• Private Tour
• Instantly Confirmed
• Carbon Neutral

Step back into the 17th century and explore the rise of Amsterdam during the Dutch Golden Age on this captivating walking tour. From merchant canals to Rembrandt’s legacy, discover how trade, art, and innovation shaped the city’s golden era. Your local guide brings history to life through powerful stories at iconic sites like Beursplein, Begijnhof, and Rembrandtplein.

Destination

Amsterdam, the Netherlands

Category

City Highlight Tours

Duration

2.5 hours

Transport mode

Walking tour

Available languages

Deutsch, English, Nederlands, Hindi, Русский

Included

• Private guide
• 1 Local snack or drink
• All Withlocals tours are carbon neutral

Excluded

• Entrance to attractions

What you can expect

Choose your local

Get to know these 6 passionate locals, each bringing unique perspectives and talents. Choose your favorite, check their availability, and book to create an unforgettable adventure tailored to you.

This is the plan

Check out the plan below to see what you'll get up to with your local host. Feel free to personalize this offer with the host of your choice.

1. Meeting point

   Meet at In front of Bistro Berlage - Amsterdam to start your journey

   View on Maps

2. Itinerary

   This is what our experience could look like, but it’s not set in stone! Once you book, you can chat directly with your host to make small tweaks to suit your preferences.

3. Culture of the City

   On this private tour, you’ll experience and discover Amsterdam through its culture. Whether it’s focused on a tradition, a special part of town with a story to tell, cultural beliefs, or around a cultural activity that shaped the city into what it is - this tour will be a cultural awakening you can’t miss!

4. Amsterdam's Golden Age

   Your tour will focus on the Golden Age, a very important cultural subject in Amsterdam. Thanks to your local host, you’ll learn and see how this made an impact in Amsterdam, making you experience the city from a different perspective.

5. Cultural Highlights

   As you deep dive into the subject of your tour, you’ll make stops to visit unique spots that will give you a full picture of the city. Visit Beursplein, Begijnhof, Rembrandtplein, and more and see how these cultural highlights are part of the local life but have so much history behind them!

6. Storytelling Journey

   As you discover the cultural side of Amsterdam, you’ll be able to embrace it thanks to the amazing stories and storytelling skills of your local host. Feel free to ask any questions and feel as if you are reliving history in the present time.

7. Make it yours

   Want to tweak the itinerary? Book directly & chat afterwards with your host to adjust highlights, skip stops, or make small changes to fit your preferences.

   Book risk-free: Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund.

   Need something special? Personalize your experience for more time, alternative locations or a completely tailored plan.

Flexible cancellation policy

• Feel confident booking

  Cancel within 24 hours for a full refund. Even up to 7 days before your experience, you’ll receive a refund, minus the service fee.

• Change of plans?

  Reschedule your experience to a date and time that works best for you.

• Loved by travelers worldwide

  Simple and flexible – your plans, your way.

Reviews from guests

Jeanette🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Olga)

31 July 2025

We couldn’t have asked for a better guide than Olga. Her in depth knowledge of Amsterdam was amazing & gave us a real insight into this wonderful city. She was a caring & respectful guide. I would always recommend her.Olga is the BEST!

Katharina🇦🇹 Austria

(About local Arunabha)

31 July 2025

We had a wonderful time with Arun. Great experience

Margaret🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

30 July 2025

Sebastian was an amazing tour guide, and his bike tour was a highlight of our vacation. His first priority was our safety, and my family and I felt comfortable following his lead through the city. He was knowledgeable about the history of the Netherlands and Amsterdam, and we stopped at several notable locations along our route. I highly recommend Sebastian for any of the tours that are offered.Amazing Amsterdam Bike Tour

Katharina🇦🇹 Austria

(About local Marten)

28 July 2025

We had great time with Marten. He told us many background things about this city. Thank you for a wonderful start here in Amsterdam Great view of Amsterdam

Geraldine🇩🇪 Germany

(About local Sebastian)

26 July 2025

Sebastian was a great guide and took much time for us. We had 3 hours biking, showing me the hihlights, explaining Amsterdam's history, having a bubble tea, Sebastian showing where to go swimming tomorrow, where to have a great Suriname dinner. Really a great moment!Perfect afternoon!

Mike🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

26 July 2025

Sebastian has a genuine love of Amsterdam and for telling stories about his amazing city. Our walk - which exceeded the time we expected - flew by with stories about The Netherlands history, water and land usage, contemporary life, and useful recommendations for our time here. He took us to places we'd never go (or find) as well as listened to us about the things we wanted to try - as such, for instance, we had both Suriname cuisine and fresh herring. Highly recommend Sebastian, which was more like taking a walk with a very knowledgeable friend through Amsterdam than merely hiring a guideFantastic experience

Rebecca

(About local Marten)

24 July 2025

Marten was a fun and easygoing host - we really enjoyed his insights into Dutch culture and the delicious food.Fun afternoon

Dawn

(About local Marten)

24 July 2025

Our Amsterdam tour with Marten was fantastic! He was knowledgeable, engaging, and brought the city’s rich history to life with fascinating stories. The mix of historical landmarks and hidden gems gave us a well-rounded view of Amsterdam. Marten's passion for the city was clear, and his friendly, professional approach made the experience even better. The tour was well-paced and informative. Highly recommend this tour—and especially Marten—for anyone wanting to truly appreciate Amsterdam.A great way to see Amsterdam!!

Kiki🇺🇸 United States

(About local Olga)

22 July 2025

Olga was prompt and we got right into our tour. She explained things to us with enthusiasm and expertise. Warm smile and good sense of humor. Won’t come back to Amsterdam without booking her! Professional. Charming. Knowledgeable.

Nisha

(About local Olga)

19 July 2025

We met with Olga the day we arrived in Amsterdam. She was an exceptional tour guide and a perfect introduction to the city. Her deep knowledge and engaging storytelling brought the history and culture of Amsterdam to life. Highly recommend!Excellent kickstart tour

Jim and Yolanda🇺🇸 United States

(About local Anna)

19 July 2025

Anna expertly guided my wife and I through the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. She was able to intuitively perceive what was important to us and custom guide us through the works of the museum to illustrate the golden age of the Netherlands, it’s history, culture, and it’s people. We were fortunate that Ana had the time and she was willing to extend our two hour tour… and after 3 1/2 hours we were still fascinated by all that she showed us. Anna is an extremely knowledgeable guide and we highly recommend her for any of her many tours in Amsterdam.Anna was an amazing guide!

Nick

(About local Arunabha)

16 July 2025

Arunabha was without a doubt the most intelligent, educated, well versed, knowledgeable, impressionable, kind young man I’ve ever had as a guide. Showed us the most important areas to see. Stepped out of the way of regular everyday tour guides in order to speak Directly to us about what we were looking at & gave a brilliant history of it. He has studied & knows what he’s talking about! Linda. 7-15-25. Amazing

Malissa🇺🇸 United States

(About local Olga)

16 July 2025

Wonderful overview of the city, walk-through many different neighborhoods, and Olga was very knowledgeable about all the surroundingsDelightful guide

Kerri🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Sebastian)

15 July 2025

Sebastian was fabulous. He was prompt, professional and very down to earth. We felt like true locals as it rained during our bike tour, but we continued on and just rode around anyway! It was a truly memorable experience. He pointed out all the things we were interested in and spent an extra half an hour with us. He was really engaged in the tour and we would recommend him to all!Best bike tour

Kathryn🇺🇸 United States

(About local Olga)

14 July 2025

Olga met us on time and took us all around the city pointing out places to return to for various types of food, unique places in the city such as the new underwater bike parking space, and historical places, explaining the history of Amsterdam such as the tilted buildings and the development of the canals. We learned a lot and enjoyed her story telling about it all. Good history and local information

Paige🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

14 July 2025

Sebastian was a really fantastic guide— the route he chose was perfect and it showed us parts of the city we never would have seen otherwise along with the city centre. he’s also a history expert who explains things in a very interesting way — we learned quite a bit and it was fascinating. He is very safe cyclist who never rushes the experience. Highly recommend taking his tour!! Perfect way to see Amsterdam

Rob🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

11 July 2025

Sabastion did a great job…. He showed us many details that we never would have found on our own…. Very well worth the time when you first arrive as then you know when and where to go to get the most out of your holiday.Sabastion was Great!

