Xtracold Icebar Amsterdam & 1-Hour Canal Cruise

Exploring Amsterdam with the Xtracold Icebar & Canal Cruise Combo — Honest Review

If you’re considering a visit to Amsterdam and want to mix something a little different with sightseeing, the Xtracold Icebar Amsterdam & 1-Hour Canal Cruise might catch your eye. This combo tour offers a chance to chill out in a bar made entirely of ice and then relax with a scenic boat ride through the city’s iconic canals. It’s a popular pick, especially since it’s booked an average of 31 days in advance and generally costs around $42.42 per person.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines two very different ways to see the city — one cool, and one relaxed. The icebar is a novelty, especially if you’re into fun photo ops and trying something a bit quirky, while the canal cruise offers a laid-back chance to soak in Amsterdam’s charm from the water. A potential snag is that some reviews mention confusing instructions and the risk of missing the cruise if you’re not careful with timing. Still, if you’re organized and love a mix of fun and scenery, this tour could be just right.

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy trying out unique attractions, don’t mind cold temperatures for a short period, and want a straightforward way to enjoy some of Amsterdam’s highlights. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for an in-depth historical tour, but as a fun, quick combo, it might just tick those boxes.

Key Points

• Unique experience: The icebar is made entirely from ice, with glasses and furniture to match, making it a fun photo opportunity.
• Scenic canal cruise: Offers a relaxed way to see top sights like the Anne Frank House, Skinny Bridge, and pretty gabled houses.
• Price point: At around $42.42, it’s a decent deal for two activities in one ticket, especially if you enjoy both fun and scenery.
• Logistics matter: The coordination of timing for both parts requires some planning to avoid missing out.
• Mixed reviews: While many loved the experience, some found the instructions confusing or felt the icebar was underwhelming.
• Age restriction: The tour is only suitable for those 18 and over, given the alcohol included.

What to Expect from the Tour

Visiting the Icebar Xtracold

The first part of your day (or evening, depending on your schedule) is stepping into what might be the coolest place in town. The Icebar Xtracold is made entirely of ice, from the walls to the furniture and even your drinking glasses. The interior is kept at a chilling 14°F (-10°C), so you’ll be given thermal ponchos and mittens to keep warm enough while inside.

Upon arrival, you’re greeted with a complimentary cocktail, which is a nice touch since you’re about to enter a frigid environment. Inside, you can relax and absorb the vibe — many reviews mention the friendly staff and the fun of drinking from icy glasses. You get a total of three drinks, which makes it a lively, albeit chilly, experience.

A common comment from visitors is how quick the visit feels — generally around 40 to 45 minutes. Some think this is enough, but others feel it’s a little short for the price, especially if you’re hoping for a long party atmosphere. The fun factor, especially for photos and novelty, is high, but don’t expect a full bar experience or a large space — it’s a small, frosty room.

The Canal Cruise

After the ice adventure, you’ll head to the pier near Amsterdam Central Station for your 1-hour canal cruise. This part requires some pre-planning because you need to book your timeslot upon arrival at the local office at Damrak 26. The cruise itself is aboard a luxury glass-topped boat, which provides unobstructed views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Onboard, an audio guide in several languages helps you spot and learn about Amsterdam’s highlights. You’ll pass by the Anne Frank House, the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge), and the wealthy neighborhood known as the Golden Bend. It’s a gentle ride, ideal for taking photos and savoring the views.

Many reviews point out some logistical hiccups, like unclear directions or difficulty finding the boat, which can be frustrating. Some guests mention that the timing is not always straightforward, and many have noted that booking the canal cruise separately and then trying to coordinate it with the icebar can be confusing. One reviewer said, “the instructions on how to get the cruise were super confusing,” which might be a consideration if you’re a first-time visitor.

The Itinerary in Detail

The icebar visit is straightforward — arrive at your booked time, enjoy your drinks, and experience the icy environment. It’s a quick but memorable stop that offers excellent photo ops. The canal cruise departs from near Central Station, but the exact meeting point and booking process could use better clarity, based on some travelers’ experiences.

