Eating Amsterdam: Food Tour and Canal Cruise

If you’re heading to Amsterdam and looking to combine local eats with scenic views, the Eating Amsterdam: Food Tour and Canal Cruise might just be the experience you need. This well-rated tour has been praised by hundreds of travelers for its engaging guides, delicious food stops, and relaxing boat ride. Whether you’re a foodie eager to taste traditional Dutch fare or someone who loves city views from the water, this tour offers a balanced mix of both.

What really catches our eye about this experience? First, the variety of authentic foods you’ll sample, from local cheeses to Indonesian-inspired rendang sandwiches. Second, the small group setting (max 12 guests), which offers a more intimate and personalized feel. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that this tour runs for about 3.5 hours, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a fair amount of walking and tasting. If your travel style involves exploring at a leisurely pace and savoring local culture through cuisine, this tour seems like a good fit.

This experience is ideal for foodies, first-time visitors wanting a rundown, or even seasoned travelers keen to explore Amsterdam’s culinary secrets in a fun, social setting. It’s not specifically tailored for families with young children, but older kids who enjoy food and city stories could enjoy it too.

Key Points

• Authentic Food Sampling: Enjoy seven tastings across six different local venues, including Dutch cheeses, Indonesian rendang, and herring.
• Local Stories & Culture: Guides share insights about the city’s neighborhoods, history, and culinary traditions.
• Relaxing Canal Cruise: The hour-long boat ride offers a great way to unwind and see Amsterdam from a different perspective.
• All-Inclusive: Food, drinks, and the cruise are included in the price, making it straightforward and hassle-free.
• Small Group & Personalized Service: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring more interaction and attention.
• Flexible & Convenient: Mobile tickets, group discounts, and a meeting point close to public transport make it easy to join.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: The Jordaan

The tour begins in this historic neighborhood, known for its roots as an old workers’ area from the 17th century. Today, it’s a lively hub with art galleries, boutique shops, and cozy cafés. You’ll get a quick 15-minute walk around its streets, soaking in the charm of its narrow alleys and canals. Many reviews praise how guides incorporate stories about the area’s past, giving you a richer picture of Amsterdam’s development. One reviewer mentioned that the guide, Elena, did a “wonderful job of guiding us and introducing us to Dutch culture and customs,” which adds depth to the tasting experience.

Noordermarkt & Apple Pie

Next, the tour takes you to Noordermarkt, a lively market area. Here, you’ll stop at Cafe Hegeraad, a family-owned brown café famous for its homemade apple pie. This 15-minute stop is a delightful highlight—many visitors rave about the homemade, age-old recipe. It’s a chance to indulge a little, and the warm, comforting flavors set the tone for the culinary adventure ahead.

Haarlemmerstraat & Seafood Delights

Your journey continues to Haarlemmerstraat, where you’ll sample Amsterdam’s famous herring—served in bite-sized pieces with a pickle for flavor—along with some well-fried cod. The reviews mention how the herring is a local delicacy and offers a true taste of city life. Expect 15-minute stops here, giving you time to savor the flavors and learn about their significance.

Tweede Tuindwarsstraat & Cheese Tasting

A short walk will bring you to a shop specializing in Gouda cheese, where you’ll get to taste four world-famous varieties. Many reviews highlight the quality and variety of cheeses, with one reviewer noting, “you can find just about any cheese your heart desires.” You’ll also learn about Dutch cheese-making traditions, adding a layer of appreciation for this staple.

Westerkerk & Rendang Sandwich

Next, you’ll visit Bocas, a cozy local café, for a Rendang Sandwich—a flavorful beef curry on freshly baked bread. The guide shares background stories about the dish and its local popularity. Many guests say the guide’s explanations make the tasting even more meaningful, turning food into a cultural lesson.

Brouwersgracht & Indonesian & Surinamese Flavors

The tour’s food stops won’t be complete without visiting Swietie Sarang, known for Indonesian and Surinamese cuisines. Expect to enjoy authentic, spice-rich dishes that reflect Amsterdam’s diverse influences. Reviewers mention the delicious flavors and the lively atmosphere here, making it a must-visit foodie stop.

The Canal Cruise

The grand finale is a one-hour vintage canal cruise starting near the Anne Frank House. Many reviews describe the boat as “beautiful” and the experience as “relaxing,” perfect for soaking in the city’s iconic sights. And of course, you’ll get to sip on bitterballen (Dutch meat snacks) paired with a beer and local jenever, a traditional Dutch liquor. The cruise not only provides a lovely scenic backdrop but also serves as a perfect way to unwind after walking through the neighborhoods.

Value for Money & Overall Experience

Considering the $172.63 price tag, this tour offers a lot in terms of value. It includes seven tastings, drinks, the canal cruise, a guide, and a food guide, all in a compact 3.5-hour window. Travelers rave about guides like Paul, Danielle, and Macia, who bring enthusiasm, humor, and knowledge to every stop. Many reviews mention how guides give insights into Dutch culture and history, making the tasting experience educational as well as delicious.

The small group size means you’ll get more personalized attention, and the variety of foods ensures you’ll sample the best the city has to offer. Plus, the inclusion of drinks—wine, beer, coffee/tea, and water—keeps everyone refreshed. Many reviewers mention how the tour is very much about experiencing the city’s authentic flavors rather than just ticking off sights.

What Are the Downsides?

The tour requires a minimum of four guests to run, and if that isn’t met, you might end up rescheduling or getting a refund. Also, you’ll need to arrive 15 minutes early, especially since the boat departs promptly, which means punctuality is essential. Those sensitive to walking or busy schedules might find the pace a bit brisk, given the number of stops packed into 3.5 hours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits food lovers eager to taste a variety of local and regional dishes in a relaxed, social environment. If you’re interested in learning about Amsterdam from a local guide while enjoying scenic waterways, this tour hits both marks. It’s also a good choice if you want a comprehensive introduction to the city, combining walking, tasting, and cruising—all in one afternoon.

It’s less ideal for those with dietary restrictions, as the tour does not specify vegetarian or gluten-free options, so communicate your needs in advance if possible. While not specifically targeted at families, older children who enjoy food and stories might find this engaging.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
You’ll need to inform the tour provider in advance, as there’s no specific mention of vegetarian or gluten-free options. It’s best to check with them beforehand to accommodate your needs.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs for about 3 hours and 30 minutes, including walking, tastings, and the canal cruise.

What’s included in the price?
All the food and drinks, the one-hour canal cruise, a guide, and a food guide are included. Extra drinks, tips, or personal expenses are not.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How many people are on the tour?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, promoting a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Noordermarkt 44 and ends near Westerkerk at Prinsengracht 279, both easily accessible by public transport.

Is the canal cruise weather-dependent?
While the data doesn’t specify, it’s safe to assume the cruise might be affected by bad weather, so dress accordingly.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly tailored for children, older kids with an interest in food and history could enjoy the experience. It’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and tasting.

Final Thoughts

The Eating Amsterdam: Food Tour and Canal Cruise offers a thoughtful, tasty journey through one of Europe’s most charming cities. With knowledgeable guides, authentic local flavors, and scenic water views, it combines the best of what Amsterdam has to offer—culinary delights and picturesque canals.

If you love discovering new foods, enjoy stories about the places you’re visiting, and want a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed, this tour is a smart choice. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who appreciate small-group settings and authentic, home-grown cuisine. The inclusion of a scenic canal cruise also sets it apart from many other city food tours, making it a well-rounded way to spend an afternoon in Amsterdam.

For those who want a genuine taste of the city, combined with a gentle cruise and engaging storytelling, this tour hits the sweet spot. Just remember to arrive on time and communicate your dietary needs ahead of the tour to get the most out of this delightful experience.

Enjoy your trip and happy eating in Amsterdam!