Amsterdam: Canal Cruise and Entrance to Xtracold Icebar

If you’re looking for a way to experience Amsterdam’s charm without the hassle of planning every detail, a combined tour of a canal cruise plus a visit to the Xtracold Icebar offers a balanced mix of sightseeing and unique fun. For around $42, this experience promises an hour-long boat ride with panoramic views of historic merchant houses and a quirky, icy adventure where everything—from the glasses to the décor—is made of ice.

What stands out most about this tour is the quality of the canal cruise. You get to see Amsterdam’s iconic sights from the water, and the glass-topped boat offers fantastic angles on the city’s gilded facades. Then, the skip-the-line access to the Icebar ensures you beat the crowds and dive straight into a frosty, memorable environment. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize their time and combine sightseeing with something a little different.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a self-guided experience—you’ll need to reserve your timeslots and navigate the locations on your own. While the flexibility is a plus, it might be a consideration if you prefer guided tours. This experience appeals most to visitors who want a cost-effective way to explore key sights and enjoy a distinctive ice-cold drink in a fun setting.

Key Points

• Value for money with a combined ticket including both experiences
• Panoramic canal views from a luxury glass-topped boat
• Skip-the-line entrance to the ice bar maximizes your time
• Audio guide available in 19 languages enhances the experience
• Tour is self-guided, offering flexibility but less structured guidance
• Children under 18 are not permitted in the Icebar

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Canal Cruise: A Waterway Window into Amsterdam

The highlight of this experience is undeniably the one-hour canal cruise. Departing from Damrak 26, the boat offers a luxurious glass roof that makes sightseeing feel open and airy, even on a cloudy day. You’ll glide past ornate merchant houses from Amsterdam’s Golden Age—buildings with gabled facades that tell stories of centuries past. Reviewers loved the interesting commentary provided via an onboard audio guide available in 19 languages, which added depth and context to what you were seeing.

From the water, you get a different perspective of the city’s iconic sights like the Anne Frank House and the Skinny Bridge. The views are especially captivating because the boat’s design allows you to see all around without obstruction, perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery. Some reviewers noted that the cruise, while relaxing and informative, was slightly marred by fumes from the engine, but overall, the visuals and commentary made up for it.

The cruise’s timing is flexible, with boats running from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, giving you plenty of options to fit it into your day. A practical note: the cruise is self-guided—meaning you need to show your reservation and choose your timeslot upon booking. This design offers greater flexibility but might require some planning to align with your other activities in Amsterdam.

The Icebar: A Frosty, Fun Attraction

Once you’ve enjoyed the waterway, it’s time to head to the Xtracold Icebar for a skip-the-line experience. Located nearby, this venue is famous for an environment where everything—walls, furniture, glasses—is made of ice. Visitors rave about the intricate ice carvings and the authentic Arctic atmosphere.

Included in your ticket are three drinks, served in glacial glasses that are as cold as the environment. You’ll want to dress warmly—most visitors are provided with clothing and gloves to combat the icy temperatures. Reviewers have mentioned that even with the extra coats, the cold is intense but manageable, especially with drinks in hand. Many found the experience fun and memorable, with some noting that the staff, especially Baris, went above and beyond to make the visit enjoyable.

The drinks are a highlight—some reviews mention tasting Heineken, pistachio liqueur, and even extra shots found via rogue tickets tucked into clothing. The atmosphere is lively and lively, contrasting sharply with the chilly surroundings. Most guests felt that spending about 30–45 minutes inside was enough to enjoy the experience without feeling overwhelmed by the cold.

Combining the Two: A Smooth Transition

The combined ticket offers the advantage of saving both time and money. Since the tour is self-guided, you can choose your preferred times for the cruise and Icebar, fitting them into your day at your own pace. Many reviews mention that while the cruise and Icebar are separate locations, they are easy to find and well-organized.

However, a few guests noted that the cruise doesn’t drop you off near the Icebar, so you’ll need to plan your transportation accordingly—perhaps walking or taking public transport. Also, note that children under 18 are not allowed into the Icebar, so it’s less suited for families with minors looking for icy fun.

Practical Tips for Your Visit

• Book your desired timeslots in advance through the proper channels—your voucher specifies that the cruise time must be reserved upon arrival.
• The boat operates throughout the day, giving flexibility but requiring some planning to avoid peak hours or overlaps.
• Remember to dress warmly for the Icebar; even with provided clothing, the environment is very cold.
• If you’re a photo enthusiast, the glass-topped boat provides excellent opportunities for capturing Amsterdam’s scenic canals.
• The audio guide enhances the cruise, so be sure to listen for interesting facts and historical tidbits.
• Keep in mind that this is a self-guided experience—you’ll be responsible for managing your schedule.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many guests have shared their personal experiences, adding practical tips and honest impressions. Angela loved the ice pint glasses and warm coats, noting that sipping a Heineken in freezing temperatures was a highlight. Helen called it “brilliant,” emphasizing the fun of combining both attractions.

Adele, who called the Icebar “the best she’s been to,” appreciated the staff friendliness and the beautiful ice carvings. She also expressed satisfaction with the cruise, calling it “a lovely way to see some extra sights,” even if it wasn’t something she would have booked separately.

Another review pointed out a minor inconvenience—the cruise doesn’t go near the Icebar, so additional transportation is needed. Nevertheless, guests generally agree that both parts of the tour are worthwhile and create a fun, memorable day.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This experience offers great value—a combination of scenic sightseeing and a fun, icy adventure—perfect for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Amsterdam’s highlights without overextending their schedule. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy unique environments and want to combine a relaxing boat ride with a lively, interactive ice experience.

Adventure seekers will love the novelty of the Icebar, while history buffs will appreciate the insightful canal commentary. The self-guided format provides flexibility, making it perfect for independent travelers who prefer to set their own pace.

However, if you’re traveling with young children, note that the Icebar is 18+. Also, those with mobility issues should be aware that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, as indicated by the provider.

This tour delivers on entertainment and sightseeing at a reasonable price, blending cultural views with playful fun—delivered by friendly staff and well-organized logistics.

FAQs

Is the canal cruise guided or self-guided?
It’s a self-guided tour, meaning you choose your timeslot upon arrival. The boat has an onboard audio guide in 19 languages to enhance your experience.

How long does the canal cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, giving you enough time to see many of Amsterdam’s iconic sights without feeling rushed.

Are there specific times I need to book?
Yes, the canal cruise requires a pre-booked timeslot, which you show on your smartphone at the ‘Tours & Tickets’ office. The Icebar experience also has a designated timeslot for entry.

What sights can I see on the canal cruise?
You’ll pass key landmarks like the Anne Frank House, Skinny Bridge, merchant houses from the 16th and 17th centuries, and the old port.

How cold is the Icebar?
The environment is maintained at freezing temperatures—cold enough to make ice sculptures and glasses, so dress warmly. Clothing and gloves are supplied.

Can children visit the Icebar?
No, children under 18 are not permitted inside the Icebar, but the canal cruise is suitable for all ages.

How do I get to the Icebar from the cruise?
The cruise and Icebar are at different locations; plan your transport accordingly—walking or public transport are common options.

What drinks are included?
You get 3 drinks, which may include Heineken, pistachio liqueur, or other options depending on availability. You can also find rogue drink tickets for extra shots.

Is there an option to cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later for added flexibility.

To sum it up, this combined tour offers a delightful mix of Amsterdam’s scenic waterways and the quirky charm of an ice-themed bar experience. It’s perfect for those seeking value, flexibility, and fun in a compact package. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone wanting a memorable snapshot of the city, this tour hits many of the right notes—and leaves a few icy ones too.