Amsterdam offers more than just tulips and bicycles; it’s also a surprisingly great city for wine lovers. With its historic canals, vibrant neighborhoods, and lively bar scene, the Dutch capital provides a charming backdrop for wine tours that range from casual boat rides to luxurious private cruises. We particularly like the Luxury Boat Cruise with unlimited cocktails for its VIP experience, and the Cheese & Wine Cruise Tasting for a perfect blend of local flavors and scenic views. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a serious connoisseur, Amsterdam’s wine tours promise memorable moments on the water or in intimate tasting rooms.
Quick Overview
Our list includes a variety of experiences to suit different tastes and budgets. You’ll find classic canal cruises with optional wine tastings (link), luxury small-group cruises with unlimited drinks (link), private Champagne cruises (link), and educational wine and cheese tastings (link). There are options for romantic evenings, group gatherings, and even private celebrations. Read on to find the perfect fit for your Amsterdam visit.
1. Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Optional Cheese & Wine
This covered canal cruise is a fantastic way to see the city from the water, with the option to add unlimited drinks and cheese. The boat glides past landmarks like the Maritime Museum, the Skinny Bridge, and the trendy Amstel neighborhood. With just an hour on a fully electric boat, you get a relaxing, eco-friendly ride while your friendly hostess shares fascinating stories about Amsterdam’s waterways. The tour offers panoramic views and the chance to kiss under the Skinny Bridge, making it ideal for couples or anyone who wants a laid-back introduction to the city. Guests often praise the friendly crew and the interactive experience.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, relaxed way to enjoy canal views with optional cheese and wine, perfect for first-timers or those wanting a quick scenic escape.
2. Amsterdam: Evening Cruise with Optional Wine and Snacks
The evening cruise offers a magical perspective of Amsterdam at night, with the city’s bridges and historic canal houses illuminated. The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours and departs from two convenient locations. Along the way, you’ll see iconic sights like Prinsengracht, Westerkerk, and the Rijksmuseum, all while enjoying the stunning reflections of the city lights. Opt for snacks and wine sold onboard or bring your own for a personalized experience. Reviewers love how peaceful and picturesque the city looks from the water after sunset, with many mentioning how perfect it is for Instagram photos or a romantic date.
Bottom Line: Ideal for an atmospheric, no-fuss evening out, especially if you want to soak in the city’s nighttime charm with a glass of wine.
3. Amsterdam: Luxury Boat Cruise Unlimited Cocktails, Beers & Wines
This VIP small-group cruise elevates the experience with personalized attention and a fully stocked open bar. Boarding behind the Krasnapolsky hotel, you’ll glide through Amsterdam’s top sights like the Hermitage and the Skinny Bridge, all while enjoying live commentary and unlimited drinks. The boat is a sleek electric vessel, offering a quiet, smooth ride in a luxurious setting capped at 15 guests. Guests rave about the friendly hosts and the value for money—with many saying it’s the highlight of their trip. For around $34, it’s a very accessible way to indulge in wines, beers, and cocktails while exploring.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a high-end, intimate experience with unlimited drinks, making it a top choice for celebrating special occasions.
4. Amsterdam: Cheese & Wine Cruise Tasting Experience
Set on a heated boat, this cheese and wine cruise combines the best of Dutch flavors with spectacular views of the canals. You’ll sample various Dutch cheeses and sip unlimited wines or beers as you glide past sights like the Anne Frank House and Magere Brug. The captain and host share stories about Dutch cheese-making traditions and city landmarks, making it both a tasting and cultural experience. Guests appreciate the cozy atmosphere and the chance to relax while sightseeing. The tour lasts about 75 minutes, making it a great short but memorable outing.
Bottom Line: A tasty, relaxed way to enjoy Amsterdam’s scenery and culinary delights, ideal for couples or small groups seeking a flavorful twist.
5. Amsterdam: Dutch Cheese Tasting Experience with Wine
For cheese lovers, this 45-minute tasting offers a deep dive into Dutch cheese traditions. You’ll taste five Gouda varieties paired with three wines selected by a sommelier. The guide shares stories about cheese-making and the history of Old Amsterdam cheese, enhancing the experience. Guests find the informative commentary and friendly atmosphere particularly appealing, plus you’ll receive a certificate to remember the day. The tour is popular for its value and educational content, with many calling it a “highlight of their trip.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies wanting an interactive, educational tasting that combines local flavors with excellent wine pairings.
6. Amsterdam Wine and Cheese Evening Cruise
This romantic cruise offers a cozy, glass-enclosed boat cruising along the canals, with wines and Dutch cheeses onboard. The 1-hour 15-minute journey provides stunning illuminated views of the city’s landmarks, including the Golden Bend and Amstel Hotel. It’s ideal for celebrating a special moment or just unwinding after a day of sightseeing. Reviewers love how relaxing and intimate the atmosphere is, with many saying it’s a perfect way to “cozy up” with someone special amidst Amsterdam’s magical lights.
Bottom Line: A lovely option for a romantic, relaxed evening with plenty of wine and cheese to go around.
7. Amsterdam: Wine and Cheese Evening Cruise
This evening cruise takes you through the Canal Belt, showcasing Amsterdam at night, lit beautifully under bridges. While cruising for about 1.5 hours, you’ll sample local wines and Dutch cheeses, with the boat passing under illuminated bridges and past merchant houses from the Golden Age. Many reviews highlight the excellent value, the friendly crew, and the delicious cheese platter. It’s a great choice if you enjoy a lively atmosphere and want to see the city’s nightscape from the water.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting a fun, social experience with good wine, cheese, and scenic views.
