lovers canal cruise i amsterdam card

Lovers Canal Cruises

• See all photos

Amsterdam 1 hour Canal Cruise from Central Station

Dinner Canal Cruise Amsterdam

Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise

Amsterdam 1-Hour Sightseeing Canal Cruise by Semi-Open Boat

Amsterdam Wine and Cheese Evening Cruise

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Lovers Canal Cruises - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Lovers Canal Cruises

• See all photos

Amsterdam 1 hour Canal Cruise from Central Station

Dinner Canal Cruise Amsterdam

Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise

Amsterdam 1-Hour Sightseeing Canal Cruise by Semi-Open Boat

Amsterdam Wine and Cheese Evening Cruise

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

LOVERS CANAL CRUISES (Amsterdam) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

I amsterdam City Card 2024 Guide & Review

The I amsterdam City Card is an official city pass available for tourists and visitors to Amsterdam. It provides free entry and discounts to over 70 museums/attractions in and around Amsterdam as well as free use of city public transport. Book the I amsterdam City Card online here

This Amsterdam city pass is issued by ‘amsterdam&partners’, a not-for-profit public-private organisation under its ‘I amsterdam’ brand.

In this article we offer a detailed review of the I amsterdam City Card . We’ll take a look at the costs, benefits and drawbacks of this card, whether the card is worth it and suggest how you could maximise its use.

Officially the card is known as the ‘ I amsterdam City Card ‘ although some confuse the name as ‘Iamsterdam’ City Card, ‘I am amsterdam’ card or the Iamsterdam City Pass.

I amsterdam City Card FAQ

How much does the i amsterdam city card cost in 2024.

The I amsterdam City Card in 2024 comes with 5 validity options:

• Widest choice of free museums in and around Amsterdam
• Free GVB Amsterdam transport
• Valid on a 24 hour basis (into the next calendar day)
• Digital card or physical card
• Additional discounts and freebies available
• Not valid for Van Gogh Museum or Anne Frank House
• No reduced child rate

Order the I amsterdam City Card (digital) via Tiqets here

From the table you can see that the card becomes successively better value for the longer validity periods. The 1 day card will set you back €60 – in contrast, the difference between a 4 day and 5 day card is only €10.

You can purchase the I amsterdam City Card (digital version) online here

The digital card can be bought online. If you wish to have a physical card take your confirmation to I amsterdam store (IJ-side) at Amsterdam Central station who should be able to switch it over. They can also handle any other queries/issues about the card.

It is open 0900-1900 (Mon-Fri) and 0900-1800 (Sat-Sun)

Are there any discounts for purchasing the I amsterdam City Card for children, students or seniors 65+?

No there are no discount options available for the I amsterdam City Card for children, students and seniors.

Don’t forget that many museums in Amsterdam allow free entry to kids – this means the I amsterdam card is sometimes not worth purchasing for under 10s, depending on the museums you want to visit.

However, if you plan to visit attractions such as NEMO Science Museum and ARTIS Zoo (which both charge standard entry fees to young children) then getting the card could be worthwhile.

Which museums and attractions in and around Amsterdam offer free entry to I amsterdam City Card holders?

There are over 40 museums and 5 attractions in the city which give free entry to I amsterdam City Card holders. The card affords a single visit only – multiple visits are not permitted.

Here is the I amsterdam City card attractions list (with major attractions in bold) and for comparison the regular 2024 entry price:

During special exhibitions at some major museums you may be asked to pay a small supplement.

Does the I amsterdam city card give free entry to the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam?

No, unfortunately the card does not offer free or discounted entry to the Anne Frank House museum. If you wish to visit the Anne Frank House you must buy your tickets with a date/timeslot directly from the museum.

Does the I amsterdam city card give free entry to the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam?

No. Since 1 June 2022 the I amsterdam City Card is no longer valid for free entry to the Van Gogh Museum . You would need to buy a separate ticket and book a timeslot to visit the museum.

Which other major museums in Amsterdam are NOT valid for free entry with the I amsterdam city card?

Please be aware that the I amsterdam City Card does not offer free entry to the Royal Palace (Koninklijk Paleis) and STRAAT Museum .

Does the I amsterdam City Card give free entry to museums outside Amsterdam?

The card is also valid for free entry at the following places:

Note, the included GVB transport pass would only allow you to get to COBRA museum in Amstelveen.

All the other places listed above (except Enkhuizen) can be reached using the separate Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket

How does the I amsterdam City Card work?

For the digital version of the card you need to download the official I amsterdam City Card app for iPhone or Android. The app features an interactive map and gives a full up-to-date listing of locations available on the card.

You follow the instructions to add your card into the app. When you are then ready to use the card in Amsterdam you can simply activate it.

Via the app you can transfer cards to family/group members, though note you can only transfer a card once.

You scan the code when entering a museum/attraction or when checking-in and out of GVB public transport using the card readers.

The physical card is activated on first use – just present or scan your card on each visit. It is also used for checking-in and -out on GVB public transport.

Don’t forget – some museums/attractions require that you book a timeslot in advance online before you arrive. You can do this via the I amsterdam app or website.

What are the public transport benefits with an I amsterdam City Card?

The included transport chip card is valid for GVB public transport in the Amsterdam city area. GVB is the municipal transport company which runs Amsterdam trams , ferries , the Amsterdam metro and some buses .

The public transport ticket has the same time validity as the card – 24 to 120 hours which would normally cost between €9 and €33.

Please note, you cannot use the I amsterdam City card for travel on NS Dutch Railways or any regional buses. This means it is not valid on the airport train or airport bus 397, nor on EBS buses to Waterland and fishing villages.

It can be used on GVB bus 369 between Schiphol Airport and Amsterdam Sloterdijk station, although this journey is much longer than the train trip.

If you plan to travel around the Amsterdam region you may want to also consider purchasing the Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket online here in addition.

With the I amsterdam City Card you also get a free ride on the Batavia Stad Shopping Shuttle bus.

What about bike rental with the I amsterdam City card?

You get a 24 hour free bike rental with one of the following outfits: A-Bikes, AmsterBike, MacBike or Yellow Bikes in Amsterdam or ‘Rent & Event’ at Volendam. This would normally cost around €15.

What canal cruises and boat trips are included with the I amsterdam City Card?

You get one complimentary canal cruise from either Amsterdam Boat Cruises, Blue Boat Company (City Canal Cruise), Stromma (100 Highlights Cruise), Amsterdam Circle Line or Lovers (Romantic boat tour). This standard ticket price would be €15-€20.

You can also choose instead to take a cruise at Smidtje Canal Cruises in Haarlem or a Windmill Cruise at Zaanse Schans.

You can also do the following free boat trips :

The Rederij Volendam-Marken Express ferry between Volendam and Marken; the Zaanferry Zaanse Schans which operates the Amsterdam-Zaandam-Zaanse Schans route.

What if I lose my I amsterdam City Card?

Unfortunately, if you lose the physical card you will not be able to get a free replacement. So take care of the card!

What other discounts do you get with the I amsterdam Card?

