Amsterdam is a hub of art, architecture, history, and culture, with no shortage of stunning sights to explore. What better way to experience the Dutch capital than on foot? With its winding streets and picturesque canals, Amsterdam is a walker’s paradise. Whether you’re after an insightful history tour, a foodie adventure, or just a leisurely stroll, there’s a walking tour for every type of traveler in this vibrant city. In this post, we’ll take a look at some of the best walking tours in Amsterdam that will help you discover the city’s hidden gems and get the most out of your trip.

The 5 Best City Walkings in Amsterdam

1. Amsterdam City Center Orientation Private Walking Tour
2. Private Walking Tour Amsterdam Anne Frank and Jewish Quarter
3. Skip the Line and Semi Private Walking Tour Rembrandts House and Neighborhood
4. Amsterdam Old Town Self Guided Audio Walking Tour
5. Amsterdam Private Jewish Quarter Walking Tour

The 5 Best City Walkings in Amsterdam

1. Amsterdam City Center Orientation Private Walking Tour

Get ready to explore Amsterdam in a unique way with this 2.5-hour private walking tour. Led by an experienced local guide, you will see both major and lesser-known sites in the city. Get a glimpse of Dam Square, artists squats, leaning houses, Prinsengracht, Begijnof, the thinnest house, the oldest canals, the Sea Dike, China Town, The New Market Square (Nieuwmarkt) and the medieval city gate, and learn about the fascinating history of Amsterdam. With the private tour, you can have personalized attention and an insider’s view of the city. This guided walking tour is inclusive of a tour guide exclusively for you. Note that the tour price excludes hotel pickup or drop-off, but the local guide will recommend the best transportation options for you.

2. Private Walking Tour Amsterdam Anne Frank and Jewish Quarter

Delve deeper into the Jewish history of Amsterdam on a private walking tour that covers the Jewish Quarter and Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis). This tour is ideal for families or travelers looking for a more personalized experience. You will benefit from the undivided attention of your private guide who will take you to explore on foot various sights including the Holocaust Memorial, the Portuguese Synagogue and the Joods Historisch Museum. This will provide an intimate glimpse into Amsterdam’s Jewish history. Exploring on foot also reveals details you might otherwise miss. You can choose from multiple start times throughout the day. All taxes, fees and handling charges are included. A professional guide will be with you during the entire tour. Admission to Anne Frank’s House as well as food and drinks are included in the package. Gratuities are also covered so you don’t need to worry about anything. The meeting point is at Jewish Museum, Nieuwe Amstelstraat 1, 1011 PL Amsterdam, Netherlands. The tour starts in front of the Jewish Museum. Look for the orange 360 umbrella. Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

3. Skip the Line and Semi Private Walking Tour Rembrandts House and Neighborhood

Explore the quaint streets of Spiegelquarter in Amsterdam while following in the footsteps of Rembrandt during this 2.5-hour small-group walking tour. Admire the Emperor’s Canal and the Night Watch Guards as you stroll through the neighborhood. Then, bypass the long queues and enter the Rembrandt House Museum for a glimpse into the personal life of the artist. You’ll see his period pieces, personal items, and etchings in his 17th-century home. This tour offers skip-the-line admission, and you’ll have a professional tour guide exclusively for your group of up to 8 guests. Please note that hotel pickup and gratuities are not included in the tour price.

4. Amsterdam Old Town Self Guided Audio Walking Tour

The Amsterdam Old Town Self Guided Audio Walking Tour is a two-hour journey through the old east side of the city. You’ll have the option to take your time at each stop or cover more ground by following a set pace. On this tour, you’ll learn about the history of the once-powerful Dutch fleet and the communities that settled in the Jodenbuurt district. One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to hear from producer Edmond Van Putte, a historical researcher who will provide fascinating insights about the area. In addition, you’ll have the option to use a virtual tour option at home or enjoy unlimited use of the tour before and after your booking date. The tour will take you through docklands, alleys and canals, where you’ll get to see several museums, including the National Maritime Museum. Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to discover Amsterdam’s rich maritime history and culture.