Julia 🇦🇺 Australia

(About local Arunabha)

7 July 2025

Our group of 4 had a wonderful tour with Arunabha. We covered many steps and Arunabhas history of Amsterdam and Australia was amazing. He even taught us things about Australia that we didn't know! We thoroughly enjoyed seeing the little things that were in plain sight but which we would have totally missed if we hadn't had a guide. Do yourselves a favor and book a tour! 3 hour tour of Amsterdam

chris🇬🇧 United Kingdom

(About local Olga)

5 July 2025

1

Olga was the perfect guide. Her knowledge of the history of Amsterdam is extensive and she shared this in a very interesting & accessible way. Thoroughly recommend her. Fun & informative

Kevin🇺🇸 United States

(About local Arunabha)

5 July 2025

We did 3 excursions with Arun and he was outstanding. Food tour, windmills, and Amsterdam City tour. His knowledge of each site and recommendations for further exploration and food were spot on. If you choose Arun, you won't be disappointed. Amsterdam Deep Dive

Fiona🇧🇲 Bermuda

(About local Anna)

4 July 2025

Anna was incredibly knowledgeable about what she was describing to us on our tour, answered the many questions and best of all she was fun! Rijksmuseum Tour

Janice🇨🇦 Canada

(About local Marten)

4 July 2025

Marten is very knowledgable, and has an easy way about him. We learned about the history and culture in a fun informative tour. We thoroughly enjoyed the time spent together. Meeting Marten

Megan🇳🇿 New Zealand

(About local Anna)

29 June 2025

We fully recommend this tour, and Anna to guide you. As an adult family of 3 - Anna listened well to our "bespoke preferences" and delivered a varied, informative and brilliant cycling experience traversing history, ecology, design and random fun insights. We loved our half day cycle experience. Anna is THE BUSINESS. 😇Fab tour, Funky Guide.

Tiffany

(About local Arunabha)

29 June 2025

Our guide did a wonderful job providing us with a unique visitor this beautiful city. He included historical information relevant to the wonderful food we were tasting and the areas we were walking through. Wonderful Experience!

Irene🇺🇸 United States

(About local Sebastian)

28 June 2025

Sebastian was an amazing guide for our walking tour through Amsterdam. He had great knowledge and shared so much interesting and helpful information. And he was a very very nice guy....highly recommend. Thank you Sebastian!

Beth

(About local Anna)

28 June 2025

I’ve returned from my travels and I’m reflecting on the time I spent with Anna …four hours of walking learning and exploring the beautiful city of Amsterdam…. I had a layover of six hours before I had to continue with my travels. I have never been to Amsterdam… The one thought I had in preparing for my time with Anna is “I don’t want to be with all the other visitors”…. and that’s what came true…. we talked about architecture history,art and life in Amsterdam. I saw many many different examples of architecture learned about the people and the city both historically and today… Anna was very kind calm and extremely knowledgeable. I did not pay attention to the blocks of meandering we completed…, however, in reflecting how far we went, it must’ve been miles and miles of walking.., I am an interior designer for 40 years and studied architecture, art history, etc….many words, I learned back then and forgot… cartouche or arabesque…Anna used in her conversation. I applaud her on her knowledge…. I highly recommend spending time with her… as she grew up in the Netherlands and lives in Amsterdam… she is truly a teacher of beautiful Amsterdam 🙏🩷 Four incredible hours with Anna

Anne🇺🇸 United States

(About local Anna)

27 June 2025

We chose Anna D because of her background in social sciences but she is also a student of art history. We did a walking tour with her and her in-depth knowledge of Danish history and culture is astounding. We than picked up bikes and went on an exciting ride to the park and the Rijksmuseum. Anna could easily be a guide at the museum! If you’re interested In art and art history, you will be impressed! I highly recommend Anna if you want a great exposure to all things Danish. Very smart and well informed tour guide

Nic🇺🇸 United States

(About local Marten)

27 June 2025

I’d highly recommend a walking tour with Marten. You can expect to not just learn about the city but to learn something about the Dutch mentality, the values, what the local customs are like. There is no better way to begin your trip to Amsterdam.Amsterdam walking tour

Nic🇺🇸 United States

(About local Olga)

27 June 2025

We had a great trip to Zaanse Schaans with Olga. She offered to pick us up by car so we could spend more time there and offered to book further experiences through her contacts in Amsterdam like a canal cruise. Really great experience!Great trip to Zaanse Schaans

jayne🇺🇸 United States

(About local Anna)

25 June 2025

Anna's private tour of Amsterdam was awesome! She was punctual, knowledgeable, dynamic, and interesting. We had a great time on the tour and we highly recommend Anna. Fabulous Tour Guide!

