Amsterdam Walking Tour - Private Tour
A SHORT AND RELAXED INTRODUCTION TO AMSTERDAM
Explore the old city center of Amsterdam with a local expert
This walking tour is a great way to familiarise yourself with the city and get a first glimpse of Amsterdam after a long journey. Do you have to wait before you can check in at your hotel, or would you simply like to stretch your legs while exploring the city? Then the Amsterdam Walking Tour is a great choice. It also combines well with our Amsterdam food tours, as these experiences cover different areas of the city.
On this private waking tour, you will be guided to some of the most intriguing sights in the old centre. Along the way, your guide shares stories about the origins of Amsterdam, the city’s historical importance as a trading centre, and daily life here since the Middle Ages. You will also discover how freedom of religion developed, see hidden churches from the outside, and explore Amsterdam’s more liberal side.
This tour includes complimentary pick-up and drop-off at nearly any location within the Jordaan, Canal Belt area, or the old city centre. When booking, you can list your preferred starting point. Outside these areas, we are still happy to pick you up or drop you off, but additional charges may apply.
Tour Highlights
• Guided walking tour of Amsterdam’s old city centre starting near Central Station
• Introduction to the city’s origins, trading history, and life since the Middle Ages
• Discover freedom of religion and see hidden churches from the outside
• Explore Amsterdam’s more liberal side with a local expert
• Complimentary pick-up and drop-off within the Jordaan, Canal Belt area, or old city centre
Important note:
We do not tour the Red Light District, not only out of respect for the sex workers but it is also a forbidden area for tours.
Practical details
- Duration: 2 hours
- Stops: Old city center, Zeedijk, canals, Dam Square
- Group size: max. 10 people
- Included: Local tour guide
- Starting point: In front of Café Loetje at Stationsplein
- Ending point: In front of Café Mascini
- Languages: English (Dutch, French, German, or Spanish available on request)
- FAQ
Customization options
Since this is a private tour, there are various customization options available.
Language: the tour is usually offered in English and/or Dutch. If you would like the tour in French, German, or Spanish, please let us know when you book.
Pick-up and drop-off services: you can request these services during the booking process.
Cancellation policy
Cancellation is free of charge and refundable if you cancel at least 1 week before the tour date.
Maps
Starting point
End point
What an amazing tour. Our guide Jan was awesome! Very knowledgeable about the history and culture of Amsterdam. Our food stops were all different and represented the variety of foods that can be found in Amsterdam. All were very yummy!! I highly recommend this tour!!
I had the greatest time during my tour this past Sunday. Lots of good local food with a great guide. Each place has been picked carefully and represents different aspects of the city’s food universe, from the classic apple pie to Indonesian-inspired dish. Being in Amsterdam for a full week, I went back to many of the places. I recommend 100%!
We had such a wonderful time with Thijs on the Grand Dutch Food & History Tour! I expected good things, since Rick Steves gave Amsterdam Food Tours high marks in his Amsterdam travel book, but the tour exceeded expectations. It did not feel like a tour but having a lovely walk around the city with a friend, who knew all of the good spots to visit and enjoy fantastic food, beverages and experiences. As a bonus, we learned a great deal about the city and its history along the way. I would recommend the tour to everyone and when we visit Amsterdam again in the future, we will look to Amsterdam Food Tours to make the trip memorable.
We had an excellent Sunday tour with Thijs, and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting. We were only in the city for a couple days, so having this tour was the perfect combination of exploring a neighborhood, learning some history of the city, and trying lots of different types of foods (I will be thinking about the sandwich for a long time to come). Can’t think of a better introduction to Dutch cuisine, and only regret we aren’t here long enough to go back and try full meals at every place we stopped.
If you’re looking to experience the real Amsterdam beyond the usual tourist spots, this tour is absolutely perfect. It offers a fantastic journey through hidden corners, unique places, and special tastings that you wouldn’t come across on your own. The guide is empathetic and highly engaged, making the whole experience incredibly enjoyable and well worth every cent. For those who wish to explore Amsterdam through its food and culture, this tour is a golden opportunity.
We had a really great time on our Grand Dutch Food & History tour. Rudolph was an excellent guide – very knowledgeable, entertaining and also very humorous. The food and wine selection was very good and we learned a lot about Amsterdam, its history and its food culture. We would highly recommend the tour.
Enjoyable tour! So much valuable information shared with the group. All the food was delicious. Definitely recommend this food tour!
Just finished a tour with our excellent guide – David. He was informative and knowledgeable about the history as well as the food. His time management was good – we never felt rushed and yet we got to all the places. He was very comfortable to be with and answered all our questions. We got a true sense of the Dutch culture. And all the stops served up yummy food. We will not be needing to eat dinner tonight. Would absolutely recommend.
Jan did a great job providing a thorough and detailed history of Amsterdam as well as showcasing highlights of boutique dutch cheese, wine, and the delicious apple pie! I am thrilled with his genuine enthusiasm and would be glad to have Jan again as my tour guide, share a good meal and conversation. Highly recommended! (tour during mid August 2025)
Marc gave an amazing tour today, the excellent choice of stops gave a wonderful glimpse into Amsterdam life and history. From traditional apple cake, meats, cheeses, wines to Indonesian satay all wrapped in engaging stories and information about this beautiful city. Marc and the wonderful local businesses earned every one of the 5 stars!
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Book now
Easily book your tour online using the calendar above. The booking system is secure and you’ll immediately receive a confirmation of your booking.
If you don’t see availability for the date(s) you have in mind, please contact us!
Online bookings for private tours close automatically 2 weeks prior to the tour date. If you want to book a private tour within a shorter timeframe, please email us at [email protected]
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Immerse yourself in Dutch art on this private tour of the Rijksmuseum. Explore the historic building and walk through the Gallery of Honour, where you’ll see masterpieces by Dutch painters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals.
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Discover Amsterdam’s culinary and cultural highlights on a tailor-made Private Walking Dinner Tour. Perfect for groups, company outings, or business hospitality.