Eating Amsterdam: Food Tour and Canal Cruise

This Eating Amsterdam: Food Tour and Canal Cruise offers a compelling combination of local food tastings and scenic canal views. At $172.63 per person, this 3-hour 30-minute guided experience is a favorite among food lovers, with an impressive 5.0 rating from 391 reviews and 98% recommending it. The tour departs from Noordermarkt 44 and concludes near Westerkerk, ending close to the historic Anne Frank House. It’s ideal for those wanting to explore Amsterdam’s neighborhoods, cuisine, and waterways all in one relaxed outing.

The tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 12 travelers, creating an intimate setting where guides can share detailed stories about each location and dish. All food and drinks are included, ranging from Dutch cheeses to Indonesian rendang, and the canal cruise provides a peaceful finish to this flavorful journey. It’s a well-rated option for foodies who also appreciate some sightseeing and local history, though travelers should note that the tour requires arriving 15 minutes early and booking well in advance—average bookings are made 64 days ahead.

Key Points

• Includes 7 tastings at 6 different locations across Amsterdam’s vibrant neighborhoods
• All food and drinks, including wine, beer, coffee, tea, and water, are covered in the ticket price
• One-hour canal cruise on an authentic vintage boat, with commentary on the city’s history
• Tour features visits to historic spots like Jordaan, Noordermarkt, and Westerkerk
• Guided by knowledgeable local guides who share insights into Amsterdam’s culture, cuisine, and history
• Small group size ensures a personalized, engaging experience

Exploring Amsterdam’s Historic Jordaan Neighborhood

The tour starts in the Jordaan, a lively area once known as a working-class district in the 17th century. Originally home to boat builders, sailors, and refugees, Jordaan has transformed into a creative hub filled with art galleries, cafes, and boutiques. Visitors explore this neighborhood for 15 minutes, taking in the narrow streets and historic charm, setting the tone for the tour’s mix of culture and cuisine.

What makes the Jordaan stop stand out is its rich past and lively present. While once considered a slum, today it thrives as an artistic and dynamic area that retains its authenticity. The guide shares stories about its transformation, giving visitors context about Dutch urban development and local community life.

Tasting the Best Apple Pie at Noordermarkt’s Cafe Hegeraad

Next, the tour visits the Noordermarkt area, where family-owned Cafe Hegeraad invites guests to sample their renowned homemade apple pie. This cozy brown cafe, tucked behind the Noorderkerk, has been making this treat for many years, and it remains a favorite stop. The 15-minute tasting highlights Dutch baking traditions and offers a sweet start to the food journey.

This stop offers more than just delicious pastry; it also provides an opportunity to appreciate local cafe culture. The guide explains the significance of Dutch desserts and the importance of family recipes in the city’s culinary scene, adding depth to the tasting experience.

Savoring Amsterdam’s Herring and Fried Cod on Haarlemmerstraat

A key highlight is the Haarlemmerstraat, where you’ll sample Amsterdam’s famous herring, served cut into pieces with a pickle. This traditional delicacy is iconic in the Netherlands, and the tour ensures you enjoy it fresh and flavorful. Alongside the herring, the group also tastes perfectly fried cod, offering a window into Dutch seafood favorites.

This stop lasts 15 minutes, giving ample time to appreciate the bold flavors and learn about traditional Dutch fish dishes. The guide shares insights into the local fishing culture and how seafood remains a staple in Dutch cuisine, making this tasting both delicious and educational.

Indulging in Gouda Cheese at Tweede Tuindwarsstraat

In Tweede Tuindwarsstraat, the tour visits a shop famous for world-renowned Gouda cheese. Guests taste four varieties, each representing different aging processes and flavor profiles. The 20-minute stop allows ample time to compare textures and tastes, and learn about Dutch cheese-making traditions.

This location also offers a chance to explore cheese shops in Amsterdam, where the focus is on high-quality, authentic products. The guide shares stories about Gouda’s history and its significance in Dutch exports, enhancing the tasting experience.

Sampling Rendang Sandwiches at Westerkerk’s Bocas Café

Next, the group visits Bocas Café, located near the Westerkerk. Here, guests try a Rendang Sandwich, made with locally baked bread and spicy beef curry. This 20-minute stop introduces a fusion of Dutch and Indonesian flavors, highlighting the city’s multicultural culinary scene.