Barbara

(About local Olga)

24 June 2025

Immediately after dropping our bags at the hotel, we met up with Olga. She gave us a tremendous introduction to the City. Olga is very knowledgeable and gives a true sense of the history and life in Amsterdam. It was fun and informative.Great introduction to Amsterdam

Vera🇺🇸 United States

(About local Olga)

23 June 2025

Olga was great. She had a lot of stories, and gave us a lot of tips and history Tour with Olga

Alex🇺🇸 United States

(About local Anna)

22 June 2025

My husband and I took this walking tour through Amsterdam last weekend, and it was a fantastic experience from start to finish. Anna was super knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about the city’s rich history and culture. We loved how the route balanced iconic landmarks with hidden gems we would’ve never found on our own. It was the perfect pace, with plenty of time to soak in the sights and enjoy the atmosphere. Highly recommended for anyone wanting a deeper connection with this beautiful city!A Wonderful Way to Explore Amsterdam!

Richard🇺🇸 United States

(About local Olga)

20 June 2025

My father and I had already spent several days in Amsterdam doing most of the touristy stuff (museums, canal tour, etc) and to have a local like Olga share her expertise and knowledge helped elevate our time here. We had already seen most of the things she showed us, but never knew what it was. Many of the things she showed us were truly hidden gems you might read about in a guide book but never find on your own! Truly a worthwhile experience. Olga was super kind and showed us lots of good food spots as well (including the best Stroopwaffel and other things)! Olga is a must for booking this tour. Incredible experience

Cindy

(About local Anna)

20 June 2025

We very much enjoyed our personal art history lesson with Anna. We learned alot! I gained an appreciation for the work and genius of Rembrandt that I wouldn’t have gotten on a self guided tour. Anna answered our many questions and spent time sharing her fountain of knowledge about the artist’s style and how he broke the mold and advanced his profession.A new appreciation for Rembrandt

Zofia🇵🇱 Poland

(About local Sebastian)

18 June 2025

Sebastian was a great guide! While on tour, we felt as though we were taking a walk with an old friend (and a very knowledgable one). He told us about the history of the city as well as the lives of Amsterdam's citizens now. He adapted his way of explaining stuff to our mixed level of English (used simpler terms — so don't worry about not understanding something) and he showed us the best local places (the snack was amazing!). We also really appreciated little fun facts about various subjects connected to the city and his tips on best gifts from Amsterdam. We feel fully prepared for getting around on our own in the next days of our trip and for understanding stuff in museums and places all around town better. Sebastian is a great choice no matter the group — we went as mother and daughter (50 and 19) and both had a wonderful time. Amazing experience, we highly recommend! A wonderful experience :))

Melissa🇺🇸 United States

(About local Anna)

18 June 2025

So nice to have a deep dive into the history of the artwork at the Rijks. She is detailed and very well prepared for any question. Really brought the history to life!Lovely Experience wirh Anna

LaRoy🇺🇸 United States

(About local Olga)

17 June 2025

Olga provided us with a great tour. She was kind and very knowledgeable. She made our experience very fun and we would recommend her.Great experience

kp7dn89vwv

(About local Anna)

15 June 2025

It was okay, but we didn't feel like we really connected with her.

Daye

(About local Sebastian)

13 June 2025

We really enjoyed having Sebastian as our tour guide for Amsterdam. He was on time, showed us many interesting sights and was very knowledgeable about his home town. We loved his great stories! Don’t hesitate to book this tour as it is a great way to get to know the city. He even treated us to a special treat at the end. Book a tour with Sebastian. You won’t regret it!Great tour and guide

Marcy🇺🇸 United States

(About local Marten)

