History of Amsterdam - City Center Guided Walking Tour

Details

Join us on a journey through the heart of Amsterdam, where centuries of history, trade, and culture have shaped one of Europe's most fascinating cities.

 On this 2.5-hour private tour, you'll uncover the stories behind its medieval origins, its rise during the Dutch Golden Age, and its transformation into the modern metropolis we see today. Walk through Dam Square, the city's political and historical core, surrounded by grand landmarks like the Royal Palace and the New Church. Wander past Amsterdam's oldest canals and leaning houses, remnants of a time when merchants shaped the city's skyline. Discover Nieuwmarkt Square and the striking Waag, a medieval gate that has served as a weighing house, guildhall, and even an anatomical theatre. Along the way, explore the multicultural energy of Chinatown, stroll along the Amstel River, and admire architectural gems like the historic Begijnhof and the iconic Skinny Bridge. 

By the end of the tour, you'll have explored Amsterdam's rich past, from its medieval walls to its Golden Age splendor, and gained a deeper appreciation for the unique charm and resilience of this one-of-a-kind city.

Itinerary

• Stops generally include but are not limited to:
• St. Nicholas Basilica– discover the history of Amsterdam's primary Roman Catholic church. Built in the late 19th century after centuries of prohibition, its striking blend of architectural styles reflects the city's evolving religious landscape. (10 minutes)
• Weeping Tower (Schreierstoren)– visit the Schreierstoren, or Tower of Tears, a medieval structure from which women bid farewell to loved ones departing by ship. (10 minutes)
• Zeedijk & Chinatown– wander through one of Amsterdam's oldest streets, now home to Chinatown's vibrant markets, restaurants, and Europe's largest Buddhist temple. (10 minutes)
• Museum Our Lord in the Attic (Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder) (EXTERIOR ONLY)– see the facade of this 17th-century house that conceals a secret Catholic church, a relic of Amsterdam's history of religious tolerance. (10 minutes)
• Oude Kerk– stand before Amsterdam's oldest church, located in the heart of the Red-Light District. Once the city's most important place of worship, it now houses contemporary art exhibitions. (10 minutes)
• Nieuwmarkt– explore this lively square, a historic center of trade and social life since the 17th-century, surrounded by cafes and market stalls. (10 minutes)
• The Waag– admire one of Amsterdam's oldest secular buildings, originally a medieval city gate, later serving as a guildhall, museum, and even a weighing house. (10 minutes)
• Trippenhuis– see the contrast between Amsterdam's widest house and one of its narrowest, an architectural curiosity in the city center. (10 minutes)
• Jodenbuurt (Jewish Quarter)– walk through this historically significant neighborhood, home to preserved Jewish heritage sites and a reminder of Amsterdam's rich cultural history. (10 minutes)
• Museum Het Rembrandthuis (EXTERIOR ONLY)– visit the former home and studio of Rembrandt, now a museum showcasing his etchings and artistic techniques. (10 minutes)
• Dutch National Opera & Ballet (Stopera)– see this modern architectural landmark that serves as both the city hall and home to the Dutch National Opera & Ballet. (10 minutes)
• Zuiderkerk (South Church)– admire this elegant Protestant church, closely tied to Rembrandt's life and famously painted by Claude Monet. (10 minutes)
• The Amstel River– stroll along the Amstel, the lifeline of Amsterdam for over 800 years, and hear about its crucial role in shaping the city. (10 minutes)
• Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) & Blue Bridge– see Amsterdam's most famous drawbridge and its 19th-century counterpart, named after the blue-painted wooden bridge that once stood in its place. (10 minutes)
• Begijnhof– step into this serene courtyard, one of Amsterdam's oldest hofjes, home to historic churches and former residences of the Beguine sisterhood. (10 minutes)
• Amsterdam Museum (EXTERIOR ONLY)– pass by this museum dedicated to the city's past and admire the free walk of Art Gallery showcasing contemporary Dutch works. (10 minutes)
• Prinsengracht Canal– walk along the outermost of Amsterdam's three main canals, a masterpiece of 17th-century urban planning. (10 minutes)
• Westerkerk– see this grand 17th-century Protestant church, the tallest in the city and a striking feature of Amsterdam's skyline. (10 minutes)
• Dam Square– conclude the tour at Amsterdam's historic heart, where the Royal Palace, New Church, and National Monument stand as testaments to the city's past. (10 minutes)