Enjoying a Canal Cruise in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a stunning city when just seen from the land, but residents recommend a canal cruise or Amsterdam dinner cruise for the best experience. Learn what is available and how to pick the best option to enjoy this ancient and historic city.

One of the best ways to see the city of Amsterdam is with a canal cruise. There are a long series of canals which wind through the city, and make for a beautiful environment during the daytime or at night. There are many different activities to enjoy while on the canals, from an Amsterdam dinner cruise to a daytime tour.

Canal Cruise: Amsterdam from the Water

Amsterdam is an incredibly unique city. Not only is it considered a cultural center and a bastion of tolerance, it is also beautiful. It was built on 90 islands linked by over 400 different bridges, and this core of the city remains in the city center. Homes are built directly on the water, many of them styled like the original homes built in as early as 1500. Many homes are built near drawbridges, and incorporate the canals. In addition to the natural channels between the islands, Amsterdam also has an additional number of man-made canals that have been added over time.

Because the water is such an integral part of Amsterdam, no visit to the city is complete without a canal cruise. Amsterdam is lit by natural sunlight in the daytime, but at night the buildings can be lit and seem even more ancient and elegant than they are. There are many different options to select, with different routes of travel and durations.

Enjoying an Amsterdam Dinner Cruise

One of the best ways to see the city in the nighttime is to enjoy dinner while watching the scenery. An Amsterdam dinner cruise will orient you in the city and allow you to truly enjoy everything in a relaxed manner. In addition, you will be able to enjoy the fine food on the cruise and a night out with your traveling companions.

Arranging a private booking is one of the best ways to enjoy the city with a group. Such a cruise can be a popular option for companies holding a meeting in the city and for school groups who travel and tour.

Artificial Islands and More

The route of different water tours can vary dramatically. Some of the most exciting may include newer developments like the artificial islands of Borneo, Sporenburg, and Java/KNSM. There are modern houses here which can be a great contrast to older homes nearer city center. Churches and museums are also visible from the water, as are some of the beaches and other landmarks.

Planning Your Tour

The best way to experience the city as an unguided novice is to take a tour. You may be able to rent a boat individually, but without knowledge of where you are going and what you are seeing tours are usually unrewarding. There are many guided tour options to choose from, both for dinner and for daytime. Whatever option you choose, don't pass up a canal cruise in Amsterdam. Residents and visitors agree that the views of the city from water are totally disparate from the land views and beautiful enough to be unmissable.

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