Amsterdam is famous for its picturesque canals, lively neighborhoods, and a culinary scene that keeps pace with its artistic reputation. But when it comes to dinner experiences, the city offers far more than just restaurants. Whether you prefer floating on the water with a gourmet meal, sipping bubbly from a tower with city views, or tasting in total darkness — Amsterdam transforms dining into an unforgettable adventure. We’re particularly fond of the Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu (see here) for its perfect blend of sightseeing and fine dining, and the Moët & Chandon Gourmet Dinner Cruise (see here), which combines luxury, bubbles, and canals all in one elegant package.
The city’s options cover a wide range of tastes and budgets, from casual canal-side burgers to exclusive private dinners and sensory adventures in total darkness. Whether you’re after a romantic evening, a fun night with friends, or a special celebration, Amsterdam’s dinner experiences deliver an authentic and memorable flavor of the city.
Types of Tours on Our List
Our curated list includes canal cruises with gourmet meals, private boat dinners, interactive dining in the dark, and even theatrical dinner shows. You’ll find options that range from affordable and lively (Amsterdam: A’DAM Lookout Ticket and Lunch or Dinner Voucher) to lavish and exclusive (Amsterdam: Private Dinner Cruise incl Drinks & 3-course Dinner). For the adventurers, the Dinner in the Dark experiences will challenge your senses, while the Sunset Canoe Tour with Dinner offers a peaceful nature escape. Read on to find the perfect match for your style and budget.
1. Amsterdam: Dinner Cruise with 4-Course Menu
Imagine gliding through Amsterdam’s historic canals on a boat lit up by the glow of city lights. This 2-hour dinner cruise offers a fantastic way to see the city from the water while enjoying a 4-course meal with wine. The route includes stops at Lovers Café and passes many illuminated landmarks, making it a visually stunning experience. Passengers rave about the delicious food and excellent service, with reviews highlighting the mix of sightseeing and fine dining as a real highlight. The boat is clean, cozy, and the atmosphere romantic but lively enough for a memorable night out. The price of around $101 per person offers good value for a two-hour cruise with drinks included.
This experience is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, scenic evening with quality food and a bit of entertainment. Be aware that the start times vary, so check availability when booking.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable mix of scenic canal views, good food, and a lively atmosphere—ideal for couples or anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with a fine dinner.
2. Amsterdam: A’DAM Lookout Ticket and Lunch or Dinner Voucher
For around $29, you get access to the A’DAM Tower with a $10 voucher for lunch or dinner at Skybar & Restaurant Madam, plus the chance to enjoy panoramic views of the city from 100 meters high. This experience combines modern culinary flair with the thrill of visiting one of Amsterdam’s most iconic viewpoints. Guests particularly love the spectacular sunset views and the creative cocktails at the Skybar. The tower also features attractions like a VR roller coaster and the daring “Over The Edge” swing, which adds adrenaline to your day. Reviews note the great value for the impressive vistas and the fun of combining dining with sightseeing.
Best suited for those who want a relaxed, scenic meal with the bonus of a panoramic city overview and some extra attractions. The voucher is valid for the entire day, so you can explore at your leisure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a memorable view and a casual meal, with the option to add some thrill-seeking activities.
3. Amsterdam Private Dinner Cruise incl Drinks & 2-course Dinner 2hr
Looking for a private, intimate experience? This 2-hour private dinner cruise allows you to enjoy a customized 2-course meal from a city restaurant, with drinks included. The route passes by landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the Houseboat Museum, offering a crowd-free, exclusive ambiance. The boat is private, making it perfect for special occasions or intimate getaways. Guests praise the personalized service and the ability to choose your own menu, which elevates the experience beyond a standard cruise. The $437.91 price per person reflects the exclusivity and tailored service, making it a luxurious yet worthwhile splurge.
Ideal for couples celebrating a special event or small groups wanting privacy. The experience’s uniqueness lies in its exclusivity and flexibility.
Bottom Line: A lavish, private experience for those seeking intimacy and personalized service, with a scenic cruise as a luxurious backdrop.
4. Amsterdam: 3 Course Dinner in the Dark
Prepare for an eye-opening experience with this dinner in total darkness. For about $59, you’ll enjoy a three-course meal served by blind waitstaff, designed to heighten your other senses. This interactive experience pushes you to rely on taste, smell, and touch, making every bite an adventure. Guests say it’s a unique, sensory journey—”an amazing experience” that redefines dining. The service is attentive, and the thrill of eating without sight often creates lively conversations and a newfound appreciation of how much we depend on our eyes.
