+31 (0)20 237 43 22
Mo-Fri • info@amsterdamcircleline.nl
Dutch flag Nederlands

Tours

Practical Information

+31 (0)20 237 43 22
Mo-Fri • info@amsterdamcircleline.nl

5 Highlights during the Amsterdam City Boat Tour

Posted on 11 September 2025    Reading time ± 3 minutes

Blog Amsterdam

A canal cruise through the center of Amsterdam is one of the best ways to experience the city, loved by tourists and locals alike. While you sit back comfortably, perhaps with a drink in your hand, you will see Amsterdam at its most charming: historic canal houses, iconic bridges, and impressive monuments all pass by. Maybe you’ve already been on a cruise or are just reading up on it. In this blog, we share five absolute highlights that you should not miss during a canal cruise through the city center and that you will definitely visit during our canal cruise through the center of Amsterdam.

5 Highlights during the Amsterdam City Boat Tour • Amsterdam Circle Line - Méér dan een Rondvaart
Amsterdam Circle Line icon

1. Herengracht: the city’s chic canal

The Herengracht is known as the most prestigious of Amsterdam’s three main canals (Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht) and indeed of all its canals (Amsterdam has a total of 165 canals). During the Golden Age, the wealthiest merchants, bankers, and mayors lived here. Today, the view of the stately mansions is still beautiful. Pay particular attention to the “Golden Bend,” the section between Vijzelstraat and Leidsestraat, where the facades are richly decorated and each building seems to tell a unique story.

2. The Magere Brug: a romantic symbol

One of the most photographed bridges in Amsterdam is undoubtedly the Magere Brug. This white wooden drawbridge over the Amstel is not only beautiful but also a romantic symbol of the city. In the evening, the bridge is beautifully lit, offering a magical view from the water. Did you know that this bridge has 1,200 lights? According to legend, a kiss on or under this bridge brings good luck in love—so seize the opportunity! This is also a special bridge for film lovers. You can spot the Magere Brug in the James Bond film Diamonds Are Forever, for example.

5 Highlights during the Amsterdam City Boat Tour • Amsterdam Circle Line - Méér dan een Rondvaart
Amsterdam Circle Line icon

3. The Maritime Museum: a maritime masterpiece

Near the Oosterdok, you will see the imposing building of the Maritime Museum, located in a former naval yard dating from the 17th century. At the quay lies an impressive replica of the VOC ship Amsterdam, which offers a glimpse into the maritime history of the Netherlands. From the boat, you get a beautiful view of both the museum and the ship – a must-see for history lovers. Fun fact: in summer, the naval base is also a popular spot for many Amsterdam residents to swim and sunbathe.

4. Central Station: the beating heart of the city

Central Station is more than just a train station—it is an architectural masterpiece designed by Pierre Cuypers, the same architect who designed the Rijksmuseum. Can you see the similarities? The impressive station building was opened in 1889 and has since been the gateway to the city for millions of travelers.

5 Highlights during the Amsterdam City Boat Tour • Amsterdam Circle Line - Méér dan een Rondvaart
Amsterdam Circle Line icon

5. The Anne Frank House: a place of remembrance

One of Amsterdam’s most impressive sites is located on Prinsengracht: the Anne Frank House. This is where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary during World War II. Although the museum is best visited on foot, the canal cruise offers a unique perspective on the building and the long line of visitors who pause daily to reflect on this poignant piece of history. Right next to it, you will also find our boarding pier for the Amsterdam City Center Canal Cruise from the Anne Frank House, which is also where the cruise will end. This is an easy way to visit the museum and take a canal cruise.

In short: a canal cruise through Amsterdam City Center is much more than just a tourist outing. It is a journey through the history, culture, and charm of the city—with these five highlights as absolute highlights.

Book your tickets

Last updated on 12 September 2025

Next post: 10 things you (probably)…
Amsterdam Circle Line icon

Read more from Amsterdam Circle Line:

Avond rondvaart Amsterdam

10 things you (probably) didn’t know about Amsterdam’s canals

Amsterdam    12 September 2025

From historical tidbits to bizarre facts The Amsterdam canals are world-famous and for good …

Read more
Footer boat icon