5. Amsterdam Private Jewish Quarter Walking Tour

Explore Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter on a private walking tour that takes you on a journey through the city’s rich history. Gain an understanding of how World War II impacted the Netherlands and the Jewish community in particular. Your knowledgeable guide will share stories and insights as you visit many historical sites, including the Portuguese Synagogue, the Jewish Historical Museum, and the Headquarters of the Jewish Council.

As you stroll through the streets of the Jewish Quarter, you’ll see the Auschwitz Monument and the Dokwerker, and hear how the Dutch behaved towards the Jews of Amsterdam during the war. The tour ends in front of the Anne Frank House, where you’ll learn about her bestselling diary and how it gained worldwide fame.

This private walking tour is an ideal way to learn about Amsterdam’s past and the resilience of the city’s Jewish community.

10 Most Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam

Whenever people plan a trip to Amsterdam, they tend to have a lot of questions. In this blog post, we’re going to answer the 10 most frequently asked questions about Amsterdam. Whether you’re planning a trip to the city or just curious about the culture and customs of Amsterdam, this post is for you.

1. What are the must-see attractions in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is packed with beautiful sights and attractions. Some of the must-see attractions include:

• The Rijksmuseum: The largest and most famous museum in the Netherlands, featuring works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters.
• The Van Gogh Museum: A museum dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh, featuring over 200 paintings and 500 drawings.
• The Anne Frank House: The home where Anne Frank, a Jewish teenager in hiding during the Nazi occupation, wrote her famous diary.
• The Amsterdam Canals: Amsterdam is known for its beautiful canals, which can be explored by boat or on foot.
• The Jordaan: A picturesque neighborhood full of narrow streets and canal-side houses, known for its cafés, boutiques, and galleries.

2. What is the best time to visit Amsterdam?

The best time to visit Amsterdam depends on your preferences. The summer months (June-August) are the busiest and most expensive times to visit. If you’re looking for fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting in spring (March-May) or fall (September-November). However, keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable in Amsterdam, so be prepared for rain and bring layers.

3. How do I get around Amsterdam?

Amsterdam is a walkable city, but if you want to cover more ground, there are several options for transportation:

• Bicycles: Amsterdam is known for its bike-friendly culture, and you can rent a bike from various rental shops throughout the city.
• Public Transportation: Amsterdam has an extensive public transportation system, including trams, buses, and metro lines. You can purchase a public transportation card or use a contactless debit or credit card.
• Taxis: Taxis are widely available in Amsterdam, but they can be expensive.

4. Is Amsterdam a safe city?

Amsterdam is generally a safe city, but like any major city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions:

• Keep your valuables close to you and be vigilant of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transportation.
• Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid using them late at night.
• Only use licensed taxis and avoid unlicensed taxi drivers.

5. What is the legal age for drinking and smoking in Amsterdam?

The legal age for drinking alcohol in Amsterdam is 18, and you may be asked for ID when purchasing alcohol. The legal age for smoking tobacco in Amsterdam is also 18. However, smoking marijuana is legal in Amsterdam in designated coffee shops, but only for people over 18.

6. How much do things like food and drinks cost in Amsterdam?

The cost of food and drinks in Amsterdam varies depending on where you go. Generally, expect to pay around €10-€15 for a meal in a restaurant, and around €3-€4 for a beer in a bar. However, prices can vary depending on the neighborhood and type of establishment.

7. Do I need to speak Dutch to visit Amsterdam?

No, you don’t need to speak Dutch to visit Amsterdam. English is widely spoken throughout the city, and many signs and menus are available in both Dutch and English.

8. Can I use my credit card in Amsterdam?

Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in Amsterdam, especially Visa and Mastercard. However, you may run into issues with smaller vendors and street markets that only accept cash.

9. Do I need to tip in Amsterdam?

Tipping is not required in Amsterdam, but it’s common to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants or for good service. However, if you feel that the service was poor, it’s okay not to tip.

10. What are the marijuana laws in Amsterdam?

Marijuana is legal in Amsterdam in designated coffee shops, but only for people over 18. It’s important to note that smoking marijuana in public places is illegal, and it’s not legal to carry more than 5 grams of marijuana with you. Additionally, it’s important to understand that marijuana use can be risky and lead to negative health effects.

Final Thoughts

Amsterdam is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. Understanding the customs and guidelines for visiting the city can make your trip more enjoyable and stress-free. By answering the most frequently asked questions about Amsterdam, we hope we’ve made your trip planning easier and more informative.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is one of those cities that has it all. From scenic canals to world-renowned art museums, there’s never a dull moment in the Dutch capital. If you’re planning on visiting Amsterdam, make sure you give yourself enough time to explore all it has to offer. Here’s our guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Amsterdam:

1. Take a canal tour

A canal tour is the perfect way to orient yourself and get a feel for the city. There are plenty of tour operators to choose from, but we recommend the Blue Boat Company. Their audio-guides come in multiple languages and provide interesting insights into the city’s history and architecture. Make sure you always look both ways before crossing a canal bridge – they’re narrow and busy with pedestrians and bikers!

2. Visit the Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is a must-see for any art lover. The museum houses the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works in the world, including colorful self-portraits, striking still lifes and vibrant landscapes. You can easily spend a whole morning or afternoon here. We recommend booking your tickets online in advance to avoid long lines.

3. Take a stroll through Vondelpark

Vondelpark is the largest and most popular park in Amsterdam. Take a break from the busy city and enjoy the green scenery, picnics and people-watching. You can rent bikes here or even join outdoor yoga classes in the summer months.

4. Visit the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum is another must-see for art lovers. The museum is home to an impressive collection of Dutch art and has Rembrandt’s masterpiece “The Night Watch” on display. The museum also has a stunning interior – make sure you take a picture in the grand entrance hall.

5. Try Dutch street food

Amsterdam has no shortage of street food stalls, but if you want to try something truly Dutch, go for a “broodje haring” or a “stroopwafel”. Broodje haring is a raw herring sandwich with pickles and onions, and stroopwafels are sweet waffles filled with caramel syrup. Both can be found at street vendors throughout the city.

6. Visit the Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is a deeply moving experience that should not be missed. The museum is located in the actual house where Anne Frank and her family hid during World War II. You’ll see the rooms where they lived, as well as original diary entries on display. Book your tickets online in advance, as entry is timed and lines can be long.

7. Explore the Red Light District

The Red Light District is a unique area of Amsterdam that’s worth a visit, whether you’re just curious or want to delve deeper into the city’s liberal attitudes towards sex and drugs. Keep in mind that taking photos of the workers or buying drugs is strictly prohibited.

8. Rent a bike or take a bike tour

Biking is the most popular mode of transportation in Amsterdam, and for good reason. Rent a bike and explore the city like a local, or take a guided bike tour to learn more about Amsterdam’s history and culture. Just remember to stay alert and follow the rules of the road.

9. Try local beers at a brewery

Amsterdam is home to many great microbreweries, such as Brouwerij ‘t IJ and Oedipus Brewing. Relax in a brewery’s tasting room and try a variety of local beers with friends. Don’t miss out on trying the Heineken beer, which originated in Amsterdam.

10. Visit the Jordaan neighborhood

The Jordaan neighborhood is a charming area of narrow streets, picturesque canals, and boutique shops. This is where locals live, work, and play – you won’t find many tourists here. Visit on a Saturday or Monday for the Noordermarkt flea market, where locals sell second-hand items and fresh produce.

Conclusion

There are many ways to spend your time in Amsterdam, and this guide only scratches the surface. Make sure you give yourself enough time to explore and take in all the city has to offer. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie or just want to experience the culture, Amsterdam has something for everyone. Don’t forget to download a map or get a free city guide at any tourist information centre. Happy travelling!