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Amsterdam Cruise Port Guide | 10 Best Things To Do

Amsterdam canal

Welcome to Amsterdam cruise port guide! (Post updated: January 2024)

Known for its beautiful canals, tulips, authentic Dutch architecture, bicycles, and tolerant, friendly locals, the capital of the Netherlands is one of the most visited ports by cruise ships and river cruises in Europe. Amsterdam is a relatively small city easy to get around and most of the main city attractions can be reached on foot. In this insider cruise port guide, read about:

  • Amsterdam Netherlands cruise port (Amsterdam cruise terminal, getting around, helpful links)
  • 10 best things to do in Amsterdam cruise ship port including Amsterdam shore excursions to Zaanse Schans, Keukenhof Gardens and Delft. 

Visit also our cruise port guides to Greenock (Glasgow) , Belfast , Holyhead , Dover , Invergordon (Inverness) , Cork/Cobh , Le Havre

Amsterdam Cruise Port

Port Amsterdam’s main cruise port terminal is known as Passenger Terminal Amsterdam , located within walking distance from Amsterdam downtown. Ships may also dock at Felison Cruise Terminal located in the town of IJmuiden approximately 30 km (18.6 miles) from Amsterdam, but this rarely happens (check the cruise calendar ).

Passenger Terminal Amsterdam

Most of the cruise ships dock at Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA), conveniently located in the city center within walking distance from Amsterdam central station and city attractions. Housed in a modern, wave-like glass building, PTA has 2 berths that can accommodate ships up to 630 m combined length. Inside this modern building, cruise passengers will find a reception hall, a tourist information center, a cafe, shops, and free wifi internet.

The cruise port of Amsterdam is also a popular homeport (passengers embark and disembark in Amsterdam) for several cruise lines, including river cruises (Viking River Cruises, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways…). A locker rental facility is available in the terminal and you can rent lockers to store your luggage for 24 hours. You can also rent segways and bikes, or book boat and sightseeing tours in the terminal. There is large underground parking available for a fee as well.

Amsterdam cruise port - Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA)

Getting Around & Local Transportation

  • Passenger Terminal Amsterdam is located approximately 2.2 km (1.3 miles) from Amsterdam city center (a 30-minute walk) and main city highlights. To get to the center, you need to follow the road to Amsterdam Central Station along Piet Heinkade Street located in front of the terminal building (you’ll see the street upon exiting the terminal, turn right and you’ll reach the station). The walk to the central station takes about 20 minutes. When you reach Central Station, the city center will be on your left-hand side.
  • If you don’t want to walk, a tram station is just across the street. The tram station’s name is Muziekgebouw Bimhuis and here you need to catch a GVB tram 26 and get off at the next station which is the Central Station. Only cards are accepted, no cash, and you buy the tickets on the tram. You can also take a taxi to the Central Station or Uber.
  • Public transport in Amsterdam is operated by Gemeente Vervoerbedrijf Amsterdam (GVB) and you can check the timetables and prices at the official webpage https://www.gvb.nl/
  • At Central Station, you can rent bicycles, book canal and sightseeing tours, get a Hop on Hop off bus , or catch a connecting train to one of the nearby cities. Check out Amsterdam Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus tours on Viator and Get Your Guide
  • Schiphol Amsterdam Airport is located 26 km/16 miles (a 30-minute drive) southwest of Amsterdam Passenger Terminal. The trains from Central Station run frequently and the journey takes around 20 minutes.
  • The currency in the Netherlands is EURO (€). ATMs and currency exchange are available in the town. Local currency and credit cards are widely accepted.
  • Explore Amsterdam tours and activities
  • Find hotels near Amsterdam cruise port

Amsterdam Central Station - Amsterdam Metro station

10 Best Things to Do in Amsterdam Cruise Port

1. anne frank house.

Located in the center of Amsterdam, Anne Frank House is one of the most visited sites welcoming more than a million visitors every year. In this house, Anne, her family, and four other people used to hide for 761 days during the Nazi persecution during World War II. Unfortunately, in 1944 all eight of them were captured and sent to the concentration camp. The museum features personal objects of the people who hid in the house annex, including Anne’s diary.

Anne Frank statue in Amsterdam

Anne Frank House is located a 20-minute walk from Central Station. Alternatively, you can take a tram 13 or 17 to Westermarkt stop. Due to the popularity of this site and limited capacity, you should consider pre-purchasing your tickets online.

Explore Anne Frank House tours and activities

2. Rijksmuseum

Visit the only Museum with a road inside of it but not for cars, only for bicycles. The Rijksmuseum features almost one million objects but only 8000 pieces of artwork are displayed including several of Rembrandt’s portraits and his famous “Night Watch”. The second floor houses the largest library in the Netherlands.

It is strongly recommended to purchase your tickets in advance as you will need to select a time for your visit. To get there, take a tram 2 or 5 from Central Station and get off at Hobbemastraat stop.

Check out Rijksmuseum tours and activities

Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam

3. Van Gogh Museum

Another must-stop during your visit to Amsterdam is the Van Gogh Museum where you can discover the life and the largest artwork collection of the famous Vincent Van Gogh. The Dutch impressionist painter suffered from mental illness since his early years and remained poor throughout his life, becoming famous one century after his death.

To get there from Amsterdam cruise ship terminal, take trams 2, 5 or 12 from Central Station and get off at Van Baerlestraat station. After a few minutes’ walk, you’ll reach the museum.

Check out Van Gogh Museum tours and skip-the-line tickets

4. Royal Palace

Dominating Dam Square in the heart of Amsterdam, the Royal Palace is one of the three palaces in the Netherlands. This imposing palace was originally built as the City Hall back in the 17 th century and then became the seat of the Royal family. When there is no official event, the Palace is open to the public and you can take a tour of the magnificent interior, see original furniture and learn about the rich history with a certified guide.

If your time in the port of Amsterdam is running short, it is worth admiring the palace’s stunning architecture from the exterior. The Royal Palace is located only a 10-minute walk from Amsterdam Central Station. You can also take tram 2 , however, I strongly suggest you enjoy a nice stroll through Damrak Avenue full of stores, cafes and souvenir shops.

Explore Royal Palace tours and activities

Amsterdam Royal Palace

5. Red Light District

This famous neighborhood is located in the center of Amsterdam and houses the world’s oldest profession. Dating back to the 16 th century, this district was the favorite area for sailors arriving from around the world due to its proximity to the harbor. Even though all the action takes place during the night, Red Light District is still a very popular tourist destination during the day.

The best way to explore it is by foot or bicycle due to its narrow alleys. Here you can find selected museums, small cafes, souvenir shops and of course the famous ¨coffee shops¨ and red light window shops.

Explore Red Light District tours and activities

Amsterdam Red Light District

6. The Heineken Experience

If you are a beer lover, this tour is the perfect pick for you! Discover the history behind this famous beer on an interactive, self-guided 90-minute tour through the old brewery and enjoy a refreshing tasting at the end!

To get to the Heineken Brewery, take tram 24 at Central Station and get off at the Stadhouderskade stop. Guests with mobility challenges are welcome as the museum is wheelchair-friendly.

Explore Heineken Brewery tours and activities

7. Take a Canal Cruise

No visit to Amsterdam is complete without taking a boat trip through the famous and colorful canals listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Experience Amsterdam from the water, see many of the main city landmarks, admire the 17th-century architecture, and learn about Dutch culture and history!

To book a canal tour, you can make your way to Central Station and you will find a variety of tour options there or you can schedule your trip directly with your cruise ship or with an independent tour operator.  These tours last approximately an hour so you still have plenty of time to explore or visit other attractions in Amsterdam.

Explore Amsterdam Canal tours and activities

Amsterdam canal boat tour

8. Zaanse Schans Windmills

Take a trip to the most popular attraction located in the north of the capital, approximately 18 km/11 miles (a 25-minute drive) from the cruise port Amsterdam. In Zaanse Schans village, you can see original windmills from the 17th and 18th centuries, some still operating to this day. Visit one of the museums located in this village, such as the Wooden Shoe Workshop and Bakery Museum, and enjoy some cheese tasting!

Zaanse Schans windmill

There is no entrance fee to Zaanse Schans village but there is a fee to visit each Windmill and Zaans Museum; however, you can purchase a Zaanse Schans Card that will give you access to all windmills, museums, and much more! Visit https://www.dezaanseschans.nl/ and https://zaansmuseum.nl/ for more information.

To get to Zaanse Schans, you can take the R-net bus line 391 from Amsterdam Central Station. Buses run frequently (every 15 minutes) and the journey takes approximately 45 minutes. You can also take the train from Central Station to Zaandijk – Zaanse Schans station. The trip by train takes 17 minutes. Once you get off at the station, you need to walk 15 minutes to get to the village. Zaanse Schans village is fairly flat for guests with mobility challenges.

Explore  Zaanse Schans tours from Amsterdam

9. Keukenhof Gardens

The breathtaking Keukenhof is the world’s largest flower garden and the most visited attraction during the summer, welcoming over a million visitors per year. The Keukenhof gardens feature over 7 million flowers including 800 different types of tulips spread across an area of 32 hectares. Open throughout the year, the best time to see the tulips is from March to May.

Keukenhof is located in the town of Lisse approximately 35 km/22 miles (a 1-hour drive) from Amsterdam cruise port. From Central Station, you can take a 20-minute train to Haarlem Station and then take bus 50 to the gardens.

Check out Keukenhof Gardens tours and activities 

Explore this beautiful medieval town known for its hand-painted blue-and-white pottery, charming canals, and famous for being home to the renowned painter Johannes Vermeer. Delft is located approximately 70 km/44 miles (a 1h 15-minute drive) from Amsterdam port. From Central Station, there is a direct train to Delft and the ride takes approximately 1 hour. Due to the distance from the port, it’s advisable to visit Delft on a guided tour from Amsterdam.

Visit Delft from Amsterdam  

Town Hall in Delft

Visit also our cruise port guides to Greenock (Glasgow) , Belfast , Holyhead , Dover , Dublin , Invergordon (Inverness) , Cork/Cobh ,  Copenhagen , Le Havre

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amsterdam cruise port things to do

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Amsterdam Cruise Port & Passenger Terminal – Information & Guide

Arriving or departing the  Amsterdam Cruise Port ? Here’s a handy guide to the  Passenger Terminal Amsterdam  including how to get there, the best hotels, what to do near the port, and itinerary ideas for excursions while in Amsterdam!

Is the Amsterdam Cruise Port CLOSED?

The city of Amsterdam has announced its intention to close the Cruise Passenger Terminal Amsterdam . This has been a discussion for several years. Decisions like this in Amsterdam usually take multiple years to implement, so if you have a cruise scheduled with Amsterdam as a port of call or departure/arrival port through 2024, don’t worry! It’s not likely any changes will happen before then.

When will The Amsterdam Passenger Terminal be closing?

There has been no definitive date on which closing the cruise port will actually be put into effect. It simply has passed the city government votes, so there is a lot of time before this ever happens. Maybe even years!

We’ll keep this page updated as we hear more locally about the plans. You can subscribe to our newsletter and we’ll keep information updated about the closure through our monthly emails.

Our information is from first-hand experiences, even better, we lived near the Amsterdam cruise port & Passenger Cruise Terminal for quite some time, so we are familiar with nearly every aspect of the area.

We hope to help anyone who’s arriving in Amsterdam for a cruise, especially our fellow Americans who may not be familiar with public transportation, hotels, and things to do in Amsterdam. But even if you’re not arriving by cruise ship, we have some useful information that any traveler could benefit from!

amsterdam cruise port things to do

Practical Information – Arriving or Departing the Amsterdam Cruise Port Terminal? 

The Amsterdam cruise port is just outside of the city center and the entire area is very safe with plenty of things to do.

When you exit the ship, everything is so close and nearly all attractions and points of interest are walkable from the cruise port! For people with reduced mobility or travelers not interested in walking as much, the tram system has stops within steps of the cruise port terminal.

While the city is exciting and vibrant, there are active pickpockets in the highly touristed areas (Central Station, Red Light, and some museums). Everyone will warn travelers of pickpockets, but with some common sense, you don’t have to worry. Just keep belongings close, put wallets and money in front pockets (as well as cell phones), and don’t wander around with a large backpack. Choose a smaller excursion bag for essentials. They are easier to manage and can be worn across the front in really busy situations. Additionally, you won’t stick out as a tourist as much 🙂

The reality is, even after living in Amsterdam in the most touristed area, I’ve never been a victim nor have I even witnessed a pickpocket situation (Or even KNOWN anyone that has). It’s a thing, yes, but not worth being paranoid over. Just use common sense. 

Amsterdam Cruise Port & Passenger Terminal - Information & Guide 1

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Where do cruise ships dock in Amsterdam?

The address to the Amsterdam cruise port for large ships is : Piet Heinkade 27, 1019 BR Amsterdam, Netherlands

It’s simply referred to as the   Passenger Terminal Amsterdam  or  Cruise Port Amsterdam  on most maps and websites.

There are two locations for cruises, there is the large terminal which accommodates traditional large cruise ships, and the dockside area which accommodates most river cruises.

IJmuiden is NOT Amsterdam Cruise Port!

If you see that your cruise is going to dock in IJmuiden, THIS IS NOT AMSTERDAM. Amsterdam and Ijmuiden are completely different ports and nowhere near each other. Also, some cruise companies like MSC like to call Rotterdam, “Amsterdam” or vice-versa. So be sure you understand where they are going to dock. We will cover IJmuiden & Rotterdam separately.

River Cruise Dock Location – Amsterdam

River Cruises such as Viking River Cruises, dock in the same general area but not at the exact same location. You’ll want to point your map to the  address for river cruises in Amsterdam  which is De Ruijterkade 140, 1011 AC Amsterdam

Amsterdam Cruise Port Map

This map will help you better understand the distance between the cruise port and the city center & the train station.

Getting around Amsterdam – Make use of City Cards!

If you’re planning on exploring attractions & museums, make use of the efficient, safe, and extremely clean public transport system. There are multiple “city cards” that give you access to transportation, museums, or both. The “I Amsterdam” City Card might be an ideal choice if you are looking to experience multiple museums including public transportation.

With a single payment, this card grants you access to various discounts or even free entry at more than 70 of the city’s top attractions & museums. Additionally, it allows for unlimited use of the extensive public transport network which comprises trams and buses that can take you anywhere within the city. As if that weren’t enough, the card also includes a canal cruise experience, bicycle rental options, and additional discounts at select bars and restaurants. So by getting your hands on this card, your experience in Amsterdam will definitely be even more enjoyable and convenient.

Here are our recommended city card options.

TOP PICK – Travel + Museums

The iAmsterdam city card is the absolute best option for getting around the city and visiting museums! The card includes transportation, access to museums, a canal cruise as well as various discounts from merchants around Amsterdam. It’s a MUST-HAVE if you are spending a day or two in the city.

iAmsterdam City Card

  • The iAmsterdam City card unlimited travel card allows free travel on all public transport networks in Amsterdam operated by GVB. (Trams, busses, etc) – It excludes NS rail Trains
  • Gain access to some of the most amazing museums & attractions at no additional cost!
  • Take a canal cruise with your card (1 included)
  • The city pass can be purchased for a day or multiple days to suit your plans.
  • Download the app and use the city card immediately.
  • If there are any issues with the ticket, designated & convenient locations are available for assistance.

TOP PICK – Unlimited Travel Only

The transport card for the trams & bus system starts at about $10 per day and is an incredible value for 24 hours of unlimited use.

Trams are available just outside of the Amsterdam cruise port!

This card is best for those who aren’t interested in access to museums, as it’s just for transportation.

Amsterdam Tram & Bus Transportation Card (GVB)

  • The unlimited travel card allows for stress-free travel on all public transport networks in Amsterdam operated by GVB.
  • Tickets can be purchased for a single day or for up to 5 days.
  • Simply collect your ticket from a participating station, check in when boarding, and check out when exiting the bus or tram. The ticket is valid until its expiration.
  • If there are any issues with the ticket, designated pick-up locations or a helpline number are available for assistance.

What are the nearest attractions to the Amsterdam Cruise Port?

The city of Amsterdam is so small and any attraction that is worth seeing can be reached by foot in under an hour or by tram in just minutes. But if you’re looking to stay close to the port, there are the best things to do near the passenger terminal! 

  • NEMO Science Museum – great for adults and children alike. Just a few minutes walk from the cruise port.
  • Red Light District – Have a wander around the famous Red Light District which is a few minutes walk from the cruise passenger terminal Amsterdam. Wander the area yourself or hire a tour guide through the Red Light District. Having lived in the Red Light, having a tour guide is the best way to make the most out of your visit!
  • A wander through Centraal Station – This beautiful station is more than just another train station, it has restaurants, bars, and shops.  The station is only a 10-minute walk +/-
  • Canal Cruise – there are literally hundreds of canal cruise options and many depart from near the cruise port. Our favorites are the smaller open-top canal boats for the most authentic experience.

Additional Amsterdam Excursions to consider:

  • Food Tours – There is no better way to discover local culture than a guided food tour. Learn about Dutch cheeses, chocolate, and the daily staples of the locals. Book a guided food tour of Amsterdam
  • Museums including the Anne Frank House – Everyone knows about the Anne Frank House. It’s not far from the cruise port. Be sure to book your tickets as far in advance as possible since the museum sells out daily (this is true with many popular museums) Tickets are only available from the foundation website here .
  • Heineken Experience – Perhaps one of the most popular tours is the Heineken Experience where you can gain entry to the brewery, learn the history of Heineken Beer, and have a taste of their creation. Book a Heineken Experience entry ticket & tour in advance to skip the line.

amsterdam cruise port things to do

A list of places to go and things to do for a day in Amsterdam:

Amsterdam cruise port hotels.

There are a huge number of hotel options near the port/terminal. So many in fact, that it makes trying to select accommodation incredibly difficult. We usually recommend the Movenpick or Ibis Centraal Station as they are the most convenient to the cruise ship terminal

  • See : Our pick of hotels near the Amsterdam Cruise Terminal

Information & FAQs on getting to and from the Amsterdam cruise port, airport, train station, and the city center.

Getting to and from the cruise terminal in Amsterdam is straightforward and relatively simple. Here is some helpful information and frequently asked questions about travel between the cruise ship port and major points of interest.

How far is the cruise Passenger Terminal Amsterdam from the city center?

The Amsterdam cruise port is almost in the city center! You can literally walk off the ship and be to some of the main attractions and vibrant city center within minutes. Our handy map will show you where the main attractions are as you leave the cruise ship. 

How much is a taxi from Amsterdam cruise port to the city center?

Cabs are quite expensive in Amsterdam with a basic starting fee of over €3  and a separate rate per kilometer that is over €2. So a simple ride down the street will likely cost close to €7 or $8 when a tram would be less than €1. It’s not common to use a taxi to get around in Amsterdam due to the ease of public transportation and close proximity to everything (it’s really a small city!). However, people with mobility issues may prefer to use a taxi or Uber. (Uber is generally a little less expensive than a taxi)

How far is it from the cruise ship port in Amsterdam to Schiphol airport?

By train to or from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, it’s about 25 minutes, to the port, and by car, it’s about 30 minutes depending on traffic. The train is the easiest and least complicated way to get to the center of the city where the cruise port is a short walk.

How do I get from the cruise port to the airport in Amsterdam?

The three most popular ways to get to the airport from the Amsterdam cruise port are using the train, a private transfer by the cruise line (bus), or by taxi.

The most popular option is the train system, which is inexpensive, fast, and gets you from Amsterdam Central Station to the airport in under 30 minutes.  The price for a train ticket varies depending on the time of day but the basic fare starts at about 6 euro. Alternatively, you can use a transportation pass if you’re going to explore before going to the airport (See pass options). 

Otherwise, taxis and private cars are usually available for around €40-€60 depending on the company. Book a private car with a reputable company

How much is a taxi from Amsterdam cruise port to Schiphol Airport?

Uber is widely used as are other taxi & car services which are easily available from the airport and cruise terminal.  What’s the price to get between Schipol Airport and the Amsterdam Cruise Terminal?  Expect to spend €40-€60 or more depending on the time of day. For larger groups, it’s better to hire a private transfer service, as taxis can be too small to accommodate more than 2 people with luggage. Private transfers aren’t cheap but they’re the least stressful and most direct way to get from the cruise passenger terminal to the airport.

The cruise lines always provide transportation as well and for people looking to get off the ship and go straight to the airport, this is usually the best option and probably the most expensive as they’ll often include an excursion on the way to the airport.

How far is the Amsterdam cruise port terminal from the train station?

Since Amsterdam is so small, you’ll be thrilled to know you can walk to Central Station (Amsterdam Centraal)! The train station is only 1km (a little over half a mile) and about an 18-minute leisurely walk. 

Can you walk to and from the Amsterdam cruise port?

Depending on where you are staying or how you arrive, getting to the cruise terminal by foot is simple. It’s about a 15-minute walk from Centraal Station and less than 20 minutes from the city center. If you’re carrying a lot of luggage and staying in Amsterdam before or after a cruise, it’s probably best to get a cab. It’s worth noting that the tram system is extensive in Amsterdam and trams are available close to where passengers leave the ship and will get you into the city center in minutes.

Do you have a comment?

Did we miss something? Have you had a different experience? Did we get it wrong? Let us know!

Phil Crane

Cruise Gear Editor

I'm a global nomad at heart, and the dedicated editor behind CruiseGear. For the past two decades, I've experienced exciting voyages across the world, discovering countless ports from the decks of dozens of ships, visiting 40+ countries (and living in some of them for years). It's been an exhilarating journey to say the least! I want to share everything I've learned and hope to make your next cruise vacation as enjoyable as possible.

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Amsterdam Cruise Port

Guide to passenger terminal amsterdam (pta).

cruise ship amsterdam

Amsterdam has developed into a major northern European cruise port hub. Cruise Port Amsterdam is the company which handles both large ocean cruise ships and long river cruise boats.

Cruises arrive and depart from the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam which is close to Amsterdam Central station and has easy access to the city centre.

Passenger Terminal Amsterdam

The main building at the Amsterdam Cruise Port is called the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA) and opened in the year 2000. It was designed by global architecture firm HOK with lead designers Hal Hayes and Larry Malcic. Its wave-like glass structure is a striking example of the modern architecture to be seen on the Amsterdam IJ waterfront.

As well as having handled around 4 million cruise passengers since opening, the multi-purpose building is also used for events and functions for up to 3,000 people.

passenger terminal amsterdam

Located on the Piet Heinkade road, the PTA is sandwiched between the Mövenpick hotel and the Piet Hein office building .

The Amsterdam cruise terminal has a 600m long dock (depth 10m) on the northern side and has the size to host large cruise ships of up to 340m in length.

cruise ship at amsterdam cruise port

This modern facility has meant Amsterdam has become a popular stop-off on North Sea, Baltic and polar cruises and is served by many of the major cruise lines.

Amsterdam’s cruise terminal is located only 25km (13.5 nautical miles) from the North Sea. You can check out the sea cruise calendar here .

passenger terminal amsterdam door

In and around the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam you will find a huge reception hall (3,000m² area), promenade and panorama decks, a Thinking of Holland souvenir shop, a coffee bar, a Subway sandwich outlet and a tourist information desk. There is free WiFi internet available.

amsterdam cruise port

Luggage lockers at PTA cost €4 (small, 35 x 45 x 85cm) or €6 (large, 35 x 62 x 85cm) for 24 hours use – payment by coins only.

A bike rental shop (Amsterbike) is outside at Piet Heinkade 25.

A large underground car parking facility (Piet Heingarage) has 400 spaces and has a maximum day rate of €50.

If you are looking for a nearby supermarket in Amsterdam to stock up on supplies, there are Albert Heijn branches either by walking east from PTA to Oostelijke Handelskade 1065 or by heading west past Amsterdam Central Station to Prins Hendrikkade 20.

amsterdam cruise port terminal map

Hotels near Amsterdam Cruise Port

Without doubt, the most convenient hotel for cruise passengers as mentioned is the high-rise Mövenpick Hotel , which is literally nextdoor to the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam building.

It offers 408 stylish, well-appointed rooms (ranging in size from 26m² to 38m²). Those on the higher floors have great views of the IJ river, especially looking west back towards the city. Executive rooms on the 19th and 20th floors get lounge access included.

It is well rated by travellers and has a restaurant on-site. You can book the Mövenpick hotel here via Booking.com .

movenpick hotel amsterdam

Another good hotel in the area is the well-rated Jakarta Amsterdam hotel which is located across the bridge on Java Island. It offers modern, stylish rooms and a light, airy interior decorated with tropical plants.

hotel jakarta amsterdam

Other nearby hotels to consider are the art-deco Grand Amrath (former Shipping House) and the modern DoubleTree by Hilton .

Passenger Terminal Amsterdam to Amsterdam Central Station

Amsterdam Central Station, the city’s main transport hub is only a short distance away from Amsterdam’s cruise port terminal. There are a number of options for getting to and from the station.

Walk: It’s an easy 10-15 minute walk along the Piet Heinkade road. As you come out of the PTA building you need to head right in a westerly direction.

Tram: GVB tram 26 runs to Amsterdam Central Station where you can change onto other Amsterdam trams and public transport. A standard 1 hour single costs €3.40, a 1 day ticket costs €9.00 – buy on board, payment by card only. You can also book GVB multi-day tickets online here and immediately use them on a smartphone.

Amsterdam City Passes

Passenger terminal amsterdam to amsterdam schiphol airport.

Train: From Amsterdam Central Station there are regular trains running to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. This journey takes around 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost €5.90 (2nd class) and €9.33 (1st class) including the €1 surcharge for buying a disposable ticket.

Taxi: A taxi to the airport will take 30-45 minutes and costs around €45-60. Amsterdam taxis can be pre-booked online with Sneleentaxi which uses reliable local firms.

Alternatively, taxi app Uber is present in Amsterdam with similar fares.

River Cruises from Amsterdam

It is possible to do various European river cruises from Amsterdam which travel through the Rhine and Danube and visit cities such as Cologne, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. The longest continue through Romania and Bulgaria and reach the Black Sea at Rousse.

river cruise boat in amsterdam

This article was originally published in 2010 and has continuously been updated. Last update 9 February 2024 .

Links on AmsterdamTips.com may pay us an affiliate commission.

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CRUISE PORT GUIDES

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Amsterdam – the Netherlands

Cruise-Amsterdam-canals

Visiting the canals of Amsterdam is a must on your visit in this city, but there is so much more to see and do in this town. Whether you want to go shopping on the Kalverstraat, wonder behind the bookcase of the world’s most famous writer or take in the atmosphere of this unique city; Amsterdam is your place!

Amsterdam Cruise Terminal dock

Travel Information the Netherlands

Official currency – Euro Accepts US dollars – no Creditcards – are widely accepted

Drives on the – right Timezone – UTC +1

About the Netherlands

Inhabitants – Almost 17 million Official language – Dutch Capital city – Amsterdam Sovereign state – Kingdom of the Netherlands

Dutch language

Good day – Goedendag How are you? – Hoe gaat het? Thank you – Dankjewel Cruise ship – Cruiseschip Port – Haven

Also visit our cruise port guides for:

Rotterdam Oslo Southampton Copenhagen

Cruise Port Guide Amsterdam – the Netherlands: docked

Public transport.

Tram 26 connects the cruise terminal (name of the stop: Muziekgebouw) with the Amsterdam Central Station. You will find the tram stops in front of the cruise terminal, see map above. Pay the driver 2,90 euro for a 1 hour ticket or 7,50 for a day pass. You don’t need exact change. At the Amsterdam Central Station you can transfer to another bus, tram or metro on the same ticket. Utilise http://9292.nl/en for any information about public transportation and how to get from point A to B within Amsterdam and the rest of the country. Please know the location of the Passenger Cruise Terminal in Amsterdam is on “Piet Heinkade 72, Amsterdam”.

Amsterdam Central Station

This is your transportation hub of Amsterdam, but it is also where you will find the tourist information centre, bicycle rental, luggage storage and canal cruises. If you are planning to explore Amsterdam independently you will most likely kick off from here.

Amsterdam Hop on Hop off bus

The hop on hop off bus is available in the city of Amsterdam, but it doesn’t come to the cruise terminal. Find the nearest stop at the Amsterdam central station.

Bicycle rental at cruise terminal

Amsterdam is a city known for its bicycles and this is one of the best ways you can explore the city. Find the nearest bicycle rental at the Passenger Terminal or rent one at the Central Station. It is not mandatory to wear a helmet.

Taxis at the cruise terminal

The official taxis of Amsterdam all have a taxi sign on top of the roof and they all have a taxi meter. A taxi to the city centre should cost you around 10 euros one way. Any taxi ride within the Amsterdam city area should cost you between 10 and 18 euro. You can pay cash or with credit card.

Wi-fi at Amsterdam Cruise Terminal

The Passenger terminal provides free wi-fi.

Amsterdam cruise port webcam

Want to take a look at the Amsterdam cruise port? Click here to be connected to their webcam. https://www.portofamsterdam.com/en/webcam

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amsterdam cruise port things to do

The famous Red Light District in Amsterdam is basically a really cozy neighbourhood full of cafe’s, restaurants, shops and red coloured windows. If it wasn’t for its well known reputation you would find a quite, small town community here in the centre of Amsterdam. Have a nice stroll on these streets to get a sense on the tolerance of the Dutch. You will find the Red Light District on the Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal streets. The Red Light Districs is only a 10 minute walk from central station.

Red Light District

De Wallen, Amsterdam

The Heineken Experience

The former Heineken brewery is now occupied by the Heineken experience. It displays the history of beer-making in general and Heineken in particular. You will see the old brewing facilities and other attractions like what it’s like to be a beer bottle and a virtual reality tour of Amsterdam. Take tram 16 or 24 from Central Station to Stadhouderskade.

The Heineken Experience

Stadhouderskade 78, 1072 AE Amsterdam

Begijnhof

Tugged away on Spui square you will find a little portal that goes into the Begijnhof. It is a 14th century courtyard with a small church and little houses. It was build as a home for the Beguines nuns. Pay a visit here to enjoy one of the prettiest and quietest corners of the city centre. Open from 8am-5pm. Visit Begijnhof by taking tram 1, 2 or 5 from central station to Spui.

Begijnhof, Amsterdam

Rijksmuseum

This museum is considered to be the best in the country. Enjoy an extraordinary collection of paintings from every pre-twentieth-century period of Dutch art. Find the greatest work of great Dutch names like Frans Hals, Rembrandt and Johannes Vermeer. Take tram 2, 5 or 24 from Central Station to Rijksmuseum/Museum square.

Rijksmuseum

Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam

Dam Square

Dam square is the closest square to Central Station. It is the beating heart of the city that has many of the most important monuments of the city on it. Find the Royal Palace and WWII monument as the two prominent monuments here. Dam square is about 10 minutes walk from the Central station, you can also take any tram (except tram 26) leaving at Central Station to Dam Square.

Dam, Amsterdam

Museum Square

Museum square is the beating heart of art in the city of Amsterdam. Find it’s most famous artists on display in one of the 3 mayor art museums here. Visit one of this renowned museum, stop for lunch or sit down and relax in the sun on the best square of Amsterdam. Take tram 2, 5 or 24 from Central Station to stop “Museum plein”.

Museum Square

Museumplein, Amsterdam

China Town

The Amsterdam China Town is the oldest Chinese neighbourhood on mainland Europe. It was established in 1911. Roam de Zeedijk (street) where you can visit the temple or on of the many Chinese restaurants. Find China town on “Zeedijk”. This is a 5 minute walk from Central Station.

Zeedijk, Amsterdam

Anne Frank House

Anne Frank is one of the 100.000 Dutch jews who died during World War II. In the middle of the city centre of Amsterdam, at Prinsengracht 263, you will find the actual house where she and her family lived for 2 years during the war. This is also where she wrote in her diary that later would go all over the world and be a source of inspiration to many, including Nelson Mandela and Primo Levi. The rooms where the Franks lived in have been left much the same as they were in the 1940’s. Expect long queues at the museum. Avoid long lines by buying your ticket online: http://www.annefrank.org/en/Museum/Practical-information/Online-ticket-sales/ Take tram 13 or 17 from central station to Westermarkt.

Anne Frank House

Prinsengracht 263-267, 1016 GV Amsterdam

Amsterdam cruise dock

The Amsterdam cruise dock is called the Amsterdam Passenger Terminal. Cruise ships can dock fairly close to the city center of Amsterdam. The cruise terminal offers many facilities and services. Read the full Amsterdam cruise port guide here.

Amsterdam cruise dock

Waterlooplein

After the war Waterlooplein revived and became the city’s best flea market. Visit this chaotic market for a taste of city life or to roam the antique, junk and clothing stalls. Mon-Sat, 9am-5pm.

Waterlooplein

Waterlooplein, Amsterdam

Van Gogh Museum

Vincent van Gogh is arguably one of the most influential of all modern artists. His greatest work is on display in the Van Gogh museum and that makes it one of the most popular museums in Amsterdam. Find the museum on Museum square. Take tram 2 or 5 from Central Station to Museum square.

Van Gogh Museum

Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam

Oude kerk

This 13th century building is the oldest building in Amsterdam. It’s a remarkable piece of architecture with its Estonian planks, 2500 graves, unique stained glass windows and much more.

Oudekerksplein 23, 1012 GX Amsterdam

Canal Cruise

One of the nicest ways to see the city of Amsterdam is from the comfort of a canal cruise. One of the mayor departure points of canal cruises is at the Central Station. Find out which canal cruise best fits your needs and hop on. It truly is a great way to get a different perspective on the city.

Canal Cruise

Stationplein, Amsterdam

Kalverstraat

Amsterdam is a great place to go shopping. The largest shopping street in town is the Kalverstraat. The best place to start your shopping is at Dam square. Take any tram from Central Station (except tram 26) to stop “Dam”.

Kalverstraat

Kalverstraat, Amsterdam

9 straatjes

The hottest neighbourhood in town right now is the 9 startles or 9 street. Find beautiful little boutiques, vintage shops and charming lunch places in one of the cutest areas of Amsterdam.

9 straatjes

Wolvenstraat, Amsterdam

Gay Monument

“Such and endless desire for friendship” is the text you will find at the Amsterdam’s Gay Monument from 1987. The pink triangle was used in World War II by Nazi-Germany as a symbol of homosexuality. Today it is a symbol of pride. The granite monument is anchored into the canals of Amsterdam to represent the struggle for gay rights. Take tram 13 or 17 from Central Station to Westermarkt.

Gay Monument

Westermarkt, 1016 Amsterdam

Flower Market

Stroll the flower market to see what is produced in the Dutch greenhouses. From tullips to cactus, you will find it here in of the many stalls. Take tram 1, 2, or 5 at Central station to Koningsplein.

Flower Market

Singel, 1012 DH Amsterdam

Westertoren

Climb the highest church tower in Amsterdam and get beautiful panoramic views over the city. Start your 186 step tour at the base of the tower. Open everyday. Catch tram 13 or 17 from Central Station to stop “Westermarkt”.

Westertoren

Prinsengracht 279, 1016 GW Amsterdam

Maritime Museum

Close to the Passenger terminal you will find the Maritime museum. The Dutch are famous for their voyages and discoveries around the world especially during the 17th and 18th century. See the detailed models of the clippers of the East India Company, then the fastest ships in the world. Also find an actual clipper at the doorstep of the museum. You will find many nautical paintings, navigational equipment and examples of early atlases that tell you the story how the Dutch became one of the most powerful empires in the world.

Maritime Museum

Kattenburgerplein 1, 1018 KK Amsterdam

Madam Tussauds

Also Amsterdam has a location occupied by this famous house of wax. We think if you have visited one, you have visited them all, so no need to go if you have already before. Take any tram from Central Station (except tram 26) to Dam Square.

Madam Tussauds

Dam 20, 1012 NP Amsterdam

Amsterdam Dungeons

This high rated attraction in Amsterdam is not for the faint-hearted. Step inside to experience 500 years of Dutch history. Learn and experience the black plague, the secrets of Rembrandt and the horrors of the Spanish Inquisition. Take tram 9, 16 or 24 from Central Station to Rokin.

Amsterdam Dungeons

Rokin 78, 1012 KW Amsterdam

Vondelpark

The Vondelpark is to Amsterdam what central park is to New York. This big city park is where the locals work out, enjoy a nice picnic or get some fresh air. Visit the “Blauwe Theehuis” for a nice cup of tea and go people watching. Reach the Vondelpark with tram 1,2 or 5 from Central Station.

Vondelpark, Amsterdam

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Best Attractions near the Cruise Port in Amsterdam

Jessica Lipowski

LAST UPDATED BY Jessica Lipowski August 15, 2013

Unless you added a couple of extra days to the front or back end of your trip, visiting a city by cruise ship doesn't provide much time to sightsee. Most companies allow only eight or nine hours in a port, usually less. Others may get two days if they're lucky.  Therefore, it’s important to optimize your schedule and plan ahead. With so many exciting things to see and do, it’s hard to fit everything in. 10Best has put together a list of the best Amsterdam attractions near the cruise port , so you can stay close to the ship and still see the highlights of this historic, charming city .

First things first, if you have any luggage, leave it on the ship or put it in a locker at the passenger terminal. Only bring the essentials. Second, the passenger terminal is within walking distance of the city center. However, it is more efficient to take the tram. There's a stop in front of the passenger terminal, and you can buy a pass on the tram.

Depending on how much time you have, there are many interesting things to do. One of the best ways to see the city is from the canals. Take a canal cruise , especially if the sun is shining. Most last about an hour. The Red Light District is a great place to see if you want to experience Amsterdam’s open-minded culture. If you love history, visit the Amsterdam Museum or Rembrandt House .

Begijnhof

In the center of the lively Kalverstraat and Spui area is a hidden oasis: the Begijnhof. Concealed by the numerous houses and other buildings surrounding it, the area boasts a tranquil courtyard and charming chapel. Escape the busy city life and take a breather. The Begijnhof, which dates back to the fourteenth century, was originally home to a group of unmarried religious women called Beguines. These women were associated with the English Reformed Church (Engelsekerk). The last Beguine died in 1971. The church proudly displays panels that illustrate the Miracle of Amsterdam. Additionally, you can receive Eucharist at the chapel Monday through Saturday at 9:00 and Monday through Friday at 17:00. Sunday's service at 10:00 is in Dutch and the 11:15 one is in French. Whether you are religious or not, the Begijnhof is worth a visit.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : The Begijnhof, home to a quiet courtyard and charming chapel, is a hidden oasis in the heart of Amsterdam.

Jessica's expert tip : House number 34 is particularly significant, as it has a wooden façade. There is only one other house like this in Amsterdam

Read more about Begijnhof →

Joods Historisch Museum

Joods Historisch Museum

The Netherlands has a long and rich history with the Jewish people. Take some time to learn about the religion and heritage at The Jewish Historical Museum in the Amsterdam Jewish quarter. From paintings to artifacts and photographs to 3D displays, the exhibited items are only five percent of the museum's entire collection. What makes the experience even more special is that the museum is housed in four former Ashkenazi synagogues. The museum is truly a blend of history and culture. If you are visiting with children, make sure to explore the Children's Museum. The entire family can learn all about Jewish traditions and history through fun activities such as braiding bread, making music or learning Hebrew. Stop by the café before you leave, so you can try a few Dutch-Jewish classics, such as Fish Cakes and Pear Kugel.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : The museum examines the rich history and traditions of the Jewish people in the Netherlands and its former colonies.

Jessica's expert tip : The museum has a special hands-on children's museum, fun for the entire family

Read more about Joods Historisch Museum →

Amsterdam Museum

Amsterdam Museum

The Amsterdam Museum is a fun and interactive way to learn about Amsterdam. From ancient times to modern day, the museum aims to help people of all ages explore the city and its story. The museum caters to all learning abilities, featuring artwork, historical artifacts, clothing, videos, graphics and more. As the exhibitions are continually changing, it's one museum that never gets old. If you need a break, stop by the Mokum Museum Cafe and relax in the courtyard. The museum is open daily from 10:00 to 17:00. Allow at least two hours. Be aware that the museum has two entrances and exits.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : The Amsterdam Museum provides its visitors with an interactive way to learn about the history of Amsterdam, from the very beginning to present day.

Jessica's expert tip : Allow at least two hours

Read more about Amsterdam Museum →

Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder

Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder

Travel back to a time when it was illegal for Catholics to hold open masses in Amsterdam. One Catholic man had a plan. During the Reformation period, Jan Hartman created a hidden church in the top floors of his canal house, now Ons' Lieve Heer Op Solder or Our Lord in the Attic in English. Unless one knew otherwise, from the outside the naked eye could not detect that there was a church set-up inside. At the time, authorities did know the church existed, but they simply ignored it. It's definitely a place you should see for yourself. Plus, it allows you to see a historic Amsterdam canal house. The audio tour, available in seven languages, is included in the entrance fee. From October to April, stop by on the first Sunday of the month at 11:00 to experience an Attic celebration. Please note, no photography or recordings are allowed.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : Our Lord in the Attic, a hidden Catholic church established during the Reformation period, is the second oldest museum in the city.

Jessica's expert tip : Show your museum ticket at Brouwerij de Prael to receive a discount on drinks

Read more about Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder →

Koninklijk Paleis

Koninklijk Paleis

Visit the Royal Palace on Dam Square to get a glimpse into what it's like to be royal. Both the interior and exterior are absolutely exquisite. The building, originally constructed as the town hall, is in use today by the Royal family. The Royal Palace is mainly used for award ceremonies, receptions and other functions but is also crucial for special occasions, such as royal marriages and abdication and succession of the throne. The building has seen many significant historical moments. For instance, King William I signed off on the sovereignty of the Netherlands in this building. Inside, you can also see former resident Louis Napoleon's exquisite Empire furniture. Check the calendar and opening times before you visit. The Royal Palace may be closed if there is an event going on. If there is an event, you may catch a glimpse of someone famous as they enter or leave.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : The Royal Palace on Dam Square, formerly the town hall, is one of three palaces still in use by the Dutch Royal family.

Jessica's expert tip : If there's a Royal Event going on, you may catch a glimpse of someone famous as they enter or leave the palace

Read more about Koninklijk Paleis →

Museum Het Rembrandthuis

Museum Het Rembrandthuis

Get a glimpse behind the scenes of the famous Dutch painter, Rembrandt van Rijn. Visit The Rembrandt House, where you can explore the place he called home, as well as a studio, from the years 1639 and 1658. This historic building is made up of memories and is a place where numerous pieces of art, including several of his more famous masterpieces, were created. The interior has been refurnished to appear similar to how it would have looked in Rembrandt's time. Plus, you'll see some of Rembrandt's etchings on display (they rotate). Don't forget to admire the fantastic works of art, both from Rembrandt and his teacher, pupils and contemporaries. Last but not least, you have the chance to learn about the etching technique and how to prepare paints.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : The Rembrandt House enables visitors to explore the home in which the famous Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn lived and worked for 20 years.

Jessica's expert tip : Plan your visit around one of the etching or paint preparation demonstrations

Read more about Museum Het Rembrandthuis →

Red Light District

Red Light District

The Red Light District, also known as De Wallen or Rosse Buurt, dates back to the fourteenth century. It was a place sailors would come if they required female companionship. Today, the Red Light District is home to coffeeshops that sell cannabis, prostitutes, sex shops, live sex shows, bars and various museums. You'll know when you enter the area; you'll see short pillars with red lights. If you miss these markings, you'll get the hint when you see scantily clad women standing in red neon-lit windows. You may be in for a bit of a culture shock. Make sure to visit the information center if you have any questions. The Red Light District is not recommended for children. Women, you could be mistaken for a prostitute if you walk unaccompanied. Instead, find a friend that's willing to explore with you or travel in a group.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : This area, famous for prostitutes standing in red-lit windows, sex shops and marijuana-selling coffeeshops, is the oldest part of Amsterdam.

Jessica's expert tip : Don't take pictures of women in the windows and be sure to watch out for pickpockets

Read more about Red Light District →

Oude Kerk

De Oude Kerk, located in the infamous Red Light District, has its name for a reason. This church was built around the year 1300 and was originally known as Sint-Nicolaaschurch (St. Nicholas Church). It adopted the name The Old Church when the De Nieuwe Kerk (The New Church) was built on Dam Square. Sailors initially visited this place of worship to pray for a safe journey. It later acquired a reputation as also being a meeting point. There are approximately 10,000 people buried here, and several are worth mentioning: Rembrandt's wife, Saskia van Uylenburgh, naval hero Jacob van Heemskerck and organist Jan Pieterszoon Sweelinck. When inside, look for a few special stained glass windows: the Mary Windows, the Mayors Windows and the Treaty of Munster Window. From April to September, you can also climb the tower with a guide and enjoy the scenic view.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : De Oude Kerk, also called "Amsterdam's Living Room," is said to be the oldest building in Amsterdam.

Jessica's expert tip : Stand on the bridge by the Oudekerkplein if you want the best place to listen to the bells

Read more about Oude Kerk →

Bloemenmarkt

Bloemenmarkt

The Bloemenmarkt is the worlds only floating flower market. Located on the Singel canal, the market is situated on several houseboats. It's the perfect place to admire the flowers, smell the scents and bring home a piece of the Netherlands in tulip form. Even in the winter, the Bloemenmarkt is still nice to visit, as the vendors often sell Christmas trees. If you love flowers, be sure to also step into the flower wonderland at the Keukenhof, only open March through May. You can visit by car or bus. Flora Holland, the flower auction, is also an experience that will wow you. If you only have a day in port, though, just stick with the Bloemenmarkt. You will not have enough time to visit the Keukenhof or Flora Holland if you are only visiting the city for one day.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : The Bloemenmarkt is the worlds only floating flower market.

Jessica's expert tip : Compare the size of your hand to some of the tulip bulbs; snap a photo for the folks back home

Read more about Bloemenmarkt →

Canal Boat Tours

Canal Boat Tours

Experience picturesque Amsterdam from the waterways. Especially when the sun is shining, there is no better way to see the sights than by boat. Wind your way through Amsterdam's canals and appreciate the attractions from the water. With a multitude of options, you can pick the one that suits you best. Purchase a hop-on, hop-off ticket, so you can visit some of the museums or attractions along the way. Combine the tour with food and drinks. Depending on your choice, prices vary. For instance, a day ticket costs 22 EUR with Canal Company. Also check into other operators, such as hotels and venues, as they offer tours, too.

Recommended for Attractions near Cruise Port because : Canal cruises allow passengers to see Amsterdam from an entirely different perspective, from the waterways.

Jessica's expert tip : Boat companies are not the only operators that provide canal tours; some hotels and venues offer tours, as well

Read more about Canal Boat Tours →

Map

Jessica has fallen in love with the Netherlands. She moved in 2011, seizing an opportunity to live abroad, a long-time dream.

In May 2016, she published a non-fiction book, " Flavors of...   More About Jessica

Explore Amsterdam

Expert tips.

Jessica Lipowski

Jessica Lipowski: Amsterdam Local Expert

Jessica says, Don't leave Amsterdam without strolling along one of the canals at night, riding a bike or trying two Dutch specialties: kroketten and pannenkoeken.

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Amsterdam sure has a lot going for it, especially as a cruise port. Water surrounds the capital city of the Netherlands so, naturally, it’s a spectacular spot for travelers who are drawn to the sea and the charms of Amsterdam’s iconic canals.

Things to Do In Amsterdam

The city also is unique because it can welcome both ocean and river cruise ships , with the berths located in the heart of the action. This means you can easily walk to several amazing destinations, making for a low-hassle and lower-cost outing when you arrive for a visit in port.

Here are seven must-see attractions and top things to do when you cruise to Amsterdam .

Things to Do In Amsterdam

Visit The Anne Frank House

This is perhaps the most-popular site for visitors; make sure you  reserve tickets  to go to Anne Frank House ahead of your trip to Amsterdam. This historic building has been painstakingly preserved to allow visitors (1.2 million annually) to come to see Anne Frank House and the Secret Annex that served as the hiding spot for the author of the famous diary and several others who were facing Nazi persecution.

Take A Canal Tour

Amsterdam canal

Amsterdam is known affectionately as “The Venice of the North,” and you can’t truly appreciate this destination until you have spent time in some of the 165 canals that serve as the veins of the city. This impressively engineered system provides the true character of Amsterdam. A canal boat tour takes you through the various districts, under pedestrian bridges, past houseboats and alongside the looming residences.

You’ll love the spectacularly picturesque scenes of the city from the bustling waterways.

Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam

Museum Quarter

A convenient one-stop location for several city highlights, this sprawling quarter includes the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Stedelijk Museum and Concertgebouw (Royal Concert Hall).

Rijksmuseum is a stunner of a building, and inside you can find famous works, such as Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch”, Van Gogh’s “Self Portrait” and Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid” — and many, many more.

Van Gogh Museum is packed with works from the Dutch master, and Stedelijk is a showcase of modern art and contemporary design.

The Museum Quarter is a large neighborhood surrounding open lawn space in the center. It’s great for sprawling out on a sunny day to watch the crowds or enjoy a coffee and waffle bought from a nearby vendor. This is also the spot to get a picture of yourself in front of the Amsterdam sign in front on Rijksmuseum.

Flower Market

Amsterdam Flower Market Bloemenmarkt

Bloemenmarkt is the world’s lone floating marketplace. This is a wonder for the senses. Vendors sell thousands of colorful and fresh tulip bulbs, as well as an array of crafts and items that make excellent souvenirs or gifts to commemorate your visit to Amsterdam.

The market operates out of a series of dozens of connecting floating stalls bobbing on the water of the Singel Canal, between Muntplein and Koningsplein.

Heineken Experience

If you’re a beer lover, you will be interested in learning about the history of one of the country’s most-famous exports. Housed in the historic original brewing facility that dates to 1867, this is one of the country’s top tourist attractions.

The Heineken Experience aims to show visitors the process of brewing the famous Heineken pilsner beer. The tour offers historical artifacts, interactive exhibits and, of course, samples of the finished product.

Amsterdam

A beautiful green park smack dab in the heart of Amsterdam. Vondelpark is located adjacent to the Museum Quarter and offers a great space for a walk, run or bike ride. The park has roads and paths winding throughout its length. It also follows alongside canals and is accented with beds of flowers, small forested areas and interesting sculptures.

NEMO Science Museum

You can spot this ship-shaped green building from your spot at the cruise pier. It sits in the pretty Amsterdam harbor at the edge of the city and is a fun place for kids and still-curious adults to go and immerse themselves in interactive exhibits. Exhibitions focus on space, science through the ages, chemistry, energy, construction and logistics, among others.

A top feature of this attraction is the rooftop terrace. Any visitor is welcome to walk up the steps to the roof to enjoy the panoramic views of the harbor and city, as well as the cafe.

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Amsterdam Netherlands

The port of Amsterdam is the port of embarkation for various cruises in northern Europe. Amsterdam , the largest city in the Netherlands , is famous for its liberal laws, red light, canals and windmills. This beautiful and picturesque city has more than 7000 historic buildings located on the streets along the canals.

Amsterdam is small enough that much of the city can be walked around. You can admire the typical facades of the houses, the house boats and the floating flower market. The facades of the houses are very narrow, as the taxes were paid according to the space occupied by the facade on the street. Notice also the beams at the top of the gables, they are used to hoist furniture when moving.

With so much to see and do, Amsterdam is ideal for a stay of a few days before or after the cruise.

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Useful Information

Dutch (English is the second language and is understood by all)

A small tip will be appreciated in restaurants and taxis (round the bill).

Time difference

from New York: +6h

from San Francisco: +8h

from London: +1h

Weather °C °F

Where is located the port of amsterdam cruise terminal.

The Amsterdam cruise terminal is very busy. More than 100 deep-sea vessels and nearly 800 river boats call there annually. The terminal is a 15-minute walk from Central Station, near the Eastern Docklands district, from where you can access city buses, trolley tours and boats for canals.

Felison Terminal is a 30-minute bus ride from Amsterdam.

For river boat cruises, the wharf used is behind the central station on the IJ River, along a long street called Ruyterkade.

Travelling around the Amsterdam Cruise Port

How to get from amsterdam airport to the port.

Taxis are still the fastest mode of transport. It will take you about 20 to 30 minutes to make this journey.

From the airport you can also take the train to Central Station and make the rest of the journey on foot (20 minutes) or by tram #26.

You can also book a private transfer by car or by bus.

Directions from Airport to Cruise terminal

  • directions_boat Amsterdam Cruise Terminal
  • directions_boat Felison Cruise Terminal

Directions from Cruise terminal to Airport

At the tourist information kiosk in the terminal, you can purchase the I Amsterdam card which offers unlimited public transport and discounts in most museums. This card is available for 24 hours, 48 hours or 72 hours.

Amsterdam is a great walk away. The five concentric channels are good landmarks. You can also take a short boat trip to visit the canals. Cycling is king in Amsterdam and it is possible to rent them at Central Station.

The 326 bus connects Central Station and stops just in front of the cruise terminal, tram 16 will take you to the city centre. The Hop On Hop Off boat , circulate on the canals with stops at all the main sites of the city, is an easy way to get around, as you can get up and down all day for a fixed price.

Activities in Amsterdam

Neighborhoods, canal cruise.

A cruise aboard a boat on the canals takes about 1.5 hours. The departure is from the port in front of the Central Station.

Red Light District

Prostitution is legal in Amsterdam, but it is well supervised. You will see ladies in the shop windows waiting for customers. The area is safe during the day, but changes at night. Be careful, it is forbidden to take pictures of the ladies in the windows.

Flower Market

The flower market floating on the Singel Canal is a colorful sight, filled with freshly cut flowers.

Royal Palace

This unique town hall, built in the mid-17th century, was transformed into a palace by Napoleon Bonaparte’s brother, Louis, when he was king in the early 19th century. No one lives in the Royal Palace, it is now used only for ceremonies.

Rijksmuseum

This world-class museum exhibits masterpieces of painting by Hals, Vermeer, Steen and Rembrandt.

Van Gogh Museum

The world’s largest collection of works by the Dutch master can be found here, as well as paintings by Van Gogh’s contemporaries - Gauguin, Toulouse-Lautrec, Monet, Sisley and others.

Anne Frank House

A beautiful museum tracing the life of Anne Frank, who wrote her diary there during the Second World War at the age of 13. Eight people lived in this space, barely daring to speak out loud for more than two years, hoping in vain to escape the Nazis.

Rembrandt House Museum

It is a reconstruction of the house built in 1639 when Rembrandt was at the height of his fame. The rooms, furnished with objects and works of art from the master’s time, include his kitchen, the workshop where he made his engravings and a gallery.

Amsterdam Museum

Located in the 17th century buildings of the city’s former orphanage, This museum shows how a small fishing village has become a world power and offers many paintings by Dutch masters. Paintings are also hung in the covered street between the buildings which also leads to a small enclave of 14th century houses.

Stedelijk Museum of Modern Art

The Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam is home to the largest collection of modern and contemporary art and design in the Netherlands.

L’Hermitage

Small branch of the beautiful st. Petersburg museum.

Keukenhof Gardens

In April and May, this 20-hectare park, maintained by an association of Dutch bulb growers, is one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, with some seven million colourful tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and other bulbous flowers. The garden is about an hour’s drive away.

Excursions in Amsterdam

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Useful References

  • Tourism Board - Amsterdam
  • Tourism Board - Netherlands
  • Amsterdam on Wikipedia
  • Netherlands on Wikipedia
  • Travel Advice and Advisories (Government of Canada)
  • Port Website

For details or to book an excursion, visit our page:

Alternative:

https://www.viator.com/en-CA/Amsterdam/d525-ttd?pid=P00045706&mcid=42383&medium=link&campaign=morebutton

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What to Do in Amsterdam

Amsterdam, capital of the Netherlands, is an enormously popular place with cruise ship passengers and there are a lot of us. Amsterdam is the third biggest cruise port in Europe by number of passengers. 

Over 700,000 passengers visit its two Passenger Terminals one of which is smack dab in the city center, the second is beyond the locks in Ijmuiden on the way to the North Sea. The city is often called “The Venice of the North” for its remarkable number of canals. They earned Amsterdam its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  There’s so much to see and do in this city of almost a million people that planning your Port Day usually means a list of “Either/Ors”.  Either you visit one museum or another.  Either you use the phenomenal public transportation system or ride a bicycle in a city full of them. And either you go to a Café for a cup of coffee or visit one of the city’s Coffee Shops where you’ll find cannabis but not caffeine. 

Before we get to Porthole Cruise’s complete list of Either/ Ors, there’s one thing everyone can use in Amsterdam: The I Amsterdam Card gives you access to virtually every major attraction, more than 70 museums, use of public transportation via metro, tram, bus and ferry, a 1-hour canal cruise and a 24-hour bicycle rental.  A 24 hour I Amsterdam card will set you back 65 Euros but it’s worth every penny.

If you’re in Amsterdam for longer than a day, it’s an even bigger bargain. 2 Days comes in at 85 Euros. Like everything else in this article, you can advance purchase the card online. You can also make advance reservations and for every attraction on this list, Porthole recommends you do to avoid disappointment.

Amsterdam’s Either/Ors

EITHER head to the Rijksmuseum,(Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX) a treasure trove of Dutch art that

Van Gogh was perhaps the most famous Dutch painter | Photo: Monte Matthews

stretches from the Old Masters (Rembrandt) to Piet Mondrian, one of the greatest artists of the 20 th Century. The Rijksmuseum offers a free App to guide you through its collections. There are 14 different tours so you see as much—or as little–as you want. You can even choose the subject matter: Mad for flowers? Fashion? Fancy Hats? There’s an app for that. You can download it free from IOS or Android apps stores. 

OR make tracks to the nearby Van Gogh Museum (Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ) which tracks Vincent Van Gogh’s career through the gift of his entire collection by his family.  Whichever museum you chose, it’s best to go early in the day to best see the art. Book online to save time before you go. 

EITHER take a Canal Tour from right near both museums.  This is Amsterdam’s #1 experience and not to be missed. There are more than 60 miles of canals crossed by 1500 bridges. Dug in the 17 th Century, these canals are fronted by more 1550 glorious examples of Dutch Architecture. The I Amsterdam card is honored by all major canal cruise companies including Amsterdam Canal Cruises at Stadhouderskade 550, 1072 AE, an easy walk from either museum.

Amsterdam Canal Cruise | Photo: Monte Matthews

OR Splurge on a Cruise that comes with a Pizza or a Hamburger and an Open Bar (42.5 Euros).  If your ship’s departure time permits, there are cruises that feature Candlelight Wine and Cheese and there’s even one that serves a 4-course dinner as you cruise the canals, drink in hand. 

EITHER make a pilgrimage to The Anne Frank House (Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV). The apartment where the Franks hid from the Nazis and where Anne wrote her famous diary is all here for you to see –including the secret room behind a bookcase where the family hid.  The only way to see the house is to pre-book online at as soon as you know your dates. This is one of Amsterdam’s most visited attractions.

RELATED: Amsterdam On the Map

OR You can visit The Amsterdam Museum (Kalverstraat 92, 1012) where Anne Frank is also honored along with a Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and the thousand years of this city’s history. Interactive exhibits bring history alive here better than any guidebook, or tour guide. It’s also far less crowded than the Anne Frank House.

EITHER Spend the better part of a day going to world-famous Keukenhof, home of the most extraordinary display of flowering bulbs in the world.  Tulip season runs from the end of March to the beginning of May.  The park is a 35 to 40-minute bus trip from Amsterdam’s Schipol Airport. Trains leave Central Station for Schipol every 20 minutes. The bus ride plus admission costs 19 Euros.

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without flowers | Photo: Monte Matthews

OR Head to the Bloemenmarkt, Singel 630 to 600 1017 AZ, the centrally-located Flower Market.  All year long, this market atop a canal, is bursting with beautiful flowers no matter the season.  The prices are attractive too—so much so that you might want to fill your stateroom with blossoms. Also at the Bloemenmarkt, the ultimate souvenir: Specially-packed tulip bulbs can be safely carried back home.

EITHER Eat like a local at Haesje Claes (Spuistraat 273-275) right in the city center and right across the road from the Amsterdam Museum. This vast place has a motto which translates to “From Pork Cracklings to Caviar”—meaning there’s something for everyone. The same menu is used from noon to midnight. And everything is authentically Dutch from Mussels from Zeeland to White Asparagus in season and game dishes the Dutch are famous for.

OR Sample an Indonesian Dutch specialty, Rijsttafel at Sanpurna (Singel 498 1017 AX ).  Rijsttafel means ‘Rice Table’ and from noon on you can sample an amazing array of Indonesian specialties from their Family-Style menu. The food and ambiance are as remarkable as is Sanpura’s location right across the street from the Bloemenmarkt.

Wondering what to do in Amsterdam? Honestly, there’s no bad time to go. Whether you’re visiting at Tulip Time or skating on a frozen canal in winter, Amsterdam is simply not to be missed anytime. Let us know your favorite things to do in Amsterdam in the comments below! 

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5 Best Thing to do at Amsterdam Cruise Port

Here is the list of 5 awesome things to do at Amsterdam cruise port.

Book Cruises from Amsterdam

At the mention of Amsterdam, the scene of coffee shops and bicycle rides instantly pops up in your mind. The 17th century historic heritage buildings never fail to leave the tourists spellbound. Thanks to the city’s nanoscopic size, Amsterdam is known for having more culture per capita than any other city. But little do the tourists realize, that the city is 18 feet below the sea level and would have been easily wiped off the map has it not been engineered meticulously. But the tourists know little about the many exciting things to do at Amsterdam Cruise Port .

Top 5 Things To Do at Amsterdam Cruise Port

1. gogh and consume the art.

Amsterdam welcomes art with open arms. No wonder the place has a myriad of museums! You can go explore the legendary post-impressionist Dutch painter, Vincent Van Gogh. His paintings opened an avenue for the people to absorb new perspectives of art. The museum is home to the largest collection of 100 paintings by a painter. People from all walks of life visit the museum to consume the rawness of his paintings such as the Sunflowers, The Potato Eaters and the self-portraits.

2. Cruise Through the Canals!

Hop on a boat with your partner and cruise through the trademark canals of the city. Several tourists flock to the picturesque canals for phenomenal cruising experiences. Dinner cruise is ideal for a romantic date with your lover. A three-course candle-lit dinner just does it all to spread love in the air. You are sure to enjoy a great view afloat! Then you have the Booze Cruise wherein you are served a variety of cocktails and taken through the fascinating Red Light area of the city. The day cruise gives you a peak into the lives of the locals while you sip your wine and observe the city.

3. Visit the Secret Annex of The Young Girl

Anne Frank won the world’s heart over with her diary. Amsterdam offers a peep into the hiding place, which was home to the young girl. The place gives us deepest understanding of the tragedies of war. People stand in queues to visit the house as Anne Frank’s story broke millions of hearts. As you walk through the annex you come across the book shelf, the cooking area, the living area and the bedroom of Anne Frank. You will find yourself brimming with empathy for the Jews.

4. Relish Appetizing Cuisines!

You must NOT miss the mouthwatering cuisines of the city! Amsterdam offers a variety of unique culinary experiences. If you feel the need to fill your tummy up before drinks, bitterballen is the ultimate pub snack in Amsterdam. The deep-fried crispy meatballs served with a mustard dip will leave you drooling. The Dutch sweet treat, stroopwafel can be found at any local bakery. It’s a peculiar dish where two thin waffles are stuck together with a layer of syrup. Raw herring is another delicious local dish. The fish sandwich served with pickles and onions are sure to satisfy your taste buds. It is a street side item you will find at herring carts. If you are a hungry traveler, you must try it all!

5. Float with Flowers!

The Dutch culture is known for its tulips. The Bloemenmarkt is a flower market with a collection of diverse range of flowers, cacti, house plants and garden equipment. It is heaven for avid gardeners. The on-boat market runs along the Singel between Koningsplein and Muntplein. The mere sight of the colorful market and the whiff of the flowers will bring a smile to your face.

The Things to do at Amsterdam Cruise Ports for all – the art lovers, the history enthusiasts, the nomadic travelers, and the party animals!

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amsterdam cruise port things to do

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WHATSINPORT.COM: YOUR CRUISE GUIDE TO 1200 PORTS OF CALL

Interactive world cruise map, home | cruise ships | port expenses | hints and tips, amsterdam and ijmuiden netherlands cruise ports.

Please note: Most cruise lines just mention only Amsterdam as a destination, but it also can be IJmuiden. Please see below:

Amsterdam Passenger Terminal

How to get there?

From Amsterdam Schiphol Airport there is a direct train (about 5 trains an hour) to Amsterdam Central Station which takes about 18 minutes. Buy the tickets from the ticket machines (yellow with blue writing) or at the ticket counter, which is slightly more expensive. Only the ticketing machines at major stations, including the airport and at Amsterdam Central Station accept Mastercard/Visa at a surcharge of 1 Euro per transaction. All machines accept foreign bank (debit only) cards with a Maestro Logo. Bank notes are not accepted, on some machines coins will be accepted. Many pickpockets are present on and around the trains!

Taxi from the airport is around 60 Euro. The official taxis are lined up in front of the airport.

The Schiphol Hotel Shuttle links the airport with almost every hotel in Amsterdam for around 17 Euro per person. The cruise terminal is right next to the Movenpick Hotel.

Direct international trains run to and from Brussels (connecting with Eurostar trains to London, England), Paris, Cologne, Frankfurt and Berlin and more.

For GPS users: Piet Heinkade 27 1019 BR Amsterdam.

The cruise terminal of Amsterdam port is about 10 min walking from the Central Station and the city center. Tip: Use the back exit of the station, from where you will see your ship, and walk along the waterfront. Taxis often refuse short trips. Use tram 26 if you have heavy luggage, stops right in front of the central station (east side)

Please note: that the above cruise terminal will be closed in the future as the city council tries to combat "overtourism".

The ships for river cruises are either docked on the opposite side of the terminal, which makes the walk to town slightly longer. Many are also docked closer to the station. Check here for exact location and map.

All other parts of the port see below have no good airport connections and an expensive taxi ride is the only option.

If there are more than two ships at the Main Passenger Terminal the VCK Waterland terminal at the Elbaweg 10 will be used, with shuttles in place. This is a industrial port, where Nissan cars and machinery arrive from different factories around the world. There are no facilities here and no public transport. The often free, shuttles will transport you to Sloterdijk station, from where a 10 minute train ride to Central Station in the center of Amsterdam. Check with your cruise line beforehand which services they will offer here.

Take your passport along when you disembark, as it will be checked by customs.

Webcams of the harbor.

IJmuiden Felison terminal

There are actually 2 terminals: The "old" ferry terminal called Felison Terminal and the brand new Felison Cruise Terminal ( see map )

Only small cruise ships use the Felison terminal, from which buses will transport you to Amsterdam or other destinations. A "Shanty Chorus" is often present to welcome you or say bye-bye. A Taxi to Amsterdam is about 60 Euro. Public transportation is poor. Use ship provided shuttles/excursions.

Felison Cruise Terminal

This terminal is located in an industrial area, however within walking distance to a large marina with a Holiday Inn hotel and several so-so restaurants and outdoor cafes. A little further is the wide beach with many outdoor cafe's and restaurants and can be very enjoyable on a nice day.

The bus stop ( #82 every 30 minutes) is only a few minutes walk away. When you exit the terminal take the steps across the terminal. You will have to negotiate some (20) steps up and down. The bus stop is right there. You can buy the tickets from the driver. Bus 82 goes to Amsterdam Sloterdijk station, from where you can take the train, trams or bus 22 (since buses are included in the day ticket and trains are not) to Amsterdam Central (Every 10 minutes). This bus also at times continues to the Marnixstraat , which is close to the city center and Anne Frank House. Check https://9292.nl/en and fill in Badweg IJmuiden to Amsterdam Centraal. The total cost, bus and train one way is about 6.50 Euro. You can also buy Amsterdam & Region Day ticket for €13.50, which is for all public transport except trains. You can obtain these tickets in the cruise terminal and buses are plenty when cruise ships are in port. Cruise companies in general offer shuttles to Amsterdam at around 23 Euro a person.

By car: Type: Zeehavenweg IJmuiden on your GPS.

If taxis are available you also can take one to Driehuis Train Station and from there take a direct train to Amsterdam (every 30 minutes). IJmuiden itself does not have much to offer as far as sightseeing is concerned.

From Schiphol Airport to IJmuiden with light luggage: take the train from the airport to Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station (almost every 10 minutes) and take bus 82 (every half an hour) to the terminal.

Please note: Take your passport along when you disembark, as it will be checked by customs.

Hotels near the Cruise Terminal Amsterdam

Printable map to take along.

Cruise calendar for Amsterdam. and for IJmuiden

Check here for festivals and events in Amsterdam when you are in port.

Watch a destination video of the Cruise terminal in IJmuiden , Amsterdam and the countryside

Live Nautical Chart with Wikipedia Markers Amsterdam and IJmuiden

Port Location on Google Maps Amsterdam

Port Location on Google Maps IJmuiden

Monthly Climate Averages for Amsterdam

Sightseeing:

Meaning: Dam in the Amstel River.

Amsterdam is a beloved tourist destination for new and old visitors alike. With its vast cultural inheritance, it is a popular destination for cruise ships. Visiting Amsterdam remains a unique experience, just like a cruise. The historical city center is a world heritage site and compact living museum where everything is within walking distance, from the diamond cutters to the world famous museums and art galleries. And Amsterdam outside the ' canal ring' also offers fascinating sights, beautiful excursions and rich history.

Tickets for the Anne Frank Museum can be bought online. Lines to get in can be very long. An alternative can be: Our Lord in the Attic which is one of the oldest and most remarkable museums in Amsterdam.

On 30 April 2013, on Queen's Day , Prince Willem-Alexander succeeded his mother Beatrix in Amsterdam and became King of the Netherlands. Consequently, from 2014 onwards the name has been changed from Queen's Day into King's Day. Also, the date has been changed from 30 April to 27 April, which is the birthday of Willem-Alexander.

Tours Excursions Transportation:

If you are visiting Amsterdam then a canal cruise is an absolute 'must'! Cruising along the canals is a real journey of discovery. Many cruise boat operators will take you on an hour-and-a-quarter trip past the stately canal houses, the colorful houseboats, the canal with seven arched bridges, the Dutch East Indies Company replica ship and much more. Besides enjoying the cruise, you will also have the best view of all the splendid sights that Amsterdam has to offer.

In front of the central station you will find many canal cruise companies, all around 10 euro for a tour.

With the I Amsterdam Card you get use of public transport for 24, 48 or 72 hrs including trams, buses and underground of the GVB public transport system. Important: not valid for train travel, including to and from Schiphol Airport. If you only be in Amsterdam for a few hours the card seems expensive.

Some bike rentals and some tips for safe biking.

You probably do not have to use public transportation in front of the Central Station. If you do (inclement weather or difficulties with walking) just buy the ticket from the driver (bus) or from the ticket checker (tram) or ticket machine (metro). It is a little more expensive, but a lot less hassle. 2.60 Euro for a one hour card, 7 Euro for a day card. Important do not forget to check in and out, otherwise your ticket will become useless. These tickets are only valid on transport with the GVB logo and not on trains and other bus companies.

It pays to compare your cruise line tours here .

If you are arriving in IJmuiden: The cheapest way to get to Amsterdam city center: Take bus 82 right across the terminal (see above) and get off at Amsterdam Sloterdijk Station, from which every 10 minutes a 5-minute train ride will get you into the center of Amsterdam. Or take bus #75 also at the same spot, which will take you to Haarlem Central Station, from which every 15 minutes a train leaves for Amsterdam Central Station. So take the first bus you will encounter and take it from there. Total cost about 10 Euro return, traveling time about 45 minutes total each way. Tickets on board the bus are sold by the driver. Tickets for the train are sold in the ticket booth.

Nearby Places:

The world-famous fishing villages of Volendam (bus 110 or 118) and Marken (bus 111) - on the coast of the former Zuiderzee (now called IJsselmeer). With its wooden houses and locals wearing their colorful style of dress.

The Marken Express boat connects Volendam with Marken and vice versa with every 30/45 min daily daytime departures.

In springtime: nowhere else in the world are the flowers and colors of the spring as glorious as at the Keukenhof .

The Zaanse Schans is a delightful old hamlet on the banks of the river Zaan with characteristic green wooden houses, charming stylized gardens, small hump-backed bridges, tradesmen's workshops, historic windmills and engaging little shops. This enchanting hamlet gives an excellent impression of how a typical Zaanse village must have looked like in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Apart from the cluster of windmills and houses, there are also several museums, restaurants and a visitors' center to be found as well as the possibility of taking a boat trip on the river. The Zaanse Schans has become one of the top tourist destinations in the Netherlands.

Haarlem , With its ancient buildings, cobbled streets and winding waterways, the medieval city of Haarlem is one of the most photogenic destinations in the Netherlands. Easily reachable by train (just fifteen minutes from Amsterdam Central Station) Haarlem is often referred to as a scaled-down version of its more famous neighbor.

Shopping and Food

Kalverstraat is the longest shopping street in Amsterdam. It starts at Dam square and goes all the way to the Muntplein. When you turn right at Heiligeweg, you'll find some more exclusive shops, (at the end on Koningsplein at your left: Amsterdam's famous floating flower market and more when you continue straight on Leidsestraat, which will lead you to Leidseplein .

If you're feeling rich or simply want to feast your eyes on lovely things (fashion, antiques, and art), begin at the Concertgebouw (Concerthall) and walk (northwest) along Van Baerlestraat toward Vondelpark. Turn right onto elegant PC Hooftstraat . At the end of the street, by the canal, turn right again and walk to the Rijksmuseum , then turn left across the canal. Straight ahead is Spiegelgracht, a small and quiet bit of canal that's the gateway to the best antiques-shop street in Amsterdam, Nieuwe Spiegelstraat.

With such an international population, Amsterdam offers restaurants and cafés with everything from genuine Indonesian food to Mediterranean tapas.

A very popular snack is a kroket which consists of a thick ragout, shaped into a cylinder of about 10 cm in length and 4 cm thick, rolled in breadcrumbs and deep-fried. They are usually made from beef or veal. Even McDonalds serves a MacKroket.

Don't forget to taste the herring: raw with some onions!

Important things to know about the Netherlands, like tipping, toilets etc.

Euros are divided into 100 cents. There are coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 euros. There are notes of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euros (note the pattern 1, 2, 5). Some shops do not accept large denomination notes, and many don't like the 1 and 2 cent coins, and so round cash amounts to the nearest 5 cents.

Credit cards are not as widely accepted in the Netherlands as in many other countries because of the high fees retailers have to pay. Always enquire first if you want to pay by credit card. Cash is preferred. Public transportation does not accept credit cards!

Currency Converter

Communication:

Just about everyone speaks English in Amsterdam, and is proud of the fact. Many speak German and French too. If you are English speaking, speak English (unless you speak Dutch too): you are more likely to offend than do anyone a favor by trying out your French or German.

A common misconception is that Dutch is very close to German. In truth they are not mutually intelligible: Dutch people have to learn German at school, and in general they speak better English than German. German and Dutch are similar in the same sort of way that French and Italian are similar.

Free Wifi in the Amsterdam cruise terminal. Get login and password from the reception desk in the terminal. At port side on the ship you will have a good connection on the promenade deck. Also free Wifi at the Felison Cruise terminal. Login details are displayed at the monitors in the terminal.

Opening Hours and Holidays:

In general, shop-opening hours are 1-6pm on Mondays and 9/10am-6pm Tuesday to Friday. Most have late night shopping on Thursday until 9pm, and close earlier on Saturdays, at 5pm. Some supermarkets, like Albert Heijn, stay open until 8 or 10 pm. On Sundays, you can shop in the city center, Kalverstraat, Damrak, Leidsestraat, and near the Noorderkerk.

Bank holidays in the Netherlands:

  • New Year's Day (Jan 1);
  • Good Friday, Easter Sunday, Easter Monday;
  • Ascension Day (Thursday, 40 days after Easter);
  • King's Day - April 27. Amsterdam is one giant party, not to be missed.
  • Pentecost Sunday (7th Sunday after Easter) and Pentecost Monday;
  • Christmas Day (December 25) and Boxing Day (December 26).

In addition, there are two World War II Remembrance Days, neither of which is an official holiday, though some establishments close. May 4 honors all those who died in the war, May 5 celebrates the Liberation.

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TheTravel

12 Things To Do In Amsterdam: Complete Guide To This Vibrant Dutch Capital

T he duality of Amsterdam is unlike any other. The Netherlands’ capital is brimming with art, culture, and delightful local delicacies that run the gamut from savory, deep-fried bitterballen to sweet, decadent stroopwafels. But journey deep into the city's dark corners where the neon red lights shine bright and a more mysterious side awaits.

Amsterdam is undoubtedly unique. Founded as a fishing village in 1275 , the North Holland city has centuries upon centuries of history to explore. A true Venice of the north, the town has something special to offer everyone—from its striking architectural treasures to its serene, meandering canals. With so much to do and see, make planning a getaway to the bustling town a breeze. Navigate Amsterdam with ease with this complete guide to Europe's most eclectic city, from where to eat to the most exciting attractions to visit.

UPDATE: 2023/06/01 07:19 EST BY BARRY JUMA

Things To Do In Amsterdam: Complete Guide To This Vibrant Dutch Capital

Amsterdam's rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic landscapes make it a delightful place to visit any time of the year. This update stretches the list of things to do in this fascinating destination, adding popular attractions like the Royal Palace and the lively Albert Cuyp Market, as well as a short day trip to the enthralling Zaanse Schans.

Top Things To Do

From its charming canals to its fascinating museums, here are all the fun things to do in Amsterdam for those looking to explore the city like a true local.

Tour The Rijksmuseum

With 800 years of Dutch art and history masterpieces on display, the Rijksmuseum is an absolute must for any Amsterdam explorer. The museum has nearly 6,000 paintings from notable artists like Johannes Vermeer, Frans Hals, and Rembrandt on display.

  • Address: Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Hours : Open daily from 9 am to 5 pm
  • Cost: €22.50 for adults; children under the age of 18 are free

Take A Canal Boat Tour

Featuring endless canals and even beaches, Amsterdam is a water world like no other. Glide above the waters during a luxurious canal boat tour via Amsterdam Canal Cruise.

The boat agency offers a variety of tour options, from a 90-minute wine and cheese cruise to a 75-minute city canal cruise.

  • Address: Stadhouderskade 550, 1072 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands

Ticket prices vary; check the website for pricing and availability .

Visit The Anne Frank House

Experience the riveting and emotional story of Anne Frank—a German Jew who penned a diary while in hiding during the Holocaust.

Explore Frank's hiding place, tucked away in the building at Prinsengracht 263, from the Secret Annex to the pictures in her room. Visitors can even read through the pages of Frank's famous diary.

  • Address: Westermarkt 20, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Hours : Open daily from 9 am to 10 pm
  • Cost: €16.00 for adults, €7.00 for children ages 10 to 17, and €1.00 for children under the age of 9

Stroll Through Vondelpark

Opened in 1865 , the more than 110-acre park is the largest in the city. From guided bicycle tours to free concerts in the open-air theater, there is much to experience in this sprawling green space.

Be sure to tour the park's iconic sculptures, including the abstract "Fish" statue by Pablo Picasso, and the colorful rose garden.

  • Address: 1054 NE Amsterdam, Netherlands (Rosarium)
  • Hours : Open 24 hours

Tour The Van Gogh Museum

Behold the largest collection of work by the famed painter Vincent van Gogh. Featuring 500 drawings and more than 200 of the Dutch artist's paintings, museum-goers can immerse themselves in van Gogh's work and explore the various phases of his extraordinary life.

  • Address: Museumplein 6, 1071 DJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Hours : Open daily from 9 am to 6 pm ( seasonal hours vary )
  • Cost: €20 per person; children under the age of 18 are free

Timed tickets must be purchased online .

Shop The Nine Streets

​​​​​​Nestled in the heart of the Canal District, the De Negen Straatjes, or Nine Streets, features many exciting things to do . Explore the many unique establishments of one of Amsterdam's trendiest areas—including vintage boutiques, art galleries, jewelry stores, delicious eateries, and museums.

  • Address: Wolvenstraat 9, 1016 EM Amsterdam, Netherlands

Explore Dam Square

A visit to the Dutch capital wouldn't be complete without a stop at the iconic Dam Square. Built in the 13th century, the town square is filled with architectural and historical gems like the Royal Palace and the National Memorial statue.

Featuring a multitude of galleries, restaurants, and food stalls, the area is the perfect place to spend a lazy afternoon.

  • Address: Dam, 1012 NP Amsterdam, Netherlands

See The View From A’dam Lookout

Climb 100 meters to the observation deck at the top of A'dam Lookout for unparalleled views of Amsterdam's city skyline or visit the Sky Bar for delectable dining and cocktail options.

Opened in 2016, the lookout is one of the city's newer attractions. Head to the roof for an exhilarating time in the Over the Edge swing. Or ride the Amsterdam VR Ride for virtual thrill racing through the city.

  • Address: Overhoeksplein 5, 1031 KS Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Hours : Open daily from 10 am to 10 pm
  • Cost: Attraction prices vary; check the website for full details

Visit The Rembrandt House Museum

The Rembrandt House in Amsterdam is another absolute must for art lovers. Located on the famed Jodenbreestraat street, explore the abode where Dutch painter Rembrandt lived and worked.

  • Address: Jodenbreestraat 4, 1011 NK Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Hours : Open daily from 10 am to 6 pm (closed on April 27 and December 25)
  • Cost: €17.50 for adults and €6.00 for children ages 6 to 17

The museum re-opened on March 18, 2023, after being closed for renovations, announcing that five new exhibition spaces had been added, including an etching attic where visitors can learn Rembrandt's etching techniques.

Visit The Royal Palace Amsterdam

The Royal Palace Amsterdam , situated in the heart of the city, is an architectural marvel that dates back to the 17th century. Originally built as a city hall, it later became the residence of the Dutch Royal Family.

Today, this stunning building is open to the public, allowing visitors to explore its magnificent interiors and learn about its rich history. The palace features a collection of impressive artworks, sculptures, and exquisite furniture from the Dutch Golden Age.

Guided tours are available, providing an in-depth look at the palace's fascinating past.

  • Address : Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 147, 1012 RJ Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Hours : 10 am - 5 pm (daily)
  • Cost : Adults: $14; Children (18 and under): Free

Shop At Albert Cuyp Market

Albert Cuyp Market is located in the vibrant De Pijp neighborhood, and it is the largest and most famous street market in Amsterdam. With over 260 stalls, the market offers a wide variety of products, including fresh produce, flowers, clothing, and souvenirs.

Visitors can also indulge in delicious Dutch street food, such as stroopwafels, poffertjes, and herring. The lively atmosphere and friendly vendors attract both locals and tourists alike, making it a must-visit shopping destination.

The market's long history, dating back to 1905, adds to its unique charm and character.

  • Address : Albert Cuypstraat, 1072 CN Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Hours : Mon - Sat: 9 am - 5 pm (closed on Sun)
  • Cost : Free entrance; prices vary for products and food

Take A Day Trip To Zaanse Schans

Just a 20-minute drive from Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans is a picturesque village that transports visitors back to the 18th and 19th centuries. This village features well-preserved windmills, traditional wooden houses, and workshops where visitors can witness the production of Dutch crafts such as wooden shoes and cheese.

The village also offers stunning views of the Zaan River and the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts. For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of the area, guided tours are available, providing valuable insights into the village's past and present.

  • Address : Schansend 7, 1509 AW Zaandam, Netherlands
  • Hours : Accessible 24/7; individual attractions have varying hours
  • Cost : Free entrance to the village; fees apply for certain attractions and tours

Best Time To Go

Without a doubt, Amsterdam is a delightful escape at any time of year, and each season presents enchanting perks.

In the spring, visitors can breathe in the cool, fresh air, enjoying bicycle rides throughout the city. Tourists can also revel in the Keukenhof Gardens' colorful blooms, which are on display from March until May.

Those keen on warmer temperatures should visit the city in summer. But, since many travelers flock to the town during this high season, visitors can expect prices to generally be higher. Fun fact: Amsterdam has beaches, making it the perfect spot to bask in the summer sun.

The fall and winter months may prove to be the least expensive. Plus, there's a plethora of enjoyable cultural events and other fun festivals this time of year. As snowflakes fall, the winter is an especially magical time of year in Amsterdam , with festive lights and other Christmas decor sprinkled throughout the city.

Best Ways To Get Around

A compact city, Amsterdam is incredibly easy to navigate on foot and even easier to traverse via bicycle. Travelers can find bike rental services scattered throughout the city, including A-Bike Rental & Tours in Vondelpark and Black Bikes in Nine Streets.

From buses to trams and ferries to trains , there are a variety of options to meet any traveler's transportation needs.

  • Tourists can save money by purchasing an I Amsterdam City Card for discounted access to city-wide public transportation, boat cruises, and bicycle rentals.

Where To Eat In Amsterdam

Dining out in Amsterdam is always an experience. Try these eateries.

Greenwoods Singel

  • Address: Singel 103, 1012 VG Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Cuisine: Cozy eatery serving breakfast and brunch staples

The Breakfast Club

  • Address: Haarlemmerplein 31, 1013 HR Amsterdam, Netherlands ( multiple locations )
  • Cuisine: All-day breakfast served Mexico City-, New York-, or London-style
  • Address: Leidsekruisstraat 21, 1017 RE Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Cuisine: Homemade Dutch fare
  • Address: Bellamyplein 51, 1053 AT Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Cuisine: Local food market featuring a variety of global cuisines
  • Address: Kamerlingh Onneslaan 3, 1097 DE Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean dishes made with organic ingredients grown in the on-site garden

The White Room

  • Address: Dam 9, 1012 JS Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Cuisine: Historical upscale restaurant serving global cuisines

Flying Dutchmen Cocktails

  • Address: Singel 460, 1017 AW Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Address: Vinkenstraat 57, 1013 JM Amsterdam, Netherlands

Related: These Picturesque Beaches In Amsterdam Guarantee An Epic Vacay

Where To Stay

Amsterdam offers a range of accommodations to suit any budget.

Budget-Friendly Accommodations

The Flying Pig Uptown Hostel

  • Address: Vossiusstraat 46, 1071 AJ Amsterdam, North Holland
  • Amenities: Bar/lounge

Ibis Budget Amsterdam Airport

  • Address: Schipholweg 185, 1171 Badhoevedorp, North Holland
  • Amenities: Restaurant, free airport shuttle, free shuttle service, and parking

Mid-Tier Hotels

Hilton Amsterdam

  • Address: Apollolaan 138, 1077 BG Amsterdam, North Holland
  • Amenities: Fitness center, bar/lounge, coffee shop, restaurant, and room service

DoubleTree by Hilton Amsterdam Centraal Station

  • Address: Oosterdoksstraat 4, 1011 DK Amsterdam, North Holland

Upscale Hotels

Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam

  • Address: Herengracht 542-556, 1017 CG Amsterdam, North Holland
  • Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, spa and wellness center, coffee shop, restaurant, and room service

Intercontinental Amstel Amsterdam, An IHG Hotel

  • Address: Professor Tulpplein 1, 1018 GX Amsterdam, North Holland
  • Amenities: Indoor pool, fitness center, bar/lounge, spa and wellness center, valet parking, restaurant, and room service

Related: Where To Stay In Amsterdam & What To See In Each Neighborhood

Tips To Know When Visiting

Amsterdam is a popular tourist city, so it's highly advised to book accommodations, make restaurant reservations, and purchase tickets to local attractions well in advance—especially if visiting during the summer months.

The weather can also be quite unpredictable, so pack accordingly.

Last but not least, for those unaware of Amsterdam's infamous Red Light District, the urban area is most certainly for adult eyes only. (It's known as Europe's City of Sin, after all!)

Related: What To Know About The Red Light District In Amsterdam (Besides What You Probably Already Knew)

How To Spend The Perfect Day In Amsterdam

Begin a lovely day in this blissful city with a hearty breakfast at Greenwoods Singel, which is known for its English breakfast and fantastic tea. Head down the street to Dam Square and enjoy a morning of sightseeing.

Round out the morning with a visit to the Anne Frank House, which is about a 10-minute walk away.

Related: 10 Non-Touristy Things To Do Next Time You're In Amsterdam

Afterward, visitors can peruse the shops at Nine Streets and grab a bite to eat and one of the neighborhood's delicious eateries, from Café de Doffer to Fabel Friet, which is famed for its double-baked fries.

After lunch, enjoy a relaxing canal ride, exploring the city from the comfort of the water. After a walk through Vondelpark, revel in the exhibits at the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, the latter of which is the city's most popular museum. Finish the day with a well-deserved dinner at The White Room. Genieten!

Q: What is Amsterdam famous for?

Amsterdam is known for many things, from its most charming canals to its infamous Red Lights District.

Q: What time of year is best to visit Amsterdam?

The city is picturesque during any season. However, winter is an especially magical time of year in Amsterdam , and it's also generally cheaper.

Q: What are the best attractions in Amsterdam?

From the Anne Frank House to the Rijksmuseum, there are many must-see historical landmarks in Amsterdam .

12 Things To Do In Amsterdam: Complete Guide To This Vibrant Dutch Capital

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Amsterdam, Netherlands

What to do in amsterdam, netherlands cruise port.

Cycling Tours

Cycling Tours

Cycling tours are a great way to explore Amsterdam and its many attractions. Cycling tours offer visitors the chance to explore the city at their own pace, and to get a unique perspective of the city’s many canals, bridges, and attractions. Many cycling tours offer audio tours in multiple languages, so visitors can learn more about the city’s history and culture. Most cycling tours last between two and three hours.

Canal Cruises

Canal Cruises

Canal cruises are a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Amsterdam. Taking a canal cruise is a great way to explore the city and get a unique perspective of the city’s many canals, bridges, and attractions. Many canal cruises offer audio tours in multiple languages, so visitors can learn more about the city’s history and culture. Most canal cruises last between one and two hours.

Walking Tours

Walking Tours

Walking tours are a popular activity for cruise passengers visiting Amsterdam. Taking a walking tour is a great way to explore the city and get a unique perspective of the city’s many canals, bridges, and attractions. Many walking tours offer audio tours in multiple languages, so visitors can learn more about the city’s history and culture. Most walking tours last between one and two hours.

The Canals

Shopping near Amsterdam, Netherlands Cruise Port

Albert Cuyp Market

Albert Cuyp Market

The Albert Cuyp Market is a bustling outdoor market located in the De Pijp neighborhood of Amsterdam. It offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including Dutch-themed items such as Delftware, wooden clogs, and tulip bulbs. It also has a wide selection of clothing, jewelry, and other items. The market is open six days a week and is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts.

De Bijenkorf

De Bijenkorf

De Bijenkorf is a large department store located in the heart of Amsterdam. It offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including Dutch-themed items such as Delftware, wooden clogs, and tulip bulbs. It also has a wide selection of clothing, jewelry, and other items. The store is open seven days a week and has a convenient location near the cruise port.

Nine Little Streets

Nine Little Streets

The Nine Little Streets is a charming shopping district located in the heart of Amsterdam. It offers a wide selection of souvenirs, including Dutch-themed items such as Delftware, wooden clogs, and tulip bulbs. It also has a wide selection of clothing, jewelry, and other items. The streets are lined with independent boutiques and shops, making it a great place to find unique and one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts.

Beaches in Amsterdam, Netherlands

Zandvoort Beach

Zandvoort Beach

Zandvoort Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Amsterdam, Netherlands cruise port. Located just a short drive away from the port, this beach is known for its wide, sandy shoreline and stunning views of the North Sea. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Bloemendaal Beach

Bloemendaal Beach

Bloemendaal Beach is another popular beach near Amsterdam, Netherlands cruise port. This beach is known for its wide, sandy shoreline and stunning views of the North Sea. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Additionally, the beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and dolphins.

Scheveningen Beach

Scheveningen Beach

Scheveningen Beach is one of the most popular beaches near Amsterdam, Netherlands cruise port. This beach is known for its wide, sandy shoreline and stunning views of the North Sea. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby, making it a great spot for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Additionally, the beach is home to a variety of wildlife, including seabirds, seals, and dolphins.

The Bicycle Culture

Attractions in Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Amsterdam 4 Hours Private Photo Walk

Amsterdam, Netherlands cruise port map

The Nightlife

Amsterdam, Netherlands Cruise Port Terminals

Rotterdam Cruise Terminal

Rotterdam Cruise Terminal

Rotterdam Cruise Terminal is located in the port of Rotterdam, just outside of Amsterdam. It is a popular port of call for cruise ships, and offers a variety of services, including check-in, baggage handling, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The terminal is also home to a number of attractions, including a maritime museum and a beach.

Cruise Terminal Amsterdam

Cruise Terminal Amsterdam

Cruise Terminal Amsterdam is the main cruise port in Amsterdam, located in the city center. It is the largest cruise port in the Netherlands, and is a popular destination for cruise ships from all over the world. The terminal offers a wide range of services, including check-in, baggage handling, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

IJmuiden Cruise Terminal

IJmuiden Cruise Terminal

IJmuiden Cruise Terminal is located in the port of IJmuiden, just outside of Amsterdam. It is a popular port of call for cruise ships, and offers a variety of services, including check-in, baggage handling, and a variety of shops and restaurants. The terminal is also home to a number of attractions, including a maritime museum and a beach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Amsterdam is a great cruise port. It is a popular destination for cruise ships, offering a variety of attractions and activities. The city is known for its canals, museums, and vibrant nightlife. There are plenty of sightseeing opportunities, as well as plenty of shopping and dining options. Amsterdam is also a great starting point for exploring the rest of the Netherlands.

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Amsterdam (Netherlands North Holland)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Amsterdam cruise port

Region Baltic - Norwegian Fjords - Russia

Local Time 2024-03-07 19:42

Port Amsterdam cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Amsterdam, Netherlands North Holland. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Amsterdam is The Netherlands' capital city and a major North Sea port (via IJmuiden ), as well as Amstel (Rhine) river cruise port. Port's cruise schedule includes mainly ships with roundtrip UK and Baltic Sea itineraries. Amsterdam is also a turnaround/homeport for riverboat cruises, serving itineraries on Rhine, Moselle and the Dutch inland waterways.

The city has population around 1 million (urban 1,35 million, metro over 2,43 million). Randstad Megalopolis (which besides Amsterdam also includes Rotterdam and The Hague ) has population around 7 million. Amsterdam City itself is one of the world's most visited tourist travel destinations, and one of Europe's art capitals. It has a unique history, large canal ring, world-famous museums, a huge selection of guided city tours and shore excursions.

On cruise shore excursions (roundtrip bus tours from Amsterdam) can be visited Almere (Southern Flevoland).

IMPORTANT : On July 22, 2023, the city council voted to ban sea-going cruise vessels in order to restrict mass tourism and reduce air and noise pollution. The ban could result in the closure and relocation of the Port's main cruise terminal on IJ.

In September 2023, the city introduced significantly increased taxes for visiting tourists, including via cruise ships. The new taxes are for hotel guests (12,5% over the room charge) and for cruise tourists (EUR 11 pp/~37% increase over the old charge to EUR 8 pp).

Port Amsterdam

Port Amsterdam (officially "Haven van Amsterdam", locode NLAMS) is a major seaport serving Amsterdam City. It is currently ranked Baltic Sea's 2nd largest cargo port (after Aarhus ). The port is on a former bay and via Noordzeekanaal is connected to the North Sea.

The next photo shows the sea cruise port and its passenger terminal building.

In the 17th-century (during the so-called Dutch Golden Age), Amsterdam was one of the main seaports of the Dutch East India Company - the world's first-ever multinational corporation (1602-established). Today, it is Netherlands' second-largest cargo port - after Rotterdam . Port's 2014 statistics showed as handled marine shipping cargo ~97,4 million tons. For comparison, in 2008 the port handled 6029 marine vessels with 75,8 million tons of cargo and 435,129 TEUs (containers).

Annually, Port Amsterdam handles ~50,000 vessels (seagoing, riverboats, barges). Port's total area is 6,2 km2 (2,4 mi2) waterways and plus 20 km2 (7,7 mi2) land areas (quays, roads, railways, green areas). The port comprises several harbors, which are also part of city boroughs (named Westpoort, Westerpark, Centrum, Zeeburg). The list of harbours (haven) includes Afrika, Amerika, West Harbour, Jan van Riebeeck, Petroleum, Coen, Mercurius, Hout, De Ruijter Quay (Ruijterkade), Eastern Trade Quay.

In 2017, Netherlands's positive economy led to a 2,5% increase in shipping volumes at Port Amsterdam - up to 81,3 million cargo tons. Together with other North Sea Canal ports, the total transshipment volume reached the record 100,8 million cargo tons. In Port IJmuiden the growth was 7% (up to 18,5 million tons). Port Beverwijk's increase was 6% (800,000 million tons). Port Zaanstad's increase was 35% (300,000 tons). Port's increase in Ro-Ro shipping was 11% (1,9 million tons). Imports rose by 4% (up to 50,9 million tons). Exports remained unchanged (30,4 million tons).

In 2017 were allocated 18 hectares of land (11 hectares in 2016).  Land recipients were Bio Energy Netherlands (biomass power station generating from waste timber electricity and raw materials for the country's chemical industry) and Chaincraft (biotech company converting biomass into fatty acids). Borghese Real Estate and DHL (logistics) expanded at Atlaspark. Two new facilities were realized at HoogTij park (Gam BAKKER, Container terminal CTV Vrede Steinweg) where Port Amsterdam is a participant. The port also acquired 10 hectares of land on the North Sea Canal's northern side.

In November 2017, the port announced its objectives to achieve up to 50% emissions reduction (NOx, SOx, soot particles) generated by docked ocean cruise ships by the year 2030. Another planned objective was reducing to virtually zero the levels of noise and air pollution caused by diesel generators at all public berths (located inside the city's ring road) by 2018.

  • To achieve these goals, into port's Infrastructure was made investments in innovative technologies, like LNG bunkering facilities and shore-side power supply.
  • The EUR 10 million budgeted project was scheduled for completion by 2021.
  • Port's new incentive program additionally promotes clean shipping and offers discounts on port dues for LNG-powered vessels.

In January 2018, Port Amsterdam signed with Titan LNG a long-term contract for the base (FlexFueler001, in America Harbour) of the company's bunkering pontoon. This was Europe's first such facility . Its central location in the harbour enables LNG transfers by both trucks and special vessels, making it independent from large-scale LNG terminals. America Harbour (draft 9,7 m) can handle both inland and ocean vessels alongside FlexFueler. The number of LNG-powered ships is rapidly growing (via drydock conversion and newbuilds ) as this fuel is cost-effective, suitable for various vessel types and environmentally friendly. LNG completely removes SOx and soot particles, reduces NOx emissions (up to 85%) as well as CO2 emissions. In August 2018, the port started offering a doubled "ESI discount" (Environmental Ship Index) for ESI-certified and LNG-powered vessels.

In December 2018, Port Amsterdam conducted 4-week trials for MADS (Marine Anti Drone System). This program was for monitoring where and why drones (legal and illegal) fly over port's land areas. MADS detects and identifies flying drones within a 5 km (3 mi) range. The system provides GPS coordinates of both the device and its pilot, as well as the drone’s speed and course. More and more seaports worldwide begin to use drones for various purposes, including infrastructure inspections and environmental measurements.

In mid-December 2018 started construction works on the Plastic Recycling Amsterdam project - a partnership with Umincorp (Rotterdam-based) and Milieu Service Nederland (Diemen-based). The new recycling plant has an annual capacity of 17,000 tons. The collected plastics are washed, shredded, separated (via Magnetic Density Separation), then sorted and processed into packaging materials.

For FY2018 (fiscal year), Havenbedrijf Amsterdam NV (port authority) reported a net profit of EUR 68,5 million (12,5% increase over 2017's EUR 60,9 million) and revenue increase 5% (EUR 157,4 million), primarily due to land allocations totaling 45,1 hectares (18 hectares in 2017) and harbor fees increase due to increased transshipment cargo volume (82,3 million tons / 81,3 million in 2017). Port's added value increased 4% (to EUR 7,2 billion), the employment - by 2% (to 68,399 port-related jobs), North Sea Canal Area transshipment cargo volume reached 101,8 million tons. Port's total number of ship calls increased 7% (to 17,952 / 16,813 in 2017). The port handled 180 cruise ship calls plus 2007 riverboat cruise calls. Port’s investments amounted to EUR 53,3 million (40% increase over 2017's EUR 31,9 million).

In March 2019, at Afrikahaven were inaugurated 4 new berths that serve inland liquid bulk carriers - blue cone-marked tankers shipping flammable materials. In the period November 2017 through February 2019, at Amsterdam's Afrikahaven port were constructed a total of 18 new berths (serving inland cargo ships with LOA lengths up to 135 m / 443 ft). The project also included adding 3 mooring quays (plus piles) and building a new concrete quay fitted with a drinking water supply station and a waste processing plant.

For FY2019, Port Amsterdam reported a record transshipment volume of 86,3 million tonnes (6% increase over 2018's 82,3M tonnes). The transshipment growth was largely attributed to the 18% increase in energy products shipping (mainly coal and oil products), also dry bulk (+6%), TEU-containers (+12%), Ro-Ro shipping (+17%), chemical products (+3,4%), construction materials (+2,4%). Imports increased 5,7% (total 53,2M tonnes). Exports increased 5,5% (33,6M tonnes).

In July 2022, HyCC Holding's subsidiary HyCC BV (Hydrogen Chemistry Company/2020-founded joint venture of Nobian and GIG-Green Investment Group) launched "Project H2era" (500-MW green hydrogen plant in the Port area) planned for completion in 2027. A similar but smaller (100-MW "Project H2ermes") was launched in Port IJmuiden. Both plants produce H2 and O2 from seawater via electrolysis (using renewable electricity).

Amsterdam cruise port

Cruise lines that include Amsterdam in their ship schedules increase every year. The terminal handles over 250,000 passengers during high season.

One of Northern Europe's largest cruise ports, Amsterdam handles an average (ship calls) of 140+ ocean and 1500+ river cruises, The annual number of cruise tourists is around 700.000.

In September 2015, MSC Splendida  became port's largest cruise vessel. The seaport has 2 cruise terminals - Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (serving ocean ships) and another terminal located after the locks in IJmuiden.

In 2017, the cruise port handled a total of 134 ship calls (125 in 2016) and 332,998 passengers (281,907 in 2016). At Port IJmuiden, cruise ship calls were 23 (32 in 2016). The total number of river cruise ship calls in 2017 was 1876. The number of river cruise passengers was 495,550.

In late-November 2018, MSC Cruises announced that all of the company's scheduled for 2019-2020 calls at Amsterdam were cancelled. The decision was due to the port's new tourist tax for visiting / transit passengers. The tax is EUR 8 pp per day (for port stays less than 24 hours) and EUR 16 (for overnight port stays / over 24 hours).  MSC refused to recover the additional costs from its customers. In the revised MSC itineraries, Amsterdam was replaced with other Dutch cities, from where was offered (as optional) bus travel to Amsterdam. Following MSC, Cruise & Maritime Voyages (CMV UK) also cancelled all its pre-booked visits for 2019-2020.

In 2018, Port Amsterdam handled 7525 sea-going vessels (including 180 cruises) and 41424 barges. These numbers for 2017 were, respectively, 7011 and 40012. In 2019, the cruise port received 117 seagoing ship calls (180 in 2018). The decrease was due to the new tourist tax (since January 1, 2018). In 2019 were received 294,000 cruisers (425,000 in 2018).  The seagoing cruise vessels to IJmuiden were 62 (30 in 2018). Port Amsterdam handled 2282 river cruise ships (2007 in 2018).

Port Amsterdam new sealock (world's largest)

A new (world's largest) sealock is currently under construction at IJmuiden (North Sea Canal's entrance). The new facility will provide access to Port Amsterdam even to the world's largest cruise vessels.

The new sealock has a length of 500 m (1640 ft), width 70 m (230 ft) and depth/max draft 18 m (59 ft), ranking it the world’s largest. Construction works started in January 2016, with scheduled completion by the end of 2019. After the sealock's inauguration, Amsterdam port will be accessible (for all types of marine vessels) 24 hours a day.

The next YouTube video shows the sealock project's main highlights.

Sealock project's construction and maintenance costs are about EUR 500 million. In July 2018 was announced, that the planned sealock completion will be delayed by 27 months, now scheduled for the end of January 2022. The existing Noordersluis lock will continue to serve the traffic, but larger ships will not be able to dock at Port IJmuiden.

In mid-July 2022, was announced that in 2025 cruise ships docking at Passenger Terminal Amsterdam will start using shore power . The technology allows berthed vessels to connect to the city's power grid (for the electricity needed for their onboard hotel services) instead of using electricity from their diesel generators, thus reducing in-port air pollution and noise.

Amsterdam cruise terminal

Amsterdam cruise port terminal is located 15 minutes away from the Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, right in the city heart. The central train station of Amsterdam is just in 10 minutes walking distance.

Amsterdam cruise terminal has a large reception, tourist information office, cafes, restaurants, luggage facility, and shops. There is a parking area which is underneath Cruise Port Amsterdam's terminal (PTA-Passenger Terminal Amsterdam). The underneath PTA parking costs EUR 30 per day (subject to change). PTA is a multipurpose building where are also hosts various business-related events.

Cruise Port Amsterdam (fka Passenger Terminal Amsterdam) has quays with length 600 m (1970 ft) and depth 10,5 m (35 ft). In normal weather conditions, vessels with max LOA length 330 m (1080 ft) can easily turn in the cruise port to dock at the terminal.

Available for the passengers is a pontoon for transfer to and from different kinds of touring boats. Tourists can use tour boats or public transportation to reach downtown.

At the moment you disembark here, you can enjoy great views of the city from the huge outdoor balcony of the terminal. Cruise tourists can also use the 4-star Movenpick Hotel Amsterdam City Centre.

  • Exploring the canals: Amsterdam has at least 165. All are surrounded by typical houses and beautiful green trees. You can also see the typical 17th century Golden Age houses.
  • The Rijksmuseum: exhibitions of famous Dutch Golden Age painters, one of the most popular places to visit. The “top” piece is “Night Watch” by Rembrandt. You will also see Jan Steen’s and Vermeer ‘s paintings.
  • The Begijnhof: located in the heart of the old city. A lovely 14th-century place with beautiful houses and green gardens.
  • Brown Cafes: or a typical Dutch pub. The name is given after the color of the interior – dark wood and stained by cigarette smoke walls.
  • Anne Frank House: nearly a million tourists visit the Anne Frank House every year. The place is touching with the story of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl, and her family. They were hiding in this house during the Nazi occupation.
  • Vondelpark: the most popular park in Amsterdam.
  • Oude Kerk: dates since 1250 AD, Amsterdam’s oldest church. The paradox is that it is located at the Red Light District center.
  • Waterlooplein: located near the City Hall. A huge market, where you can buy anything but usual at a very good price.
  • The Red Light District: real notorious highlight. You can see hundreds of young women, wearing only lingerie, behind a red-lit window.
  • Coffee Shops: you can buy marihuana or hash for personal use in small quantities.

Amsterdam tours, shore excursions, hotels

City tours and shore excursions.

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Things to do in the Netherlands

Things to do Beyond The Canals of Amsterdam

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Things to do in the Netherlands

Keukenhof

Public experience Day trip Keukenhof

  • Departure from Amsterdam
  • March 21 until May 12 2024
  • Unforgettable experience
  • Enjoy the Dutch countryside

Giethoorn tour

Public experience Giethoorn Boat Cruise & Walking Tour

  • Scenic Boat Cruise
  • Walking Tour Included
  • From Amsterdam to Giethoorn by luxury coach

Zaanse Schans

Public experience Zaanse Schans Walking Tour

  • Witness the making of the famous Dutch clogs
  • Free Digital Walking Guide
  • Visit a cheese farm for a free tasting

Countryside Bike Tour

Public experience Countryside Bike Tour

  • Duration: 3,5 hours
  • A good Dutch bicycle with 3 gears and handbrakes

Anne Frank Walking Tour

Public experience Anne Frank Walking Tour

  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Unique route with stories through the city
  • Virtual Reality experience of Anne Frank House

Amsterdam City Bike Tour

Public experience Amsterdam City Bike Tour

  • Duration: 2,5 hours
  • Explore Amsterdam's Heritage and Scenery

Book your unique Dutch experience now!

Explore the Best of the Netherlands

Things to do in the Netherlands

Discover the Dutch Countryside

In collaboration with our carefully selected partners, we elevate your experience with recommended things to do in the Netherlands. From vibrant tulip fields to the historic windmills of Zaanse Schans, and from leisurely bike rides to surprising hiking adventures, our recommended things to do in the Netherlands offer something for everyone.

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6 top luxury alaska cruises for 2024 & beyond.

Book a once-in-a-lifetime adventure to The Great Land on one of these top luxury ships.

Top Luxury Alaska Cruises

Veranda of Aquamarine Suite on Crystal cruise ship.

Courtesy of Crystal

Cruising to Alaska on a small luxury ship affords a very different experience than sailing through The Great Land on a larger vessel. On a smaller luxury ship, you'll enjoy the expected perks like fewer passengers and more personalized service – but you'll also physically get closer to the boundless wilderness, abundant wildlife, icy blue glaciers and majestic snow-capped mountains that you've waited a lifetime to see.

While the fares to sail on such vessels are quite a bit higher than those of larger cruise providers, the all-inclusive (or mostly all-inclusive) prices typically include all-suite accommodations with balconies, all meals, alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi access, gratuities, welcome bottles of sparkling wine, pillow selection, some shore excursions and butler service. Best of all, you won't feel like you're being nickel-and-dimed while on board. As a special touch, the attentive crew members may even learn your name and memorize your preferred pre-dinner cocktail.

Unlike many mainstream lines, most luxury Alaska cruises do not offer pre- and post-cruise tours to extend your adventure. However, you can plan these experiences on your own through third-party providers.

Alaska Tour & Travel has pre-cruise packages that include visits to Denali National Park & Preserve and the small, quirky Alaska towns of Homer and Talkeetna. You can also see a different side of Alaska via a train ride on the Alaska Railroad, take a national parks tour that includes Kenai Fjords National Park or head northbound to Fairbanks , one of the best places in the world to see the northern lights (if you visit during aurora season, from late August to late April). In addition, the company can plan a self-drive tour from Anchorage to Seward, which includes a stay at a wilderness lodge, helicopter flightseeing over Knik Glacier and guided tours in the parks.

The following luxury cruise lines will ensure you make the most of your voyage in Alaska – one of the most magical destinations on Earth.

Find your perfect cruise

Silversea Cruises

Pool deck on the Silversea Nova.

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Silversea Cruises' small luxury ships are designed for adventurers interested in visiting a mix of Alaska's top ports and more rugged, off-the-beaten-track locales. Extended itineraries offer stops in less-visited destinations like the towns of Haines and Wrangell. On board, guests can expect a personalized experience that includes luxurious ocean-view suites with butler service, multiple gourmet dining options, complimentary alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, and attentive service with one of the highest crew-to-guest ratios in the industry.

Base fares for Silversea's 2024 and 2025 Alaska itineraries start at $3,250 per person. If you upgrade to Silversea 's door-to-door fare (which starts at $5,200 per person), you'll receive private chauffeur service from your home to the airport (and back home upon your return) and round-trip flights, with business class upgrades in some destinations.

Silversea also offers immersive pre- and post-cruise land experiences, departing from Seward, Alaska. Highlights include sightseeing flights over Denali National Park & Preserve or into bear country to see Alaska's magnificent grizzly bears. In Vancouver, travelers can take a flightseeing transfer to Victoria to tour the 55-acre Butchart Gardens or board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day train ride through the Canadian Rockies.

Silversea's Alaska itineraries extend from May to September, with voyages ranging between seven and 16 days. The line's newest and largest vessel, the 728-passenger Silver Nova , sails its inaugural Alaska season in 2024 along with two smaller ships, Silver Muse (596 guests) and Silver Shadow (392 guests). There are 35 Alaska voyages available in 2024. In 2025, luxury cruisers can hop aboard one of 45 scheduled voyages on either Silver Nova or the 596-guest Silver Moon .

For a seven-day itinerary, consider a sailing from Seward, Alaska, to Vancouver, British Columbia. This voyage cruises the Hubbard Glacier and the Inside Passage and stops in the Alaska towns of Juneau, Skagway, Sitka and Ketchikan. Complimentary excursions in Ketchikan include a tour of Saxman Native Village; a visit to Bonfire Bay Oyster Farm, featuring a sea-to-table oyster tasting; the Alaskan Cultural, Culinary & Lumberjack show; the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafeast and a day as a fisherman aboard the Aleutian Ballard, as seen on Discovery Channel's "The Deadliest Catch." You can also opt for a Selected Shore Excursion (for an additional cost), such as mountain biking or a private fishing trip.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Bed in the Concierge Suite on the Regent Seven Seas Explorer.

Courtesy of Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' elegant Seven Seas Explorer sails the line's Alaska itineraries in 2024 and 2025. The lavish 746-guest ship was coined "The Most Luxurious Ship Ever Built" when it debuted in 2016; among its impressive features are the 3,875-square-foot Regent Suite and a high-end collection of art displayed throughout the ship, including works by Pablo Picasso.

Alaska voyages with Regent in 2024 and 2025 start at $4,799 per person. Upgraded 2-for-1 all-inclusive fares (starting at $5,499 per person) cover elegant all-balcony suite accommodations; round-trip airfare (business class on international flights); a one-night pre-cruise hotel package; free two- or three-night land programs; free unlimited shore excursions; free unlimited beverages (alcoholic and nonalcoholic); complimentary specialty dining; and prepaid gratuities. You'll also receive complimentary airport transfers, unlimited Wi-Fi access and valet laundry service.

Every suite style includes a private balcony, roomy closets and upscale finishes. Concierge Suites (and above) add cozy in-room amenities like cashmere blankets, perfect to bundle up in while you take in the scenery. Meanwhile, Penthouse Suites (and higher) include a private butler who can book excursions, make dinner and spa reservations, unpack your luggage, arrange for a private cocktail soiree in your suite and indulge any other special requests.

Between May and September 2024, Regent sails 22 Alaska voyages. There are 16 Alaska sailings scheduled for the same period in 2025. Itineraries range from seven to 14 nights. For plenty of scenic cruising days, consider a round-trip itinerary from Vancouver departing May 28, 2025. The cruise includes five relaxing days at sea, where you'll enjoy scenic cruising through the Inside Passage (twice), Hubbard Glacier (twice) and Endicott Arm Fjord. Ports of call in Alaska include Wrangell, Juneau , Skagway, Sitka, Seward, Icy Strait (Hoonah) and Ketchikan. You'll also have a full day in Victoria, British Columbia, before returning to Vancouver.

While in Wrangell, consider the Tongass Botanical Forest Walk excursion. Tongass National Forest is the largest national forest in the U.S., with towering old-growth trees and unique flora, fauna and ecosystems. While in the temperate rainforest with your naturalist guide, look for local wildlife like Sitka black-tailed deer, porcupines and birds of prey. Other complimentary excursions at this stop include a round of golf at Muskeg Meadows Golf Course; a canoe trip through Wrangell harbor and nearby islands, and a heritage tour about Tlingit culture and the history of the town.

Nobu restaurant on a Crystal cruise ship.

Recently relaunched Crystal offers just seven voyages in Alaska aboard Crystal Serenity in July and August 2024. The 740-guest luxury vessel was refurbished in 2023 and features the line's signature top-notch service, elegant interiors and suites, and personal butler service in every room category.

Other perks and amenities include plush bathrobes and Sicily's Ortigia bath products; an impressive passenger-to-crew ratio; prepaid gratuities; complimentary beverages; and outstanding cuisine, including Umi Uma (an exclusive Nobu restaurant at sea, available only on Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony ). Guests can also feast on Italian cuisine at Osteria d'Ovidio; book an exclusive dining experience at The Vintage Room; indulge in Parisian cafe-style fare at The Bistro; opt for American cuisine at Waterside Restaurant or take their pick of several other casual indoor and alfresco options.

Cruisers also have their selection of unique shore experiences curated by Crystal's parent company A&K Travel Group, such as a ride on the world's largest zip line in Hoonah (Icy Strait Point); dog sledding and glacier flightseeing in Skagway; fishing and wilderness dining in Ketchikan and the Wildlife Quest and Fin Island Lodge experience in Sitka, boasting a feast of Alaska king crab and wild salmon.

Crystal offers seven- and eight-night round-trip voyages from Vancouver , as well as one-way cruises from Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. Select itineraries – like the July 30, 2024, voyage from Vancouver to Seward – offer a scenic cruising day in the Seymour Narrows in British Columbia. On this sailing, you'll also enjoy a day at sea cruising Hubbard Glacier, as well as stops in Ketchikan, Sitka, Hoonah (Icy Strait), Skagway and Sitka in Alaska. Or, opt for the July 2, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver for three scenic cruising days in the Inside Passage, Endicott Arm and the Seymour Narrows.

The line's Aug. 13, 2024, round-trip sailing from Vancouver features a special guest: Manfredi Lefebvre d'Ovidio, the executive chairman of A&K Travel Group. As such, the cruise will include an exclusive gala dinner and other unique experiences. Other special voyages welcome marine biologist and National Geographic photographer Flip Nicklin, who will share personal stories from his extensive career and expert insights about humpback whale habitats and behaviors.

amsterdam cruise port things to do

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Viking Ocean Cruises

The Restaurant on a Viking cruise ship.

Courtesy of Viking

Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion . In 2025, the line offers the same itinerary on 22 dates between May and September, split between Viking Orion and its sister ship, the 930-passenger Viking Sea .

Viking's destination-focused itineraries are curated for travelers who are interested in history, science, culture and cuisine, as they feature onboard enrichment like lectures by Viking's resident historians. You'll also find regionally inspired dishes in The Restaurant and special access to unique tours and excursions ashore.

The line's mostly all-inclusive fares cover accommodations in spacious all-veranda staterooms and suites; beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner; meals at all the dining venues; one shore excursion in every port; free Wi-Fi access; 24-hour specialty teas, coffees and bottled water; complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center; and other upscale amenities.

Voyages traveling northbound from Vancouver include one day of scenic cruising through the Inside Passage before stopping in Ketchikan, Sitka, Juneau, Skagway and Icy Strait Point in Alaska. The eighth day of the cruise sails through picturesque Yakutat Bay, which includes the Hubbard Glacier. The ship then calls on Valdez, Alaska, before the trip ends with two days in Seward.

While in Valdez, take an optional tour to explore the incredible scenery surrounding the small fishing town. Viking offers a kayaking trip to see the Valdez Glacier; a scenic cruise through picturesque Prince William Sound to view the Columbia Glacier; a wildlife cruise where you can look for humpback whales, orcas, porpoises, sea otters and bald eagles; a helicopter ride over the area's rugged, icy wilderness; or a UTV adventure through the Chugach Mountains to Mineral Creek Canyon.

Seabourn Cruise Line

The aft pool on a Seabourn Cruise Line ship.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Between May and August 2024, Seabourn Cruise Line will host 20 Alaska voyages aboard the Seabourn Odyssey , before the ship leaves the cruise line in the fall. In 2025, the line offers 27 Alaska sailings on Seabourn Quest. Both yacht-inspired ships accommodate up to 458 guests and feature Seabourn's signature all-inclusive amenities, including luxurious oceanfront suites with verandas; personalized service; complimentary fine wines and premium spirits; complimentary dining; and caviar served throughout the sailing. You'll also have a complimentary W-Fi package and an in-suite minibar stocked with your favorite beverages. Ashore, sign up for exclusive programs like shopping for fresh salmon, halibut and Alaska king crab alongside a Seabourn chef.

Guests booking Seabourn Quest for 2025 will be able to sample the line's new dining concept, Solis. Inspired by destinations in the Mediterranean, the menu features a fresh, modern take on traditional dishes and whimsical cocktails. The restaurant is a collaboration with master chef and culinary partner Anton Egger and senior corporate chef Franck Salein. In addition to dishes like salt-encrusted whole branzino and Tuscan-style steak, guests will also find a wide selection of vegan and vegetarian dishes.

The seven-day Alaska Fjords & Canadian Inside Passage itinerary on May 31, 2024, aboard Seabourn Odyssey, sails from Juneau to Vancouver and includes a day in either Tracy Arm or Endicott Arm, depending on the ice conditions. From there, you can take one of the optional guided excursions: Ventures by Seabourn. These tours are an additional cost but offer opportunities for up-close Zodiac, kayaking or catamaran experiences in the wilderness to see glaciers calving and view local wildlife, such as black bears, mountain goats, seals, wolves and seabirds.

You'll also enjoy many days of scenic cruising on this voyage, and have the opportunity for more optional adventures in Rudyerd Bay (Misty Fjords). The ship makes additional stops in Wrangell, Alaska, and Prince Rupert, British Columbia, before disembarking in Vancouver.

If you want to see stunning Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve, then consider booking the seven-day Alaska Inside Passage & Glacier Bay sailing on May 10, 2024, from Vancouver to Juneau. This itinerary also includes the Seymour Narrows and Snow Pass, cruising Queen Island Sound and the Lynn Canal. There's a stop for Ventures by Seabourn activities like kayaking and Zodiac rides in the Inian Islands. The Alaska ports of call on this voyage are Ketchikan, Sitka, Icy Strait Point and Haines. You'll disembark in Juneau.

Bed in cabin on PONANT Le Soléal.

Francois Lefebvre | Courtesy of PONANT

French luxury expedition line PONANT offers 10 Alaska cruises in 2024; itineraries span between seven and 11 nights. Aboard the 264-guest yacht-style Le Soléal, you'll meet up to 10 naturalist experts and guides specializing in geology, history, ornithology or marine or land mammals. Guests can attend onboard lectures and embark on Zodiac landings with the guides.

The ship features elegant staterooms and suites, a library, a spa, a hair salon and a gym. Guests will be treated to movies in the theater, wine tastings and cooking demonstrations throughout the expedition. All fine dining meals, 24-hour room service, an open bar (including an in-room minibar) and complimentary and unlimited Wi-Fi access are covered in the pricing.

Two of PONTANT's eight-night voyages from Vancouver to Sitka are in partnership with Smithsonian Journeys and are curated for English-speaking travelers. Fares for these expeditions include transfers to and from the ship and a shore excursion in each port. On board, you can attend talks and discussions hosted by two Smithsonian Journeys experts: geologist Scott Burns and natural history filmmaker John Grabowska.

On these voyages, there is a sea day after departing Vancouver. You'll cruise through the Johnstone Strait, where you'll have an excellent chance of seeing humpback whales and orcas. After a day spent in the Inside Passage, the ship will call on the village of Metlakatla, Alaska, on the western coast of Annette Island, which is home to the Tsimshians from British Columbia. Other unique Alaska ports of call in this itinerary include the commercial fishing town of Petersburg, the Tlingit village of Kake and the small fishing community of Alfin Cove.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi is a U.S. News & World Report contributor and an avid travel adventurer who fell in love with Alaska on her first visit to the state many years ago. She's returned several times both by land and sea to explore the state's vast wilderness and abundant wildlife, and to chase the northern lights in one of the best places on the planet to view them. Pratesi used her extensive knowledge of Alaska and the cruise industry to write this article.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
  • The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
  • Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
  • The Top Alaska Cruise Lines
  • The Top Antarctica Cruises

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Alaska Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

  • # 1 South Island, New Zealand
  • # 4 Bora Bora

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IMAGES

  1. Amsterdam Cruise Port

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  2. 5 Best Things To Do at Amsterdam Cruise Port

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  3. A Guide to Amsterdam Cruise Passenger Port Terminal

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  4. Amsterdam Cruise. What to do and see, info, tickets, timetable

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  5. The Best Amsterdam Cruise Port Tours & Tickets 2021

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  6. Amsterdam Plans to Remove Cruise Ships From City Center

    amsterdam cruise port things to do

VIDEO

  1. Unique things to do in Amsterdam 🇳🇱

  2. Anders Osborne on the Big Easy Cruise 2023

  3. Amsterdam City Tour by Cruise #amsterdam #citytour #cruise #travel #holland #netherlands #europe

  4. Amsterdam Tourism and Convention Board

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  6. Azamara Journey cruise ship arriving in Amsterdam port

COMMENTS

  1. amsterdam what to do

    Find & Book the Best Things to Do in Amsterdam. Tours, Activities, Excursions in Amsterdam. Quick & Easy Purchase Process! Full Refund Available up to 24 Hours Before Your Tour Date

  2. The 10 Best Things To Do

    Find the Best Things To Do in Amsterdam. Compare Prices and Book Online. Full Refund Available up to 24 Hours Before Your Tour Date. Quick & Easy Purchase Process.

  3. Amsterdam Cruise Port Guide

    10 best things to do in Amsterdam port including Amsterdam shore excursions to Zaanse Schans, Keukenhof Gardens and Delft. Visit also our cruise port guides to Greenock (Glasgow), Belfast, Holyhead, Dover, Dublin, Invergordon (Inverness), Cork/Cobh, Copenhagen, Le Havre Amsterdam Cruise Port

  4. Amsterdam Cruise Port Passenger Terminal GUIDE

    This has been a discussion for several years. Decisions like this in Amsterdam usually take multiple years to implement, so if you have a cruise scheduled with Amsterdam as a port of call or departure/arrival port through 2024, don't worry! It's not likely any changes will happen before then. When will The Amsterdam Passenger Terminal be closing?

  5. Amsterdam from the Cruise Port: 37 Shore Excursions

    Passenger Terminal Amsterdam Cruise Port: Where do cruise ships dock in Amsterdam? One of the best things about visiting Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, by cruise ship is that you get to dock at the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (PTA), located in the heart of the city. This modern and spacious terminal for large ships offers easy ...

  6. 17 BEST Amsterdam Shore Excursions: Things to Do, Cruise Day Tour

    1 Canal Tour 2 City Tour 3 Anne Frank House 4 The Keukenhof Gardens 5 Rijksmuseum 6 Van Gogh Museum 7 Zaanse Schans Windmills 8 Windmills Driving Tour 9 Delft Blue Pottery Factory 10 Diamond Factory

  7. Amsterdam Cruise Port Terminal

    In and around the Passenger Terminal Amsterdam you will find a huge reception hall (3,000m² area), promenade and panorama decks, a Thinking of Holland souvenir shop, a coffee bar, a Subway sandwich outlet and a tourist information desk. There is free WiFi internet available. Amsterdam Cruise Port - P&O Ventura

  8. Amsterdam Cruise Port and Terminal Information

    The Amsterdam Cruise Port welcomes cruises right in the city's beating heart. Also known as Passenger Terminal Amsterdam, the terminal has received more than 3.8 million visitors since 2000. The ...

  9. Amsterdam cruise port

    Tram 26 connects the cruise terminal (name of the stop: Muziekgebouw) with the Amsterdam Central Station. You will find the tram stops in front of the cruise terminal, see map above. Pay the driver 2,90 euro for a 1 hour ticket or 7,50 for a day pass. You don't need exact change.

  10. Attractions near Cruise Port: Attractions in Amsterdam

    The Top 10 Attractions Near The Amsterdam Cruise Port LAST UPDATED BY Jessica Lipowski August 15, 2013 — Our editors and readers independently select what you see on 10Best. When you buy...

  11. 7 Best Things To Do In Amsterdam

    Visit The Anne Frank House This is perhaps the most-popular site for visitors; make sure you reserve tickets to go to Anne Frank House ahead of your trip to Amsterdam.

  12. Amsterdam Cruise Port

    °C °F Where is located the Port of Amsterdam Cruise Terminal The Amsterdam cruise terminal is very busy. More than 100 deep-sea vessels and nearly 800 river boats call there annually. The terminal is a 15-minute walk from Central Station, near the Eastern Docklands district, from where you can access city buses, trolley tours and boats for canals.

  13. The Best Way To Experience Amsterdam And Its Cruise Port

    The cruise port in Amsterdam has also become a favourite stop on many cruise itineraries that sail onto the Baltic or Scandinavian regions, giving more cruise visitors the chance to explore this spectacular city. In our Amsterdam Cruise Port guide, we'll share all you need to know when visiting this incredible city as part of your cruise holiday.

  14. Amsterdam Cruise Reviews (2024 UPDATED): Ratings of Amsterdam Cruise Port

    1 - 10 of 908 Amsterdam Cruise Reviews. Review for a Europe - River Cruise Cruise on Viking Alruna. yachtgoddess. First Time Cruiser • Age 80s. Sail Date: January 2024. Helpful. Review for a ...

  15. Amsterdam Cruise Port Guide

    Cruise port guide for Amsterdam, Netherlands. Information on where your ship docks, how to get from the port into the city, maps, bus and shuttle information, public transport options, cruise terminal information, cruise port schedules, must see sights, shopping guides, restaurant guides, internet and wifi locations, and suggestions for things to do.

  16. Amsterdam Cruise Port

    Things to Know Before You Go. Amsterdam Cruise Port has tourist information, cafés, restaurants, luggage facilities, and shops. Amsterdam's busiest attractions include the Van Gogh Museum, Rijksmuseum, and Anne Frank House, so take advantage of tours with skip-the-line access. Remember to bring comfortable shoes so you can walk the streets ...

  17. What to do in Amsterdam

    EITHER take a Canal Tour from right near both museums. This is Amsterdam's #1 experience and not to be missed. There are more than 60 miles of canals crossed by 1500 bridges. Dug in the 17 th Century, these canals are fronted by more 1550 glorious examples of Dutch Architecture.

  18. Amsterdam cruise port for ocean and river cruises

    You can ocean or river cruise to Amsterdam's cruise ports, making it a very popular cruising destination. It stands to reason then that visitors flock to the city when on an ocean cruise or one of the multitude of river cruises. Amsterdam has well over 750,000 visitors in peak season through cruises alone.

  19. AMSTERDAM NETHERLANDS, WHERE and HOW. CRUISE PORT

    Amsterdam, on a cruise or just visiting. Top things to do and see. Where to stay. How to get around. Amsterdam Cruise Port and the City. ...more ...more Amsterdam, on a cruise or...

  20. 5 Best Thing to do at Amsterdam Cruise Port

    1. Gogh And Consume the Art! 2. Cruise Through the Canals! 3. Visit the Secret Annex of The Young Girl 4. Relish Appetizing Cuisines! 5. Float with Flowers! 1. Gogh And Consume the Art! Amsterdam welcomes art with open arms. No wonder the place has a myriad of museums!

  21. The Perfect Day In Amsterdam After Your Cruise

    September 24, 2022. Advertisement. September 24, 2022 by Pao. After your cruise ends in Amsterdam, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy. First, you can explore all that the city has to offer. There are plenty of museums, shops, and restaurants to keep you busy. You can also take a canal tour or go on a bike tour.

  22. Amsterdam Netherlands Cruise Port

    The cruise terminal of Amsterdam port is about 10 min walking from the Central Station and the city center. Tip: Use the back exit of the station, from where you will see your ship, and walk along the waterfront. Taxis often refuse short trips. Use tram 26 if you have heavy luggage, stops right in front of the central station (east side)

  23. 12 Things To Do In Amsterdam: Complete Guide To This Vibrant Dutch Capital

    The boat agency offers a variety of tour options, from a 90-minute wine and cheese cruise to a 75-minute city canal cruise. Address: Stadhouderskade 550, 1072 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands

  24. Cruises to Amsterdam

    The Amsterdam cruise terminals are busy in season, hosting more than 200 oceangoing vessels and more than 1,800 river ships that carry more than 786,000 passengers from spring through fall.

  25. Amsterdam, Netherlands Cruise Port

    What to do in Amsterdam, Netherlands Cruise Port Amsterdam is a vibrant city full of culture and history. It is known for its beautiful canals, charming architecture, and lively atmosphere. There are plenty of things to do in Amsterdam, from exploring the city's many museums and galleries to taking a boat tour along the canals.

  26. Amsterdam (Netherlands North Holland) cruise port schedule

    Amsterdam cruise port. Cruise lines that include Amsterdam in their ship schedules increase every year. The terminal handles over 250,000 passengers during high season. One of Northern Europe's largest cruise ports, Amsterdam handles an average (ship calls) of 140+ ocean and 1500+ river cruises, The annual number of cruise tourists is around ...

  27. Things to do in the Netherlands

    Flagship Amsterdam . [email protected] +31(0)20-2252837 (Between 10am - 10pm) Departure Anne Frank Huis Prinsengracht 263-267 1016 DW Amsterdam Departure Rijksmuseum Museumbrug 1 1017 RW Amsterdam Departure Central Station Stationsplein 42 1012 AB Amsterdam

  28. 24 Things to Do in Jamaica for Cruisers

    Things to Do in Port Antonio, The Hidden Jamaica Port Port Antonio, Jamaica, a little-known harbor on the island's northeast coast, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness and ...

  29. 6 Top Luxury Alaska Cruises for 2024 & Beyond

    Viking Ocean Cruises' 11-day Alaska & the Inside Passage cruise is available on 11 dates during the 2024 season. It sails from Vancouver to Seward (or the reverse) on the 930-passenger Viking Orion .