The card gives a 25% discount at a number of different attractions and activities:

Attractions: Amsterdam Dungeon Body Worlds: The Happiness Project Fabrique des Lumières Heineken Experience Het Kattenkabinet (Cat Cabinet Museum) House of Bols Cocktail & Genever Experience Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium Tour Madame Tussauds Amsterdam Nxt Museum Our House – Museum of Electronic Music Culture Roller Dreams Rembrandts Amsterdam Experience STRAAT Museum (Street Art and Graffiti Museum) The Upside Down Amsterdam

Shows: Bimhuis – jazz Boom Chicago – English language comedy shows Dutch National Ballet & Opera Muziekgebouw aan’t IJ – contemporary music concert hall

Transport: Canal Motorboats rentals Canal Tours Amsterdam Pedal Boats MokumBoot (boat rental) Stromma Cruises Amsterdam Tourist Ferry to Pampus and Muiderslot Castle (April – October)

The Restaurant de Hoop op d’Swarte Walvis in Zaandam and Taverne De Visscher in Marken give a 25% discount.

Any other freebies?

A free Amsterdam Introduction Walking Tour from Dam Square is included, run by outfit Whois Amsterdam.

The Amsterdam Do-It-Yourself foodie tour is included with the I amsterdam City card. This is a guide in pdf format which takes you to 6 shops and market stalls in the colourful De Pijp district. You can try a range of Dutch street food, food must be purchased but discounts for tour participants are offered.

You get a free liqueur or genever shot at De Drie Fleschjes ;

Free entrance is granted to Holland Casino Amsterdam.

You can pick up a free walking tour brochure at VVV Harlem Tourist Information.

Finally, the card also comes with a free I amsterdam City Guide magazine which can be picked up at the I amsterdam store.

How can I maximise the use of the I amsterdam City Card?

Because of the current need to book some timeslots in advance, it is absolutely essential you make a plan of all the places you wish to visit with the card.

To maximise benefit of the I amsterdam card you will need to be efficient by doing as follows:

• Clustering visits of museums close to each other to avoid excessive travel. For example, Rijksmuseum, Diamond Museum, MOCO and Stedelijk museums all closely located on Museumplein. Artis Zoo, Verzetsmuseum, Hortus Botanical Gardens, the Jewish Cultural Quarter, Rembrandt House and the Maritime Museum are found in and around the Plantage district.
• Compare opening hours of museums and take advantage of ones with later opening hours. For example, MOCO (normally) stays open until 2100 Fri-Sun; FOAM until 2100 Thu-Fri; Huis Marseille until 2100 on Thursdays. Be aware that some museums are closed on Mondays .
• Break up a cluster of museums visits with a canal cruise or outdoor activity such as a visit to the Hortus Botanical Gardens or the A’DAM Lookout panorama deck.

• During the validity period, focus your visits to attractions included on the I amsterdam card. If you wish to visit the Anne Frank House or Keukenhof flower gardens (both not included) then if possible do these after your card has expired, assuming you have available time.

Are there any other alternatives to the I amsterdam card?

This includes Heineken Experience, Rijksmuseum, A’DAM Lookout, MOCO Museum, Jewish Cultural Quarter and This is Holland. It also includes the Stromma 100 highlights cruise, a 1 hour pedal boat rental and bike rental.

The standard rates are €114 (2 days), €139 (3 days) and €184 (5 days) – though these are sometimes discounted further. You can book a Go City: Amsterdam All Inclusive Pass here

The Go City Pass has better coverage of attractions in Amsterdam and also gives you the option of taking some interesting tours.

Alternatively, the Go City: Amsterdam Explorer Pass allows you 3, 4, 5, 6 or 7 attractions to visit over a period of 60 days. Prices are €69 (3 attractions), €89 (4), €104 (5), €114 (6) and €149 (7). You can book a Go City: Amsterdam Explorer Pass here

One big difference to the I amsterdam City Card is that Go City offers reduced child (3-12) rates for its passes – although some of the Go City attractions are not suitable for kids.

You can use the passes on your phone via the Go City app or just show the pass code (phone or print out).

See our full side-by-side comparison: I amsterdam City Card vs Go City All Inclusive Amsterdam Pass

Go City’s Amsterdam All Inclusive Passes and Amsterdam Explorer Passes do not include the public transport component, although you could easily combine this separately by purchasing unlimited Amsterdam GVB travel passes (1-7 days).

What about the Dutch Museumkaart?

The Museumkaart (Netherlands Museum Pass) costs €75 (€39 for children 0-18) which allows unlimited free entry into over 500 museums in the Netherlands for 12 months.

However, if you live outside of the Netherlands then buying a full Museumkaart can be a bit challenging . It can only be purchased online if you have a Dutch address and use Dutch internet banking.

There is the option of the temporary Museumkaart bought over-the-counter at certain museums for the price mentioned. However this is only valid for 31 days and offers only 5 museum visits including the one where you purchase the card.

After that the card stops working and must be registered online for the full version – which is only be sent by post to a EU/UK address.

Verdict: Is the I amsterdam City Card worth it?

The I amsterdam City Card is not particularly cheap at first glance. However, considering entry to major museums and attractions in Amsterdam can now run at €15-25 each time, you can certainly make some savings on a card purchase with a well-planned and executed itinerary.

The major benefit of the card has always been the convenience of an all-in-one transport and museum/attraction pass – with a few freebies and discounts thrown in.

Having to pre-book timeslots these days is a bit of a hassle and may take some spontaneity out of your visit. Even without a card you would still have to pre-book many visits anyhow.

The loss of the Van Gogh Museum has also slightly devalued the card.

For residents/expats and frequent visitors we would probably recommend the Museumkaart as it is valid for the whole year.

For others (especially first-time visitors) we would certainly recommend the I amsterdam City Card.

Let’s consider the best value 120 hour (5 day) card which costs €125 (€25 per day). If we take away the public transport 5 day ticket price component (€33), a canal cruise (€16) and bike rental (€15) the card would effectively cost €61 which is a shade over €12 per day.

With 2-3 museum/attraction visits per day you could easily recoup the value of the I amsterdam City Card and save money.

In addition, the I Amsterdam card also gives you the opportunity to experience a broad array of Amsterdam cultural activities and create some interesting itineraries.

You can buy the I amsterdam City Card digital card online here

Last update 26 March 2024 . This article was originally published in 2008 and has been regularly updated.

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

Related Articles

H’ART Museum in Amsterdam

Louwman Museum in Den Haag

ARCAM – Architecture Centre Amsterdam

Madurodam – Holland in Miniature Park in Den Haag

I amsterdam City Card Honest Review + Guide: How to Make the Most of It!

Last Updated: February 24, 2024

*FYI - this post may contain affiliate links, which means we earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase from them. Also, as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Check out our Privacy Policy and Disclosure. for more info.

Wondering if the I amsterdam Card is worth the high price tag? This review will tell you everything you need to know!

As I’m sure you all know, I loves me a good deal. 

When left alone in big, touristy cities like Amsterdam, it’s quite inevitable that I morph into a pathological deal hoarder, dodging tourist traps left and right while going to truly absurd lengths to get my money’s worth.

And this is precisely how I found myself armed with a 24h I amsterdam card on a recent visit, eager to milk as much value from it as possible. I guess you can say it worked out, because I eventually saved me over 180 euros in a twenty four hour period.

