Saturday, 25 July 2026
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A Practical Guide for Residents Ready to Explore and Enjoy Amsterdam's Best Canal Tours

Discover the hidden gems of Amsterdam's canal ring with our expert guide to the best boat tours and water-based activities for locals.

By Amsterdam Lifestyle Desk Β· Published 25 July 2026

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This article was written by AI from the linked sources and was not reviewed by a journalist before publishing. The Daily Amsterdam is part of The Daily Network and follows our reasonable editorial care.

A Practical Guide for Residents Ready to Explore and Enjoy Amsterdam's Best Canal Tours
Photo by Edsel L / flickr (by-sa)

Amsterdam's canals are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with over 100 km of waterways to explore. As a resident, you may have walked or cycled along the canals, but have you ever taken a boat tour to see the city from a different perspective?

Now is the perfect time to explore Amsterdam's canals, with the summer sunshine making the city's waterways even more beautiful. The canal ring is home to many of Amsterdam's most famous landmarks, including the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, and the Westerkerk. With many boat tour operators to choose from, residents can select the perfect tour to suit their interests and budget.

Local Highlights and Hidden Gems

For a unique perspective on the city, try a tour with Amsterdam Canal Cruises, which departs from Prinsengracht. This company offers a range of tours, including a daytime canal cruise and a evening cruise with wine and cheese. Alternatively, you could try a tour with Stromma, which offers a hop-on hop-off canal cruise that allows you to explore the city at your own pace. Be sure to check out the charming neighbourhood of Jordaan, with its narrow streets and picturesque canals, and the famous Vondelpark, which offers a peaceful escape from the city.

According to data from the Amsterdam Tourism Board, over 3 million people take a canal tour in Amsterdam each year, with the peak season being from June to August. The average price of a canal tour is around €20-€30 per person, although prices can vary depending on the operator and the type of tour. For example, a daytime canal cruise with Amsterdam Canal Cruises costs €25 per person, while a evening cruise with wine and cheese costs €50 per person.

So what happens next? With so many boat tour operators to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one to use. Our advice is to do your research and read reviews from other customers to find the best tour for your needs. You could also consider purchasing an I Amsterdam City Card, which includes a free canal cruise and discounts on many other attractions and activities. Whatever you choose, we're sure you'll enjoy exploring Amsterdam's beautiful canals and discovering the city from a new perspective.

For more information on Amsterdam's canal tours and water-based activities, visit the website of the Amsterdam Tourism Board or check out the websites of local boat tour operators such as Amsterdam Canal Cruises and Stromma. You can also find more information at the VVV Amsterdam tourist information office, located on Stationsplein.

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