Cruise Port Stop Guide: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is one of Europe’s most cruise-friendly ports – offering world-class museums, historic canals, walkable neighborhoods, and outstanding public transportation.

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LOGISTICS

MONEY MATTERS

Credit cards (VISA and Mastercard) are widely accepted (AMEX and Discover are less so) with ability to use Apple/Google Pay. Some smaller establishments may prefer/only take cash but generally not needed unless for paying to use a public toilet (coins) or for tipping.

COMMUNICATION

English is very widely spoken in Amsterdam with many locals being fluent.

*CRUISE TERMINAL UPDATE

Amsterdam is no longer stating that they will ban cruise ships outright but are instead moving to eventually close Passenger Terminal Amsterdam (AKA as Cruise Port Amsterdam). The first step is reducing the number of ships with a cap of 100 ocean cruise ships being allowed to dock here annually. What this means for passengers is that many ships will need to dock further out at the IJmuiden port and a bus transfer will be required to get to the city (typically a ~45 minutes transfer)

ETIAS / VISAS

• Some visitors to a Schengen Zone Country will need a visa – visit the Government of Iceland’s Visa page to learn more
• Others should be aware of a new requirement being introduced soon. European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is the new travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers to enter 30 European countries (including Iceland, Norway, Switzerland).
  • The implementation date keeps getting pushed back but it is currently slated to start the last quarter of 2026. Visit the official ETIAS site here for more information.

PORT INFO

_{BEAUTIFUL TIP: Reminder that arrival times for port days are estimates for when the ship will be docked and may not be when the port has given approval to the ship to allow passengers to get off. IF the activity start time is close to arrival times, I will always reach out the activity/tour provider and find out exactly what their policy is if I am not able to be there on time. I have found that many operators are flexible especially if the majority/all of the participants are from the cruise ship but some may not be able to accommodate late arrivals with no refund given. Whilst both scenarios are valid business practices, don’t make the mistake of finding out it’s the latter when you aren’t able to join!}

TOP SHORE EXCURSIONS/TOURS

AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

One of the reasons why I love GetYourGuide are the travel guides they create for cities which can help you dive even deeper into your travel planning!

With the cruise terminal located close to the city center and lots of options for public transportation, it’s easy to plan an efficient, rewarding day ashore whether you are looking to see Amsterdam via a walking tour or a canal boat ride or visit one of their many world-class museums.

HOW TO GET AROUND

Walking

Once you are in Amsterdam City Center, it is easy and convenient to walk around especially when paired with public transport options. But for reference, here’s how long it takes to get to popular tourist spots.

• Centraal (Central) Station: 1.2 km (.74 miles) / 18-23 minutes walk from Passenger Terminal Amsterdam
• Anne Frank House: 2.9 km (1.8 miles) / 40-48 minute walk from Passenger Terminal Amsterdam
• Rijksmuseum: 3.4 km (2.1 miles) / 48-56 minute walk from Passenger Terminal Amsterdam

Public Transportation

Public transit includes metros, trams and buses making it easy, efficient and wallet-friendly to visit multiple places within Amsterdam on your port day. Trams are great for the city center with the frequency + extensive coverage of that network. For attractions/points of interests, I have listed the closest public transport stop as well as applicable tram lines

A 24-hour Amsterdam GVB transit pass is cheaper than multiple single tickets. Buy one prior to coming and have it ready to go on your phone – buy here

Bicycle

With more bicycles than people and an extensive network of dedicated bike lanes, Amsterdam is known as the Cycling Capital of the World. What to know as a visitor here: pay attention to said bike lanes and while theoretically bikes must yield to pedestrians, they may not. Those considering renting a bike should do so if they are very comfortable on one and follow the flow of traffic with good communication. Remember that this is a capital city and many locals are simply on their way to work/an appointment and are brusque in the same way that New Yorkers are walking in NYC. Amsterdam Bike Rental – one of the locations for pick up is Centraal Station

Hop On Hop Off Bus and/or Boat

See Amsterdam at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus tour, with combination options for both canal and bus tours. Download City Sightseeing Amsterdam App for all the stops and a live view on the map of our busses and canal boats for the Hop On Hop Off Bus and/or Boat – purchase tickets here

Taxis + Rideshares (Bolt + Uber)

Taxis are metered with official taxis having a blue license plate (avoid unlicense, illegal taxis to avoid potential scams) – depending on traffic, this may not be the fastest way to get around but will be the most expensive. Rideshares are legal in Amsterdam – note that you are sometimes hailing a taxi via Bolt or Uber.

TOP ATTRACTIONS / POINTS OF INTERESTS

I amsterdam City Card with Public Transport and Free Museums

Explore Amsterdam

Amsterdam’s Historic Canals (Grachtengordel)

While Amsterdam is sometimes referred to as Venice of the North, it actually has more canals than the Italian city and no visit here is complete without having seen the iconic canals. Built during the Dutch Golden Age (17th century) for urban expansion, trade, and water control and allowed Amsterdam to become one of the world’s leading trading cities. Design: Concentric rings (Herengracht, Keizersgracht, Prinsengracht) creating islands and a distinctive layout.

• Boat Tours: Essential for viewing the architecture and history from the water.
• Walking/Cycling: Exploring the canals lined with leaning canal houses, houseboats, and historic bridges, making them central to Amsterdam’s charm.

• *A’dam Lookout: Location – Overhoeksplein 5 | Closest transit stop: From Centraal, Take free F3 ferry (to Buiksloterweg) | Time needed: 1.5 – 5 hours (if eating onsite)
  • Discover Amsterdam from a unique vantage point in the sky with entry to the top of the 22-story A’DAM tower (A’DAM TorCen).
  • Buy your fast track entry tickets including options for food + drink (note Ticket for ‘Over The Edge’/swing is not included and is €7.50 per person added onsite)
• Albert Cuyp Market: Location – De Pijp District | Closest transit stop: De Pijp (Metro 52) | Time needed: 45-120 minutes
  • Amsterdam’s largest and busiest street market selling food, souvenirs, and Dutch snacks.
  • Beautiful tip: Try some Dutch specialties: poggertjes (mini Dutch pancakes) + bitterballen + fresh fries + fresh stroopwafels made on the spot. Closed Sundays
• *ARTIS Amsterdam Royal Zoo: Location – | Closest transit stop: De Pijp (Metro 52) | Time needed: 45-120 minutes
  • Visit ARTIS Zoo and experience nature right in the city center-stroll among the shady trees, admire the diversity of plants and animals, travel to the stars, enjoy Dutch heritage.
• Dam Square & Royal Palace: Location – City Center | Closest transit stop: Dam (Tram 2, 4, 12) | Time needed: 45-60 minutes
  • Amsterdam’s historic heart featuring the Royal Palace and major shopping streets
  • Want to see more of the city in a short time, book the 2.5 hours Segway City Tours Amsterdam
• Jordaan Neighborhood: A picturesque district known for narrow streets, cafés, boutiques, and galleries.
  • Consider this 4.9* rated 10 Tastes of Amsterdam: Food Tour by UNESCO Canals and Jordaan small group tour
• Vondelpark: Amsterdam’s most famous green space, perfect for relaxing or people-watching.

Visit A Museum

Anne Frank House

For those wanting a deeper dive into Amsterdam’s WWII history and to follow in the footsteps of Anne Frank, book this small-group walking tour of the Jewish Quarter. Note that the tour ends up at the Anne Frank House but does not include entrance.

Other World Class Museums

Amsterdam has lots of world-class museums that are bound to appeal to whatever you are interested in – here’s some of the most popular ones to check out on your port day.

• *Rijksmuseum: Location – Museumplein 1 (Museum Square) | Closest transit stop: Rijksmuseum (Trams 2, 5, 12) | Time needed: 2-5 Hours
  • The Netherlands’ national museum, showcasing Dutch art and history with a vast collection of over a million objects
    • Masterpieces/highlights: Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch,” Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid,” works by Frans Hals and famous Gallery of Honour
  • Beautiful tips: Timed tickets are required (a limited number available at the door so best to book online early); go as early as possible for fewer crows
• Van Gogh Museum: Location – Museumplein 6 | Closest transit stop: Van Baerlestraat (tram 2, 5, 12) or Museumplein (tram: 3, 5, 12, bus: 347, 357) | Time needed: 1-2 hours
  • The world’s largest collection of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings and letters.
• Beautiful tip: Timed-entry tickets required and only available online; combine with Rijksmuseum for a full cultural morning.
• *NEMO Science Museum: Location – Oosterdok 2 | Closest transit stop: Central Station Kadijksplein (Bus 22) | Time needed: 1.5 – 2 hours
  • Offering five floors of hands-on science exhibits ideal for families and kids. Close to Passenger Terminal/cruise port (1 KM / 15 min walk)
  • Tickets are only sold at the door if they are available time slots that day, buy your fast track admission ticket here
  • Beautiful tip: The spectacular roof terrace has a magnificent view over Amsterdam and the Eastern Docklands which you can access free of charge (via the stairs on the East Side)
• *H’ART Museum: Location – Amstel 51 | Closest transit stop: Waterlooplein (tram 14) | Time needed: 1.5-4 Hours
  • This is the Amsterdam-based extension of Russia’s famed Hermitage Museum with three separate collections to be seen.
• *Hortus Botanicus : Location – Plantage Middenlaan 2a | Closest transit stop: Mr. Visserplein (tram 14) | Time needed: 1-2 hours
  • Designed in 1638, it is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe
• Moco Museum: Location – Honthorststraat 20 | Closest transit stop: Van Baerlestraat (tram 2, 5, 12) or Museumplein (tram: 3, 5, 12, bus: 347, 357) | Time needed: 1-2 hours
  • Modern Art. Admire the works of artists such as Banksy, Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Yayoi Kusama, Digital & Immersive and more.
  • Beautiful tip: Purchase a ticket to visit the tower/ride the elevator to the top for panoramic views of Reykjavík’s colorful rooftops, the harbor and the mountains.

Indulge in Some Adult Fun (18+ Only)

• Bols Cocktail Experience: Location – Paulus Potterstraat 14 (across from Van Gogh Museum) | Closest transit stop: Van Baerlestraat (tram 2, 5, 12) or Museumplein (tram: 3, 5, 12, bus: 347, 357) | Time needed: 1-3 hours
  • Bols Cocktail Experience Entry Ticket includes audio guide, interactive experience and 1 perfect serve cocktail (alcoholic or alcohol-free)
  • Bols Cocktail Experience and Cocktail Workshop includes One “perfect serve” cocktail served in Mirror bar and during the workshop you will make two cocktails yourself.
  • Beautiful tip: The minimum age for a visit to the House of Bols is 18 years
• Coffee Shops: Marijuana is legal and regulated; minimum age 18; Visit respectfully and skip entirely if traveling with kids
  • Note: Consumption is not allowed in public streets or near schools
• Heineken Experience Location – De Pijp | Closest transit stop: Vijzelgracht (tram 1, 7, 19, 24 or metro line 52) | Time needed: 2-3 hours
  • Heineken Experience Ticket Interactive brewery tour highlighting the history of the famous Dutch beer brand includes admission, self guided tour, live presentation and 2 beers
  • Consider combing two iconic Amsterdam experiences in the Heineken Experience and Canal Cruise with Snackbox

Venture Outside of Amsterdam

• *Keukenhof-Seasonal: One of the world’s most impressive and largest gardens with more than 74 acres (30 hectares) showcasing tulips, hyacinths, daffodils and other spring flowers
  • Keukenhof Entry & Shuttle Bus with Flexible Return admission ticket with round-trip shuttle service / also can upgrade to add a canal cruise.
  • Keukenhof and Zaanse Schans Windmills Guided Day Trip includes Skip the line ticket Keukenhof gardens + guided tour (Note that there are some tours that end at Keukenhof and allow you to explore at leisure with return to Amsterdam open)
• Vught Concentration Camp: A Nazi concentration camp that held 31,000 prisoners during WWII
  • Small Group Tour to Nazi WWII concentration camp from Amsterdam witnessing the barracks, crematorium, reconstructed watchtowers, and more first-hand – limited to 8 persons.
• Zaanse Schans: Scenic Dutch village looks like an open-air museum that recreates life in 18th and 19th-century Holland. Known for its signature windmills and wooden houses.
  • See windmills, waterlands, cheese makers, and clog factories up close on this Day Trip to Zaanse Schans, Edam, Volendam and Marken with round-trip transfer from central Amsterdam + includes tasters of cheese and other local produce. With option to add a 1-hour Amsterdam sightseeing cruise to your day tour
  • See the country side via e-bike on the Escape Amsterdam: E-Bike to Zaanse Schans Windmills & Zaandam

BEST WAYS TO COMBINE ATTRACTIONS ON A CRUISE DAY – ITINERARY SUGGESTIONS

Amsterdam’s flat layout, compact attractions, and reliable trams make it ideal for combining multiple highlights in a single cruise day.

• Classic First-Time Visitor: Canal Cruise + Anne Frank House + Jordaan neighborhood lunch
  • Why it works: Minimal transit, balanced pacing, iconic highlights. Consider
• Museum-Focused Day: *Rijksmuseum + Van Gogh Museum + Vondelpark stroll
  • Why it works: All located in the Museum Quarter; no backtracking
• Easy DIY Half-Day (Late Arrival or Early Departure): Dam Square + Canal Cruise + Jordaan walk
  •  Why it works: Central, flexible timing, no advance tickets required
• Family-Friendly Day: *NEMO Science Museum + Canal Cruise + Vondelpark
  •  Why it works: Short walking distances and proximity to cruise port as well as interactive stops
• Food & Local Culture Day: Albert Cuyp Market + De Pijp neighborhood + Heineken Experience
  • Why it works: Casual pace, indoor/outdoor mix

EAT / DRINK

SHOPPING & SOUVENIRS

GOOD TO KNOW + FAQs FOR VISITING AMSTERDAM

• Biking and Bike Lanes Notice and stay out of the clearly marked bike lanes and note that while pedestrians should have priority, this doesn’t always happen.
• Coffee Shops: Marijuana can only be consumed in these regulated cafes / minimum age 18
• Red Light District: While it is a legal, regulated area, visitors are asked not to treat it as a tourist area IMPORTANT NOTE: photography of workers is strictly prohibited
• Can I walk to attractions from the cruise terminal?
  • Yes but better to combine walking with public transportation to maximize time on your port day as Amsterdam has a lot to offer!
• How do I get tickets for Anne Frank House?
  • Time + person-specific tickets are only available online from the official museum site. Every Tuesday, all tickets become available for a visit six weeks later and often sell out quickly.
• What time zone is Amsterdam in?
  • The Netherlands follows Central European Time (CET) with observation of daylight savings. Be sure to double-check your ship’s time before returning to the port!

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