Amsterdam is a city famous for its canals, but the water-based fun doesn’t stop there. With its proximity to the Dutch countryside and wetlands, Amsterdam offers some truly memorable canoe and kayak experiences. Whether you’re paddling through wetlands, exploring quiet villages, or watching the sunset over farmland, these tours let you see the city—and beyond—in a whole new way. We’re particularly fond of the Amsterdam Countryside Bike and Kayak Tour, which combines biking, kayaking, and charming scenery in a small-group setting, ensuring a personalized experience with fantastic reviews.
If you’re craving a more immersive day on the water, the Guided Canoe Adventure with Picnic Lunch in Waterland from Amsterdam stands out for its leisurely pace and picnic break on a scenic island. For sunset lovers, the Small-Group Guided Sunset Canoe Tour in Waterland with Dinner offers a stunning end-of-day paddle with a picnic dinner overlooking a lake. And if you want to combine the outdoors with a bit of history and culture, the Amsterdam Eastern Islands & Docklands; Guided Canoe Tour combines city water views with a relaxed paddle through historic waterways. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each experience to help you choose the perfect trip.
1. Amsterdam Countryside Bike and Kayak Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Amsterdam Countryside Bike and Kayak Tour offers a compact, five-hour adventure that’s perfect for those who want a taste of rural Holland without straying too far from Amsterdam. This small-group tour, limited to nine travelers, combines biking along scenic country roads with a kayak trip through wetlands, making it ideal for active travelers who want a well-rounded outdoor experience. The tour includes all bike equipment, so you don’t have to worry about hauling your own gear.
What makes this tour special is its focus on small-group intimacy and the chance to see landmarks like the Krijtmolen d’Admiraal, a 230-year-old windmill that used to mill chalk and now functions as an event space. The itinerary also features crossing the canal by cable ferry and wandering the waters around Watergang, a village that resembles Giethoorn with its charming waterways. Travelers love the relaxed pace and the chance to enjoy the Dutch countryside in a more personal setting—“a great escape from the city hustle,” as one review states. The tour ends back at Overhoeksplein in Amsterdam, making it easy to combine with other sightseeing.
Bottom Line: This tour appeals to those who want a manageable mix of biking, paddling, and sightseeing—perfect for small groups seeking a personalized, scenic experience.
2. Guided Canoe Adventure with Picnic Lunch in Waterland from Amsterdam
At number 2, the Guided Canoe Adventure with Picnic Lunch in Waterland from Amsterdam offers a peaceful, roughly five-hour journey into the lush Dutch wetlands. This tour begins with a short bus ride and walk to a local village house, where you’ll be introduced to the region. The highlight is paddling a canoe through the water-rich landscape filled with reedbeds, quaint villages, and islands full of birdlife, all guided by a knowledgeable expert.
The experience stands out for its immersive nature and the chance to stop for a picnic on a small island—a true highlight for food lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. The guide is praised for their friendliness and expertise, making this trip both relaxing and informative. Guests often remark on the breathtaking scenery and the quiet serenity of the waterways, with many saying it’s a perfect way to slow down and connect with Dutch nature. It’s ideal for families with children or anyone looking for a gentle, scenic escape.
Bottom Line: If you want to paddle through peaceful wetlands and enjoy a scenic picnic, this tour provides a relaxed, authentic taste of rural Waterland.
3. Small-Group Guided Sunset Canoe Tour in Waterland with Dinner
Number 3 on our list is the Small-Group Guided Sunset Canoe Tour in Waterland with Dinner. This 4-hour trip takes you into the water just as the day winds down, offering a magical sunset experience. The tour is limited to a small group for a more intimate outing, and the paddling route includes reed beds, meadows, and traditional wooden houses that seem straight out of a Dutch painting.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of gliding through landscapes that inspired Rembrandt and finishing with a picnic dinner by a lake. The sunset views over the farmland and windmills are breathtaking, with many guests describing it as “one of the most memorable moments” of their trip. The guide is praised for their friendly manner and the peaceful pace of the paddle, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike.
Bottom Line: For a relaxed, visually stunning evening, this tour offers a perfect blend of scenery, tranquility, and a delicious local-style picnic.
4. Amsterdam: Countryside Bike and Kayak Guided Tour
Next up, the Amsterdam: Countryside Bike and Kayak Guided Tour offers a 5-hour journey into North Holland that covers windmills, traditional villages, and wetlands. This tour combines paddling through Broek in Waterland’s waterways with visits to a historic windmill, the d’Admiraal, and a bike ride through quaint landscapes. It’s a well-balanced mix for those seeking both active exploration and cultural sights.
Tour guide Tristan is appreciated for his professionalism and local knowledge, ensuring a smooth experience. The tour includes all necessary equipment and covers multiple stops, including visits to a 14th-century church and a petting farm. The reviews emphasize the value for money, noting how the small group size fosters a personalized experience. The tour is ideal for travelers who want to see a variety of Dutch countryside sights in one day.