Yup, that’s right, I visited Amsterdam’s top must-dos – 10 museums including heavyweights like the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, plus a sweet sunset canal cruise, all for only 60 euros. NOTE: As of 2022, the Van Gogh Museum is no longer included .

Intrigued? At the risk of sounding like a midnight infomercial, you can do it too, all with the help of an I amsterdam card . *dreamy harp music*

Save this I amsterdam Card Review for Later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

If you’ve never heard of it, the I amsterdam card  is a city card that grants you access to the city’s top attractions for one bundle price, and having used it twice now, I know all the tricks to making the most of it.

SO, if you’re wondering whether the I amsterdam card is a good choice for you, keep reading. This honest review will tell you everything you need to know, along with must-know tips to ensure you make the most of this (admittedly very pricey) city pass.

NOTE: While I amsterdam gifted me a city card during a visit I had back in 2016, this review is based solely on my recent 2019 experience, which I paid for completely myself for the purpose of an unbiased review. Enjoy!

I amsterdam Card: A Quick Overview

First off, let me get it out of the way that I HATE the way this card’s name is spelled. iAmsterdam would look way better, or even I Amsterdam, but the capital I and lowercase a? I’m triggered.

But anyways, back to the card.

The I amsterdam card is an all-in-one city pass for Amsterdam that gives you access to dozens of major museums/attractions, public transportation, and a canal cruise, all for a set time period (ranging from 24 hours to 120 hours).

The appeal here is simple: you buy one card, you pay once, and then you can save a lot of money on attractions as you explore the city.

NOTE: Over 70 of Amsterdam’s biggest attractions like the Van Gogh Museum, Rembrandt Museum, Rijksmuseum and a canal cruise are included with this card, but the one major exception that is NOT included is the Anne Frank House, so keep that in mind.

In my opinion, the I amsterdam card offers unbeatable value if you’re an avid sightseeer, or if you are someone who values flexibility, ease of mind and spontaneity over budget. Click here to check prices and reviews.

There is a catch of course. The I amsterdam card, while a good value if used properly, is one of the priciest city cards out there.

The cheapest one for 24h is already 60 euros, with the most expensive one being 125 euros for 120 hours. It’s certainly no drop in the bucket, since you’re probably spending hundreds on accommodation and other expenses already…. So I understand your hesitation.

Honestly, if you want to limit yourself to a few select attractions while in Amsterdam, the I amsterdam card is probably not a good value.

If you are a fast paced sightseer though and want to see as much of Amsterdam’s museums/attractions as possible, this card is really worth considering.

Below I’ll break down the costs of the card and also tell you all about how I used it, and tips on making the most of it.

I amsterdam Card Cost Breakdown

How much will buying an I amsterdam card set you back?

This depends on how many days you purchase it for. The cheapest card is the 24h one at 60 euros, which allows you to soak up all the card benefits for a 24 hour period.

The most expensive card grants you access for 120h (125 euros), with the cost per day of course going down as you purchase longer passes.

I admit this city card is expensive, but I promise you can 100% get the value of the card back (and then some) if you use it strategically, which I’ll teach you to do below!

Here is a table summarizing the prices for I amsterdam cards in 2024:

What is Included in the I amsterdam Card?

When it comes to city passes in Amsterdam, the I amsterdam card is pretty tough to beat in terms of perks and value. Here is what the pass gets you:

Free access (and some discounts) to 70+ museums and attractions in Amsterdam: The main perk of getting an I amsterdam card is that it includes access to dozens of popular Amsterdam attractions and museums, including big ones like the Rijksmuseum.

Access to all public transportation networks in Amsterdam: As long as your I amsterdam card is valid, you can use it to ride public transportation in Amsterdam, from buses and trams to the Metro. All you need to do is tap your card, making the process a breeze.

A free Amsterdam canal cruise: One of the most iconic (and must-do) activities in Amsterdam is a little whirl on its canals, and a free canal cruise with various companies is included in the I amsterdam card.

Free I amsterdam guidebook: A lesser advertised perk, but I loved getting a little red pocket-sized travel book with my I amsterdam city pass that lists out the many attractions around Amsterdam included in the card. This was a really nice souvenir and was super helpful in planning my trip.

Other freebies around the city: While I don’t feel that these are high value perks, I should still mention that the I amsterdam card gives you access to certain freebies around town like little taster samples of genever at De Drie Fleschjes, a free coffee at the Dutch Fortress Museum Naarden-Vesting, and more.

Discounts on bike/boat rentals, performances and other attractions : Last but not least, you can also think of the I amsterdam card as a giant red coupon, because you get a lot of different discounts on it for bike and boat rentals, musical performances and even other big attractions around the city like the Heineken Experience and Bodyworlds. While I don’t think these are the best things to do in Amsterdam, they still make it to a lot of visitors’ bucket lists, so that’s another perk to consider if you’re on the fence.

Ease of mind: Beyond the physical perks of this city pass, I think it’s also important to mention many of the benefits that are equally as important, but not necessarily tangible, one of them being ease of mind. While for sure, purchasing individual tickets might end up being cheaper, the ease of mind that a pass like the I amsterdam card really is invaluable. With it, you can enter pretty much any museum, attraction or tram, scan your pass and go.  If your goal is to have a stress-free trip where you need to make as few decisions as possible, then having this card will really help in that regard. It is also very helpful with…

Spontaneity and flexibility: When I have a packed itinerary, I’m usually very plan-oriented. What I found though was having this I amsterdam card really made me more spontaneous! If I happened upon a museum or attraction while exploring, I would check if my I amsterdam card would get me in. 90% of the time, it did, and I would pop in for a look. This is how I explored less common spots in Amsterdam like the Portuguese Synagogue.

How I Used my 24h I amsterdam Card

On my most recent Amsterdam trip, I decided to buy myself a 24h I amsterdam card in an attempt to see and do as much as possible.

Of course, the following itinerary is jam-packed, and definitely not something I would recommend for a first-time visitor.

This was a very tiring itinerary but I did it to a) test out the various attractions in Amsterdam and report back on what I think is worth it and b) to test the limits of this card and see how much you can reasonably do with it!

Below I list out all the spots I was able to hit up in 24 hours, along with how much a regular ticket would have been.

As you’ll soon see, you can EASILY get your value back with this card if you hustle.

Here’s a breakdown of what I did (although this is purely for your reference! I wouldn’t recommend replicating it unless you drink ten cans of Red Bull):

Stop #1: Van Gogh Museum

Regular ticket price: €19

NOTE: As of 2022, the Van Gogh card is sadly no longer included in the I amsterdam card! I’ve left my experience below for your reference.

I started my I amsterdam city pass journey at the Van Gogh Museum, one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam.

NOTE: This was actually, believe it or not, an accident.

Here’s what happened: I actually didn’t think I’d get to visit the Van Gogh museum because with the I amsterdam card, time slots must be booked in advance, and I had been told they were all gone for the day.

BUT as I sipped a beer and stuffed my face with bitterballen in a cute pub, I found a last minute ticket slot for the next day and booked it. A few minutes later, I glanced down at my email confirmation and realized in my munchin’ stupor, I booked it for THAT DAY and not the next.

