Dordrecht stands out among Dutch cities thanks to its rich maritime past, impressive architecture, and vibrant street scene. Its compact size makes it ideal for exploring through guided tours, whether on foot, by boat, or even via interactive games. We especially enjoy the Dordrecht Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour because it offers a perfect blend of history, architecture, and local charm, all within a relaxed 1.5-hour stroll. For water lovers, the City Canal Cruise showcases the city’s picturesque waterways from an open boat, offering a perspective you simply can’t get from land. Plus, the Biesbosch National Park Cruise and kayak rentals reveal the stunning natural beauty just outside the city.
If you prefer a more interactive experience, the e-Scavenger Hunt turns sightseeing into a fun challenge, great for families or friends. Art enthusiasts will find the Street Art Tour a refreshing look at Dordrecht’s creative side. Whether you’re into history, nature, adventure, or art, Dordrecht offers a diverse lineup of tours suited to every interest.
1. Dordrecht: Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour
For just $14 per person, this guided walking tour grants an insightful introduction to the city’s most iconic landmarks and lesser-known corners. The tour, which lasts about 1.5 hours, begins at Voorstraat 276, a central location in Dordrecht, and covers the Great Church, City Hall, and the harbor area. Your local guide shares stories behind the medieval architecture, giving life to the city’s 13th-century origins.
What makes this tour stand out is the mix of famous sites and hidden treasures, including quiet streets and charming squares. The reviews praise guides like Tom and Krystal, citing their knowledge, friendliness, and sense of humor. One reviewer mentions, “Edwin was a WONDERFUL guide,” and appreciated how he tailored the tour to interests, making it feel private. At a very reasonable price, this walk is ideal for first-timers wanting a comprehensive, friendly overview.
Bottom Line: A perfect introduction to Dordrecht, blending history, architecture, and local flavor in a short, engaging experience.
2. Dordrecht: City Canal Cruise
For $20, this 75-minute boat cruise offers a scenic tour of the oldest city’s picturesque waterways. Departing from Grote Appelsteiger, the cruise is operated on open boats that are covered during rain, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, providing colorful commentary about Dordrecht’s maritime significance and architectural highlights.
Traveling by water adds a different dimension to your sightseeing. One reviewer called it “a very enjoyable and beautiful round trip,” emphasizing how the open boat offers great photo opportunities. It’s especially good for those who prefer relaxed, scenic experiences or have limited time but want to see the city from a different angle.
Bottom Line: An enjoyable, well-priced way to see Dordrecht’s historic core from the water, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
3. Biesbosch: National Park Cruise
At $18, this 75-minute boat tour takes you into the Biesbosch National Park, one of the Netherlands’ most beloved natural reserves. Your friendly skipper guides you through the meandering creeks and reed beds, sharing stories about the wildlife and history of this protected area. The park is home to beavers, ospreys, and kingfishers, making it a fantastic outing for nature lovers.
The tour’s highlight is the intimate nature experience, with small groups and the ability to ask questions. Refreshments are available on board, adding to the relaxed vibe. Reviews note the knowledgeable guide and the serene setting. Perfect if you want a peaceful escape from city life, or if you’re keen on spotting wildlife in their natural habitat.
Bottom Line: A charming way to explore the wild side of Dordrecht, combining easy boat travel with plenty of nature.
4. e-Scavenger Hunt Dordrecht: Explore the city at your own pace
For around $37, this interactive smartphone game transforms sightseeing into a fun and competitive activity. Designed for groups up to six, it lasts about three hours and guides you through squares, streets, and monuments while solving puzzles and challenges. It’s a perfect choice for families or friends wanting an active, self-guided adventure.
Using GPS and your smartphone, you can start and stop at your convenience, making it flexible for any schedule. It’s available in multiple languages, including English, German, and Spanish. Many reviews highlight how engaging and family-friendly the experience is, leaving players with a deeper appreciation for Dordrecht’s historic sites and quirky stories.
Bottom Line: An entertaining way to discover Dordrecht at your own pace, especially suited for tech-savvy travelers and groups looking for a playful exploration.
5. Dordrecht: City Walking Tour with Boat Ride
At $40, this combo tour spans 2 hours, combining a guided walk through Dordrecht’s streets with a panoramic boat cruise. The walk takes you past landmarks like the Grote Kerk, the historical harbor, and the Three River Point, bringing the city’s medieval charm alive. Afterward, the boat ride offers a different perspective on the city’s waterways and bridges.
Reviews mention that the boat part “has much to make up for,” especially since it provides a better view of the city’s architecture. It’s a good option for those who want both history and scenery in a compact experience. The tour is suited for travelers wanting a rundown in a short time.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded option that combines walking and boating, ideal for visitors who want a deeper connection with Dordrecht’s landscape.
6. Dordrecht: Dark History Tour
For $19, this 1.5-hour tour takes you into Dordrecht’s shadowy past. Your guide shares stories of murder, piracy, witches, and crime, revealing the city’s sinister side rarely seen on typical tours. Starting from Voorstraat 276, the tour visits spots linked to criminal tales and dark legends.
Reviews praise the guide, Marco, for sharing “exciting stories framed in a beautiful tour,” making it an interesting choice for history buffs or those curious about darker tales. It’s especially appealing to travelers who enjoy storytelling and atmospheric strolls.
