Amsterdam Canals
Like Venice, Amsterdam is a city of canals. Residents are justifiably proud of them, and a canal tour offers you an opportunity to learn about them, as well as get an overview of Amsterdam, the various districts, and the history of the city. Tours take about an hour, and pass by Central Station, The Golden Bend of the Herengracht (traditionally the best address in Amsterdam), the Harlemmersluis floodgates which are used nightly to flush the canals, a section of the river Amstel, and various unique buildings and historical sites.

Glass topped boats allow you a great view and keep you out of the weather. These boats are big enough to accommodate 50-100 people, and are probably the easiest way to explore the canals. There are a number of tour operators to serve you. If you are feeling more energetic, you may want to set out on a pedal boat for a more intimate glimpse of Amsterdam. In the winter, you can even skate the canals, which offers a far different perspective of the waterways.