Realizing I only had 30 minutes to make the reservation, I literally stuffed four bitterballen in my mouth and ran across town, making it just in time for my 2pm reservation.

SO, with my I amsterdam 24h card, this meant that I would have until 2pm the next day to make use of my pass… The Van Gogh museum was great – I really enjoyed it and consider it a must for anyone familiar with his work (AKA everyone on planet Earth).

It was fascinating getting to learn more about him as an artist, and put all his most famous works into context with his life story.

However, it quickly got too stuffy and crowded for me, so it was onwards to the next…!

Stop #2: The Stedelijk Museum

Regular ticket price: € 18,50

One good thing about visiting the Van Gogh museum first is that you are then in Museumplein, and within close walking distance to many of Amsterdam’s other most famous museums (which are pretty much all included in the I amsterdam card!)

After visiting the Van Gogh musuem, I headed over to the Stedelijk Museum dedicated to modern art and design. I enjoyed it a lot – the space was beautiful and a lot of the displays were bold and interesting.

Modern art lovers definitely need to stop by here, if even to look at this thoroughly pessimistic wall:

Stop #3: Rijksmuseum

Regular ticket price: €20

Of all the museums in Amsterdam, this one is probably the most famous. The Rijksmuseum is to Amsterdam as the Louvre is to Paris.

Funnily enough, it took me my fourth visit to actually come here, and I’d say it was definitely worth it.

The hidden library (which is hilariously difficult to find) is a gorgeous highlight, but the entire museum itself is just SO massive and beautiful – well worth a stop, especially when it’s free and included in the card.

Note: it gets very crowded here. I intentionally timed my visit for near closing time, so the crowds were significantly less than during peak hours, but it was still very busy.

You’ll find that crowds near the entrance are the worst, and quickly thin out as you get deeper into the museum, so my best tip is to go in, walk as far as possible, then work your way backwards to the exit.

Stop #4: Amsterdam Pipe Museum

Regular ticket price: €10

This was one of my favourite museums I visited in Amsterdam, mainly because it was so quirky and different.

Tucked away in a little pipe shop, you’ll find one of the world’s largest collections of elaborate pipes, staffed by enthusiastic pipe experts who volunteer at the museum for fun.

It’s a tiny museum located in a little canal house, so won’t eat too much time out of your schedule, and is just so darn quirky and  cute.

PS: At this point, you might notice that I have already made up the entire 60 euro value of the 24h pass, and I still have the next day to go! Combining all four of these stops I made, the admissions would have totalled to 67.50, meaning I’ve already saved myself 7.50 at this point. Pretty wild right?

Stop #5: Huis Marseille – Museum for Photography

Regular ticket price: €9

Amsterdam has a few different museums dedicated to photography, but I chose the Huis Marseille because of its proximity to other I amsterdam city card sights and its picture perfect garden, which I got to visit during Secret Garden Days a few years ago.

While the displays rotate, it’s quite cool to visit this museum because it’s spread across two canal houses, so you get to admire beautiful thought-provoking displays while snooping around the interiors of the house. Really fun, and of course, included in the I amsterdam card, so how could you go wrong?

Stop #6: LOVERS Canal Cruise

Regular ticket price: €18

If I could pick one activity as a must-do in Amsterdam, this would be it.

Sure it’s painfully cliched, but a canal cruise in Amsterdam really is one of the best ways to see the city.

Enjoying one at sunset is the best idea too with an I amsterdam card because a) the city is especially droolworthy when it starts to light up and b) a canal cruise is pretty much the only activity you an do on the card after 6pm, so if you want to make the most of your card’s validity time, save your cruise for after all the other attractions have closed.

Stop #7: NEMO Science Museum

Regular ticket price: € 17.50

The next day, I woke up bright and early to visit some more museums with my I amsterdam card. Remember, I scanned my pass for the first time at the Van Gogh museum at 2pm, which meant I had until 2pm the next day to frolic around and visit more attractions.

I was staying very close to the NEMO Science Museum, so I was the eager beaver who was there as soon as the doors opened.

To be honest, as I entered, I quickly realized that this was not my kind of museum. It’s one of those interactive science museums more meant for kids (I have been to loads in my day), so I took a quick look around and enjoyed the view from the roof.

The rooftop view was honestly my #1 motivation for coming to this museum, but I found out later there’s a set of stairs you can follow just outside that give you access WITHOUT paying for the museum.

So, if you aren’t terribly interested in kiddie science stuff, I would skip using the I amsterdam card here and instead just come for the free view another time.

Stop #7: The National Maritime Museum

Regular ticket price: € 16.50

A short walk away from the NEMO Science Museum is the National Maritime Museum, which I found surprisingly interesting and cool.

This is another museum that’s popular with kids and school trips (especially in the model replica of the boat) but if you venture further into the different corridors of the museum (it’s huge!), you’ll find a lot of cool little treasures  and educational displays about the maritime history of the Netherlands, with the happy bonus of much, much fewer crowds.

Stop #8: The Tropenmuseum

Regular ticket price: €15

Truthfully, if I were to pick my least favourite museum I visited with my I amsterdam card, it would be the Tropenmuseum.

While in theory, I would love to stand behind a museum dedicated to ethnology, the majority of the displays left me feeling a little bit uncomfortable.

Many of the items on display were acquired as a result of colonial theft ( something they are actively trying to rectify ), and many parts of the museum still reflected to me the origins of this museum as a Museum of Colonisation (which was its original intent when it opened in 1864).

Back in this day, the museum’s goal was to showcase artifacts and “treasures” from its overseas colonies, as well as demonstrate life in these colonies.

As I’m sure you can imagine, such displays would often perpetuate tropes of “the other” and sustain stereotypes about other cultures from around the world.

For this reason, I really did not enjoy my time at the museum, although it seems that they are making an active effort to decolonize the museum and improve the way they communicate about other cultures, which is at least a step in the right direction.

All that said, with such a rich diversity of museums to visit in Amsterdam, I wouldn’t choose this to be the place to learn about global cultures because many of the exhibitions to me felt sanitized of any colonial wrongdoing…. probably to tone content down for kids.

ANYWAYS, getting off my soapbox, I wouldn’t recommend this museum, plus it’s quite far from other main attractions so I don’t personally feel it’s worth going out of your way to visit, although the building that houses it is truly gorgeous.

Stop #9: The Portuguese Synagogue

Regular ticket price: €6.50

I really wish I had spent more time exploring Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter, but I only had time to visit one of its museums, so I chose the beautiful Portuguese Synagogue.

This synagogue can be visited quite quickly and is a beautiful place to escape the bustle of the city and learn a bit more about the city’s Jewish heritage.

NOTE: Don’t come in here expecting to visit the gorgeous Ets Haim Jewish library, the oldest functional Jewish library in the world. It’s sadly not open to the public during these visits.

Stop #10: Museum Willet-Holthuysen

Regular ticket price: €12.50

There are a handful of house museums that you can visit in Amsterdam which aim to show you what life was historically like in those beautiful canal houses people love to photograph so much.

The most popular of these house museums include Museum van Loon and Museum Willet-Holthuysen, both of which are included in the I amsterdam card. I chose to visit Willet-Holthuysen and loved it!

The garden here is gorgeous and the house itself is wonderfully opulent. It can get a little crowded if there are a lot of visitors, but I visited in the early afternoon and it was fine.

Stop #11: The Museum of Bags and Purses

Regular ticket price: €13

NOTE: Unfortunately this museum officially closed during the pandemic and was never able to re-open. I’ve left the info below just for your reference.

Another one of Amsterdam’s quirkier offerings is the Museum of Bags and Purses.

I really enjoyed my time here – the staircase is an unexpectedly beautiful hidden gem, and the contents of the museum (literally different bags and purses) was really interesting. Many don’t realize how the development of fashion ties so deeply into the evolution of women’s rights, but the two go hand in hand and it’s all very fascinating to see… plus, it’s one of the largest bag collections in the world, so why not?

The best part is this museum is relatively unknown to most first time visitors, so you an expect very few crowds here compared to the main museums in Amsterdam.

Stop #12: Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder

Last but not least, just before 2pm (the expiry of my city card), I slid into the Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, one of my favourite stops on my I amsterdam card crawl!

This 17th century canal house is home to a fascinating secret church, one of many “clandestine churches” that popped up in the 1600s when Catholics weren’t able to worship in public anymore due to the rise of the Dutch Reformed Church.

Built into the top floors of a canal house, this secret attic church is one of the most interesting secrets of Amsterdam, and the audio guide tour which leads you through the many floors offers fascinating insight on the history of the house and what life was like back in the day.

Really, this is one of the few museums where I listened to every number on the audio guide! It’s that good. I highly recommend it.

……. And so, by the end of this 24 hours, I visited the equivalent of 188 euros worth of museums and attractions for only 60 euros! That’s over 120 euros of savings. Pretty wild right?

NOTE: This also doesn’t include the many tram rides I took (at least 4, but I lost count).

So, as you can see, getting your money’s worth with this card is a piece of cake, even if you don’t rush from attraction to attraction like I did.

Final Tips for Making the Most of Your I amsterdam card

So, if you are planning to buy an I amsterdam card, I’ll leave you with a few final tips so that you’re able to maximize the value of it. Trust me, follow these tips and there’s no way you won’t get your money’s worth.

1. Make note of the museums that open/close early and plan around them

The operating hours at Amsterdam’s many museums and attractions can vary a great deal, so I highly recommend you make note of the ones that you want to see and then write down which ones open/close the earliest. Planning is crucial!

You should know for instance that while most museums open at 10am, two notable exceptions are the National Maritime Museum and Van Gogh Museum, which both open at 9am.

Similarly, while most museums close at 5, a few are open later than that. Museums that close at 6pm include the Huis Marseille, the Foam Fotografiemuseum Amsterdam (actually open until 9pm Thursday/Friday), the Stedelijk Museum, and the Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder. The Botanical Garden is also open late until 7pm during the summer.

By planning your schedule around these museums/attractions, you’re able to maximize the duration of your I amsterdam pass validity.

2. Star your desired attractions on Google Maps to see what’s close together

A big mistake one could easily make with the I amsterdam card is jumping from attraction to attraction without lumping the close ones together.

I always star my ‘to do list’ on Google Maps so that I have a visual representation of all the different spots I want to visit.

This way, I know I’m not wasting time darting across town (or doing day trips) when I could easily clump many spots together.

3. Save a time-consuming museum or attraction for last

An important thing to note is that so long as you arrive at the museum and scan your ticket before your I amsterdam card expires, you’re free to enter.

This means that if your card expires at 4pm, so long as you redeem your ticket by 3:59pm, you can stay at the museum as long as you need to, even until closing time.

This is SUCH a key piece of info to keep in mind if you want to make the most of your I amsterdam card because now you know to save one of the most time-consuming activities for last!!

For me personally, I knew I wanted to spend a good deal of time in the Museum Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder, which closes later than most museums too at 6pm, so I saved that one for last and entered right before my card expired at 2pm.

4. Do the most popular museums as soon as they open or close

There are some museums in Amsterdam that are busy no matter what, like the Rijksmuseum.

If you want to enjoy the most peaceful experience possible at big names like this, then head to them as soon as they open/close.

An exception to this would be the Van Gogh museum, which enjoys a relatively controlled crowd amount given its mandatory reservation/timeslot policy.

That said, the time slot system doesn’t prevent people from staying for a really long time, so the morning would still be the best time to book a visit slot if you want to avoid crowds.

5. Activate your pass in the afternoon, not the morning

This tip is most relevant for 24h I amsterdam card holders, but keep in mind that these cards are valid for x number of hours after you validate them, (e.g. 24 hours post activation, 48 hours post activation, etc).

For me personally, I found it best to activate mine in the afternoon (at 2pm) because this gave me two days essentially to use the pass, and I got to take a break and rest in the evening.

On the other hand, if you were to activate your pass at 9am, then you would have to get through all your sights on that first day, which is a lot more tiring than splitting it up into two like I did.

6. If you are buying a short-term I amsterdam card, don’t fill your day with non I amsterdam card activities

Last but not least, I should note that if you are working with a 24h or 48h I amsterdam card, you really need to plan your days properly to ensure you get the most value out of your passes.

I would strongly recommend that you group all your I amsterdam card activities together and save additional activities for after your card expires.

In other words, don’t activate your I amsterdam card in the morning at the Rijksmuseum, then hop over to the Anne Frank House (not included) before doing something else! Instead, save any non-I amsterdam card activities for days when your card isn’t valid.

So, is the I amsterdam Card Worth It? The Final Word

If you plan to visit a lot of museums and attractions in Amsterdam, I do really think the I amsterdam card is great value.

To figure out whether or not it’s right for you, simply write down all the attractions you want to see when you’re in Amsterdam, find out their full price tickets and total them up. If they total more than 60 euros, odds are good that the I amsterdam card would be worth it.

If however, you’re more of a relaxed traveler and you don’t really want to hop around from attraction to attraction throughout your trip, then you’re better off paying for 1-2 attractions you want to see instead of getting the card.

That said, don’t forget that a huge part of the card’s value is in the ease of mind and convenience it brings – especially when it comes to public transportation, so if you like being able to relax without thinking too much about cost, then this pass really is a great purchase.

Due to time constraints, I was only able to demonstrate the use of a 24h I amsterdam card, but as you can see in the price breakdown below, the cost per day decreases significantly as you purchase longer passes, which means you’ll easily get your money’s worth if you decide to stay in Amsterdam for a longer time.

My overall conclusion is yes, the I amsterdam card is worth it if you know how to strategically make use of it, and with the tips I mentioned above, I’m sure you’ll be able to do just that!

For your reference again, here are the different passes you can buy and their costs:

Any more questions about the I amsterdam card?

Let me know in the comments below! Have a great trip 🙂

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

5 thoughts on “I amsterdam City Card Honest Review + Guide: How to Make the Most of It!”

I have never been to Amsterdam but I definitely want to go there. I love the city cards that include so many activities with them. I think they give you the best bargains. I think the fact that it includes city transportation is awesome. That can save a lot by itself! Great post!

Yes city cards can definitely be a great deal when used properly!! Thanks for reading, Amy 🙂

Thanks for these useful tips. My friends went to Amsterdam and got this card and recommend me to get it. You have convinced me to use it.

