Amsterdam’s lunch scene combines great food with memorable experiences. Skip the tourist traps and focus on these authentic midday adventures. The guided canal picnic tours let you float past Golden Age mansions while enjoying local cheeses and breads. For a real culture, the Giethoorn village tours include traditional Dutch lunches in a postcard-perfect setting.
I especially love the bike-and-bite tours through local neighborhoods – they’re an efficient way to sample street foods and see how locals really eat. The windmill countryside tours with included farmhouse lunches are another favorite, offering a perfect mix of sightseeing and authentic Dutch flavors.
Let’s explore Amsterdam’s best lunch experiences and tours.
Key Points
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Guided Canoe Adventure in Waterland offers a 5-hour excursion with a picnic lunch featuring local specialties in a picturesque Dutch setting.
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Giethoorn Tours from Amsterdam provide a 9-hour small group experience with a boat cruise and hearty lunch at a local café in the “Dutch Venice.”
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Dining at Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam offers a lively family-friendly atmosphere with set lunch or dinner menu options, including accessibility features.
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Tulip Fields & Windmill Day Trip includes a luxury lunch featuring Dutch specialties and the opportunity to pick tulips and visit a 17th-century windmill.
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Various unique experiences in Amsterdam, such as the Amsterdam Full Day tour and Vecht River cruise, provide flexible lunch options for a personalized experience.
Guided Canoe Adventure With Picnic Lunch in Waterland From Amsterdam
For those seeking a tranquil and immersive experience outside the bustling city of Amsterdam, the Guided Canoe Adventure with Picnic Lunch in Waterland is a highly recommended option.
This 5-hour excursion allows participants to paddle through picturesque villages, reedbeds, and islands, while learning about traditional Dutch lifestyle and local ecology.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the adventure includes a delectable picnic lunch featuring local specialties, accommodating various dietary needs.
With a maximum group size of 10, it’s an intimate experience praised by 100% of travelers.
Participants should be prepared for moderate physical activity, as shoes may get wet and dirty, and life jackets are provided for safety.
Read our full review: Guided Canoe Adventure With Picnic Lunch in Waterland From Amsterdam Review
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Amsterdam: Small Group or Private Tour to Giethoorn + Lunch
Travelers seeking a different Dutch experience beyond the bustling streets of Amsterdam can embark on a small group or private tour to the picturesque village of Giethoorn.
This 9-hour excursion, priced from $263.21 per person, includes transport by air-conditioned minivan, a boat cruise, coffee, and a hearty lunch at a local café.
The tour allows ample time to explore Giethoorn’s car-free canals and charming streets, often called the “Dutch Venice.”
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour offers personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide.
Reviewers praise the experience, highlighting the beauty of Giethoorn and the convenience of an early visit to avoid crowds.
Read our full review: Amsterdam: Small Group or Private Tour to Giethoorn + Lunch Review
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Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam With Set Lunch or Dinner
Situated along the picturesque Max Euweplein, the Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam offers visitors a lively dining experience with a set lunch or dinner menu.
Diners can choose from the Gold or Diamond menu, which includes burgers, salads, mac-and-cheese, and ribs. A child menu is also available.
The cafe spans three levels and provides views of Amsterdam’s iconic canals. With 217 reviews and a 4.0 rating, the Hard Rock Cafe is a popular choice, though some customers have reported limited menu options and service issues.
Accessibility features, such as wheelchair access and stroller availability, make it a family-friendly option. Reservations can be made in advance with a free cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Hard Rock Cafe Amsterdam With Set Lunch or Dinner Review
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From Amsterdam: Tulip Fields & Windmill Day Trip With Lunch
Amsterdam’s tulip fields and historic windmills are a must-see for visitors seeking an immersive Dutch experience.
For $118.92 per person, the “Amsterdam: Walk through the Tulip Fields with Lunch & Mill” tour offers exclusive access to three tulip fields, allowing you to pick your own tulip and capture stunning photos.
Led by local industry experts, the tour includes a visit to a 17th-century windmill and a luxury lunch featuring Dutch specialties.
With a maximum group size of 30, the tour provides a personalized experience.
Wheelchair-accessible and available in English and Dutch, this day trip is a great way to explore the tulip fields and witness the Netherlands’ iconic windmill heritage.
Read our full review: From Amsterdam: Tulip Fields & Windmill Day Trip With Lunch Review
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Giethoorn Small-Group Tour With Cruise and Lunch From Amsterdam
The “Giethoorn Small-Group Tour with Cruise and Lunch from Amsterdam” offers a unique opportunity to explore the picturesque Dutch town of Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the Netherlands.”
This day trip from Amsterdam transports visitors through the serene countryside, culminating in a relaxing boat cruise along the town’s iconic canals and a delectable lunch featuring local specialties.
While the tour receives mixed reviews, with some finding it not worth the cost, others praise the charming scenery, enjoyable boat ride, and good food.
Travelers should consider the group size, potential issues with the driver, and whether a larger or independent tour might be more cost-effective for their needs.