Bottom Line: This tour suits those who want a mix of paddling, sightseeing, and cultural stops with a small-group feel.
5. Amsterdam: 2-Hour Guided Canoe Trip
For a quick, relaxing outing, the Amsterdam: 2-Hour Guided Canoe Trip offers an easy way to discover the village of Watergang and the nearby wetlands. Priced affordably at just $43, it’s perfect for travelers short on time or looking for a gentle introduction to Dutch waterways.
This short paddle focuses on learning about the canals and wetlands while enjoying a peaceful ride away from the crowded city streets. The reviews highlight the friendly host and the beautiful scenery, making it a good choice for families or first-timers wanting a taste of paddling in Holland. It’s a straightforward, no-frills experience that still delivers authentic views of rural Waterland.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a quick, enjoyable paddle in a less crowded setting, this tour offers good value and a manageable time commitment.
6. Amsterdam 5-Hour Guided Canoe Trip in the Wetlands
At number 6, the Amsterdam 5-Hour Guided Canoe Trip in the Wetlands offers a more in-depth nature experience. This trip takes you into a dense reed-filled landscape just outside the city, passing through villages and windmills, with a picnic on an island included.
Guests love the enthusiastic guide and the opportunity to observe bird species like black-tailed godwits and lapwings in their natural habitat. It’s suited for nature lovers who want a longer, more immersive paddle and are comfortable with a 5-hour tour. The focus on birdwatching and the chance to enjoy a picnic amid pristine scenery make this a standout for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers looking to spend more time on the water and interested in birdwatching and nature photography.
7. Amsterdam: 2-Hour Stand Up Paddle Board Tour
If you’re after a unique way to see Amsterdam, the 2-Hour Stand Up Paddle Board Tour offers a fun challenge—standing on a paddleboard while exploring the canals. At $142, it’s one of the pricier options but delivers a full-body workout and unparalleled views of the city.
The tour guides are praised for their professionalism, and many mention how paddling under bridges and past landmarks like the Nautical Museum adds a new perspective. Be prepared to bring a waterproof bag for your belongings, as storage options are limited. This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with balancing on a board.
Bottom Line: For an energetic, memorable way to see Amsterdam’s waterways, this stands out as a novel experience.
8. Amsterdam: Dutch Countryside Sunset Canoe Tour
The Dutch Countryside Sunset Canoe Tour offers a perfect evening escape. Over four hours, you’ll paddle through farms and villages just outside the city, watching the sun set over the land. The tour includes a light picnic of local produce and opportunities for swimming if the weather permits.
Guests describe this as “an incredible evening,” with many noting the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views of farms and windmills bathed in sunset glow. It’s ideal for those seeking a quiet, scenic experience to end the day. The guide’s friendly attitude and the relaxing pace make it accessible even for beginners.
Bottom Line: If you want a peaceful, scenic evening paddle with a delicious picnic, this tour hits the mark.
9. Amsterdam Eastern Islands & Docklands; Guided Canoe Tour
Finally, the Eastern Islands & Docklands Guided Canoe Tour offers a full-day exploration of Amsterdam’s historic water routes. Starting from Borneokade, you’ll paddle through the city’s Eastern Docklands and Islands, passing under the replica of the 17th-century VOC vessel, Amsterdam. It’s a relaxing way to see the city’s modern and historic water architecture.
Ideal for those interested in learning about Amsterdam’s urban water development while enjoying a leisurely paddle, this longer tour allows for optional swimming and sightseeing along the way. Reviews note the fascinating water views and the friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers interested in a longer, cultural water experience that combines city history with outdoor fun.
How to Choose Your Perfect Canoe & Kayak Experience in Amsterdam
Choosing the right tour depends on your budget, time, fitness level, and what you want to see. If you prefer a quick introduction, the 2-hour guided canoe trip offers a relaxing taste of Waterland. For a full day immersed in nature, the 5-hour Wetlands safari is ideal. Budget travelers might opt for the 2-hour paddleboard, while those seeking sunset views will enjoy the Sunset Canoe Tour.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (spring through early fall), and consider your comfort level with paddling or biking. Many tours provide all necessary equipment and small-group settings for a more personal experience. Whether you want a quick paddle, a scenic picnic, or a sunset adventure, there’s a water-based tour in Amsterdam suited just for you.
Final thoughts:
From quick, budget-friendly paddles to extended nature explorations, Amsterdam’s canoe and kayak experiences open a different way to enjoy the city’s surroundings. If you’re after a peaceful break in nature, the Waterland canoe tours or sunset paddles are perfect. For active travelers, the Countryside Bike and Kayak Tour combines two great Dutch pastimes. Whatever your style, booking early will ensure you don’t miss out on these authentic, water-based adventures.