11 June 2025

Marten immediately made my granddaughter and I feel comfortable. He was warm and engaging to both of us . His knowledge, expertise and experience makes him a top notch tour guide. His skill at making history and art so interesting to not only me, but also my 16 year old granddaughter, was so appreciated. We were lucky enough to have booked two separate tours with him . The first one was the Jewish history tour, which was very moving, and so worthwhile before we went to the Anne Frank House . It gave us a better understanding of Jewish life in Amsterdam before and after the holocaust. The other tour we took with Marten was of the Van Gogh Museum and Van Gogh himself. His story telling skills made learning about Van Gogh so very intriguing. His ability to draw attention to relevant things that one could easily overlook was so appreciated. Walking and talking while interweaving philosophical viewpoints made it even more thought provoking. It was very special to learn from this wonderful guide. We actually bumped into Marten the day after our tour and we were all so excited to see each other. Amazing tour guide

tbkelso🇺🇸 United States

(About local Anna)

11 June 2025

Several hours after our flight landed in Amsterdam we met Anna who took us on an amazing introductory tour of her city. She guided us through the maze of streets and canals explaining Amsterdam’s history and unique architecture. She was entertaining and very informative. We had such a good experience we hired her to guide us through the Rijksmuseum several days later. She earned our highest recommendation. Wonderful experience

Booker🇺🇸 United States

(About local Anna)

10 June 2025

Anna D. did an excellent job of differentiating Rembrandt from other painters of the Dutch Golden Age (1588 to 1672). She pointed out the subtle features of The Night Watch and other famous Rembrandt paintings. Anna is knowledgeable guide on Rembrandt

Booker🇺🇸 United States

(About local Marten)

10 June 2025

Marten K. is an exceptional storyteller. At the Van Gogh Museum, he wove an intricate and captivating story of Vincent Van Gogh’s life as a mentally unstable, yet brilliant artist, highlighting the numerous artistic innovations he pioneered. He connected Van Gogh’s artistic accomplishments through his early days in Holland, then in Paris and finally in other French locations, including his one-year stay at a mental asylum in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. He detailed Van Gogh’s many relationships with Gaugin and other Impressionists. Throughout his telling of Van Gogh’s life story, he highlighted Vincent’s relationship with his younger brother, Theo, who loved and supported him throughout his life. Marten gave my wife and me many fresh insights that I had not heard in my art studies in college or learned in visits to other museums and exhibits with Van Gogh paintings. Our Van Gogh tour with Marten was so enlightening and memorable that we’d, without hesitation, use him for other tours he offers.Marten K. is the best guide you’ll find!

Kristi🇺🇸 United States

(About local Olga)

10 June 2025

We had a wonderful time with Olga, who was an engaging and informative tour guide. She walked us through many highlights of Amsterdam and shared interesting stories and facts along the way (some things our local friends who accompanied us didn't even know). Would absolutely recommend Olga's tour.Wonderful tour of Amsterdam's highlights

Don🇺🇸 United States

(About local Arunabha)

9 June 2025

We wanted some help on our visit to the Rijksmuseum. Arun had a great depth of knowledge about the principal works and artists that really enhanced our understanding. Our 9-year-old grandson still became bored, but the adults were captivated. Great way to visit the Rijksmuseum

Andrea

(About local Marten)

9 June 2025

Martin expertly guided us through the Van Gogh and Rijks Museums. He has a deep knowledge of the artists and the art including artistic influences, time periods, and life circumstances. Martin also gave us background on the buildings including origins and newer editions and modifications. We especially appreciated his guidance through the Rijks Museum which is massive and crowded. Highly Recommend

Janine

(About local Olga)

8 June 2025

Olga was a great tour guide and provide us with a wonderful overview of the city. It was also great to get really wonderful recommendations of things to do, where to eat, and drink as a local in Amsterdam. Great experience

Magaly🇺🇸 United States

(About local Anna)

8 June 2025

Ana made exploring Amsterdam such a fun and safe experience for me and my daughter. She took us to beautiful spots and shared cool facts about the city that kept us both interested the whole time. My daughter had a great time — and so did I! Thank you, Ana, for making our day in Amsterdam so special and fun! Fun Bike tour of Amsterdam with Ana!

Andrea🇺🇸 United States

(About local Marten)

7 June 2025

We enjoyed walking through the old part of Amsterdam with focus on the pre-war Jewish neighborhoods. Martin has a strong command of history both local and global. He was able to contextualize a lot of what we were learning. We asked to end the tour at a particular time at or near the Anne Frank House. Martin accommodated us nicely with this.Informative