Amsterdam: Iconic Canals & Historic Sights Walking Tour
37 Reviews
Wheelchair accessible
Outdoor activities
Landmarks & monuments
Guided tours
Neighborhood tours
Culture & history
Tours
Architecture
Private tours
Hidden gems
Sightseeing
Educational activities
Explore Amsterdam’s canal-lined streets and discover how this laid-back city rose to global fame. Hear stories of secret courtyards, bike culture, and the people who shaped its past and present.
Highlights
- Start at Dam Square and admire the grand Royal Palace of Amsterdam.
- Visit the historic Oude Kerk in the heart of the Red Light District.
- Stroll past canals, bridges, courtyards, and secret churches.
- Explore the Jewish Quarter and uncover powerful wartime stories.
- Discover the peaceful Begijnhof tucked away behind the busy streets.
Description
Step into Amsterdam's heart on a 2-hour Walking Tour led by a passionate local guide. Stroll through the city’s historic streets and picture-perfect canals as you dive into the stories that shaped this famously tolerant and free-spirited capital: from Golden Age glory to wartime resistance and modern-day charm.
Your journey begins in Dam Square, right by the National Monument. Pass the grand Royal Palace of Amsterdam, once home to kings and now a symbol of the city’s powerful past. From there, you'll make your way to Oude Kerk, the city’s oldest building nestled in the Red Light District. As you wander along the canals and over scenic bridges and churches, you’ll discover some of the city’s quirkiest features—like leaning houses and hidden courtyards—while snapping postcard-worthy photos at every turn.
The tour continues into the Jewish Quarter, where your guide will share stories of tragedy, bravery, and resilience during the Nazi occupation. Step inside the peaceful Begijnhof, a hidden gem with centuries of history tucked away from the busy streets. Along the way, you’ll also learn why bikes outnumber people here and how cycling became central to Amsterdam life.
This Walking Tour isn’t just about ticking off sights: it’s your fast-track to feeling at home in Amsterdam. Whether you’re here for the history, the architecture, or just to figure out how to cross the street without getting hit by a bike, your guide’s mix of insider knowledge and good humor will leave you smiling (and a little more streetwise). Rain or shine, this is the intro to Amsterdam you didn’t know you needed.
Includes
Expert English-speaking local guide
Insider tips on where to eat, drink, and explore in Amsterdam
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund