Amsterdam: Food and Canal Tour

If you’re looking for a way to experience Amsterdam beyond its famous sights, this Food and Canal Tour offers a compelling mix of culinary delights and stunning waterways. For about 3.5 hours, you’ll explore the city’s flavors and architecture with a friendly guide, tasting local cheeses, Dutch delicacies, and bitterballen while cruising through UNESCO-listed canals. Led by knowledgeable guides like Danielle and Gerard, this tour balances food-loving exploration with scenic views.

What we love about this experience is how it goes behind the scenes to meet passionate families keeping Dutch food traditions alive, and how the private canal boat adds a touch of intimacy and relaxation. The delicious variety of tastings keeps the palate engaged, and the small group size ensures a friendly, personalized vibe. A potential consideration is the fixed starting time, so you’ll want to plan around that. This tour suits foodies, curious travelers, and those who enjoy a relaxed pace with plenty of authentic experiences.

Key Points

Authentic local foods at six different stops, including cheeses and traditional Dutch treats
One-hour private canal cruise through UNESCO heritage canals for a scenic break
Small group size (maximum 12 people) for a more personalized experience
Learn about Dutch food traditions and local history from engaging guides
Includes drinks like beer, wine, coffee, or tea to complement tastings
Rain or shine operation ensures you can enjoy the tour regardless of weather

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is the Experience All About?

This tour offers a blend of culinary exploration and scenic sightseeing in the heart of Amsterdam. Starting from a central meeting point near the iconic Church, you’ll embark on a guided walk through the city’s vibrant neighborhoods, visiting local vendors and family-owned delis. After sampling some of the best Dutch cheeses, you’ll enjoy delicious homemade apple pie and savory bites like bitterballen, a beloved Dutch snack.

The highlight is a one-hour private boat cruise through Amsterdam’s canals, which are designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. This provides a relaxed way to see the city’s historic architecture while sipping on drinks and nibbling on more tasty offerings. The combination of walking, tasting, and cruising makes for a well-rounded experience that balances food culture with Amsterdam’s picturesque waterways.

Keen to taste more of Amsterdam? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

Meeting and Introduction

The tour kicks off right in front of the Church, where your guide greets you with a friendly smile and the Eating Europe logo. Here, you’ll get a quick overview of the plan ahead and some tips for enjoying the experience.

Exploring Local Food Stops

Your guide will lead you to 6 different locations with 7 tastings in total. These include a family-owned cheese shop, renowned for their Dutch cheeses, where you’ll learn about different varieties and how they’re made. The taste of Amsterdams best cheeses seems to be a favorite among past guests.

Next, you’ll visit a cozy deli for homemade apple pie, a treat that embodies Dutch comfort food. Liking sweet and savory snacks? You’ll be pleased with the variety of foods offered throughout. As one reviewer noted, the food quantity and quality are excellent, making it a substantial meal rather than just a snack.

More Great Tours Nearby

Behind the Scenes and Cultural Insights

Your guide shares stories about Dutch food traditions and local history, bringing context to each tasting. This adds depth, turning a simple tasting into an educational experience. Past guests particularly appreciated guides like Danielle and Gerard, who are described as informative, humorous, and attentive.

While in Amsterdam, here are other experiences we've covered

The Private Canal Boat Ride

The one-hour cruise is the tour’s pièce de résistance. You’ll relax on a private boat as it glides through Amsterdams UNESCO-listed canals. Expect beautiful views of historic buildings, charming bridges, and traditional houseboats. Despite weather-related challenges mentioned in some reviews, the boat ride offers a refreshing break from walking and a unique perspective on the city.

Enjoy bitterballen — a Dutch snack similar to croquettes — served onboard, adding a savory touch to the cruise. Past participants describe the boat experience as peaceful, scenic, and a perfect way to digest all the tasty bites.

The Food Quality and Quantity

Guests consistently praise the quality of the food — cheeses, pies, and snacks — as excellent. One reviewer specifically admired the variety and freshness, noting they were glad they didn’t eat lunch beforehand. With 7 tastings in total, the experience feels generous and satisfying, making it a good value for the price.

Beverages Included

The tour includes drinks such as beer, wine, coffee, or tea, which perfectly complement the food tastings. Water is also available, ensuring you stay hydrated. This adds to the relaxed, social atmosphere of the tour.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for food lovers who want to sample authentic Dutch cuisine in a friendly setting. It’s also perfect for history and architecture enthusiasts eager to see Amsterdam’s picturesque canals while learning about the city’s culinary roots. Families with children 4 and younger might enjoy the relaxed pace, though mobility impairments aren’t accommodated.

Practical Details: Making the Most of Your Tour

Duration: 3.5 hours
Start and End: Near the Church, ending back at the meeting point
Group Size: Up to 12 people for an intimate experience
Weather: Rain or shine — plan accordingly, especially if weather is poor (some reviews mention weather issues affecting canal views)
Cost: While not explicitly stated, the value is evident in the generous tastings, scenic cruise, and guided insights
Booking: Flexible with the option to reserve and pay later
Timing: Check availability for specific start times, with some guests noting discrepancies in scheduled times

Authenticity and Unique Touches

Past guests cite guides like Danielle and Gerard for making the tour informative and fun. Their stories and humor bring the experience to life, making it more than just a food tasting. Meeting local families and learning the traditions behind Dutch foods offers a genuine glimpse of local life.

This Amsterdam Food and Canal Tour stands out as a well-balanced, authentic experience perfect for foodies and waterway lovers alike. It offers a substantial taste of Dutch cuisine, delivered in a friendly, relaxed setting, with the added bonus of a scenic canal cruise. The small group size ensures personalized attention, while the guide’s local knowledge enriches every stop.

If you’re seeking a delicious, insightful, and scenic way to experience Amsterdam beyond the typical sightseeing, this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suited for those who prefer quality over quantity and enjoy learning stories behind their food. The combination of culinary delights, scenic views, and cultural insights makes for a memorable outing, worthwhile for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike.

What does the tour include?
It includes 7 tastings at 6 different locations, a private canal cruise, a local English-speaking guide, and drinks such as beer, wine, coffee, or tea.

Is it suitable for children?
Children 4 and younger are allowed free of charge, making it family-friendly, though the pace and type of food may suit older kids better.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, the tour runs rain or shine, so plan for weather conditions accordingly, especially if you want clear canal views.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and water are recommended to stay comfortable during walking and tasting.

Are the drinks included?
Yes, drinks are part of the experience, including beer, wine, coffee, or tea, along with water.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How long is the canal cruise?
The cruise lasts about one hour, providing a peaceful way to enjoy the city’s waterways.

Who would enjoy this tour most?
Food lovers, those interested in local history, and travelers wanting a relaxed, intimate experience will find this ideal.

Is the tour accessible for mobility impairments?
No, it’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments due to walking and boat access requirements.

What if I want a private experience?
A private group option is available, allowing for a more personalized experience.

Is the tour a good value?
Considering the generous tastings, scenic cruise, and expert guidance, many find it excellent value for the price paid.

In brief, the Amsterdam Food and Canal Tour offers an engaging blend of authentic flavors, historic sights, and scenic waterways. It’s perfect for those who want to taste their way through the city while soaking in its charm. With friendly guides and delicious food, it’s a wonderful way to experience Amsterdam in a relaxed, authentic manner.