The guide discusses Indonesian influence on Dutch cuisine, a legacy of the country’s colonial history. The Rendang Sandwich offers a savory and satisfying taste, with stories about immigrant communities shaping Amsterdam’s food landscape.

Experiencing Indonesian and Surinamese Flavors at Brouwersgracht

The tour continues along Brouwersgracht, where Swietie Sarang serves Indonesian and Surinamese dishes. For 20 minutes, visitors enjoy authentic flavors like satay, rijsttafel, or other regional favorites, depending on the day.

This stop emphasizes Amsterdam’s diverse food culture shaped by immigrant communities. The guide explains the culinary connections between the Netherlands, Indonesia, and Suriname, making it a flavorful immersion into multicultural Amsterdam.

Canal Cruise on a Vintage Boat: A Scenic and Informative Ride

The tour’s highlight is a one-hour cruise on a beautiful vintage canal boat. Departing from near Westerkerk, this relaxing cruise offers views of iconic sights like Prinsengracht and Herengracht. The guide shares stories and facts about Amsterdam’s waterways as the boat glides through the city.

Guests indulge in bitterballen, a Dutch snack, paired with a refreshing beer and local jenever. The cruise not only provides passport-free sightseeing but also feels like a perfect wind-down after the busy tasting stops.

Small Group Tours with Knowledgeable Guides

This experience is capped at 12 guests, ensuring an engaging and personalized atmosphere. Guides like Paul, Danielle, and Gerard are praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendly approach. They share stories about local neighborhoods, history, and culinary traditions, making each stop informative.

Guests appreciate how guides explain the dishes’ background and Amsterdam’s cultural context, making the tour more than just a tasting experience. Many reviews highlight the guides’ warmth and ability to enhance the overall experience.

Logistics, Meeting Point, and Practical Tips

The tour begins at Noordermarkt 44, with a 15-minute early arrival recommended to ensure timely start. It ends near Westerkerk, close to Anne Frank House, making it easy to continue exploring the city afterward. The group size remains small, creating a friendly environment.

All food and beverages, including wine, beer, coffee, tea, and water, are included. Additional drinks and dietary preferences should be communicated in advance, as the tour does not cover extra drinks or gratuities. The tour operates most days, with most travelers booking 2 months in advance.

Who Will Love This Tour

The Eating Amsterdam: Food & Canal Tour suits foodies eager to sample authentic Dutch dishes and learn about the city’s multicultural influences. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace, small-group settings, and scenic canal views. The tour offers a good mix of culinary education, history, and local stories.

However, those with dietary restrictions should inform the organizers beforehand, as the tour’s menu is fixed, and no vegetarian or gluten-free options are specified. The physical activity involves walking around neighborhoods and boarding a boat, so a moderate level of mobility is helpful.

The Amsterdam Food & Canal Experience in a Nutshell

Combining local food tastings with a classic canal cruise, this tour delivers a well-rounded taste of Amsterdam’s flavors and sights. It’s praised for knowledgeable guides, variety of delicious dishes, and scenic boat ride. The small-group setup makes it intimate and engaging, allowing for personalized interactions.

While it requires advance booking, the comprehensive itinerary and all-inclusive approach make it a value-rich experience for food lovers and culture seekers alike. It’s especially suitable for those interested in exploring neighborhoods beyond the main tourist spots and discovering hidden culinary gems.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for dietary restrictions?
The tour includes a fixed menu with Dutch cheese, seafood, Indonesian dishes, and more. Dietary restrictions like vegetarian or gluten-free options are not specified, so advance notice is recommended.

What should I bring on the tour?
Guests should arrive 15 minutes early at the starting point Noordermarkt 44. Comfortable shoes for walking are advisable, as the tour involves exploring neighborhoods.

Can I customize the experience?
This tour operates with a set itinerary and menu. Custom requests for additional drinks or dietary preferences are not included but can sometimes be arranged with advance notice.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Is the canal cruise accessible?
Yes, the vintage boat is suitable for most guests, and the cruise lasts about one hour. It provides a relaxing way to enjoy the city’s architecture and waterways.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 12 guests, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience with your guide.

This Eating Amsterdam: Food & Canal Tour provides a delightful way to enjoy local cuisine while soaking in the scenic vistas of Amsterdam’s canals. Its mix of history, culture, and flavors makes it an excellent choice for foodies looking for a comprehensive city experience.