Awesome to hear! It’s definitely great value if you know how to use it properly. Have a great trip!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

By using this form you agree with the storage and handling of your data by this website. *

Holland Explorer

Amsterdam & tulips travel guide, lovers canal cruises in amsterdam.

Taking a canal cruise is a great way to explore Amsterdam, especially if you come here for the first time. There are several boat companies which organize canal cruises in Amsterdam, but Lovers canal cruises is definitely our favourite.

Modern comfortable boats, convenient departure locations, audio guide in 19 languages – that’s the best combination for an enjoyable canal cruise.

Lovers canal cruises departure points

Where to board a Lovers Amsterdam canal cruise? Lovers canal cruises have several departure point in Amsterdam – you can board near the Central Station , near the Anne Frank House or near the Leidse Square (Leidseplein).

Your departure point will depend on the cruise you have chosen, please check the cruise description for address.

How can I get there with public transportation?

You can plan your trip useing a free Glimble app :

• Download Glimble for iOS >>
• Download Glimble for Android >>

How long is the Lovers canal cruise?

The classic Amsterdam canal cruise takes one hour.

Lovers Canal Cruises Prices in Amsterdam

How much is an Amsterdam canal cruise? A classic 1-hour Lovers boat tour in 2024 costs € 20 per person. You can book it online for € 17,50.

Order your canal cruise tickets online >>

Buy the Lovers canal cruise tickets with discount

You can book the boat cruise tickets with discount online .

If you plan to visit other attractions or museums in Amsterdam, you can  buy a combination ticket which also includes a canal cruise ticket.

Check all possible combination tickets at the Lovers cruises official website .

Are Lovers cruises free with I amsterdam city card ?

Yes, a classic 1-hour Lovers boat tour is free with I amsterdam city card .

Evening canal cruises

Amsterdam looks completely different after dark! With Lovers Canal Cruises you can take an evening 1-hour cruise , or combine your tour with dinner. There are several options, including:

• Dinner Cruise . 2-hour Amsterdam canal cruise, including three-course meal and drinks. Tickets from €79. Book online >>
• Wine & Cheese Cruise . A 1,5-hour evening cruise with drinks (white wine, red wine or rose, sparkling or still mineral water) and local cheeses. Check availability and book online >>
• Pizza Cruise . A 1,5-hour cruise and your favourite pizza and wine served on board. Tickets from €42,50. Make a reservation >>

Amsterdam Light Festival Lovers canal cruises

From from 30 November 2023 till 21 January 2024 Amsterdam will  transform into a beautiful open-air light art museum for the Amsterdam Light Festival. Lovers canal cruises are considered to me one of the best Amsterdam Light Festival canal cruises.

Amsterdam Light Festival Lovers canal cruises depart from the Central station ( Prins Hendrikkade 25 ) every evening from 16:45 till 21:45. Book your tickets at the official Lovers cruises company website >>

Do I need to make a reservation for the Lovers canal cruise?

It’s highly recommend to book your canal cruise tickets in advance. It is also possible to buy the tickets at the departure locations, but there are no guarantees that tickets will be available.

Do I need to print my Lovers canal cruise tickets?

No, you can just show it on your mobile phone.

Enjoy your Lovers canal cruise and your stay in Amsterdam !

Related articles:

• Things to do in Amsterdam with kids
• Red Light District in Amsterdam
• Canal cruises in Amsterdam: book online!

Privacy Overview

Lovers Canal Cruises Amsterdam

Lovers Canal Cruises Amsterdam has been around since 1950 and has become an icon among the boating companies. Lovers Amsterdam offers a broad range of canal cruises , tailoring their products to everchanging customer demand. Currently, these are the most popular canal cruises by Lovers;

• 1-hour canal cruise from Amsterdam Central Station
• Semi-open boat cruise
• Evening Cruise
• New York Pizza Cruise
• Wine & Cheese Cruise
• Dinner Cruise

The vessels from Lovers Amsterdam have a recognisable orange-grey colour and the logo of Lovers Canal Cruises. The boats are well-maintained and comfortably heated when it’s cold.

Redeem our exclusive discount code   ‘THINGSTODO10’ now on either Lovers.nl or Tours-tickets.com to get 10% off on selected cruises.

The canals have always played a crucial role in the history of Amsterdam . A canal cruise is the perfect way to explore the Amsterdam canal belt comfortably, during any time of year. Enjoy a Lovers boat tour in summer and enjoy the sun or go in wintertime when the lights of Amsterdam are beautiful and warm. It’s a convenient way of sightseeing in Amsterdam . Explore this bustling capital from the water and relax as you sail through the beautiful canals and past iconic sights. Think of the Anne Frank museum , the Red Light District or the Heineken Experience , all must-sees! You can also put a cruise on your list of things to do in Amsterdam with kids , as it’s great fun for both young and old. If you’re looking to take your cruise to the next level, you can also consider the option of a private boat ride .

Lovers Canal Cruises Amsterdam FAQ

Where do the boats depart from.

The Lovers boats depart from the Prins Hendrikkade docks. This is just a mere 4-minute walk from the Amsterdam Central station . If you exit the station in the direction of the city centre, keep right. Pass the tram stops, cross the bridge, and find the Lovers Cafe on your right-hand side.

Why should I pick Lovers Canal Cruises and not one of the other boating companies?

Although there are companies that offer cruises similar to the cruises of Lovers, we found the following perks of booking a Lovers canal cruise;

• Lovers is the only company with an indoor facility – the Prins Hendrikkade dock in front of Amsterdam Central Station features a nice cafe where you can comfortably wait inside for your cruise to depart while enjoying a beverage or making a sanitary stop.
• Lovers allows you to secure a timeslot online and has frequent departures – especially handy if you don’t like waiting or are on a tight schedule.
• Lovers offers a variety of different cruises including options with food and drinks and different boats

Are there toilets aboard the canal cruise boats?

Yes, 90% of the canal cruise boats are fitted with an onboard toilet. Cruises that feature food and drinks use boats are guaranteed to have an onboard toilet. For the standard 1-hour cruises, most vessels will have an onboard toilet, although it cannot be guaranteed.

Is there heating on the boats?

Yes, the standard (covered) canal boats are fitted with heating. This ensures comfortable cruises in the cold winter months. The temperature is controlled by the captain, upon request, it can be slightly adjusted.

Can I visit a Lovers cruise with impaired mobility?

Probably, yes. To board the ship, you have to go down three small steps, which is doable with assistance. Make sure to ask for assistance, when necessary, staff will be happy to help. Unfortunately, the vessels do not facilitate wheelchairs.

When do I receive my tickets and how long does it take?

After paying for your tickets, you should receive them within minutes. If not, please make sure to check your spam folder first.

How long in advance do I have to be present for my cruise?

It is recommended to be present at your departure point at least 30 minutes before departure.

How do I pay online for my tickets?

Payment can be made through credit or debit cards, and bank cards. All payments are encrypted and secure.

How do I contact Lovers Canal Cruises Amsterdam customer service?

You can reach customer service at [email protected] .

Does Lovers Canal Cruises offer any discount codes or promos?

