Discover the hidden gems of the Golden Age with our exclusive private tour through Amsterdam. Escape the typical tourist paths and immerse yourself in the rich history of our beloved city. This personalized walk along the canal ring and through the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood is designed just for you.
* tour price based on 3 hours including VAT, excluding entrance fees. For more hours the price will be adjusted accordingly.
Highlights
- Explore the UNESCO-listed canal ring, a masterpiece of water management and city planning.
- Wander through the charming Jordaan neighborhood, known for its trendy cafes, unique shops, and ivy-covered houses.
- Discover hidden inner courtyards and other beautiful spots that showcase Amsterdam’s 17th-century grandeur.
Optional additions
- Visit a historic canal house museum to delve deeper into the city’s past.
- Take a break to enjoy Dutch delicacies like coffee and apple pie.
- Explore additional neighborhoods to gain a broader perspective of Amsterdam.
- Extend or customize the tour to suit your interests and preferences.
What our guests say about this tour
"ABSOLUTELY RECOMMENDED"
We visited Amsterdam for the first time. We took a three hour walking tour the afternoon we arrived. Eva made it a wonderful decision. Her love for and knowledge of the city and it’s history gave us quick insight into what Amsterdam is all about. We saw hidden courtyards off the typical tourist track. Bits and pieces from various neighborhoods whetted our appetites for more. We heartily recommend an Amsterdam Odyssey walking tour.
Kay, USA
"WE LOVED IT!"
With Eva, we walked for a 3 1/2 hours, stopping by some of the most important, interesting or quirky part of Amsterdam. Always knowledgeable, smiling and interesting, this tour was a great way to spend our first full day in Amsterdam. We loved it!
Charles, Canada
EXPPERIENCE AUTHENTIC AMSTERDAM
Amsterdam’s history is captivating, turning water into land and fostering a spirit of tolerance that led to its prosperous growth during the Golden Age. We delight in sharing places and stories that you might not discover on your own. During a relaxing walk, you’ll encounter historical highlights and picturesque spots, with narratives that illuminate both Amsterdam’s past and its present.
This tour is suitable for everyone. Whether you prefer a leisurely stroll or a brisk pace, staying outdoors or visiting an indoor location as well, we tailor the route to your personal interests and schedule. There’s even time to sample typical Dutch drinks and bites in one of the city’s historic yet still hip ‘brown’ cafes.
Canal ring
The canal ring is a unique masterpiece of water management, city planning, and architecture. Its authenticity and beauty appeal to both locals and visitors. We’ll start the tour in the area where the medieval city expanded during the Golden Age.
Beyond the highlights and hidden gems, you’ll learn about Amsterdam’s origins and gain unique insights into the city’s modern life. Topics range from our centuries-long relationship with water and commerce to the new challenges Amsterdam faces today.
This part of Amsterdam is also home to the Westerkerk, where Rembrandt is buried in an anonymous grave, and Anne Frank’s hiding place. A few authentic canal houses are publicly accessible. If you wish, we can include one of them in your tour.
Unesco World heritage site
Since 2010 the Amsterdam Canal ring is listed as a Unesco World heritage site.
Quote from the Unesco description: “The Amsterdam Canal District represents an outstanding example of a built urban ensemble that required and illustrates expertise in hydraulics, civil engineering, town planning, construction and architectural knowhow. In the 17th century, it established the model for the entirely artificial ‘port city’ as well as the type of Dutch single dwelling with its variety of façades and gables. The city is testimony, at the highest level, to a significant period in the history of the modern world.”
Jordaan
Just outside the canal ring lies the Jordaan. Today, the area is full of trendy cafes and restaurants, elegant art galleries, and unique shops. It’s also a place to experience the classic Amsterdam, with pretty ivy-covered houses and weekly local markets.
The Jordaan is the place to talk about the people of Amsterdam. Once a working-class neighborhood during the Dutch Golden Age, it attracted many workers due to the prosperity brought by the Dutch East Indies Company.
Stories that you wouldn’t hear elsewhere will come to life as we stroll through the picturesque streets. The relaxed walk takes you to hard-to-find places where you can truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle. Take a moment to slow down and enjoy the scenery.
As true Amsterdammers, we love to show you our favorite places. Quiet hidden courtyards where cats bask in the sun, charming little streets with their laid-back atmosphere, and unique boutiques filled with local treasures. Whether you’re drawn to history, art, or simply soaking up the gezelligheid of Amsterdam, we’ll help you discover the city’s most authentic spots. We don’t mind taking you to one of the famous Amsterdam pubs—the ‘brown’ cafes!
Additional neighborhoods
The canal ring and Jordaan are arguably the most famous parts of Amsterdam, where modern life has found its way through 17th-century traces.
The city expanded again with the industrial revolution. In these neighborhoods, modern life intertwines with 19th and 20th-century remnants. The rise of the welfare state influenced city planning and architecture. Each neighborhood has a daily street market. Former industrial areas, like shipping docks or tram sheds, have turned into trending hubs with food, art, and sustainable innovations. Experience Amsterdam like the locals do in these neighborhoods where daily life and history meet!
FAQ
Where is the meeting point?
Since we customize each tour, the starting point and route will be adjusted to your itinerary and wishes.
I have particular interests and/or special needs. Can this tour be customized?
Yes. Please contact us, and we will be happy to come up with a tailor-made tour for you.
Is the tour suitable for young children?
This tour is suitable from the age of 12.
Is this tour suitable for people with reduced mobility?
The tour is appropriate for guests with good mobility. We can adjust the walking pace and include short breaks if necessary.
Can this tour be done by car?
No. As the streets are too narrow, the historical center of Amsterdam is best covered by foot.
The weather is bad, what happens now?
Amsterdam Odyssey tours will take place under any weather conditions, unless a formal warning regarding the weather has been issued by the Royal Dutch Meteorological Institute (KNMI). Dutch weather can be unpredictable. Make sure to pack and dress accordingly!
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