Best suited for those curious about their senses or looking for a memorable, thought-provoking activity. It’s also a good choice if you want to try something different from conventional dining.
Bottom Line: A compelling, sensory-rich experience that’s perfect for adventurous eaters and couples seeking a memorable story to tell.
5. Small-Group Guided Sunset Canoe Tour in Waterland with Dinner
Escape the city with this 4-hour sunset canoe trip in Waterland, just outside Amsterdam. Paddle past reed beds, meadows, and traditional windmills while the sun sets behind the Dutch countryside. The tour includes a picnic dinner on a lakeside island and the chance to swim if weather permits. The guide, Majel, is praised for her knowledge and friendly nature, making it an intimate way to connect with nature away from tourist crowds. Guests love the peacefulness and the stunning scenery that inspired Rembrandt.
This experience is perfect for active travelers or those craving a peaceful, scenic escape with a gourmet touch. It’s also ideal for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: A peaceful, scenic, and active way to enjoy Holland’s landscape with a memorable picnic dinner and sunset views.
6. Dinner Canal Cruise Amsterdam: 4-Courses Including Drinks
This evening cruise features a 4-course gourmet meal while you glide past Amsterdam’s luminous landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the flower market. The cruise lasts about 2 hours and includes wine, beer, and soft drinks. The informative commentary adds context to the sights you pass, making it both a feast for the eyes and the taste buds. Reviewers mention the good value and the idyllic setting for a romantic or special night out.
It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a classic, scenic experience with good food and drinks in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, scenic dinner cruise—great for couples or anyone wanting to combine sightseeing with a gourmet meal.
7. Amsterdam: Moët & Chandon Gourmet Dinner Cruise
Indulge in luxury with this 3-hour cruise featuring a 4-course gourmet dinner paired with a welcome glass of Moët & Chandon Brut Impérial. You’ll cruise through Amsterdam’s illuminated canals on a heated saloon boat, enjoying French-inspired dishes from a top restaurant. Guests rave about the special ambiance and fine bubbles, making it perfect for celebrations or romantic evenings. The option to add champagne or rosé enhances the luxury feel. At just $30 per person, it offers exceptional value for a high-end experience.
Best for those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed way to experience Amsterdam’s waterways.
Bottom Line: A luxurious, bubbly-filled cruise ideal for romantics or special celebrations.
8. Amsterdam: VEGAS Dinner Show with 3-Course Sharing Menu
For a night of entertainment and food, the VEGAS Dinner Show offers a spectacular dinner and a lively show. Tickets start at around $147, including a 3-course sharing menu and show. Reviewers mention the great entertainment value and delicious food, though some note service can be slow. The show’s setting mimics a Vegas-style theater, making it a fun, energetic option. The shared dining style encourages socializing, making this ideal for groups or those wanting a lively night.
It’s perfect for travelers looking to combine dinner and a show in one ticket, especially if you enjoy theatrical performances.
Bottom Line: A lively, entertaining evening combining dinner and a Vegas-style show—great for those seeking fun and spectacle.
9. Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam with Set Lunch or Dinner
Enjoy classic American fare surrounded by rock memorabilia at the Hard Rock Cafe in Amsterdam. For about $36 per person, you get a set 2- or 3-course meal and soft drinks. The atmosphere is lively and the menu offers crowd-pleasers like burgers and ribs. Reviews highlight the friendly service and the unique collection of music memorabilia, including items from Jimi Hendrix and Marilyn Manson. It’s a fun, casual option for music lovers and those wanting a laid-back dining experience.
Ideal for travelers looking for comfort food in a vibrant setting, especially if you want a break from traditional Dutch cuisine.
Bottom Line: A lively, familiar dining experience filled with music history — great for casual nights or music fans.
10. Amsterdam: High-End 3-Course Dinner Canal Cruise
For an ultra-luxurious experience, this 2.5-hour cruise offers a high-end 3-course dinner served at a private window table. The boat glides through Amsterdam’s historic canals, giving you stunning night views of the city’s most iconic sights. The focus is on elegance, with excellent service and carefully curated dishes. The reviews are glowing, praising the intimate setting and superb cuisine.
This experience is best suited for special occasions or travelers seeking a refined, exclusive dinner in an elegant environment. The cost reflects its luxury status but offers a memorable, top-tier experience.
Bottom Line: The ultimate romantic or celebratory dinner in Amsterdam’s waterways, with exclusive service and exquisite cuisine.
