Amsterdam: Canal Cruise with Burger Menu in local restaurant

When it comes to experiencing Amsterdam, there’s no better way to see the city than from its iconic canals. This tour offering combines a 75-minute canal cruise with a tasty two-course burger meal at a nearby local restaurant, Smaaqt. It’s a relaxed, well-rounded way to enjoy some sightseeing and a hearty meal without overcommitting or fussing with too many logistics.

What we really like about this experience is how seamlessly the two parts tie together — the cruise offers a fresh perspective of Amsterdam’s beautiful architecture, while the restaurant provides a cozy spot to unwind and enjoy some comfort food. Plus, opting for a burger menu, with a vegetarian/vegan option, makes this accessible and friendly for different dietary preferences. One thing to keep in mind is that it’s not the most thrilling or exclusive cruise out there, so if you’re after luxury or a more in-depth tour, you might want to explore other options. But for casual travelers, families, or anyone wanting a laid-back taste of Amsterdam, this combo could hit the spot.

It’s worth mentioning that the tour is best suited for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and are happy to walk a few minutes between the boat and restaurant. It’s not ideal for wheelchair users or travelers with mobility issues, given the walking involved. Still, if you want a straightforward, enjoyable way to see the city and then indulge in a comforting meal, this experience is worth considering.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines sightseeing with casual dining, perfect for a laid-back day.
• Flexible Options: Includes vegetarian and vegan burger choices.
• Short Walk: A brief 5-minute stroll separates the cruise from the restaurant, adding a bit of local exploration.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, making it a more intimate and personal experience.
• Great for Casual Travelers: Perfect if you want a no-fuss, straightforward way to enjoy Amsterdam’s waterways and food scene.
• Not Wheelchair Accessible: The walking component makes it unsuitable for those with mobility challenges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The adventure begins at “This is Holland,” a lively hub in Amsterdam Noord, accessible via a quick, free ferry from Central Station. The ferry ride itself is a charming start, giving you a peek at the city from the water even before the cruise. Once you arrive, you’ll check-in at the HopOn HopOff desk to exchange your voucher for your cruise and restaurant tickets. The process is smooth, and staff here are friendly, setting a positive tone for the day.

The Canal Cruise

The main event is a 75-minute guided boat ride through Amsterdam’s famous waterways. The boat itself is a comfortable vessel designed for scenic views, and the guided narration helps you appreciate the historic and architectural significance of what you’re seeing. Expect to glide past classic Dutch gabled buildings, bustling bridges, and cozy terraces. The views are genuinely some of the best ways to see the city, especially if you’re a first-time visitor who wants to get a lay of the land without the hassle of walking everywhere.

Reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable and friendly, providing interesting tidbits about local history and architecture. One visitor remarked, “We loved the way the guide explained the history behind the buildings, making the cruise both beautiful and informative.” The views from the boat are especially stunning when the sunlight hits the facades or as the city lights reflect on the water in the evening.

The Walk to Smaaqt

After soaking in the scenery, it’s just a short 5-minute walk to the restaurant Smaaqt in Amsterdam Noord. This neighborhood is still relatively undiscovered by travelers, offering a more authentic, less crowded atmosphere. The walk itself is pleasant, along quiet streets with a distinctly local vibe — perfect for a bit of exploration or just stretching your legs after the cruise.

The Meal at Smaaqt

Once inside, the cozy ambiance of Smaaqt makes you feel right at home. The menu features a two-course hamburger meal, with options that include a vegan burger, ensuring there’s something for all. The burgers come with traditional fries, which are crispy and plentiful — a simple but satisfying choice. Many reviews praise the quality of the food, noting that Chef Dylan’s desserts add a special touch to the meal.

One guest commented, “The burger was juicy and flavorful, and the fries were perfectly crispy. The vegan option was just as good as the meat version.” The casual setting is ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing, and the thoughtful menu caters to various dietary needs.

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Post-Meal Stroll

After dinner, you’re free to explore a bit more of Amsterdam Noord, a neighborhood teeming with local charm. Take your time to walk back to the ferry and soak in the atmosphere, maybe even catching some local street singers or artists at work. It’s a quiet, authentic side of Amsterdam that often gets overlooked.

The Practical Side: Details That Matter

Duration: The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, which makes it suitable for a half-day activity. The boat cruise is 75 minutes, with the walk and meal adding a bit of flexibility.

Price & Value: While the exact cost isn’t specified here, the combination of a guided boat tour and a meal at a local restaurant offers good value — especially considering the small group size and the quality of both parts. The guided commentary enhances the cruise, and the meal is hearty and well-prepared.

Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, which helps keep things intimate and relaxed. You won’t be jostling for space or dealing with large crowds.

Accessibility: Unfortunately, the walking involved makes this experience unsuitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. The area itself is friendly but not fully accessible.

Booking Flexibility: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you have the option to reserve now and pay later, which is handy if your plans aren’t set in stone.

Authentic Perspectives from Other Travelers

Many visitors appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views on the canal cruise. One reviewer said, “The views are incredible, and the guide made the tour really interesting.” Others loved how the food exceeded their expectations, describing the burgers as “juicy” and “delicious,” with some highlighting the vegan options as equally satisfying.

A common praise is the casual, friendly atmosphere — both on the boat and in the restaurant — making it a great choice for travelers seeking a no-stress, authentic experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys a relaxed, friendly vibe and values good food combined with scenic sights, this tour can be a real winner. The combo of a scenic canal cruise and a hearty burger meal makes for a memorable half-day outing. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want to avoid overly commercialized experiences and prefer more local, genuine atmospheres.

It’s a good fit for casual day-trippers, food lovers, or those who want to see a different side of Amsterdam, away from the crowds. Keep in mind the walking involved and the limited accessibility, so if you have mobility concerns, you might want to look for other options.

All in all, this experience offers a comfortable, charming way to enjoy some of the best parts of the city without the fuss. It’s straightforward, authentic, and genuinely enjoyable — perfect for those who appreciate good views, tasty food, and a bit of local flavor.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s not specifically marketed as a family tour, children who enjoy boat rides and burgers might find it enjoyable. However, since it involves walking and a small boat, check if your kids are comfortable with these elements.

How long does the entire experience last?
The full experience takes around 4 hours, including the boat cruise, walking to the restaurant, and dining.

Can I choose different burger options?
Yes, you can pick from a variety of burger options, including a vegan alternative, making it flexible for different tastes and dietary needs.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at “This is Holland,” located at Overhoeksplein 51 in Amsterdam Noord. The meeting point is easy to reach via the free ferry from Central Station.

How do I get to the starting point?
Simply take the free ferry from platform F3 behind Central Station, heading towards Buiksloterweg. The ferry ride is about 3 minutes.

Is the boat cruise guided?
Yes, the cruise features a guided narration, providing insights about Amsterdam’s architecture and history, which visitors find both informative and engaging.

Is the experience accessible for wheelchair users?
Unfortunately, no. The walking involved and the boat’s setup mean it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What is the price like?
While exact prices vary, this combination of sightseeing and dining offers good value, especially given the small group size and quality of the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

This tour presents a straightforward, enjoyable way to see a different side of Amsterdam, combining scenic beauty with delicious food. Whether you’re new to the city or a returning visitor looking for something relaxed, it’s worth considering for a laid-back day out.

You can check availability for your dates here: