Amsterdam Walking Tour and Cruise with Drinks and Cheese Tasting

Exploring Amsterdam: A Practical Review of the Walking Tour and Canal Cruise with Drinks and Cheese Tasting

If you’re considering a guided tour to see Amsterdam’s key sights and experience its waterways, this combined walking and boat tour might catch your eye. While we haven’t personally taken it, reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect from this 3-4 hour experience.

One thing we really appreciate is how it offers both land and water perspectives—giving you a well-rounded view of the city’s iconic architecture and scenic canals. Plus, the small-group format (max 10 people) promises a more intimate and personalized vibe, which can make a big difference when soaking in local stories and hidden corners.

On the flip side, a notable consideration is that the walking part might feel a bit more casual—more a chatty stroll than an in-depth historical exploration, as some reviews suggest. So if you’re after a deep dive into the city’s past, this might not fully satisfy that craving.

This tour seems ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, great views, and a taste of local flavors. It suits those who enjoy socializing over drinks, are curious about Amsterdam’s sights, and don’t mind a bit of rain or walking.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines a walking tour with a canal cruise to see the city from multiple angles.
• Small Group: Max 10 travelers ensures a more personal and flexible experience.
• Local Insight: Guided by knowledgeable locals sharing stories and details you won’t find in guidebooks.
• Leisurely Pace: Expect a relaxed walk with stops at notable landmarks and a scenic boat ride.
• Food and Drink: Enjoy unlimited drinks, cheese tasting, and a pleasant cruise ambiance with friendly staff.
• Price Point: At around $75 per person, it offers good value considering the mix of activities, but the experience is more about ambiance than hardcore sightseeing.

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll See and Do

Starting Point: Beursplein
The tour kicks off at Beursplein, a lively square close to the stock exchange. The guide will be waiting here, usually with a blue umbrella or a tour logo tag. This corner is a good spot to get your bearings and start your journey. From here, you’re immediately immersed in the city’s bustling atmosphere.

Amsterdam Centraal Station
Next, you’ll walk past the impressive Centraal Station, designed by Pierre Cuypers and opening its doors in 1889. This station is more than a transit hub; it’s a symbol of Amsterdam’s architectural history and a hub of activity. You’ll get a quick glimpse into its grandeur, perfect for anyone interested in city infrastructure.

Chinese Quarter and Buddhist Temple
A walk through the Chinese Quarter offers a glimpse into the diverse cultural makeup of the city. The highlight here is the Buddhist Temple of Amsterdam, which provides insight into the city’s multicultural fabric—an unexpected but meaningful stop.

Nieuwmarkt and San Anton Gate
The Nieuwmarkt area offers a lively market vibe, full of history and local life. The nearby San Anton Gate adds a historic touch, marking the old city boundaries. These spots are great for soaking in everyday life and understanding the city’s evolution.

Jodenbuurt and Zuiderkerk
A visit to the Jewish Quarter (Jodenbuurt) is essential, especially for history buffs. It’s full of stories from Amsterdam’s Jewish community, especially relating to WWII. The nearby Zuiderkerk is a key site for understanding Jewish history in the city, with a focus on the community’s resilience and contributions.

Muntplein and Flower Market
At Muntplein, you’ll find the famous flower market—a vibrant burst of colors and scents. Though perhaps touristy, it offers a classic Amsterdam experience, especially if you’re a fan of blooms and local souvenirs.

Begijnhof Gardens
The Begijnhof is a tranquil oasis, a hidden gem in the bustling city. The gardens and historic houses give a peaceful break and a sense of the city’s old-world charm. It’s a quiet spot that many find surprisingly calming amidst the busy city streets.

Dam Square
Finally, the tour leads to Dam Square, the heart of Amsterdam. Here, you’ll see the Royal Palace, The New Church, and the National Monument—all central landmarks packed with stories and significance.

The Canal Cruise and Cheese Tasting Experience

After the walking tour, you transition onto an open-boat canal cruise. This hour-long ride is a highlight, offering stunning views of Amsterdam’s iconic canals and historic facades. The cruise includes unlimited drinks and cheese tasting, making it a relaxed social affair.

One point to note, based on reviews, is that the onboard experience can be a bit haphazard. Some guests mentioned that the cheese was served in excess and tables were left with cheese leftovers; others felt the service was a bit disorganized. However, the friendly crew and the scenic views generally make up for it.

The cheese and wine (or soda) pairing is appreciated by many, with travelers mentioning that it adds a fun, indulgent element to the trip. If you’re a cheese lover or enjoy tasting regional snacks in a relaxed setting, this part of the tour is likely to satisfy.

The Value and Overall Experience

At around $75 per person, this tour offers a mix of sightseeing, local storytelling, scenic cruising, and tasting. Considering the price, it’s fair for the overall experience, especially since you get a guided walk, a boat ride, and unlimited drinks—all in a small-group setting.

The small group size makes interaction easier, and the guide’s local insights help bring the city to life. Several reviews mention well-informed guides who add personality and humor, making the experience more engaging. However, some reviews also note that the walking part can be more casual, with less historical depth than some travelers might prefer.

In terms of timing, most travelers found the duration appropriate, with about 3 to 4 hours allocated. The meeting point at Beursplein is convenient, near public transportation, and easy to find if directions are followed carefully. There have been occasional issues with timing or confusion at the start, so paying close attention to instructions is advised.

What We Like About This Tour

The combination of a land and water perspective is a standout feature. We loved the way this itinerary offers a balanced view—walking through the city’s neighborhoods and then drifting along its canals. It’s an efficient way to see multiple facets of Amsterdam without feeling rushed.

The knowledgeable guides receive high praise; their stories help you understand Amsterdam beyond just sights, adding context about the city’s diverse cultural makeup and historical moments. Several reviews highlight how guides like Louisa or Richard made the tour fun and approachable.

The scenic canal cruise, with its leisurely pace and the cheese tasting onboard, makes for a memorable part of the day. The cruise’s relaxed atmosphere, coupled with unlimited drinks, ensures a good time whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple.

What Could Be Improved

A few reviewers noted that the walking tour can feel a bit casual or chatty, with less emphasis on detailed history. If you’re after an in-depth historical lecture, this might not be the best fit.

Some guests experienced disorganization during the cruise, especially regarding cheese and drinks service. Miscommunications about timing or boarding points can happen, so staying alert and double-checking instructions is wise.

Another consideration is the long walk through the shopping district, which some found unnecessary or not aligned with their interests. If you’re not into shopping or busy city streets, you might find this part less engaging.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed, social experience with a mix of sightseeing and culinary delights. It’s perfect if you enjoy local storytelling, scenic waterways, and sampling cheese and wine. The small-group setup and flexible pace make it suitable for those who prefer a more intimate setting.

If you’re interested in learning about Amsterdam’s neighborhoods and culture without deep historical lectures, this tour hits the right notes. It’s also a good pick for first-timers eager to see many highlights in a short time.

However, if you’re after a more comprehensive historical exploration or prefer organized, structured tours with strict itineraries, you might find this experience a bit too casual.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children can participate as long as they are accompanied by an adult. There’s no explicit mention of age restrictions, but since the tour involves walking and a boat cruise, you might want to consider your children’s comfort with walking and water.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, covering a walking tour around the city followed by an hour-long canal cruise.

What’s included in the price?
You get a professional guide, a one-hour luxury open-boat canal cruise with a guide onboard, snacks, and unlimited drinks and cheese tasting onboard the boat.

Are there any extras I should budget for?
Additional food or drinks not listed in the inclusions are not covered, so if you want extra snacks or beverages outside the tasting, you’ll need to pay for those separately.

Where do I meet the tour?
The tour starts at Beursplein 1-3 in Amsterdam. The guide will be waiting with a blue umbrella or a tour logo tag. After the walking tour, you’ll head to the canal cruise departure point.

What if I’m late or miss the tour?
Being punctual is important; some reviews mention guests arriving late missed parts of the tour. The tour is designed to run on a set schedule, so arriving early is recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund.

Is the tour accessible for public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit, making it easy to reach whether you’re staying in the city or arriving by train.

What about the group size?
This is a small-group tour with a maximum of 10 travelers, which helps ensure a more personal experience.

In the end, this Amsterdam tour offers a friendly, scenic, and tasty way to experience the city’s highlights without the pressure of a packed schedule. Perfect for those who enjoy a relaxed pace, engaging guides, and a bit of local flavor. If you’re after an overview that balances sights with social time, this could be a good match. Just keep in mind the potential for some disorganization and casual stops if you’re keen on more in-depth history.