Amsterdam: Food and Canal Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and want to get a real taste of the city beyond the typical guidebook sights, a Food and Canal Tour like this one could be just what you need. It’s designed to combine delicious local eats with a scenic, relaxed boat ride through the UNESCO-listed canals, giving you a broader picture of Amsterdam’s culture and culinary traditions.

What immediately caught our eye about this experience is how it balances food tasting with history and architecture insights—you get to eat well while learning about the city’s story. Plus, the private canal boat ride adds a special touch, making it feel less like a group tour and more like a personalized exploration.

One thing to keep in mind is the tour duration—it lasts around 3.5 hours, so it’s a nice chunk of time but not overwhelming. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of walking, tasting, and a bit of sightseeing, especially if you love discovering local flavors in a relaxed setting. Travelers who appreciate good guides and authentic experiences will find a lot to love here.

However, if you’re looking for a leisurely, indoor-only experience or have mobility concerns, this might not be your best fit since it involves walking and a boat ride. But for most, it offers a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in Amsterdam with plenty of tasty memories to take home.

Key Points

• Balanced experience of food, history, and scenic canal views
• Small group size (max 12 people) for a more intimate vibe
• Delicious tastings at six different local spots
• Private boat cruise through UNESCO-listed canals
• Informative guides with local knowledge and humor
• All-inclusive drinks: coffee, tea, beer, wine, plus water

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is Included and What to Expect

This tour promises a rich experience packed into just about three and a half hours. Starting at a designated meeting point in front of the Church, you’ll meet your local English-speaking guide who will lead you through a series of authentic foodie stops. The small group size ensures you won’t feel overwhelmed, and it allows for more engaging conversations and personalized attention.

The Day’s Itinerary Breakdown

The tour is thoughtfully curated to take you through six different spots, each offering one or more tastings that showcase Amsterdam’s culinary side. You’ll enjoy seven tastings in total—ranging from cheeses to Dutch delicacies like homemade apple pie—at locations that are often family-owned, giving you a peek into the city’s food traditions.

First Stop: A family-owned deli where you’ll taste some of Amsterdam’s finest cheeses. The guide’s stories about the family and their history with cheese make it more than just a tasting—it’s a glimpse into local life.

Next: You’ll visit a few other spots, sampling traditional Dutch bites, with plenty of food to satisfy your curiosity and appetite. The reviews highlight the quality and quantity of the food, so you’ll likely find yourself pleasantly full by the end.

Behind the Scenes and Local Insights

What sets this tour apart is the chance to meet local families who uphold Dutch food customs, giving it a genuine, warm feel. The guide will also share insights into Dutch food traditions and how they tie into the city’s history—making each stop an educational moment as well as a tasty one.

The Canal Boat Experience

After the culinary stops, you’ll hop onto a private boat for a one-hour cruise through Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed canals. You’ll love the views of the historic architecture, bridges, and the waterway’s charm. The boat ride isn’t just a sightseeing trip; it’s a way to relax and enjoy the city from a perspective that’s unique and peaceful.

Although the boat ride is highly praised—many reviewers mention the friendly boat driver and the scenic views—weather can influence the experience. One reviewer noted that due to rain, visibility was limited, but overall, the boat ride remains a delightful highlight.

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The Food and Drink Experience

The tastings include a variety of Dutch specialties, and the guide will help you understand what makes each one special. From cheeses to apple pie, the focus is on authentic, quality food. Drinks are included—coffee or tea, plus beer or wine and water—making it a proper little culinary celebration.

Some guests mention how generous the portions are, and one reviewer highlighted that they were glad they hadn’t eaten lunch beforehand, as the tour provided plenty of food. The inclusion of drinks adds to the convivial atmosphere, whether you’re sipping wine on the boat or enjoying a beer during the walk.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers who want a relaxed, immersive way to explore Amsterdam. It’s also great for travelers who appreciate small groups and personal interaction, as the max group size is 12. Families with children over 4 could enjoy it, especially those keen on exploring local eats and scenic waters, but it’s not suitable for guests with mobility issues due to walking and boat access.

People who enjoy storytelling and local insights will find the guide’s commentary engaging—reviewers praise guides like Danielle and Gerard for their knowledge and humor.

Price and Value

At a glance, the cost might seem to include quite a bit—multiple tastings, a private boat ride, and a guided walk—so many find it well worth the price. When you consider the quality of food, the scenic cruise, and the personal touch, it’s a balanced way to spend an afternoon in Amsterdam without feeling rushed or skimped.

Final Thoughts

This Food and Canal Tour offers a compelling way to experience Amsterdam’s culinary and scenic highlights in one go. It’s particularly well-suited for those who like to savor local flavors at a relaxed pace, enjoy storytelling, and see the city from a different perspective.

While it’s not perfect—weather can sometimes limit the views, and it requires some walking—most guests find it a memorable, enjoyable experience that leaves them with a deeper appreciation for Amsterdam’s food traditions and waterways.

If you’re after a genuine, tasty, and scenic look at Amsterdam, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for curious travelers who want a small-group, immersive experience with authentic local touches.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts around 3.5 hours, including food tastings, walking, and the canal boat ride. Check availability for specific starting times.

What is included in the price?
You get 7 tastings at 6 different locations, a local English-speaking guide, a food lovers guide, drinks (coffee, tea, beer, wine, water), and a private boat cruise.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a variety of drinks are included—coffee or tea, plus beer or wine, and water—adding a nice touch to the experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins in front of the Church, with the guide holding an Eating Europe logo, and ends back at the starting point.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children 4 and younger are free, but the tour involves walking and standing, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. It’s best for kids over 4 who enjoy food and scenery.

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

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just wear comfortable shoes and bring water. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

In all, this tour provides a warm, authentic taste of Amsterdam that combines delicious food, scenic waterways, and friendly storytelling—a well-rounded way to spend your time exploring the city’s eats and waters.

You can check availability for your dates here: