The city of Amsterdam is called the “Venice of the North.” It offers the opportunity to explore art, culture, canals, architecture, and nightlife to its visitors. Amsterdam is one of the most popular tourist destinations, with 8.87 million visitors in 2023. I was one of those visitors.
Last year I went to the Netherlands to explore the city of Amsterdam. I enjoyed the Amsterdam Canal Cruise and Van Gogh Museum on my trip. It was one of the most memorable journeys of my life. The canal cruise offers breathtaking views of the
The Van Gogh Museum is beside the canals. It offers you the opportunity to explore some of Van Gogh’s most famous works. Experiencing these two iconic parts of Amsterdam in one day feels unforgettable.
In this guide, I will show you how to make the best tour plan for the Van Gogh Museum and Canal cruise. Explore tips on booking your tour, tickets, and the best time to go.
Key Takeaways:
- A canal cruise and a visit to the Van Gogh Museum will show you the city’s beauty and history.
- You can book a guided tour of both attractions. It will allow you to explore the history behind the paintings and the city’s architecture.
- The Van Gogh Museum has masterpieces like “Sunflowers,” “The Bedroom,” and “Self-Portrait.”
- This combo tour is perfect for those who love art and history. Both attractions make the tour an excellent choice for a fulfilling day in the city.
Overview of Amsterdam Canal Cruise and Van Gogh Museum Combo Tour
Amsterdam is famous for its beautiful canals and museums. The canals of Amsterdam are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The route of the canals features bridges and historic houses.
The Van Gogh Museum is a treasure of artworks and culture. It has a vast collection of Vincent van Gogh’s works. The Canal Cruise and Van Gogh Museum Combo Tour is perfect for a relaxing boat tour while exploring art. It is best for both art and architecture lovers.
This Van Gogh Museum and Canal cruise combo package offers a convenient and cost-effective option for visitors. It provides a memorable way to see two of Amsterdam’s top attractions in a day.
The Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands. The city has 100 kilometers (62 mi) of canals, about 90 islands, and 1,500 bridges. It is often called the Venice of the North. In 2010, UNESCO declared it a world heritage site.
Amsterdam Canal Cruise Quick Facts:
- Built-in: 17th century
- Avg. depth: 2.6m (Lowest point: 4.5 m)
- Length: Over 100 kilometers (about 60 miles)
- Source: Amstel River
- Number of canals: 165
- Bridges: Around 1,500 bridges
- Water Depth: Average depth of around 2 to 3 meters (6.5 to 10 feet).
- Main canals: Herengracht, Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht
- UNESCO site: since 2010
- Best time to visit: March to May and September to November.
History of the Canals
The canal was dug in the 17th century during the Dutch Golden Age. It was used for the transportation of goods and people. With 65 miles of ancient canals, Amsterdam holds the record for the most watery city in the world.
Different Types of Available Canal Cruises
Classic Canal Cruises
This is the most popular cruise option for first-time visitors. The duration of this cruise is 1 hour. These types of cruises offer audio guides or live commentary. The boat will take in famous landmarks such as the Anne Frank House, Amsterdam Central Station, and the Skinny Bridge.
Best for: single visitors, families, group tours, and couples.
Evening or Night Cruises
Evening or night cruises are another unique option for canal cruises. These cruises are perfect for a romantic or atmospheric view of the city. They feature audio guides, live commentary, and entrance to the Holland Casino.
Best for: Romantic activities, night lovers, and golden-light experiences.
Dining Cruises (Dinner or Brunch)
Amsterdam canal cruise with dinner offers the opportunity to enjoy your meal while exploring the city. There are two options for dining cruises:
| Types | Description |
| Shared Boat | You can enjoy different snacks, such as pizza, pancakes, wine, cheese, and BBQ. |
| Private Boat | You can book a private boat with a dinner option for best canal cruise experience. |
Best for: couples, foodies, and sightseeing diners.
Luxury Private Cruises
If you want a more exclusive experience, you can book a private cruise. These canal cruises will give you the experience of a five-star hotel. You can customize your wishes and needs.
Best For: Best for families and small groups.
Self-Drive Boat Option
If you can drive a boat, you can also rent a self-drive boat to enjoy the city. The boat includes a life jacket, a map, and other necessary equipment.
Best for: Budget tour, friends’ group tour.