11. 3-course Dinner in the Dark Amsterdam
Similar to the earlier dark dining experience, this 3-course meal in complete darkness costs about $59.61. Expect an immersive sensory journey, with blind waiters guiding you through your meal, making you rely on taste and smell more than ever. Guests describe it as fun, surprising, and a real conversation starter. The challenge of eating in pitch black is balanced with attentive service and quality dishes.
This tour suits adventure seekers and curious food lovers who want to rethink their approach to dining and experience something truly different.
Bottom Line: An innovative, memorable sensory challenge ideal for curious travelers and those wanting to challenge their perceptions.
12. Amsterdam: Burger Dinner Canal Cruise
If you prefer a quick, casual option, this 75-minute burger cruise combines scenic canal cruising with comfort food. Enjoy a freshly prepared burger with fries, a drink included, while passing under iconic bridges like the Magere Brug. The semi-covered boat is cozy and convenient, perfect for a relaxed evening. Reviewers mention the delicious, hearty burgers and the friendly crew making it a good value at around $32.
This is best for travelers wanting a relaxed, informal experience that combines good food with scenic views without the lengthy commitment.
Bottom Line: A quick, tasty, and scenic cruise—great for a relaxed night or a casual family outing.
13. Authentic Italian Dinner in Cozy Canal Home in Amsterdam
For something intimate and authentic, join Luca at Cucina Beatrice for a four-course Italian dinner in their canal-side home. At just $136.60 per person, this personalized experience offers fresh, locally sourced ingredients and regional specialties from Southern Italy. Guests rave about the delicious antipasto, pasta, and desserts, and the cozy, welcoming atmosphere. It’s perfect for foodies who want a genuine home-cooked meal away from tourist spots.
This experience is ideal for small groups or couples seeking a warm, authentic meal with a local host in a quiet, charming setting.
Bottom Line: An intimate, authentic Italian meal in a cozy canal home—perfect for food lovers seeking genuine flavors.
14. Amsterdam Private Dinner Cruise incl Drinks & 3-course Dinner 3hr
Offering a three-hour private cruise, this luxury experience includes a 3-course dinner with drinks on a private saloon boat. You’ll pass landmarks like the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, and the Seven Bridges with personalized service. The boat gives you exclusive access, making it ideal for special occasions or small groups wanting privacy. Reviewers note the excellent service and spectacular views, with some highlighting the passage past key landmarks as a highlight.
Best suited for romantic couples or small groups celebrating an event, this is a top-tier choice for privacy and elegance.
Bottom Line: An exclusive, elegant cruise with gourmet dining and private atmosphere—ideal for a memorable celebration.
15. Private Lunch or Dinner Cruise for 4 Guests
If privacy and exclusivity are your priorities, this private cruise for up to 4 guests offers a 3-course meal or lunch aboard the Salonboot Delphine. The route includes scenic spots like the Magere Brug and the Canal Area, with attention to detail and a personalized touch. The $790.94 cost reflects its exclusivity, but reviews praise the romantic ambiance and delicious food. It’s suited for romantic getaways, anniversaries, or small celebrations.
This experience is about luxury and intimacy—the perfect choice for a special treat or intimate occasion.
Bottom Line: An exclusive, romantic cruise with gourmet food, ideal for couples celebrating a milestone.
How to Choose Your Perfect Dinner Experience in Amsterdam
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, timing, and what kind of experience you crave. For a romantic, scenic dinner, the luxury canal cruises or the private options are unbeatable. If you want to combine sightseeing with food, the canal cruises with 4-course meals provide excellent value. For a fun, interactive twist, the dinner in the dark offers a uniquely sensory challenge. Budget travelers may prefer the A’DAM View combined with a meal, while those celebrating special occasions might opt for the luxury private cruise or the Moët & Chandon experience.
Booking early is always recommended, especially for popular experiences like the private dinners and themed sensory tours. Check availability, especially in peak seasons, and consider combining your experience with other activities like visiting the Anne Frank House or exploring local neighborhoods for a full Amsterdam adventure.
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam offers a wide array of dinner experiences that cater to every taste and occasion. From romantic cruises with gourmet menus to lively shows and sensory dinners, the options are endless. For couples, the luxury canal cruises or the private dinner cruise make for unforgettable nights. For curious food lovers, the dinner in the dark is a must-try. And if you’re after a casual yet scenic meal, the burger cruise or the A’DAM View with dinner will suit perfectly.
Whatever your preference, it’s worth booking early to secure your spot. No matter which experience you choose, you’re guaranteed a memorable night soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Amsterdam’s lively waterways and inviting cuisine.