Read our full review: Giethoorn Small-Group Tour With Cruise and Lunch From Amsterdam Review
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Amsterdam Full Day: Walking, Biking & Cruising With Lunch
Frequently, visitors to Amsterdam seek a comprehensive day filled with the city’s quintessential experiences – from strolling its picturesque streets to biking through lush urban greenery and cruising its iconic canals.
The Amsterdam Full Day: Walking, Biking & Cruising With Lunch tour delivers on this promise. At $95.40 per person, the 8.5-hour experience includes guided walking and biking tours, a canal cruise, and a traditional Dutch lunch.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option, this tour provides flexibility and convenience. Reviewers praise the tour’s excellent value and the guide’s expertise, making it an attractive choice for a well-rounded Amsterdam adventure.
Read our full review: Amsterdam Full Day: Walking, Biking & Cruising With Lunch Review
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Amsterdam: Walking Tour With Dutch Pancake Lunch
Commencing at Dam Square, the Amsterdam: Walking Tour With Dutch Pancake Lunch offers an engaging 3.5-hour exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and charming neighborhoods.
Accompanied by professional guides, the tour takes participants to the Royal Palace, Nieuwe Kerk, Spui Square, and other notable sites, while sharing captivating stories about Amsterdam’s history.
The highlight is a stop at Dutch Pancake Masters, where travelers savor a delectable Dutch pancake lunch, complete with a starter, dessert, and water.
With a maximum group size of 10, this tour provides a personalized experience.
Priced from $44.24 with free cancellation, this is an excellent way to discover Amsterdam’s culture and cuisine.
Read our full review: Amsterdam: Walking Tour With Dutch Pancake Lunch Review
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Vecht River: Full-Day Cruise With Lunch
Travelers can often discover the picturesque Vecht River through a full-day cruise and lunch experience.
The Vecht River: Full-Day Cruise With Lunch offers a 6-hour excursion, including a 3-course riverside lunch, for €195 per person. This private tour features guided visits to historic landmarks like Zuylen Castle and various estates along the river.
Complimentary pickup and drop-off in Utrecht, Amsterdam, or Schiphol are provided. Guests can expect panoramic views, beverages, and entrance fees covered.
With an exceptional 4.7/5 rating, this experience is praised for its knowledgeable guides and relaxing atmosphere. However, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.
Customizable stops at museums and windmills are available for a more personalized journey.
Read our full review: Vecht River: Full-Day Cruise With Lunch Review
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Amsterdam: ADAM Lookout & Lunch at Revolving Restaurant
Perched atop the A’DAM Tower, the ADAM Lookout offers visitors a unique vantage point to soak in panoramic views of Amsterdam’s picturesque historical center and UNESCO-listed canals.
The ticket includes lunch at the revolving restaurant Moon on the 19th floor, featuring a main dish with 2 sides and bread.
For thrill-seekers, the experience includes rides like the Over The Edge swing and a VR rollercoaster.
Located next to the EYE Film Museum and opposite Amsterdam Central Station, the venue is wheelchair accessible and easily accessible via a free ferry.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 and exceptional value for money, the ADAM Lookout is a must-visit for those seeking a memorable culinary and sightseeing experience in Amsterdam.
Read our full review: Amsterdam: ADAM Lookout & Lunch at Revolving Restaurant Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Vegetarian/Vegan Lunch Options Available?
Vegetarian and vegan lunch options in Amsterdam offer a wide variety of flavorful dishes, including plant-based burgers, hearty salads, and creative vegetable-forward cuisine. Many local cafes and restaurants cater to dietary restrictions, providing delicious and satisfying meatless midday meals.
Can I Request Dietary Accommodations for the Lunch?
Yes, most restaurants in Amsterdam are happy to accommodate dietary requests. Diners can typically request vegetarian, vegan, or other dietary accommodations when making reservations or speaking with staff upon arrival.
Is Alcohol Included in the Lunch Menu?
Alcohol is often included in lunch menus, though its availability and recommendations may vary depending on the specific restaurant. It’s best to check with the hotel about their alcohol offerings and any dietary accommodations prior to your visit.
What Is the Dress Code for the Lunch Experience?
The dress code for lunch experiences is typically casual and comfortable. Most restaurants don’t have strict dress requirements, allowing diners to wear whatever they feel relaxed and confident in during the midday meal.
How Much Time Is Allotted for the Lunch Portion of the Activity?
The lunch portion typically lasts around 1-2 hours, allowing ample time to savor the meal and enjoy the experience. The exact duration may vary depending on the specific lunch activity, so it’s best to check with the organizers for the exact timing.
The Sum Up
Amsterdam offers a variety of lunch experiences, from guided canoe adventures and small-group tours to dining at iconic restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe. Visitors can enjoy scenic river cruises, Dutch pancakes, and meals with panoramic views. Whether seeking an outdoor adventure or a leisurely dining experience, Amsterdam has something to suit everyone’s tastes and preferences when it comes to the best lunch options.