Top Canal Cruise Routes in Amsterdam
1. Golden Bend
The Golden Bend features grand canal houses along the Herengracht. This route shows Amsterdam’s Golden Age wealth and its architecture. It is beautiful.
2. Jordaan District
This offers art galleries, cafés, and the iconic Anne Frank House. It gives you a sense of Amsterdam’s bohemian spirit.
3. Amstel River route
This route includes the famous Skinny Bridge, historic theaters, and Hermitage Museum.
4. Eastern Docklands
If you want to experience modern architecture and the port area, this route is perfect for you. It offers a contrast to the historic parts of Amsterdam.
5. Nine Streets and Canal Belt
A tour along the Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) in the heart of the Canal Belt.
The Van Gogh Museum
The Vincent van Gogh Museum is an art museum located in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The museum features the works of Vincent van Gogh and his fellow artists. It is one of the best art museums in Europe.
The museum was opened on 2 June 1973. The designers of the building are Gerrit Rietveld and Kisho Kurokawa. In 2023, about 1.7 million people visited the Van Gogh Museum.
Van Gogh Museum Collection in Amsterdam
Vincent van Gogh is Amsterdam’s top art museum. Its collection mainly focuses on the work of Van Gogh and some other artists of his time. The museum has over 200 paintings, 500 drawings, and 700 letters.
Van Gogh Museum Must See Artworks
Self-Portrait with Felt Hat: The museum has a self-portrait of Van Gogh. Van Gogh painted his self-portrait when he was in Paris.
The Potato Eaters: The painting shows a peasant family eating their evening meal in the dim light of an oil lamp. It describes the harsh reality of country life.
Almond Blossom: It symbolizes bravery and courage, purity, hope, and love. Van Gogh gifted this painting to his brother and sister-in-law.
Sunflowers: The Van Gogh museum sunflowers series is one of the most famous works by Van Gogh. They symbolize gratitude. These paintings showcase his innovative use of color.
Letters to Theo: The museum has some of Van Gogh’s letters to his brother. Van Gogh wrote around 663 letters to his brother.
Special Exhibits
The museum authority hosts various temporary exhibitions all year. These exhibitions show the different aspects of Van Gogh’s life. There is a permanent exhibition of Van Gogh. These exhibits allow you to dive into the artistic journey.
Pro Tips: Buy Van Gogh Museum guided tour tickets to explore the history of artworks. Click here to buy your Ticket with an audio guide.
Benefits of Amsterdam Canal Cruise and Van Gogh Museum Combo Tour
Unique Outlook of the City
When you are on a canal cruise tour, you can enjoy Amsterdam’s iconic landmarks from the water. these landmarks are from the 17th century to modern times.
Relaxing and Educational Journey
There are several options for guides. They allow visitors to know the history and stories about the architecture and culture. You can also try audio guides.
Great photo opportunities
From the water, you can capture amazing photos of beautiful buildings, bridges, and the skyline.
Two Major Attractions in One Day
The combo tour offers an easy way to cover two major attractions in Amsterdam in one day. You don’t need to book multiple tickets.
Perfect for Art and History Lovers
The canal cruise features the history of the city, and the museum offers Van Gogh’s artworks. It is a perfect combo for art and history lovers.
Value for Money
Combo tour always offers value for money. You can explore two top attractions at a lower price.
Pro Tips: During peak seasons, you have to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot.
Best Times to Visit Amsterdam Canal Cruise and Van Gogh Museum
The best times to visit Amsterdam’s canal cruises and the Van Gogh Museum can vary. Several factors affect this.
Canal Cruise
Spring (April to June): This is one of the best times to enjoy a canal cruise. Spring offers pleasant weather and blooming flowers.
Early morning or late afternoon: To avoid crowds, try to take a cruise early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
Weekdays: Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
Planning to Visit Amsterdam in August? Here is your Things to Do List.
Van Gogh Museum
Early morning: The best time to visit the museum is early in the morning. The museum opens at 9 a.m. You will have fewer crowds during the museum’s opening.
Late Afternoon: You can also visit the museum a few hours before its closing time.
Weekdays: Weekdays are less crowded than weekends. Visit from Monday to Thursday.
Winter Months (November to March): The winter season is considered an off-peak season. These months offer fewer crowds and a better experience.
Pro Visitors Tips: Book your ticket in advance. It will help you avoid uncertainty and long lines.
May Month Offers Some Exciting Things to Do in Amsterdam. Check It Out
Must-See Attractions During the Canal Cruise
Skinny Bridge: This bridge is a must-see location during a canal cruise. It is located in the Amstel River.
Anne Frank House: Anne Frank’s historic house is located beside the Prinsengracht canal. The view from the water gives a unique experience.
Westerkerk: This 17th-century Protestant church is the tallest in Amsterdam.
Seven Bridges: It is located at the meeting point of the Reguliersgracht and Keizersgracht canals. You can enjoy seven bridges in a row from one point.
Golden Bend (Gouden Bocht): You can enjoy some of the most luxurious canal houses in Amsterdam.
NEMO Science Museum: The design of the museum looks like a giant ship rising from the water. It is a modern architectural landmark and a must-see from the water.
Practical Information for Visitors
Use Museum App
You can use the official Google Map of Amsterdam City. It will help you find the necessary routes, shops, ticket counters, etc.
Take a Guided Tour
Consider joining a guided tour for a better understanding of the city’s history and Van Gogh’s works. An expert guide can help you explore the city in a better way. Audio Guide is another good option for a solo tour. Click on the link to explore various ticket options.
Explore the Surroundings
This area has some other famous museums, like the Rijksmuseum and Stedelijk Museum. You can explore these museums and other attractions during your visit.
Transportation Tips
Van Gogh Museum
Tram is the easiest way to travel in the city. Use tram lines 2 or 5 to the “Van Gogh Museum” stop. You can use the 305, 314, 347, 397, 41, 65, or 852 buses to get to the museum.
Canal Cruise
There are various canal cruise departure points. One of the most popular departure points is near the Rijksmuseum (close to the Van Gogh Museum).
Restaurants near Amsterdam Canal
Amsterdam city offers different types of food. You can enjoy the traditional food of the city during your tour. Try Café Van Gogh, The Seafood Bar, and Stroopwafel Café.
Tips for Purchasing Tickets
Official Websites
Try to use the official website of the Van Gogh Museum and canal cruise operator. Sometimes, the official website may not have the tickets due to high demand.
Use Third-Party Platforms
Various trusted platforms offer last-minute tickets for the Van Gogh Museum and canal cruise. You can buy tickets instantly from these websites:
- Tourstravelfinder: This website offers last-minute tickets for the Amsterdam Canal cruise. You can Book Your Ticket From Here.
- GetYourGuide: It is another popular online platform that offers last-minute. Click here to buy the Van Gogh Museum Ticket and City Canal Cruise Combo Package.
Advance Booking
It is best if you buy the ticket in advance. During peak season, it is very hard to find instant tickets.
Time Slots
Choose specific time slots for both the museum and the cruise to avoid overlaps. Proper time management can help you enjoy the visit.
Things to Do Near Amsterdam Canal Cruise and Van Gogh Museum
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is one of the most famous and iconic museums in Amsterdam. It features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. Book Rijksmuseum reserved tickets to enjoy a better experience.
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is dedicated to the history of Anne Frank. The museum is located near the Van Gogh Museum. You can walk from the museum to the Anne Frank House.
Museumplein
If you like shopping, there is an option for you. Try the Museumplein area for shopping after your cruise tour. You can find big brands like Hermès, Gucci, LV, and Chanel.
Explore Vondelpark with Kids
You can explore Vondelpark after visiting the Van Gogh Museum. This park is a perfect place for a family outing. It has a rose garden displaying 70 different varieties of plants.
Conclusion
The Van Gogh Museum offers a history of art and culture while the canal cruise offers you a view from the water. The combination of both is a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of Amsterdam city.
Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure. Book your tour ticket today and make unforgettable memories in Amsterdam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best time for an Amsterdam canal cruise?
The best time depends on your preferences.
- Golden Hour: When the sun casts a warm glow on the city’s buildings and bridges.
- Nighttime: If you are looking for a romantic experience, this time is best for you.
- Daytime: Daytime is best for sightseeing and taking photos.
2. How long does the Van Gogh Museum tour take?
You can explore the Van Gogh Museum within 2-3 hours.
3. Can I buy tickets for both attractions together?
Yes, you can often buy combined tickets for the Amsterdam Canal Cruise and Van Gogh Museum.
4. Do I need to book the Amsterdam Canal cruise and Van Gogh Museum tickets in advance?
During peak season, the demand for tickets goes high. It is best to book tickets in advance. This will help you avoid long lines and ensure you get a spot.