8. Classic Salonboat Tour in Amsterdam Including Cheese and Wine
On this classic salon boat, you’ll enjoy a relaxed, stylish ride through Amsterdam’s canals. The tour covers landmarks like the Magere Brug, Anne Frank House, and Jordaan district. As you glide past historic sites, you’ll enjoy Dutch cheeses and drinks while listening to engaging stories about the city’s culture and trading history. The boat’s comfortable interior and friendly guide make it perfect for a cozy, informative experience. Many travelers love the personalized attention and the opportunity to learn about Amsterdam in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a stylish, entertaining tour with good food and rich commentary.
9. Private Champagne Canal Cruise in Amsterdam
For a truly luxurious experience, this private champagne cruise offers an hour and a half of elegance. You’ll board a 1920s-style salon boat with a private captain, cruising through the flower-lined canals of De Jordaan. You can celebrate a special occasion with complimentary Champagne, and enjoy limited beer, wine, and sodas afterward. The boat’s historic status and sophisticated ambiance make it perfect for romantic getaways or private parties. The reviews highlight the beautiful boat, the knowledgeable captain, and the personalized service. Cost is higher, but the exclusivity and luxury justify it.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those wanting an intimate, high-end celebration with Champagne and privacy.
10. Amsterdam Champagne Private Canal Cruise
This private Champagne cruise is similar to the previous, but for up to 12 people, offering a personalized, exclusive experience. Cruising along historic waterways, you’ll enjoy unlimited Champagne and commentary about the sights from your captain. It’s perfect for small groups or special celebrations. The historic vessel adds a sense of importance, and many highlight the excellent service and beautiful scenery. The tour takes about 1.5 hours, making it a luxurious but manageable outing.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for private groups wanting exclusivity and Champagne on the canals.
11. Amsterdam Canal Cruise with Cheese and Wine
This chic wooden boat tour combines scenic canal cruising with Dutch cheese and unlimited wine. The local guide shares stories about the city, while you relax and savor the flavors. The boat passes landmarks like the Houseboat Museum and the Negen Straatjes. Visitors appreciate the personalized service and the comfortable atmosphere, making it a great way to spend an hour. It’s especially popular among food and wine enthusiasts who want a relaxed yet informative experience.
Bottom Line: A charming, intimate tour suitable for small groups or couples seeking a taste of Amsterdam’s culinary and scenic delights.
12. Amsterdam Luxury Boutique Boat Tour with Unlimited Beer and Wine
This short, 45-minute tour offers a rundown of Amsterdam’s highlights from a luxurious, cushioned boat. With the option of unlimited beer and wine, you can enjoy the views of the Rembrandt House, Magere Brug, and other iconic sights while relaxing in style. The guide provides insider insights on the city’s history and architecture, making it a value-packed experience for those short on time but wanting a taste of the city’s waterways.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a quick, upscale overview with unlimited drinks.
13. Cheese and Wine tasting in Amsterdam
This 55-minute experience combines educational tasting of five Dutch cheeses with white, red, and port wines. The guide explains the subtle flavors and pairing principles, making it perfect for foodies and wine lovers. The setting, a traditional tasting room, adds to the authentic atmosphere. Many say it’s a great way to learn about Dutch cheese while enjoying a delicious pairing session. The value is excellent, considering the quality of cheeses and wines involved.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a focused, educational tasting that combines culinary delights with cultural insights.
14. Amsterdam: Dutch Wine Tasting with Sommelier
This 1.5 to 2-hour tasting in a speakeasy-style room features five Dutch wines expertly explained by a sommelier. The host’s passion and knowledge make it stand out, and the small-group setting ensures a personal experience. Guests learn about Dutch wine production and how to taste like a pro, with fancy bread to complement the wines. The reviews repeatedly praise the informative and fun nature of this tour, which is perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of regional wines.
Bottom Line: A specialized experience for wine lovers who want in-depth knowledge and a relaxed, intimate environment.
15. Exclusive Cheese Walk & Dutch Wine Discovery
This 3-hour walking tour combines cheese shopping with wine tasting at two cheese shops and a Dutch wine shop. Led by Michael, a longtime cheese shop owner, you’ll learn how to recognize quality cheeses and assemble the perfect cheese board. The tour includes visits to the 9 Little Streets, the Anne Frank House, and the Jordaan. Many reviewers find it a comprehensive, engaging, and delicious way to explore Amsterdam’s food culture, with personalized guidance from a cheese expert. It’s best suited for foodies and small groups ready for a longer, more immersive experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a hands-on, educational, and tasty journey through Amsterdam’s cheese and wine scene.
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, time commitment, and interests. For a quick, scenic overview, the Classic Boat Cruise with optional cheese & wine offers great value at just $19. If you want a luxurious, private experience, the Champagne private tour is unbeatable, though at a higher price. For food-focused travelers, the Dutch cheese tasting with wine or the Cheese & Wine Cruise provide a hands-on culinary journey.
Timing wise, consider whether you prefer daytime sightseeing or an atmospheric nighttime experience like the Evening Cruise. Book early, especially for private or luxury options, as they tend to fill quickly.
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam’s wine tours span from affordable scenic cruises to luxurious private champagne experiences, catering to a variety of tastes and budgets. For travelers eager to combine scenic views with tastings, the Luxury Boat Cruise and the Cheese & Wine Cruise stand out. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the private champagne cruise offers a memorable, intimate setting.
Whether you’re a casual visitor wanting a quick sip or a serious connoisseur seeking in-depth knowledge, this list provides excellent options to enhance your Amsterdam trip. Don’t forget to book early—these tours tend to fill up, especially in peak season. Cheers to a memorable experience on Amsterdam’s beautiful canals!