The cruise takes you under seven bridges, past beautiful historic homes, and offers a peaceful perspective on the city’s architecture. Some reviews mention that the cruise is “quiet and laid back,” perfect for a relaxed, scenic sightseeing experience.

Real Experiences & Honest Opinions

Many visitors come away happy — they love the fun atmosphere of the icebar and the stunning views from the boat. “The great guide during the canal cruise and the professional and nice staff” are often praised. Some reviewers, however, have been disappointed by the short duration of the icebar visit or the lack of clarity about the cruise booking process.

One reviewer pointed out that the icebar was a small area, which might be underwhelming if you’re expecting something grand; it’s really more of a fun novelty. Another highlighted that the cruise was a highlight — “a quiet and laid-back way to see Amsterdam,” they said.

A few reviews mention logistical issues, like not being able to find the correct meeting point or not getting clear instructions. This seems to be a recurring theme, so be sure to plan ahead and double-check your timings.

Is It Worth the Price?

At just over $42, this combo offers a decent value, especially since it includes three free drinks at the icebar and a one-hour scenic canal cruise. However, some critics have noted that the icebar experience is quite brief, and if you’re not a fan of cold environments, it might feel rushed.

For those who love a quirky, photo-worthy experience, the icebar is a standout. For others, the real gem might be the relaxed, beautiful canal views. If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized tours and clear instructions, expect to do a bit of extra planning to get the most out of this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers looking to combine a fun, novelty experience with some scenic sightseeing. It’s great for couples, groups of friends, and anyone eager to try something a little different in Amsterdam. It’s not suited for those expecting a long or in-depth experience — the icebar visit is quick, and the cruise, while scenic, is not overly detailed.

Please note, because the tour contains alcohol, it’s only open to those 18 and over. If you’re traveling with children, this tour isn’t suitable. Plus, the short duration makes it more of a fun add-on rather than a full-day activity.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a quirky experience with great photo opportunities, the Icebar delivers fun and a cool vibe. The scenic canal cruise adds a relaxing way to see some of the city’s most iconic sights, especially if you enjoy guided commentary and beautiful views. However, do keep in mind that logistical planning is required to avoid missing the boat, and some guests found the instructions less than clear.

For a reasonable price, this combo offers a nice balance of quirky fun and scenic sightseeing. It’s especially good if you want a quick, memorable taste of Amsterdam’s charm without spending an entire day on tours. Just be prepared for some possible hiccups and short visit times — and if you’re a fan of detailed history or extensive sightseeing, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

Do I need to book the canal cruise separately?
Yes, you need to reserve your canal cruise time slot upon arrival in Amsterdam at Damrak 26, as it is not automatically included with the icebar booking.

Can I do the icebar or canal cruise alone?
You can book each activity separately, but the combo deal offers convenience and a small discount.

What’s the age limit for this tour?
The tour is only open to travelers 18 and over because of the alcohol included at the icebar.

How long does the icebar experience last?
Most visitors spend about 40 to 45 minutes inside, which is enough to enjoy the drinks and take photos.

Is the canal cruise accessible for all?
While the description doesn’t specify accessibility, most standard boat cruises are relatively accessible, but it’s best to confirm if you have specific needs.

What should I wear for the icebar?
Bring warm clothes and gloves if you plan to stay longer, as the environment is kept at 14°F (-10°C). Thermal ponchos and mittens are provided.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

What if I miss the cruise?
Some reviews mention that if you miss your scheduled cruise, it might be difficult to rebook, so keep an eye on your timings.

Is this tour good for a quick taste of Amsterdam?
Absolutely. It offers a fun, quick activity in the city — perfect if you’re short on time or want a memorable experience without committing to a full-day tour.

If you’re craving a blend of fun, scenic views, and a dash of quirkiness, the Xtracold Icebar & Canal Cruise combo might just be a fun addition to your Amsterdam trip. Just remember to plan your timing well, and be ready for a couple of short but memorable stops.