Bottom Line: A captivating alternative to standard tours, perfect for those interested in Dordrecht’s more mysterious stories.
7. Discover the best spots in Dordrecht with Outside Escape
At $30, this riddle-based tour guides groups of up to six through famous squares, historic buildings, and notable landmarks like the Aardappelmarkt and Wijnstraat. The tour, lasting 1 to 2 hours, invites you to solve puzzles and uncover secrets about the city’s history, including the De Witt brothers’ tragic story.
It’s ideal for families or groups wanting an interactive, fun challenge. The tour’s uniqueness lies in its riddle-solving format, making history engaging and memorable. Reviewers mention it as a “fun way to learn about Dordrecht,” especially if you enjoy puzzles and mysteries.
Bottom Line: A playful, engaging way to explore Dordrecht’s history, especially suited for puzzle lovers and those wanting an active experience.
8. Biesbosch: Kayak Rental with Route Map and Life Jacket
For flexible exploration, rent a kayak for 2 to 4 hours in Biesbosch National Park. This self-guided option allows you to paddle through tiny creeks and reeds, with safety gear included. You’ll likely spot beavers, ospreys, and kingfishers, making it a nature lover’s dream.
The rental includes a route map, and the park’s tranquil waters are perfect for paddlers of all levels. Reviewers appreciate the easy setup and the chance to get off the beaten path. It’s best suited for those comfortable with independent exploration and looking for a personal adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for experienced paddlers or adventurous beginners wanting to experience Dordrecht’s natural beauty up close.
9. Historical Dordrecht: Private Tour with Local Guide
At $350, this private 1.5-hour tour offers a personalized deep dive into Dordrecht’s most significant sites. Led by a local guide, it covers the Great Church, City Hall, harbor, and Groothoofd gate. The tour is tailored to your interests, ensuring nothing important is missed.
Guests rave about the guide’s expertise and engaging storytelling, making it a luxury experience for history enthusiasts or those wanting a rundown. This tour is ideal for small groups or private celebrations.
Bottom Line: A premium, personalized experience perfect for travelers craving a customized immersion into Dordrecht’s history.
$348.70 per group (up to 12)
10. Escape the City – Interactive city walk in Dordrecht
At $79, this interactive 3-hour adventure invites up to six people to actively explore Dordrecht through riddles and challenges. You choose your start time and pace, making it flexible and fun. It’s great for families, couples, or friends who want a dynamic, engaging experience.
Rated highly for fun and originality, it encourages participants to find hidden spots and learn quirky facts along the way. It suits travelers who prefer participatory activities over passive sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A lively, engaging alternative for those who want to experience Dordrecht in a playful, hands-on way.
$79.94 per group (up to 6)
11. Biesbosch: SUP Board Rental
Rent a SUP board for 2-4 hours and explore Biesbosch’s calm waters at your own pace. This activity is perfect for those who enjoy stand-up paddling and want to discover the hidden creeks and wildlife like beavers and ospreys.
Sup rentals include a waterproof barrel for valuables and a life jacket. Reviewers cite the fun and freedom of exploring the park on a SUP. It’s suitable for paddlers of all skill levels, especially those comfortable with independent adventure.
Bottom Line: An excellent, flexible way to connect with Dordrecht’s natural environment on your own schedule.
12. Dordrecht: Street Art Tour
At 1.5 hours, this street art tour explores Dordrecht’s urban art scene, uncovering murals, statues, and artistic facades. Guided by an expert, you’ll learn the stories behind the creative works that adorn the city’s streets.
This tour is perfect for lovers of modern art and local creativity, providing a fresh perspective on Dordrecht’s artistic side. It offers an alternative to traditional sightseeing, highlighting hidden murals and stories that often go unnoticed.
Guests love discovering how street art reflects the city’s culture and history. It’s a great choice for those wanting a different lens on Dordrecht.
Bottom Line: An inspiring, arts-focused walk that showcases a different, colorful side of the city.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Dordrecht
When selecting a tour, consider your interests, budget, and time. For a rundown with history and architecture, the Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour is hard to beat. If you love water-based adventures, the City Canal Cruise or Biesbosch boat trips are perfect. For a more active experience, the e-Scavenger Hunt or kayak/SUP rentals deliver fun and flexibility.
Travelers on a tight schedule may prefer shorter options like the Dark History Tour or the Street Art Tour, while those seeking a personalized experience will find value in the Private Guided Tour. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular activities like the canal cruise or private tours.
Final Thoughts
Dordrecht offers a diverse lineup of tours that cater to history buffs, nature lovers, art fans, and families. Whether you want to walk through medieval streets, glide along waterways, or solve riddles in an interactive game, there’s something for all. We particularly recommend the Highlights and Hidden Gems Walking Tour for a warm, informative introduction, or the City Canal Cruise for a relaxing water view. For adventure seekers, the kayak or SUP rentals put you right in the middle of Dordrecht’s beautiful natural surroundings.
No matter which option you choose, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. Enjoy exploring Dordrecht’s charm, history, and hidden corners—you’ll be glad you did.
Feel free to explore each tour in detail and pick the one that best suits your style and schedule. Happy exploring!