Yes, Lovers Canal Cruises offers discounts and you can use them when you book your tickets by clicking the blue button on our website.

Why is the company called Lovers?

The name of the company isn’t just as romantic as it seems at first glance. The last name of the company’s founder was “Lovers” and the company was named after the founder. In Dutch, the name is also pronounced differently from the English word lovers, instead, it’s pronounced as “Low-vers”.

Lovers.nl discount codes

Occasionally Lovers Amsterdam offers a Lovers canal cruise discount code. If so, we will post them right here! It’s worth mentioning boating company Lovers is owned by  Tours-Tickets . Therefore all of the Lovers cruises can also be booked on their website, use the Lovers canal cruise discount code below to get an attractive discount!

Amsterdam Light Festival

Lovers Canal Cruises is an official partner of the Amsterdam Light Festival . Every year, Amsterdam becomes beautifully illuminated during this festival. It is possible to admire these light arts from the water and Lovers Canal Cruises offers different types of cruises aimed at showing visitors the best of the Amsterdam Light Festival. Each year, the festival has a theme and provides an avenue for 30 artists from different parts of the world to showcase their artworks.

Dinner Cruise: Great food and getting to know the city

Combine a delicious dinner with a canal cruise with this Lovers Canal Dinner Cruise in Amsterdam. A boat trip is an ideal way to discover Amsterdam and this Lovers canal cruise is very special. During the Lovers canal cruise you get to enjoy the culinary delights of chef Frans Kelders. A four-course menu is served where you can choose from meat, fish or vegetarian. There is a special children’s menu for the kids and all drinks are included in the price.

During this unique Lovers Amsterdam Dinner Cruise you will get to enjoy sights and sounds of Amsterdam from the canals. Admire the beautiful historic buildings, exceptional churches and picturesque bridges along and over the canals. The Lovers canal cruise lasts for more than 2 hours so that you have all the time to enjoy the delicious dinner and to take in all the sights. The boat departs from the Prins Hendrikkade behind Amsterdam Central Station during the summer season daily at 8 p.m.

Schiphol Experience

The Schiphol Experience is a special tour for everyone who has ever been to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport . How are things really going behind the scenes at this gigantic airport? What happens if a fire breaks out at the airport? What happens when it snows? These questions are all answered during the Schiphol Experience. During the tour you will learn everything about the origins of the airport and the very first flight that ever left Schiphol. Lovers Canal Cruises takes you behind the scenes at Schiphol. During this bus tour you get to discover all the secrets of the airport.

– Currently, unavailable –

Accessibility

Lovers Canal Cruises is located in the centre of Amsterdam and is easily accessible by public transport. Consult 9292.nl for the fastest route from your departure point and the current departure and travel times.

By car, the location of the Lovers dock is not so easily accessible. Traffic is usually busy and parking availability is limited and expensive. If you plan to come by car, we recommend planning a parking location upfront or allowing extra time. Alternatively, you can also park elsewhere and use public transport to Amsterdam Central Station.

Address Prins Hendrikkade 20B 1012 TL Amsterdam E-mail: [email protected] Tel: +31 (0) 20-2143111 (reachable by phone between 10:00 and 16:00 on weekdays) https://www.lovers.nl/

Lovers Canal Cruises Amsterdam Reviews

Cruise was alright, but smoking was not allowed

Captain did great!

Our captain did great! Came up with some fun facts apart from the standard audioguide. The 60 minutes flew past, could have been a bit longer for us!

Nice cruise

Cruise was cool, wine and cheese were good, but the seats rather small

Its amazing

The tour is pretty good and you see loads of the Amsterdam canals

When you love waiting, long queues despite your reserved time slot or you love looking at water without boats, buy a ticket for lovers canal cruises. You van look at Amsterdam central station for hours

Leave your rating

Experiences

Amsterdam Light Festival cruise

How have guests experienced our Amsterdam Light Festival cruises?

Semi-Open boat

How do our guests rate our Semi-open boat cruise?

Pizza cruise

Read the experiences from our guests on the pizza cruise.

Evening cruise

How do our guests experience our evening cruise through the Amsterdam canals?

Canal cruise

What do our guests say about our 1 hour canal cruise through the Amsterdam canals?

Select your privacy settings

Select a setting for your online experience, you can read more about each individual feature by clicking "More information". We take your privacy very seriously, please see our  privacy policy  for more information on privacy and data.

Functional Cookies

Google analytics, site optimization, tailored ads, personalized offers, special discounts.

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems. They are usually only set in response to actions made by you which amount to a request for services, such as setting your privacy preferences, logging in or filling in forms.

This is completely anonymous and the data collected will be stored for at least 2 years. These cookies allow us to count visits and traffic sources so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are the most and least popular and see how visitors move around the site.

A/B testing. Hotjar.

These cookies enable the website to provide enhanced functionality and personalisation. They may be set by us or by third party providers whose services we have added to our pages.

Read more about cookies in our  cookie policy .

Should I Book The Lovers Canal Cruise Amsterdam? 2024 Review

Thinking about choosing the Lovers canal cruise when booking a canal tour of Amsterdam?

This guide and review have everything you need before booking!

Amsterdam and The Netherlands as a whole are simply breathtaking. One of the many reasons for this is the Canals.

No matter how many canals you see on your trip, you will not be able to get enough. Each one with its own story and magical bridge, it’s truly a unique destination to visit .

So when visiting Amsterdam, it goes without saying that one thing you need to do is a Canal Cruise.

As we have just moved to The Netherlands , we thought we would treat ourselves and book an evening canal tour with Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam .

To help you decide if this cruise is for you, this guide includes our personal review and experience of choosing this tour.

We have also included any information you may need before booking your tour and what to expect so you can have the best experience of Amsterdam’s Canals!

🚨 If you want to do lots of activities in Amsterdam including Canal Cruises, BUYING A CITY PASS will work out cheaper!

Don’t have time to read the whole article? – No worries!

🏆The best overall canal cruise you can do in Amsterdam is Sebi Boat Tours

✔️2 hours long

✔️Local Guide with snacks and drinks included

Flagship Luxury Sightseeing Canal Tour

✔️Around 1 hour

✔️Private Skipper and Live Guide

The Lovers Canal Cruise Amsterdam Overview & Personal Review

🇳🇱Quick Summary: No- I would not recommend an Amsterdam Canal Cruise with the Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam company. I would instead book mine with Sebi Boat Tours every time!

The Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam overview:

⭐️Rating: 3.5 Out Of 5 ( 59 Reviews )

✔️ Easy to book tickets

✔️ Many time slots available throughout the day

✔️ Friendly and helpful staff

✔️ Boat is undercover so you can tour no matter the weather

✔️ Toilet on board

✔️ Multiple languages available through headphone audio- including English

✔️ Boarding location easy to get to and find

✔️ Great if you are on a budget

❌ May not be able to do the tour at the time you booked

❌ No food or drink was provided

❌ A lot of the sites you would expect to be spoken about were missed

❌ Headphones are not very comfortable to wear

❌ As it’s inclosed, it may be uncomfortable on hot days if it’s busy

My Experience Of Booking This Tour

So we were really excited to explore the canals via the Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam company. The great thing with their booking system online is you can see which times are busy, and book a less busy time slot.

The process of booking was really easy too and the tickets arrived in my email inbox within minutes!

We were only visiting Amsterdam for the day and our one-hour boat trip was meant to be at 20:30 Hours.

We had spent the entire day exploring the city and were pretty tired but knew we had to keep going as we had our cruise time slot booked.

To be prepared we decided to show up at the boarding point at 20:10 PM. So this was 20 minutes earlier than our time slot.

As we scanned our tickets we were told that both boats were full for the 20:30 time slot 🙃

This is one thing I didn’t like about this canal cruise in Amsterdam, booking your ticket in advance during the summer months doesn’t always guarantee you a spot!

We were told to wait for the next boat with a few others who had booked their ticket for 20:30. But we were only allowed to board if there was enough room on there for us.

As this was the main activity I wanted to do when in Amsterdam and I had purchased my tickets months in advance, I was gutted!

However, the staff on site were amazing and super helpful .

The Tour Itself

Luckily we managed to get on the last canal cruise of the day to see Amsterdam by boat, but not everyone else did!

I would recommend booking the Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam just to see that sunset! – but I have been on much better canal tours in Amsterdam

TIP: The Lovers Canal Cruise is amazing value for money but if you are visiting during busy periods (Christmas and Summer), book your slot early.

Despite our inconvenience at the start of our canal cruise experience, it was a very informative and enjoyable experience .

The staff and Captain were really friendly and it was a great way to learn about the City and see things only a local would know about.

Lovers Canal Cruise Amsterdam Alternatives

The Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam is a good option -but it isn’t the best canal cruise available!

Cruising down the canals is a unique experience so you may want to make your trip a bit more luxurious, informative and a one-off experience.

To help you find the best canal tour to explore the sites of Amsterdam, these are the best tours you should consider:

Sebi Boat Tours

⭐️Rating: 5 Out Of 5 ( 102 Reviews )

This Canal Tour has only 5-star reviews so as you can imagine, tickets sell out fast!

One of the most loved Canal cruise options for travellers visiting Amsterdam is Sebi Boat Tours

You get to see all the sites of Amsterdam including Anne Franks House, the old centre and Amsterdam’s most famous bridge.

This tour also includes snacks and drinks (which is rare) , so you can really enjoy the journey!

✅ Book Your Canal Cruise With Sebi Boat Tours Now!

Did some searching before purchasing this boat tour (since there are so many). It was absolutely wonderful! Sebi was friendly and knowledgeable. He provided us with drinks and cold and hot appetizers. I can’t say anything about the other tours (because this is my only one), but book this one! You won’t be disappointed. The highlight of my time in Amsterdam” – Molly ( read more reviews here )

⭐️Rating: 5 Out Of 5 (Over 2,710 Reviews )

This is a fantastic option if you are on a budget.

And like any canal tour in Amsterdam, I highly recommend booking in advance online to 100% guarantee you get to do one- There is no better way to see the city!

If you are looking for a budget-friendly alternative to the lovers canal cruise Amsterdam, look no further than the Flagship Luxury Sightseeing Canal Tour!

Not only is it great for a summer canal cruise to enjoy the sites, but is one of the best cruises to take photos from thanks to its open top.

It is also perfect for touring the canals of Amsterdam in winter too!

For anyone wanting to see The Amsterdam Light Festival, this is the best tour to book.

You can choose from 2 departure points in central Amsterdam – Rijksmuseum or Anne Frank House which is super convenient.

The boat tour is around an hour and the staff really try to make this experience the best!

✅ Book Your Flagship Luxury Sightseeing Canal Tour Here!

Our tour guides were super kind, and very informative! The boat seats were comfortable. I’d highly recommend touring! – Devin ( Read More Reviews )

There are so many canal cruise options throughout Amsterdam, here are some other options you may want to consider:

Do I need to book the Lovers Amsterdam canal cruise in advance?

If this is something you really want to do on your trip, I recommend booking in advance.

If your trip is in Europe’s summer season (June-early September), it’s a good idea to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

However, like myself and other travellers who were with me, you may want to arrive at your time slot extra early to avoid disappointment.

For those who are travelling outside the peak season or are feeling spontaneous, there is a ticket and information office there.

How long is an Amsterdam canal cruise?

Each canal cruise is different, but typically they are between 1-2 hours .

The length of your canal trip will depend on what is included in the tour.

If you are doing your canal cruise with more budget-friendly options like the Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam, their tours usually last one hour .

Lovers Canal Cruise Amsterdam discount code

For those booking the Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam, use a discount code. Like most City breaks, Amsterdam isn’t the cheapest location so every penny counts!

The best way to find a discount code is to check Hot Deals before booking your ticket.

Can You take a canal cruise with Lovers Cruises with your City Card?

You can totally use your City Card to board a tour with Lovers canal cruise in Amsterdam.

Simply turn up at the ticket office on Prins Hendrikkade 20C  to book your time slot. Just make sure you present your City Card at the time of booking.

What is the Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam cancellation policy?

Plans change, it happens!

If you have booked directly through the lover’s canal cruise, you need to go to their website for their terms and conditions on rebooking and cancellation .

➡️ Go To The Lovers Canal Cruise Amsterdam Cancellation Page Here

However, I do recommend using an external company like Viator to book . They are really good at refunding tours and showing you the best tour options available during your trip.

if you want a full refund for your canal tour, you need to cancel your booking at least 24 hours in advance with most booking parties.

Lovers canal cruise Amsterdam final thoughts

Booking a canal trip is a great gift for someone you know visiting the Netherlands or an amazing way to explore the City yourself.

This Canal trip offers a great budget-friendly tour around the magical canals of the City.

However, this tour may not be for everyone. And would I book the lovers canal cruise Amsterdam again? No

Use this guide to explore the best canal cruise options in Amsterdam so you have the best experience on Amsterdams waters!

For an all-round unforgettable tour of the canals flowing around Amsterdam, book with Sebi Boat Tours

⛵ Book Your Canal Cruise With Sebi Boat Tours Here Today!

I hope you found this article useful for deciding if the lover’s canal cruise in Amsterdam is for you.

To make the most of your trip to Europe, here are some more relevant posts:

✔️ Where Are The 9 Best Places To Visit In April In Europe?

✔️ Holocaust Tours In Europe That You Should Book

✔️ What Do You Need To Know About Driving In Europe In Winter? The Complete Guide

✔️ How To Travel To Europe From India?

✔️ What To Wear In Europe(+ What You Should Avoid Wearing): The Guide For All Seasons

✔️ The Best Backpack For All Types Of European Travel

✔️ The Best British Airways Cabin Bag For Your Next Flight

✔️ The Best EasyJet Cabin Bag For Your Next Flight

Lowri Thomas is the founder of Many Other Roads. She lives and travels in Europe and has explored more than 40 countries. She is joined on her travels with her dog Scout and they explore Europe mostly by road. Born in Wales, she also shares the best things to do in Wales, UK and beyond. She helps over 50,000 people per month plan epic Europe adventures and road trips.

Related Posts

The 21 Most Unique Places To Visit In Europe 2024

The Best Amsterdam 3 Day Itinerary 2024 (By A Local)

Leave a comment cancel reply.

You must be logged in to post a comment.

Privacy Overview