Amsterdam Must-See Historical City Walk with Local Expert

Dam Square

This 1:45-hour walking tour is a great way to visit all must-see Amsterdam spots and learn more about city’s history and culture. Knowledgeable local guide will explain all the must-knows about Amsterdam and present the information in a fun and clear way. If you really want to know more than just a few things about Amsterdam, then this is the best way to spend a couple of hours. Revel in the magnificence of the Dam Square, one of the most important areas in Amsterdam. The city center, the Royal Palace, museums, shops, musicians, tourists, tram stops—everything is here.

Oude Kerk

You will observe the Oude Kerk (Old Church), medieval building with rich history. An old, unusual-looking church is impressive, and it looks a bit like a gingerbread house.

Damrak

You will head to the Damrak, where remnants of old times are still visible. You will adore its architecture, especially the dancing house. Damrak is a popular tourist spot, where many famous attractions are concentrated.

Then you will enjoy the Beursplein square, which is often used for different events, cultural, political and entertaining. Added bonus: your expert guide knows this place so well, that you will discover things that even locals don’t know.

Royal Palace Amsterdam

You will adore the magnificent Royal Palace with rich decoration and history. The facade facing the square looks great, and not only on a sunny day. It is interesting to walk around and observe architectural details.

Nieuwe Kerk

Next to the palace is the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). It is used for investiture ceremonies and royal weddings. The church is impressive, beautiful and even majestic.

Amsterdam Canal Ring

You will walk along the Amsterdam Canal Ring. There are more than one hundred kilometers of canals in Amsterdam, about 90 islands and 1,500 bridges. Main canals—Herengracht, Prinsengracht and Keizersgracht—were built in 17th century. Canal Ring area is listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Westerkerk

Marvel at the tallest Amsterdam church, the Westerkerk. Rembrandt was buried here, but nobody knows exactly where his grave is. This church was mentioned in Anne Frank’s diary, as girl’s house was nearby. Overall, many stories and anecdotes are related to this place, and your guide will be happy to share them with you. The Westerkerk looks elegant and beautiful, so you will definitely want to come back here again.

Homomonument

Homomonument commemorates all gay men and lesbians victims. Now it is an important site of Dutch LGBT-movement, and used for flashmobs, meetings and photo exhibitions. It is unique and recognizable, but easy to miss.

Emperor's Canal (Keizersgracht)

Explore hidden corners of the Keizersgracht (Emperor's canal), which is home to many monuments and historical houses. In winter it is a popular place for skating. It’s a great pleasure to stroll along the Keizersgracht and soak up culture and history. On the banks there are little boutiques and offices, and on the bridges over canal you will see parked bicycles.

Anne Frank House

You will learn more about Anne Frank and Jewish persecution, as you will pass by her monument and house. Anne Frank is the most famous victim of the Holocaust, and the author of “The Diary of a Young Girl”, which became a written document denouncing Nazism.

Cafe Papeneiland

You will pass by Cafe Papeneiland, one of the oldest Amsterdam cafes. It is astonishing that this place is still here and thriving. This is charming cozy place, which looks more like a pub, where locals meet over a glass of beer. Cafe is also famous for its apple pie, so some people come here just to try this simple culinary masterpiece.

Noorderkerk

The Noorderkerk is the place, where Amsterdam residents rebelled against Dutch Jews persecution.

The Bulldog Rock Shop Coffeeshop

Take a glance at modern Amsterdam in front of The Bulldog Rock Shop. It is part of well-known coffeeshop chain, where the sale of cannabis in small quantities is allowed. Your guide will tell you about legalization and decriminalization.

Red Light District

Then you will learn more about liberal Dutch culture in the second Red Light District. It is off the beaten path and provides more interesting and more unique experience. The authenticity of this vibrant place has its own charm.