Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, historic buildings, and lively neighborhoods make it an ideal city for wine and food lovers. But what sets Amsterdam apart for wine tours is its unique blend of waterside charm and cultural richness. Whether you’re floating through the city on a boat with a glass of wine in hand or exploring local cheese shops with expert guides, the city offers memorable ways to indulge your palate. I personally love the Amsterdam: Cheese & Wine Cruise Tasting Experience for its relaxed atmosphere and tasty Dutch wines paired with cheese—perfect for a romantic evening or a fun outing with friends.
While many travelers focus on the iconic sights, these tours give you a chance to enjoy the city’s flavors and canals in a more intimate way. From sunset cruises to private dinners, there’s a variety of options to suit different interests and budgets. Keep reading for our detailed reviews of the top ten wine experiences in Amsterdam.
Overview of the Best Wine Tours in Amsterdam
Our list combines a variety of canal cruises, tastings, and private dinners that highlight Amsterdam’s culinary scene. You’ll find boat tours like the classic Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Optional Cheese & Wine, which combines sightseeing with the pleasure of unlimited drinks. For a more relaxed evening, the Amsterdam: Evening Cruise with Optional Wine and Snacks offers scenic views and Instagrammable moments.
If cheese is your passion, the Cheese & Wine Cruise Tasting Experience takes you through the canals with tastings of Dutch cheeses and wine. For a more upscale experience, the Exclusive Cheese Walk & Dutch Wine Discovery provides a curated walk with cheese shops and wine tasting. For those seeking a private, gourmet evening, the Private Dinner Cruise with Guide and Wine offers a full-service dinner on the water. Below, each tour is examined in detail to help you decide which best suits your style and interests.
1. Amsterdam: Classic Boat Cruise with Optional Cheese & Wine
At number 1, this 1-hour canal cruise combines sightseeing with the option to enjoy unlimited drinks, including wine and cheese. The tour takes place on a fully electric boat, making it eco-friendly while gliding past notable sights like the Anne Frank House, the Golden Bend, and the Amstel Hotel. The highlight is the interactive experience with a friendly hostess and skippers who share stories about Amsterdam’s neighborhoods and history.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexible starting points—either from Prins Hendrikkade or near the Anne Frank House—and relaxed pace. Passengers love the panoramic views and the opportunity to kiss under the Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge). You can opt for unlimited drinks, which makes it a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. The reviews are strong, with a 4.6/5 rating based on over 25,000 reviews. Many mention how relaxing and scenic it is, especially with the electric boat’s quiet glide.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a quick, affordable introduction to Amsterdam’s canals with added drinks. It’s especially suited for couples or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic tour.
2. Amsterdam: Evening Cruise with Optional Wine and Snacks
For those seeking a magical night in Amsterdam, the Evening Cruise with Optional Wine and Snacks offers 1.5 hours of cruising past illuminated bridges and historic canal houses. This tour captures the city’s enchanting night-time atmosphere, with views of landmarks like Het Scheepvaartmuseum and the Royal Theater Carré.
Guests rave about the relaxing vibe and Instagrammable moments as the city lights reflect on the water. You can buy drinks before boarding and enjoy them as you glide past iconic sights. Many reviews mention how peaceful and scenic it is, especially during sunset or after dinner. The tour includes scenic views of the Golden Bend, the Rijksmuseum, and the Amstel Hotel.
This tour is ideal for travelers looking for a romantic night out or photo opportunities. It’s a good value at around $35, with a 4.4/5 rating based on nearly 20,000 reviews.
Bottom Line: Great for couples or small groups seeking a charming, illuminated view of Amsterdam at night, with a relaxed pace and optional drinks.
3. Amsterdam: Cheese & Wine Cruise Tasting Experience
At number 3, this 75-minute heated boat cruise combines the joy of Dutch cheese with fine wines. Departing from Damrak, this tour brings you past Amsterdam Centraal, the Anne Frank House, and along the Grachtengordel. The guide narrates stories about the city while you sip unlimited wine and nibble a variety of Dutch cheeses—a true treat for cheese lovers.
What elevates this experience is its cozy atmosphere and the expert guidance, making it ideal for couples or friends wanting a relaxed, flavorful evening. The cheese is described as being of excellent quality, and reviews highlight the fun and engaging guide. Many recommend this as a perfect ending to a busy day exploring the city.
Priced competitively, it offers good value considering the all-you-can-drink style and the quality of cheeses. The 4.5/5 rating reflects high satisfaction.
Bottom Line: A delightful choice for cheese and wine fans who want a scenic, leisurely cruise with tasty bites and plenty of drinks.
4. Amsterdam: Canal Cruise with Cheese and Wine
This chic, wooden boat tour takes you through some of the most iconic canals in Amsterdam. The Canal Cruise with Cheese and Wine offers a relaxed 1-hour ride with stories from a local guide about the city’s unique architecture and history. Ideal for those who want a more intimate experience, the boat is operated by FLAGSHIP AMSTERDAM, with options to depart from different points.
As you cruise, you’ll enjoy tasty Dutch cheese and unlimited wine, all while listening to engaging commentary. The tour covers sights like the Prinsengracht, the Houseboat Museum, and the Negen Straatjes — the nine little streets full of boutiques and cafes. The boat’s stylish design and friendly crew make for a memorable experience, and reviews praise both the atmosphere and the knowledgeable guides.
At $36.52 per person, it offers a good balance of quality and affordability. Reviewers especially appreciate the informative narration and the chance to see Amsterdam from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an elegant, compact cruise that combines local storytelling with cheese and wine.
5. Exclusive Cheese Walk & Dutch Wine Discovery
For a more personalized, in-depth experience, the Exclusive Cheese Walk & Dutch Wine Discovery is a 3-hour guided walking tour led by cheese expert Michael. With 20 years of experience running his own cheese shop, Michael takes you through the 9 Little Streets and Jordaan district, visiting 2 cheese shops and learning how to craft the perfect cheese board.
This tour is unique because it combines cheese tasting with Dutch wines in a specially selected shop. Michael’s insights make this more than just a tasting; it’s a masterclass in identifying quality cheese and pairing it with wines. The tour is best suited for serious foodies who want a deeper understanding of Dutch cheese and wine pairings.
Limited to small groups, the experience offers personalized attention. At $114.09 per person, it’s a premium experience but one highly rated for its depth and quality. Reviewers praise Michael’s knowledge and the chance to learn insider tips.
Bottom Line: Best for dedicated cheese and wine lovers seeking a comprehensive, expert-led tasting combined with a city walk.
6. Amsterdam Cheese Tasting with Wine and Beer Pairing
This 45-minute small-group tasting happens in a popular local cheese shop, where you’ll sample a range of Dutch cheeses—from goudas to more aged varieties. The guide introduces you to the cheesemaking process and shares behind-the-scenes stories, making this a fun and educational experience. The tasting includes beer and wine pairings, giving you a chance to explore different flavor combinations.
Guests highlight the generous portions and knowledgeable hosts as key strengths. The tour is ideal for those new to Dutch cheeses or anyone wanting a quick, engaging tasting session. It’s competitively priced at $24.14 per person, providing good value for the quality and personalized attention.
Reviewers appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the opportunity to learn and taste in a relaxed setting. It’s an excellent choice for a short but informative experience.
Bottom Line: Suits travelers wanting a quick, fun, and educational cheese tasting with pairings in a cozy shop.
7. Amsterdam The Newest Cheese and Wine Canal Cruise
This 1-hour canal cruise is the latest addition to Amsterdam’s cheese and wine tours. It features an English-speaking skipper and host, with options for an open or covered boat depending on the weather. The route highlights Skinny Bridge, Dancing Houses, and other iconic sights while combining Dutch cheese and wine.
It’s designed for those who want a quick yet engaging experience with a relaxed atmosphere. The reviews are limited but stellar—both reviewers mention friendly staff and the appealing combination of sightseeing and tasting.
Ideal for travelers with limited time who want to sample the city’s flavors while enjoying its famous canals.
Bottom Line: A modern, flexible option for a quick cheese and wine cruise with scenic views.
8. Amsterdam: Paint and Sip in the Dark at Rembrandt van Wine
This 2-hour activity combines art and wine in a lively, fun setting. You’ll create a neon-painted masterpiece while enjoying unlimited wine and good vibes. The event takes place in the evening, making it a great option for a different kind of night out—perfect for friends or solo travelers looking to try something creative.
The reviews note how cool and unique the experience is, with the instructors guiding you step-by-step. It’s less about wine tasting and more about a creative social activity, but the free-flowing wine adds to the fun.
It’s priced for a more casual evening, and the mix of art and drinks makes it stand out from traditional wine tours.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a creative night out with friends, combining art, wine, and a fun atmosphere.
9. Amsterdam Light Festival Cruise with Optional Wine & Snacks
During the Amsterdam Light Festival, this 1.5-hour cruise offers a chance to see illuminated artworks along the canals. The tour passes by over 20 illuminated art pieces, creating a stunning, Instagrammable backdrop. You can enhance the experience with optional wine and snacks, making it a cozy way to enjoy the city’s festive side.
The reviews mention its spectacular visuals and unique experience during the holiday season. The tour is ideal for those visiting during the festival or anyone who appreciates art and scenic waterways.
While not solely focused on wine, the optional drinks make this a lovely, festive addition to your trip.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a scenic, artsy cruise during the Light Festival with optional refreshments.
10. Amsterdam: Private Dinner Cruise with Guide and Wine
For a truly luxurious experience, the Private Dinner Cruise with Guide and Wine offers an exclusive gourmet meal on a private boat. Up to 10 guests can enjoy full-service dining while cruising through Amsterdam’s canals. The menu is prepared by a renowned local restaurant, and you can select wines to complement your meal.
The cozy, bohemian interior and full heating make it comfortable year-round. The guide provides insights into Amsterdam’s art and architecture as you dine. The reviews highlight its private, elegant atmosphere, making it ideal for special occasions or romantic nights.
Pricing varies based on meal choices, but overall, it’s a premium experience offering bespoke service and privacy. It’s especially suited for couples celebrating a special event or small groups seeking exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an intimate, gourmet experience on the water with personalized service and fine wine.
How to Choose Your Perfect Wine Tour in Amsterdam
Choosing between these options depends on your priorities: if you want scenic sightseeing with drinks, the Classic Boat Cruise or the Evening Cruise are excellent. For a culinary focus, the Cheese & Wine Cruise offers quality tastings, while the Exclusive Cheese Walk is perfect for serious foodies.
If privacy and fine dining matter, the Private Dinner Cruise is unbeatable. For casual fun, the Paint and Sip combines art with drinks, and the Light Festival Cruise offers a festive, artsy experience.
When planning, consider your budget, the type of experience you want (scenic, educational, intimate), and the time of day. Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons like summer or Light Festival times.
Final thoughts
Amsterdam offers a surprisingly diverse array of wine and food experiences that go beyond the typical wine tastings. Whether you prefer a scenic boat cruise, a small-group tasting, or a private dinner, there’s something to match your mood and budget. For those seeking a relaxing, scenic introduction to the city, the classic boat cruise is hard to beat. For serious cheese enthusiasts, the Exclusive Cheese Walk offers in-depth knowledge and tastings. And for a romantic or special occasion, the private dinner cruise provides a memorable, intimate setting.
Whatever your choice, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these popular experiences. Happy sipping and cruising through Amsterdam’s canals!