Dordrecht might be a small Dutch city, but it punches well above its weight when it comes to tours and experiences. Its charming streets, waterways, and artistic flair make it an ideal place to explore through guided tours or independent adventures. We’re particularly fond of the Biesbosch National Park Cruise because it combines relaxing scenery with informative commentary, making it perfect for nature lovers. For those who prefer exploring at their own pace, the kayak and SUP board rentals offer a fun, active way to immerse yourself into Dordrecht’s scenic waterways. And if you’re into street art, the Dordrecht: Street Art Tour provides a fresh perspective on the city’s creative side. Each of these experiences offers a unique window into Dordrecht’s character, whether you prefer relaxing, paddling, or exploring its colorful streets.
Quick Overview
Our list of top tours in Dordrecht covers a variety of interests and activity levels. You’ll find relaxing boat trips that showcase the beauty of Biesbosch National Park (Biesbosch: National Park Cruise), self-guided paddling adventures with kayak and SUP rentals (Biesbosch: Kayak Rental, SUP Board Rental), and an artistic walk through Dordrecht’s street art scene (Street Art Tour). Each offers a different way to experience the city, whether you’re after tranquility, active fun, or cultural discovery.
1. Biesbosch: National Park Cruise
For about $18, you can hop aboard a 75-minute boat cruise through Biesbosch National Park, one of the Netherlands’ most famous and scenic natural reserves. This tour provides a relaxing way to see the park’s waterways, reed beds, and small islands. Your friendly skipper doubles as a guide, sharing stories about the park’s history and natural features, making it more than just a boat ride.
What makes this cruise stand out is its balance of comfort and education. You’ll enjoy the peaceful scenery while learning about Biesbosch’s significance in the Dutch landscape. The tour departs from Baanhoekweg 25, and during the trip, you can purchase chilled drinks onboard—perfect for staying refreshed on warm days. Several guests mention the “beautiful views and informative commentary,” which greatly enrich the experience.
This cruise is well-suited for travelers seeking a gentle, scenic outing without strenuous activity. It’s also ideal for families, older visitors, or anyone wanting to appreciate Dutch water landscapes without leaving the city. The price offers excellent value considering the peaceful environment and local insights.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, affordable way to experience one of the Netherlands’ most beautiful parks—best for nature lovers and those short on time.
2. Biesbosch: Kayak Rental with Route Map and Life Jacket
At number 2, the Biesbosch: Kayak Rental lets you explore the park at your own pace, with options for 2 or 4-hour rentals. For just the cost of the rental, you’ll get a kayak, life jacket, and a route map. This setup provides the freedom to paddle through the narrow creeks and reed beds, getting close to nature in a way that no guided tour can match.
What makes this experience special is the opportunity to discover hidden corners of Biesbosch that are otherwise inaccessible. As you paddle, you might spot beavers, ospreys, or kingfishers—wildlife sightings that are both delightful and memorable. The kayak rental includes safety gear and a barrel to keep valuables dry, so you can focus on the scenery without worry. The reviews are glowing—one reviewer called it “a peaceful, immersive way to see the park, and the route map was easy to follow.”
This activity is best suited for active travelers comfortable with paddling, or families with older children. It’s perfect for those who want total control over their adventure and enjoy a bit of exercise. Keep in mind that weather can influence your trip, so availability might vary.
Bottom Line: A flexible, engaging way to see Biesbosch’s quieter, more intimate spaces—ideal for self-sufficient explorers and birdwatchers.
3. Biesbosch: SUP Board Rental
If you prefer standing up and paddling, the SUP Board Rental offers a fun alternative to kayaking. With rental durations from 2 to 4 hours, you can glide over the water, exploring the creeks and hidden spots of Biesbosch at your own pace. The experience is similar to kayaking but with an added sense of balance and fun—perfect for those who enjoy a bit of physical challenge.
What makes this rental standout is the chance to discover parts of the national park that many boat tours might miss. You can choose from different routes, tailor your adventure, and enjoy the serenity of the water. The equipment includes a waterproof barrel for valuables and a life jacket for safety. Several reviews mention how much fun they had, with one noting, “paddling on a SUP was a highlight of my trip—I loved the quiet, peaceful feeling of gliding through the water.”
This activity is suited for active individuals or groups, especially those who want an engaging way to connect with nature. It’s great for families, friends, or solo adventurers, as long as you’re comfortable with balancing and paddling. As always, check availability and weather conditions before heading out.
Bottom Line: A lively, physically engaging way to explore Biesbosch’s tranquil waterways—perfect for adventurous paddlers.
4. Dordrecht: Street Art Tour
For a completely different experience, the Dordrecht: Street Art Tour offers a 1.5-hour walk through the city’s vibrant urban art scene. Starting at Voorstraat 276, this guided tour uncovers murals, statues, and colorful facades that many visitors overlook. It’s a fantastic way to see Dordrecht through an artistic lens and gain insight into the stories behind the art.
Led by an expert guide, you’ll learn about the artists, the meaning behind the murals, and how street art contributes to the city’s modern identity. The reviews are highly positive, highlighting the “creative energy” and “unexpected surprises” along the way. It’s ideal for art lovers, culture seekers, or anyone curious about contemporary urban life in Dordrecht.
This tour’s strength is its ability to reveal a lively, modern side of the city that contrasts with its historic streets. It’s perfect for a short, engaging activity and costs less than a dinner. The only potential drawback is that it’s weather-dependent—so check the forecast and book accordingly.
Bottom Line: An engaging hour-and-a-half walk that reveals Dordrecht’s artistic side, making it a must for lovers of street art and city culture.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. For a relaxing intro, the Biesbosch National Park Cruise offers comfort and scenic views for a modest price. If you’re craving self-guided adventure and a bit of physical activity, both the kayak and SUP rentals allow you to explore at your own pace, ideal for active travelers.
For a cultural twist, the Street Art Tour provides insight into the city’s modern creative scene. It’s perfect if you want an easy, inspirational walk that complements sightseeing.
Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and equipment. Think about weather conditions—water-based activities are best on calm, dry days, while the street art tour works rain or shine.
Final Thoughts
Dordrecht offers a range of tours that cater to different tastes—from peaceful boat rides and paddling adventures to creative city walks. For serenity and natural beauty, the Biesbosch cruises make a perfect introduction. For more active explorers, self-guided kayaking and SUP adventures deliver both fun and independence. Culture lovers will enjoy uncovering the city’s street art scene with the Dordrecht Street Art Tour.
Whatever your travel style, these experiences promise an authentic way to enjoy Dordrecht’s waterways, streets, and local stories. Booking early and considering your fitness and weather preferences will ensure you get the most out of your trip.