★
10
3★
1
2★
0
1★
4
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This activity requires a minimum of 4 guests. Should this not be met, we will contact you directly to help you get rescheduled or reimbursed.
Children under 4 years old do not need a ticket and can join the tour for free. However, food is not included. Paid tickets with food included are available for ages 4 and up.
Please make sure to arrive 15 minutes early so the tour can start on time. The boat must depart promptly, and unfortunately, if you miss it, you won’t be able to join the tour. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Please note that the tastings mentioned are a selection of the delicious foods we often feature. Both offerings and tour stops may vary by day or season, but you're sure to enjoy a delightful array of local flavors!
Have dietary requirements? Simply email us or add a note at booking, and we’ll do our best to accommodate vegetarians, gluten-free guests or other dietary needs where we can. For guest safety, this experience isn’t suitable for those with severe or life-threatening food allergies to ingredients found on the tour, and the company cannot take responsibility for any food allergies or intolerances.
Meeting point
The guide will be waiting for you at the back of the Church and wearing our purple Eating Europe bag!
Important notes
Please aim to arrive 15 minutes early, so the tour can start on time.
You do not need to print out a page to join the tour - showing us the confirmation email you will receive on your phone is fine!
About Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the 'Venice of the North,' the city offers a rich blend of art, history, and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Museum
2-3 hours
€20
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. It houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings in the world.
Museum
1.5-2 hours
€20
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II.
Historical
1 hour
€16
Dam Square
Dam Square is the central square of Amsterdam and a historic site. It is home to the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and various other landmarks.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Jordaan
Jordaan is a picturesque and lively neighborhood known for its narrow streets, canals, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great place to explore, shop, and dine.
Neighborhood
A few hours to explore
Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stroopwafel
A thin, round waffle made from two layers of baked dough joined by a caramel-like syrup filling
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat and sugar
Bitterballen
Deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a creamy, spiced ragout, typically made from beef or veal
Snack
Contains meat, gluten, and dairy
Haring
Raw herring fish, traditionally served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by its tail and lowering it into your mouth
Dish
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians
Poffertjes
Miniature pancakes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast, served with powdered sugar and butter
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat, eggs, and dairy
Popular Activities
Canal kayaking
Bike tours
Escape rooms
Canal cruises
Visiting parks and gardens
Spa and wellness treatments
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak tourist season in Amsterdam is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, but it's also the busiest and most expensive period.
15°C to 22°C
59°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution
Amsterdam is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bike theft, can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
Getting there
By air
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 17.5 km from city center
By train
Amsterdam Centraal
By bus
Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Getting around
Public transport
Amsterdam's tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with 14 day and night tram lines. A single ticket costs €3.20, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Amsterdam
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jordaan
De Pijp
De Wallen (Red Light District)
Museumplein
Amsterdam-Noord
Day trips
Zaanse Schans
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A picturesque and open-air museum featuring traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of the region.
Haarlem
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene, often considered a smaller and more relaxed version of Amsterdam.
Utrecht
50 km from Amsterdam • Full day
A vibrant and historic city known for its beautiful canals, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene, with a unique and charming atmosphere.
Festivals
King's Day (Koningsdag) • April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th is a Sunday)
Amsterdam Pride • Late July to early August
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) • Mid-October
Pro tips
- Use the OV-chipkaart for seamless and convenient public transport
- Rent a bike to explore the city like a local, but be aware of cycling rules and etiquette
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm
- Try local specialties, such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, and Dutch pancakes
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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