Dordrecht, in the southern part of the Netherlands, is a city that rewards exploration with its charming canals, historic streets, and lively squares. Unlike larger Dutch cities, Dordrecht offers a cozy, authentic feel — perfect for engaging city tours that reveal its unique character. We’re particularly fond of the Dordrecht: City Canal Cruise because it offers a relaxing way to see the city’s historic waterways, and the Escape the City tour for those who want a hands-on, fun experience that sparks discovery. Whether you’re exploring by boat or solving puzzles with a smartphone, Dordrecht’s tours balance fun and insight beautifully.
In this guide, we’ll cover the top four city tours in Dordrecht, ranging from scenic boat rides to interactive explorations. Each offers a different perspective, so whether you prefer a leisurely cruise or an active adventure, there’s something here to match your style.
Here’s a quick rundown of the best city tours in Dordrecht you’ll find on our list:
- A scenic canal cruise that’s ideal for easy sightseeing and learning about the city’s waterways.
- An e-Scavenger hunt perfect for families or groups who want to explore at their own pace with a smartphone.
- A guided walking tour combined with a boat ride offering a deeper dive into Dordrecht’s landmarks.
- An interactive city walk designed for a fun, team-based challenge, great for small groups looking for something different.
Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Dordrecht: City Canal Cruise
Starting at Grote Appelsteiger, this 75-minute cruise offers a peaceful way to see Holland’s oldest city from the water. For just $20 per person, you get to glide along Dordrecht’s historic canals, passing under charming bridges and past centuries-old buildings. The boats are open but covered, so rain isn’t a concern. The cruise is led by enthusiastic skippers who double as guides, sharing stories and insights that bring Dordrecht’s history to life.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to learn about the city’s majestic architecture and long-standing maritime importance without the fatigue of walking. Passengers can enjoy drinks onboard— a nice touch for relaxing and soaking in the views. With a solid 4.7-star rating based on 57 reviews, most travelers find it an enjoyable, informative experience. One reviewer called it “a very nice and beautiful boat tour,” emphasizing how much they appreciated the relaxed pace and local knowledge.
Bottom line: If you want a hassle-free introduction to Dordrecht’s waterways and a chance to see the city from a different angle, this cruise hits the mark. It’s perfect for all ages and weather conditions.
2. e-Scavenger hunt Dordrecht: Explore the city at your own pace
For around $36.76 per group (up to six people), this interactive smartphone game transforms your visit into a fun challenge. This tour is especially appealing if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy puzzles, riddles, and discovery. The e-Scavenger hunt guides you through Dordrecht’s streets, squares, and canals, all via GPS and a mobile app. It covers key landmarks and hidden corners, unlocking stories and trivia as you go.
What makes this tour special is its flexibility. You can start and stop whenever you like, taking your time to savor each spot. It’s available in multiple languages, including English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian, making it accessible for international visitors. It’s also very family-friendly, with questions and challenges designed to entertain kids and adults alike.
Most reviews highlight its value and fun factor, with one noting: “It’s a great way to explore at your own pace and learn things I wouldn’t have found on my own.” The only caveat is that it requires a smartphone and some attention to instructions, but that’s part of the adventure.
Bottom line: If you prefer an active, self-directed experience that combines sightseeing with puzzle-solving, this e-Scavenger hunt offers a memorable way to discover Dordrecht.
3. Dordrecht: City Walking Tour with Boat Ride
This 2-hour combo tour begins at Voorstraat 276, where you’ll explore Dordrecht on foot before hopping onto a boat for a 1.5-hour cruise along its waterways. For $40 per person, it provides a balanced look at the city’s most iconic sights — including the Grote Kerk, the Historical Harbour Area, and the Three River Point.
The walking portion allows you to get up close to the architecture, cobbled streets, and lively squares, while the boat ride offers a panoramic view of Dordrecht’s intricate waterways. The tour’s reviews note that the boat tour “has much improved the experience,” especially for those who find walking tours a bit tiring or want a different perspective. Some visitors mention that the guide’s passion was somewhat muted, but the boat trip still makes up for it with impressive views.
This tour is best suited for travelers who want an overview of Dordrecht’s key landmarks without rushing. It’s particularly good for those interested in combining history with scenery, and the price offers reasonable value considering both components.
Bottom line: If you’re after a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction, this walking plus boat tour offers a good mix of storytelling and visual delight.
4. Escape the City – Interactive city walk in Dordrecht
At only $79.94 per group (up to six), this interactive city walk turns Dordrecht into a game board for your team. Over approximately 3 hours, you and your companions will visit some of the most unique and interesting places in Dordrecht, solving puzzles and completing challenges along the way. You decide when to start and how quickly to play, making it a flexible and engaging experience.
This tour is perfect for small groups or families looking for a fun, team-building activity. It’s designed to get you moving and thinking, with the added bonus of discovering aspects of Dordrecht that are often overlooked. The single review praises it as “loads of fun” and a great value for the price, especially since it promotes active exploration without the need for extensive planning.
The challenge lies in the team’s willingness to engage and think creatively, making it ideal for those who want something beyond just sightseeing. Since it’s a more active and playful option, it’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a traditional guided tour.
Bottom line: This interactive city walk is a fantastic choice for groups wanting a lively, engaging way to explore Dordrecht, especially if they enjoy puzzles and friendly competition.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, fitness level, and how you like to explore. For a relaxing overview, the City Canal Cruise (see details here) provides a scenic, informative experience. If you prefer a self-paced adventure and love puzzles, the e-Scavenger hunt (more info) is ideal. Travelers seeking a mix of walking and boat scenery should opt for the City Walking Tour with Boat Ride (check it out). For groups wanting a lively, team-based challenge, the Escape the City game (see more) offers a unique, fun experience.
Remember to book early, especially in high season, as these tours can fill up quickly. Think about your group’s energy level, interests, and whether you prefer relaxing or active exploration—Dordrecht’s diverse options have you covered.
In summary, Dordrecht offers a variety of engaging city tours suited to different tastes and schedules. From the scenic serenity of the canal cruise to the lively challenge of the interactive walk, there’s an experience for every traveler. For those who want an easy, scenic introduction, the Dordrecht: City Canal Cruise is hard to beat. If you’re looking for a more active, puzzle-solving adventure, the Escape the City game is a perfect fit.
No matter which tour you choose, booking ahead is wise. These experiences will deepen your appreciation for one of the Netherlands’ oldest and most charming cities. Happy exploring!
