WWII Walking Tour
Burgwallen Oude Zijde, Amsterdam
Discover Amsterdam’s WWII history on a walking tour. Explore the stories of Etty Hillesum and Tony van Renterghem, see the "Robbery Bank," and visit Dam Square.
Wartime Amsterdam Guided Walking Tour
This guided walking tour in Amsterdam focuses on personal stories and key locations from World War II, ideal for history enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Discover the stories of Etty Hillesum and Tony van Renterghem
- See the infamous 'Robbery Bank' and learn about resistance efforts
- Explore the Tuschinski Theatre and its wartime history
- Uncover the myths and truths of Amsterdam’s wartime history
- Visit Dam Square and learn about the tragic events of May 7, 1945
Description
Begin your tour at the Concertgebouw on Museum Square, once the center of Nazi administration in Amsterdam. Experience the war through personal stories of two neighbors: Etty Hillesum, who documented resilience in her diary, and Tony van Renterghem, a war hero and spy. These accounts provide a human perspective beyond statistics.
Walk toward the Golden Bend and the Mayor’s Residence (viewed from outside) to explore the financial aspects of the occupation. Visit the 'Robbery Bank,' where Jewish assets were seized, and learn how resistance groups used bank fraud to fund underground efforts. The Tuschinski Theatre stop reveals the building’s architectural significance and its connection to wartime history through its Jewish founder.
The tour addresses uncomfortable truths about corruption and how the World War II narrative has evolved over time. Learn about the loss of 10 percent of Amsterdam’s population and see lasting wartime damage, including the site of a Halifax aircraft crash in the city center.
End the tour at Dam Square, where you will examine the Dutch Royal Family’s wartime role, including Queen Wilhelmina’s leadership from London and the efforts of the Royal Palace concierge. The tour concludes with the events of May 7, 1945, a day that marked one of Amsterdam’s final wartime tragedies.
Includes
- Guided walking tour
- Personal narratives of Etty Hillesum and Tony van Renterghem
- Visits to Golden Bend, Mayor’s Residence (outside only), Tuschinski Theatre, and Dam Square
- Analysis of Queen Wilhelmina’s role and the Royal Palace concierge
Excludes
- Food and drinks
Important Information
- The tour focuses on personal narratives and historical facts
- Covers significant wartime locations in Amsterdam
- Discusses myths and truths regarding Amsterdam's World War II history
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Booking Tips
Book in advance to secure your spot. Wear comfortable walking shoes and check the weather forecast. The best time to visit is during dry weather for an optimal walking experience.
