Amsterdam: 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Boat and XtraCold Icebar

Discover Amsterdam’s Canals and Cold Vibes with a Single Ticket

The Amsterdam: 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Boat and XtraCold Icebar offers an efficient way to see the city at your own pace. For $51 per person, this package includes a full day of flexible canal cruising combined with speedy entry to the popular XtraCold Icebar. With a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 42 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers appreciate the value and variety of this experience.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who want to combine sightseeing with a unique ice-themed bar experience. The 24-hour ticket allows you to hop on and off at multiple stops along the canal route, while the fast-track entry to the Icebar ensures minimal waiting and more time to enjoy the chilly atmosphere. Be prepared to spend a full day exploring and relaxing in two distinctly different environments.

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Key Points

• Flexible 24-hour ticket for the hop-on hop-off canal boat
• Audio guide available in 18 languages to learn about key locations
• Fast-track entry to the XtraCold Icebar with 3 free drinks included
• Opportunity to explore Amsterdam’s historic Canal Belt at your own pace
• Includes free Wi-Fi on the boat and at the Icebar
• No hotel transfer included, so plan your arrivals accordingly

The Route and Stops That Showcase Amsterdam’s Highlights

The tour’s route covers key areas of Amsterdam’s historic Canal Belt, with stops at iconic locations. The Green Line features stops at Central Station West, NEMO Science Museum, Gassan Diamonds, and the Jewish Historical Quarter, offering a mix of cultural and leisure experiences. It operates both during summer and winter, with slightly different stops depending on the season.

The Red Line focuses on the heart of the city, with stops at Central Station East, Royal Theatre Carré, Heineken Experience, and Leidse Square. Some stops, like Gassan Diamonds and Museum Square, allow you to explore shopping or museums, while others, such as the Jordaan and Westerdok, reveal charming neighborhoods and quieter waterways.

The Blue Line runs only during the summer months and takes visitors to Amsterdam North and the Anne Frank House. This route offers a chance to see more modern parts of the city and major historical sites, with boats departing approximately every 20-25 minutes.

Convenient Meeting Point and Seasonal Schedules

The tour begins at the XtraCold Icebar Amsterdam, located at Amstel 194. This central starting point makes it easy to combine with other city activities or arrive by public transport. The seasonal schedule ensures smooth operation: during mid-March to mid-October, boats run from 10:05 AM to 6:00 PM (green line) and 10:15 AM to 5:15 PM (blue line). The winter season runs from mid-October to mid-March, with boat times from 10:00 AM to 5:15 PM daily.

The XtraCold Icebar itself operates from 12:00 PM until late night, offering extended hours, especially on Fridays and Saturdays when it stays open until 2:40 AM. Your booking time slot grants you entry to the Icebar, where the climate reaches minus 10 degrees Celsius.

The Experience on the Canal Cruise

Boarding the hop-on hop-off canal boats, travelers enjoy free Wi-Fi and an audio guide available in 18 languages, providing commentary on the city’s most notable sights. The cruise under romantic bridges and past merchant houses captivates with its scenic views. The ability to hop off at stops like Museum Square or Leidse Square makes it easy to customize your day.

The boats run every 20-25 minutes during high season, so waiting times are minimal. The self-guided nature means you can spend as much or as little time at each stop as you like, giving a relaxed pace to the exploration.

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The Unique Atmosphere of the XtraCold Icebar

Fast-track access means you skip long lines and step directly into the climate-controlled Icebar. Once inside, you’ll don a thermal coat to withstand temperatures of minus 10 degrees Celsius. Everything inside the bar, from walls to furniture, is made of ice, creating a stunning, chilly environment.

You receive 3 tokens to exchange for drinks, such as cold beers or cocktails, allowing you to enjoy the refreshing contrast to the warmth outside. While relaxing in the warm area listening to music, you can watch the ice sculptures and marvel at the craftsmanship. The bar’s environment is both fun and photogenic, perfect for a quick but memorable experience.

Practical Details and What’s Included

The 24-hour ticket covers access to the canal cruise with the GPS-guided audio guide and free Wi-Fi. The fast-track entry to the XtraCold Icebar comes with 3 free drinks tokens and clothing provided for the cold environment. The map of stops helps plan your route, and any stop along the route can be boarded just by showing your smartphone ticket.

Note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so travelers should plan to start at the Icebar or use public transport to reach it. The ticket is flexible, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing peace of mind when booking.

The Tour’s Strengths and Limitations

Many users highlight the knowledgeable onboard guides and scenic views as strong points. The combination of flexible sightseeing with an ice experience offers good value, especially with 3 free drinks at the Icebar. The self-guided aspect allows for personalized pacing, which many find convenient.

However, some travelers note that certain stops are seasonal, which might affect plans depending on the time of year. Plus, no hotel transfer is included, so travelers need to organize their own transportation to the meeting point. The cost of $51 is competitive considering the full day of activities and inclusions.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience suits visitors who enjoy a mix of sightseeing and fun, especially those interested in Amsterdam’s waterways and vibrant bar scene. It’s ideal for those looking for flexibility, as the 24-hour ticket allows you to explore at your own pace and engage with different neighborhoods.

The Icebar adds an unusual twist to city exploration, making it perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a memorable experience without extensive planning. If you prefer guided tours with fixed itineraries, this might feel a little loose, but for independent explorers, it offers enough structure and freedom.

Final Thoughts on the 24-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off and Icebar Combo

With excellent reviews and a solid 4.5-star rating, this tour delivers great value for a full day of sightseeing and leisure. The combination of canal cruising and the unique Icebar experience appeals to a wide range of travelers seeking flexibility, comfort, and fun.

The seasonal variations in stops and routes provide fresh perspectives depending on the time of year, while the easy access from the meeting point ensures a smooth start. The inclusions of free Wi-Fi, audio guides, and drinks make this experience both engaging and convenient.

This tour offers a memorable taste of Amsterdam’s waterways and cool atmosphere, making it a worthwhile addition to any itinerary focused on city exploration with a twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the ticket?
The ticket covers a 24-hour hop-on hop-off canal cruise, an audio guide in 18 languages, free Wi-Fi, fast-track entry to the Icebar, 3 free drinks tokens, and clothing for the Icebar environment.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the XtraCold Icebar Amsterdam at Amstel 194. You can board the boats at various stops along the route by showing your smartphone ticket.

How long is the Icebar experience?
Your entry to the Icebar is scheduled at your booking time slot, and the experience includes enjoying up to 3 drinks in the minus 10-degree environment.

Are stops seasonal?
Yes. The Green and Red Lines operate during both summer and winter, but some stops only run in the summer, and others vary seasonally, affecting the route.

Is transportation included?
No, hotel transfers are not included; travelers are expected to reach the starting point independently.

How frequently do the boats run?
During the high season, boats depart approximately every 20-25 minutes. In winter, the schedule is from 10:00 AM to 5:15 PM daily.

Can I cancel this booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear to the Icebar?
A thermal coat is provided for the Icebar visit, and guests are advised to dress warmly to enjoy the experience comfortably.

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