Hidden gems in Amsterdam

Beyond the tourist trail, Amsterdam hides extraordinary experiences.

4.8Instant confirmationFree cancellation10 departure points

Beyond the tourist trail, Amsterdam hides extraordinary experiences. Our Small Boat Cruise takes you through narrow, hidden canals that larger boats cannot reach — past secret garden houses, hidden courtyards, and the quietest corners of the Jordaan. The VR Amsterdam History Cruise transports you 500 years back in time with virtual reality, seeing the city as it was during the Golden Age while cruising the very same canals. The Signature Boats Amsterdam Saloon Cruise offers a journey on a charming vintage boat, a piece of Amsterdam's maritime heritage. And Waterfietsen lets you discover your own hidden routes, pedalling through canals most visitors never see. These are the experiences locals love.

Best experiences for hidden gems

Small Boat Cruise
4.5(2.3k)

Small Boat Cruise

Open Boats experience

60 min·Leidseplein
20.00
Book
Small Boat Cruise
Waterfietsen
4.2(4.3k)

Waterfietsen

Pedal Bikes experience

60 min·Leidseplein
10.00
Book
Waterfietsen
Open Boat CruiseBest seller
4.4(5.7k)

Open Boat Cruise

Open Boats experience

60 min·Damrak
15.00
Book
Open Boat Cruise

How to choose

1

Beyond the tourist trail

The Small Boat Cruise reaches hidden canals that tour boats cannot access. You see a completely different side of Amsterdam.

2

Time travel

The VR History Cruise combines cutting-edge technology with Amsterdam's 800-year history for a truly unique experience.

3

Self-guided exploration

Waterfietsen gives you total freedom to discover your own hidden gems at your own pace.

Compare experiences

ExperienceBest forDurationDepartureFrom
Small Boat CruiseOpen Boats60 minLeidseplein20.00Book
VR Amsterdam History CruiseCanal Cruises75 minRijksmuseum27.50Book
Signature Boats Amsterdam Saloon CruiseCanal Cruises90 minLeidseplein35.00Book
WaterfietsenPedal Bikes60 minLeidseplein10.00Book
Open Boat CruiseOpen Boats60 minDamrak15.00Book

Tips

The Small Boat Cruise through the Jordaan is best on weekday mornings when the canals are quiet.

The VR History Cruise works in any weather — the virtual reality experience is immersive rain or shine.

Ask the Saloon Cruise captain about the history of the boat itself — each one has a story.

With Waterfietsen, head towards the Westerkerk and then into the narrow side canals for the best hidden gems.

Frequently asked questions

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