The Story of Amsterdam

Highlights

• Hear the story of the vibrant history of Amsterdam
• Stroll around the historic center that has over 800 years of Amsterdam history and culture.
• Learn about Amsterdam’s its humble beginnings on the river Amstel, to the glorious Golden Age.
• The tour tells you how our independent streak led to an explosion of culture and commerce that still affects the world today.

Explore over 800 years of Amsterdam History & Culture!

We spend most of our time in the historical core of the city, within the canal belt. Beginning in Beurs (trading) Square, which in itself has many stories to tell. We then head just a few minutes away to the oldest city neighborhood, The Wallen, better known as the Red Light district. Nowhere in Amsterdam is History so richly layered. From it’s lovely churches to the famous ‘ladies windows’, life in Amsterdam cannot be explained without an understanding of how this area came to prominence.

We then walk through Chinatown to the Nieuwmarkt, where Rembrandt’s Painters Guild still stands. And, since it borders the old Jewish Quarter, delve into the rich Jewish history of this city. We go by the houses of the first families of the Dutch East Indies Company, which in its own way explains a little bit of what makes the Dutch, so Dutch! We take a coffee break and restroom stop at a normal coffeehouse! Not one of Amsterdam’s famous ‘Coffee Shops’. But I do explain all about Hollands soft drugs policies.

All through the tour, we walk along many of the lovely canals, pointing out some of the hidden gems along the way. One of the most beautiful places in Amsterdam is the Begijnhof. It’s like an old convent courtyard in the center of town, and feels like a tiny village of its own. We then head through the History Museum and bring to life some of the wonderful paintings in its open gallery. Heading on, we talk about such things as Napoleon’s influence on the town and how the Dutch ended up with a Royal family of their own. We generally end near the Dam Square making a completed circle of the oldest part of our city.

The tour evolves daily, as is necessary and more enjoyable in such a lively town as Amsterdam. But this description gives you the basic route and sights. Finish your tour feeling that you have had a very entertaining and informative account of the Story of Amsterdam!

If you are looking for a private tour or want to make a group booking, please contact us for these rates.