Amsterdam: Canal Cruise and Entrance to Xtracold Icebar

A fun, practical way to see Amsterdam—on the water and in the cold. This experience combines a 1-hour canal cruise with skip-the-line access to the Xtracold Icebar. For $42, you get to glide past the city’s most charming merchant houses, houseboats, and landmarks like the Anne Frank House and Skinny Bridge, then step inside a world of ice for a few chilled drinks.

What we particularly like about this tour is its flexibility and focus on authentic experiences. The luxury glass-topped boat offers panoramic views that truly let you appreciate Amsterdam’s Golden Age architecture, while the ice bar delivers a memorable, cool contrast. The icing on the cake? It’s a value-packed, combined ticket that saves both time and money.

A consideration to keep in mind is that the canal cruise operates only with a pre-booked timeslot—so a little planning ahead is needed. Also, the Icebar has age restrictions—no children under 18—so it’s best suited for travelers seeking a fun adult activity. Overall, if you’re interested in a relaxed, scenic way to experience the city with a splash of icy adventure, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Balanced Experience: Combines scenic canal views with an icy, fun-filled bar experience.
• Skip-the-Line Convenience: Saves time at the Icebar, avoiding long waits.
• Authentic Sights: Features Amsterdam’s historic merchant houses and iconic landmarks.
• Audio Guide: Available in 19 languages, making it accessible for most travelers.
• Value for Money: Includes three drinks at the ice bar and clothing for the ice experience.
• Flexible & Self-Guided: Tour can be enjoyed in one go or over multiple days, depending on your schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Amsterdam from the Water and Ice

When choosing activities in Amsterdam, the focus often falls on iconic sights and lively neighborhoods. This combined tour offers a practical way to tick off some highlights without the hassle of navigating public transport or booking separate tickets. The 1-hour canal cruise is scheduled with a specific timeslot, so be sure to reserve it upon arrival—your ticket for the cruise is only valid for that time, which helps keep the experience relaxed and organized.

The luxury glass-topped boat is an excellent feature, providing panoramic views of the city’s ornate merchant houses—many dating back to the 16th and 17th centuries, a time when trade made Amsterdam a global powerhouse. The onboard audio commentary, available in 19 languages, enhances the experience by sharing stories and facts about what you’re seeing, making it more than just a pretty ride. As the boat glides through the waterways, you’ll pass landmarks like the Anne Frank House and the Skinny Bridge, each with its own story to tell.

What makes the canal cruise stand out is the opportunity to see Amsterdam’s Golden Age architecture up close. We loved the way the boat’s comforts and the informative commentary allowed us to relax and learn simultaneously. Reviewers praise the interesting facts and beautiful buildings, noting that the cruise is both relaxing and educational. One traveler mentioned that the captain’s sense of humor added a warm touch to the journey.

Next, after the cruise, you’ll head directly to the Xtracold Icebar. The skip-the-line entry saves you from long waits, which are common in popular attractions. Inside, the temperature stays well below freezing, so the tour includes clothing needs such as coats and gloves—crucial for comfort. You’ll be welcomed with three complimentary drinks, which are served in glasses made of ice—an experience that many reviewers found both fun and refreshing.

The Icebar’s ice carvings and cool atmosphere make it a unique highlight. Reviewers describe it as “beautiful,” with “nice staff” that makes the experience even better. The bonus of finding extra drink tickets hidden in the clothing adds a playful element, as one reviewer noted, “Bonus!” The drinks are generally well-received, with some reviews mentioning tasty cocktails and a good selection of beverages.

What to Expect: An Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts with a pre-booked canal cruise scheduled at your convenience. You’ll meet at the ‘Tours & Tickets’ office at Damrak 26 or directly at the Xtracold Icebar with your smartphone ticket. Once on the boat, you can sit back and enjoy the spectacular views of historic Amsterdam. The typical one-hour cruise provides ample time to appreciate the architectural splendor and vivid stories delivered via audio commentary.

Some highlights along the water include merchant houses from the city’s Golden Age, quaint houseboats, and busy marinas. The boat’s panoramic glass top allows for excellent photo opportunities, especially if you’re keen on capturing the details of the decorative facades or the lively canal life.

After the cruise, or if you prefer, on a different day, you’ll make your way to the Xtracold Icebar. The skip-the-line entry ensures you avoid the usual crowds, letting you step into an environment where the temperature is kept at around -10°C. Here, you’ll be provided with clothing and gloves to make the experience more comfortable. Many reviews mention that despite the “brrr” factor, the warm drinks and lively atmosphere make it worth braving the cold.

Inside, you’ll find amazing ice sculptures and a lively crowd, with staff making the experience both fun and safe. The three included drinks are usually tasty cocktails or beers, with some reviewers noting the ice glasses add a special touch. One traveler humorously remarked, “sipping a Heineken from an ice pint glass” made it totally memorable.

Authentic Experiences from Traveler Feedback

From the numerous reviews, a few common themes emerge. Many travelers highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially on the canal cruise, noting that the interesting facts and humorous commentary enhanced the experience. Several reviewers, like those praising “the captain’s sense of humor,” appreciated the informative yet relaxed atmosphere.

The Icebar consistently receives rave reviews for its aesthetic appeal and fun atmosphere. One traveler called it “the best Ice Bar I’ve been too,” and many mentioned staff “making it fun”. The ice carvings, cool drinks, and ice glasses create a distinctive environment that’s both chilly and lively.

The value also gets high marks, with reviews mentioning that the combination ticket “saves about £30” and offers a great mix of sightseeing and fun. Some travelers pointed out that the cruise is a good way to see parts of Amsterdam they might not explore on foot, especially with the audio guide providing context.

However, some reviews note that the canal cruise is separate from the Icebar, requiring a short metro trip if you want to do both in one day. Also, children under 18 are not allowed in the Icebar, so it’s best suited for adults or families with older kids.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Reserve your timeslots early: The canal cruise requires pre-booking, and slots fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
• Dress appropriately for the Icebar—the provided clothing helps, but you’ll still need warm layers.
• Plan your route: The meeting points are straightforward, but if you’re doing both activities, consider public transport or walking.
• Allow enough time: The entire experience can take around 2-3 hours depending on how long you spend at each stop.
• Check age restrictions: No children under 18 in the Icebar, so plan accordingly if traveling with family.
• Bring your smartphone or print your tickets: The voucher system is digital, and you’ll need it for entry at both locations.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers looking for a relaxed, enjoyable way to see the city without walking long distances. If you love historic architecture, scenic waterways, and quirky, memorable experiences, it hits the mark. The Icebar is perfect for those wanting a fun, different activity—especially if you enjoy novelty drinks served in ice glasses.

It’s also a great option for adults wanting to combine sightseeing with a fun social environment. Since children under 18 can’t enter the Icebar, families with older kids or groups of friends looking for a lighthearted, unique experience will find this tour very appealing.

The Sum Up

This Amsterdam combo tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and icy entertainment. It’s a smart choice for travelers wanting to maximize their time efficiently while enjoying authentic and memorable moments. The canal cruise provides a peaceful, informative snapshot of the city’s architectural beauty, while the Icebar adds a lively, cool twist that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The value for money is clear, especially considering the inclusion of drinks and skip-the-line access. The informative commentary and friendly staff make the experience even more enjoyable. Whether you’re a first-timer in Amsterdam or a seasoned visitor, this tour offers a fun, laid-back way to see some of the city’s highlights and indulge in a quirky, icy adventure.

If you’re after a combination of sightseeing and fun, don’t miss this opportunity. Just remember to book ahead, dress warm, and be prepared for a good time—whether on the water or in the ice. It’s a relaxing, entertaining way to get a sense of Amsterdam’s past and its playful present.

FAQ

Do I need to reserve my canal cruise timeslot in advance?
Yes, the canal cruise can only be accessed with a pre-booked timeslot, so it’s best to reserve when you buy your tickets.

Is the Icebar suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not allowed inside the Icebar, so plan accordingly if traveling with family.

How long does the entire experience take?
The combined tour generally lasts around 2-3 hours, depending on how long you spend at each site and travel between them.

Are there any physical limitations to this tour?
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and people who are sensitive to cold should consider this before entering the Icebar.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the 1-hour canal cruise with audio commentary, skip-the-line entrance to the Icebar, and 3 drinks at the Icebar, plus clothing for the cold experience.

Can I do the canal cruise and Icebar on separate days?
Yes, you can enjoy each activity on different days if you prefer more flexibility, especially since the tour highlights that this is a self-guided experience.

This detailed review aims to help you decide if this scenic, icy adventure fits your Amsterdam plans. Whether you’re in for the stunning waterways or the cool drinks, it’s a memorable way to experience the city’s unique charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: