viator tours from amsterdam

First Timer's Guide to Amsterdam First Timer's Guide to Amsterdam

Don’t be fooled—though small, Amsterdam boasts a wealth of attractions that can make planning your first visit feel a little overwhelming. But our guide for first timers helps you tick off the big-hitters while also getting off the beaten path.

No visit to Holland’s capital would be complete without winding your way along the 17th-century Amsterdam Canal Ring (Grachtengordel), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruises typically float beneath some of the hundreds of bridges—the most famous of which is Skinny Bridge (Magere Brug)—that spans the Amstel River, and according to legend, was originally built by two sisters in the 1600s so they could meet up with each other more easily.

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Born in the small town of Zundert, Vincent Van Gogh is one of Holland’s most famous exports. No other place pays homage to him better than the Van Gogh Museum, which is unsurprisingly home to the world’s largest collection of work by the legendary artist. Another world-class Amsterdam museum is the Rijksmuseum, the largest art museum in the Netherlands.

Few places in the world are more accommodating to bicycles than Amsterdam, where 320 miles (515 kilometers) of bike lanes allow you to easily traverse the 62 miles (100 kilometers) of canals and its 1500 bridges. Blend in with the locals by hiring a bike and following the bicycle lanes around town. The best spots for leisurely biking are the 19th-century “green lung” of Vondelpark and The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes), a collection of side streets featuring chic boutiques.

Amsterdam-Noord used to be an industrial wasteland, home only to factories and shipyards. Today, however, it's hailed as the capital’s hippest district. Start off in the trendy NDSM Wharf, home to a skatepark and several art galleries, before browsing Pekmarkt, where market stalls sell everything from organic food to vintage clothes, depending on the day. You can also catch a film at the EYE Film Institute (EYE Filmmuseum), a modernist landmark that is also home to a cinematography museum.

Amsterdam has several attractions dedicated entirely to flowers. Don’t miss Bloemenmarkt, the only floating flower market in the world, where local florists sell flowers from houseboats. You can also delve deeper into Holland’s flower obsession at the Amsterdam Tulip Museum. If you’re visiting in the spring months, don’t miss Keukenhof Gardens, where 7 million flower bulbs bloom across 79 acres (32 hectares) of lush parkland.

Nothing exemplifies Holland better than Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum in the fertile Dutch countryside outside of Amsterdam. Here, you can watch locals make traditional wooden clogs; see old-style windmills whirring in the fields; and, depending on the timing of your visit, admire brightly-colored tulips in bloom. Combine a visit to Zaanse Schans with a stop in Edam to sample freshly-made cheese. Or, join a tour of the charming fishing village of Volendam.

While Amsterdam is best known for being a joyous city to visit, it does have a harrowing history. Nowhere exemplifies this better than the Anne Frank House (Anne Frank Huis), a canalside house made famous by Anne Frank: Diary of a Young Girl . The former residence is now a moving museum that describes the Frank family’s experience of hiding during Nazi Germany. As one of the city’s top attractions, admission tickets often sell out, so be sure to reserve your time slot in advance.

While it might be best known for its beer and balls, there’s much more to Amsterdam’s food scene than bitterballen. The best way to discover it is on a food tour, during which you’ll get the inside scoop on Gouda cheese, smoked sausage, and stroopwafel (crunchy, sweet waffles), and discover why the city has such a thriving Indonesian food scene. You can even try your hand at making your own cheese during a workshop in De Hallen.

There’s a reason that Amsterdam is famous throughout Europe for its nightlife, most of which centers around the Red Light District (De Wallen). While the area is most famous for its liberal and regulated approach to sex work, it’s also a cute canalside district bursting with museums, bars, restaurants, and shops selling everything from condoms to cheese.

Once you’ve ticked off Amsterdam’s top sights, you’ll be rewarded for going farther afield. Though fast and reliable Dutch trains make getting to other parts of the country a breeze—and give you the chance to visit the grand Amsterdam Centraal Station—a day trip lets you hop between the highlights of the Hague, Delft, and Rotterdam, without having to worry about aligning your sightseeing with public transport timetables.

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19 best day trips from Amsterdam: the ultimate travel guide

Out of the city, into the Netherlands

Thinking about taking a day trip from Amsterdam? Wat leuk! (How nice!) There is heaps to see in the Dutch capital, but you can discover even more outside of the city. 

Picking what to do and see in a short time can be confusing and complicated — but we have some top travel recommendations, no matter what you want to see!

Here are 19 of the best day trips you can take from Amsterdam, sorted by distance. 😉

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1. Zaanse Schans: a picture-perfect town of windmills

2. haarlem: the river city, 3. broek in waterland: a village fit for sea captains, 4. marken: a former island in the zuiderzee, 5. volendam: a traditional dutch fishing town, 6. hoorn: the pearl of the ijsselmeer, 7. leiden: the city of arts and sciences, 8. utrecht: the very centre of the dutch mainland, 9. rotterdam: a city with an unmatched skyline, 10. the hague: city of international peace and justice, 11. delft: home to vermeer and delft blaauw, 12. gouda: the birthplace of iconic dutch cheese , 13. schiedam: home to the world’s tallest windmill, 14. dordrecht: a historic trading port, 15. tilburg: dutch textile central, 16. groningen: the hidden gem of the north, 17. den helder: city of the sun, 18. giethoorn: venice of the netherlands, 19. bourtange: the medieval fortress village, how to get around the netherlands for day trips, day trips from amsterdam: frequently asked questions, day trips less than 30-minutes from amsterdam.

If you won’t be in the city for long, a 30-minute day trip from Amsterdam is perfect if you want to get out of the city for a day! Here are our top picks for nearby towns and cities. 

A trip to the Netherlands would be incomplete without seeing windmills — and there’s no better way to see them than in the historical town of Zaanse Schans . 🍃

This quaint village gives visitors an accurate impression of Dutch living in the 17th and 18th centuries.

From cheese and dairy factories to traditional windmills and historical museums, you’ll live, breathe, and experience the old Zaan style of living. Classic!

🚗 Travel time by car: 21 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Zaanse Schans, 17 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Zaanse windmills, Honig Breethuis, Museumwinkel

An ideal day trip from Amsterdam, Haarlem is located between the Spaarne River and coastal dunes — did someone say beach? 🏖

This city has everything : bustling markets and shopping streets, plenty of family-friendly cultural activities like museums , comedy clubs, concerts, and cuisine choices to die for. 🍴

If you’re looking for a change of scenery but still want to have lots of activities to do, Haarlem is the place for you. 

🚗 Travel time by car: 30 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Haarlem, 19 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: St. Bavo’s Kerk (church), Grote Markt, Bloemendaal aan Zee

Broek in Waterland made a name for itself back in the 16th century — a popular vacation destination for sea captains! 🧑🏻‍✈

If you’re looking for a getaway from the big city, Broek in Waterland is the definition of an idyllic Dutch town. 

READ MORE | The 10 best authentic Dutch villages that you have to visit

With a population of fewer than 2,500 people, this village has quiet streets and picturesque nature. 🌿

Its standout feature is its traditional wooden houses, with more than 80 of them considered National Heritage Sites. 

There are also lots of biking and walking routes nearby. If you’re looking to get some fresh air and exercise while on a day trip from Amsterdam, check out the biking tours around the town!

🚗 Travel time by car: 14 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Broek in Waterland, 18 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Traditional village townhouses

Marken was separated from the Dutch mainland in the 13th century by a storm, turning it into an island in the Markermeer lake. ⛈ 

Residents of the town built wooden houses on artificial hills to prevent more flooding damage. To this day, these picturesque homes remain a popular cultural attraction. 

Only nine kilometres in area, you can easily walk across the whole town and island.

On your walk, you can visit the cosy town harbour or enjoy the scenic route of fields, forests, and the lakeshore. 🚣🏼

This lovely town has historical connections to Volendam, so you could make it a longer day trip from Amsterdam and visit two towns with one ferry. 😉

🚗 Travel time by car: 27 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Marken, 45 minutes  ⭐ Don’t miss: Paard van Marken Lighthouse, The Marken Museum

Volendam is the best-known fishing village in the Netherlands. You can visit the old harbour full of traditional Dutch ships, many of which are still in use! 🎣

This day trip from Amsterdam would be incomplete without trying some of the fish delicacies — you can finally conquer your fear of raw haring (herring) and smoked eel, or stick to the delicious kibbeling (deep-fried codfish). 

Volendam is also one of the few towns where you can experience the traditional Dutch clothing style.

It’s one of the most recognisable traditional Dutch costumes, with charming hats and clogs ( not everyone wears them , so they’re extra special). You can even wear the clothes yourself for a souvenir picture !

Day trips less than one hour from Amsterdam

If you have a little more time on your hands, these day trips from Amsterdam are worth checking out!

They’re just a tad further away from the Dutch capital, but you’ll find some beautiful monuments and sites if you make the trip. 

Hoorn is located by the IJsselmeer, an artificial sea-turned-lake in Noord Holland. This harbour town has a lively centre, with plenty of shops, terraces, and restaurants to enjoy.

If you’re looking for an authentic Dutch maritime village, Hoorn is the go-to choice. 

You can also check out historical monuments like the historic ship and 16th-century warehouses, the defence tower built in the 16th century, and the Oosterkerk (Eastern Church) for fishers and sailors!

If you want to get active, you can try out some water sports (although we can’t guarantee comfortable water temperatures 🥶) or take a walk on the beach and dunes around the area. 🚶🏻

🚗 Travel time by car: 35 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Hoorn, 33 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Westfries Museum, The Red Square, De Hoornse Straatjes

With canals and architecture to rival Amsterdam, Leiden might be one of the most underrated places.

We should know — it’s our headquarters and one of our favourite Dutch cities! 😉

A walk through the city centre will show you all the trendy restaurants, bars, and cafés .

Leiden is also home to cute unique shops where you can buy handmade ceramics, old-fashioned mechanical wristwatches, and vintage records. 

A university city since 1575, Leiden has been a prominent art and science centre of the world.

The inner city is full of museums and historical buildings like the Leiden Citadel and the old city gates. It was also home to more Dutch artists than you might expect — Rembrandt, Steen, and more! 👨🏼‍🎨

Plenty of trains pass through Leiden, making it a convenient day trip from Amsterdam. 😌

🚗 Travel time by car: 42 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Leiden Centraal, 43 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Hortus Botanicus Leiden, Hooglandse Kerk, Museum de Lakenhal

Utrecht is the Netherlands’ bright, beating heart connecting the east to the west at the centre of the Netherlands.

Built around the Dom Tower, you can see this spectacular monument from all around the city — so you’ll never get lost!

The historic city is surrounded by an old moat called The Singel, built for defence in the 12th century.

One of the most special parts of Utrecht is its unique terraces: landings right next to the canals that thrive with bars and restaurants. 

With lots of places to shop and eat, cultural spots like museums and concert halls, access to nature, and beautiful inner-city sites, you won’t run out of things to do in Utrecht . 

This city is a super convenient day trip from Amsterdam because of the direct intercity train (the fast train that travels between cities) that runs four times an hour. The journey is less than 30 minutes! 🚅

🚗 Travel time by car: 44 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Utrecht Centraal, 26 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: The Dom Tower, Rietveld Schröder House, Hoog Catharijne

A city of skyscrapers, bright buildings, and modern facades, Rotterdam is the metropolis of the Netherlands. 🏙

Rotterdam was heavily bombed during World War II, which is why you see far less iconic Dutch architecture from the 17th century, like in Amsterdam or Leiden.  

The city has a thriving nightlife scene, sophisticated shopping streets and markets, hip cultural attractions, and a wealth of good food .

Rotterdam might be best known for its expansive port and the iconic skyline that graces the river Maas. ⛴

It’s also another convenient day trip from Amsterdam with direct intercity trains running every 15 minutes from the central stations!

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 1 minute 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Rotterdam Centraal, 41 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Markthal, The Euromast, The Cube Houses, Blijdorp Zoo

The Hague is the political capital of the Netherlands, making it a perfect pairing for a day trip from Amsterdam, the cultural capital.

This Dutch city is filled with historical monuments and museums, is the only major city with a beach and has an international scene second to none in the Netherlands. 

You can enjoy a beautiful city centre with places to eat and shop to your heart’s desire, or perhaps go hiking in one of many scenic locations in the Hague like the Haagse Bos. 

If you’re looking to dip your feet in the (albeit, freezing) sea, look no further than Scheveningen Pier .

It’s the perfect place to sit by the beach, grab a drink, and enjoy the sea, whether it’s doing water sports or just lounging. 🙂

🚗 Travel time by car: 58 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Den Haag Centraal, 53 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Peace Palace, Buitenhof, Madurodam, Scheveningen Pier and Boardwalk

Delft has an international reputation for being the hometown of Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer and the originator of Delft Blaauw (Delft Blue) pottery.

It is the definition of a full-sized city with a small-town feeling — gezellig! 🔵

The city boasts beautiful architecture and historical sights like the Eastern Gate from the old city walls to the New Church of Delft.

If you’re curious about experiencing another student city, Delft’s busy nightlife will keep you up on your feet all night long. 💃🏻

🚗 Travel time by car: 59 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Delft, 1 hour and 5 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Delft City Hall, Old Church of Delft

Which came first, the cheese or the city? For Gouda , the city is the namesake for this world-famous cheese . 🧀

It’s a surprisingly old city with plenty of old monuments and buildings from as early as the 13th century, like the city hall (formerly surrounded by a moat!) and St. John’s Church. 

The city is quaint, but the centre bustles with shops, restaurants, bars, and cafés.

Check out the weekly Markt (market) on Thursdays and Saturdays and the first Fairtrade Street in the Netherlands, where all street food is sustainably produced and sold!

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Station Gouda, 53 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Gouda cheese market, Old City Hall, The Waag (weigh house) Museum

Yep, you heard that right! While there are windmills all around the Netherlands, Schiedam has the tallest traditional windmills of all, standing at 26.6 metres. 🍃

Tall windmills for a tall group of people , it seems. 🤷🏻

Schiedam is also known for being the Netherlands’ gin capital , with the city producing the most jenever (also known as Dutch gin) in the country.

There are also multiple bars museums where you can check out the production process. 🍸

Apart from windmills and gin, you can visit Gothic cathedrals, 14th-century churches, and history museums, creating an excellent combination of culture and recreation in one day trip from Amsterdam!

🚗 Travel time by car: 55 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Schiedam Centrum, 1 hour and 8 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: National Jenever Museum, Jenever ‘t Spul, Liduina Basilica, Stedelijk Museum Schiedam

Day trips over an hour from Amsterdam

If you’re looking to get out of the region and visit a far off place (for Dutch standards), here are some longer day trips from Amsterdam!

Dordrecht is the oldest city in Holland (we mean the old province of Holland and not the so-called “country” !).

There are plenty of cultural spots, including seven churches and several historical monuments-turned-museums. 

While most of the Netherlands is surrounded by canals and dikes, water and boats make a unique part of Dordrecht’s cityscape. 

As an old trading port, there are plenty of historic boats scattered around the old harbours connected by canals. Check out the canal network and catch a boat tour ! 🚤 

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 5 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Dordrecht Centraal, 1 hour and 34 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Dordrechtsmuseum, Munt van Holland (Mint of Holland), Grote Kerk

Tilburg is the second-largest city in Noord Brabant and is a city with a focus on turning old into new . ✨

Originally famous for its textile industry , the city has now made a name for itself for its energetic street art , world-class museums , urban scene , and as one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands. 

Don’t miss a trip to the LocHal library , a former warehouse converted into a library and the 2019 World Building of the Year !

If you visit in July, Tilburg runs a 10-day fair that draws more than a million visitors every year. 🎡

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 28 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Tilburg Centraal, 1 hour and 52 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Textielmuseum, Stadsmuseum Tilburg, Tilburg Kermis

Despite being far away from most big cities, Groningen attracts many travel buffs, making it the perfect day trip from Amsterdam if you really want to get out of your surroundings. 

Groningen has a compact city centre with restaurants and shops, beautiful sites like the Martini Tower and Grote Markt, and contemporary art museums. 🗼

As a student city, Groningen has exciting nightlife — plenty of clubs and bars included. 😉

Along with an energetic centre, quiet countryside surrounds Groningen city, which you can enjoy.

You can hike on one of the beautiful trails through the dunes and along the coast or take a cycle route around artificial hills, forests, and old forts. 

🚗 Travel time by car: 2 hours 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Groningen Station, 2 hours ⭐ Don’t miss: Groninger Museum, Martinitoren, Groningen City Centre

Surrounded by water on three sides, Den Helder is a maritime city at heart.

On the northernmost point of the Dutch coast, the city has a lot of naval sights to see, including the largest naval base in the Netherlands. 

Den Helder boasts a rich history with the largest Dutch naval base, a historic harbour, and fascinating marine attractions, including the North Sea Aquarium and three museum ships (museums homed in historic ships from the Dutch Navy!). 

If you’re seeking nature and scenery, the city has a wide variety of landscapes — you can take a refreshing hike around the dunes and polders surrounding the Wadden Sea. 

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 10 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Den Helder, Steiger TESO, 1 hour and 40 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: Fort Kijkduin, The Marine Museum, Lange Jaap Lighthouse

A picture-perfect landscape, Giethoorn is an almost entirely car-free village, replaced with boats and, of course, bicycles.

READ MORE | 14 glorious things to do in Giethoorn in 2024

You don’t want to miss a boat tour around this scenic town or a pleasant hike around the area. 🚶🏻

Giethoorn is a Dutch town through and through — with winding canals, countless boats, and quaint matching houses, it doesn’t get more gezellig than this. 🧘🏻

🚗 Travel time by car: 1 hour and 26 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Blauwe Hand Bus Station, 2 hours ⭐ Don’t miss: Boat tour through Giethoorn, Gondola festival, Giethoorn walking route

While the name suggests a beautiful rural town in France, Bourtange is actually in the Netherlands! Although, it might be the longest day trip from Amsterdam yet. 

This small village is a perfectly restored fortress town from medieval times in the north, built in the shape of a star. ⭐️

With a population of 430 people, there isn’t much room for proper shopping — but you can check out smaller quirky shops with Delfs Blaauw pottery, candles, other gifts, and trinkets. 

We recommend exploring the mediaeval architecture which you’ll find all over the city. From fortified walls and traditional houses to windmills, visiting Bourtange is like visiting a village-sized museum!

🚗 Travel time by car: 2 hours and 35 minutes 🚃 Travel time by train: Amsterdam Centraal – Bourtange Bus Station, 3 hours and 16 minutes ⭐ Don’t miss: City fortifications, Church of Bourtange

There are a couple of ways to get around for day trips in the Netherlands depending on what you’re comfortable with; taking public transport, hiring a car, and cycling. 

Using the Dutch public transport system for day trips

Public transport in the Netherlands is reliable and easy to use — most big cities have trains, trams, and buses, and some, like Rotterdam and Amsterdam, even have metros and ferries. 

If you’re travelling between cities and towns, you can buy many types of (cheap) train tickets . The day ticket is the most common and accessible ticket to travel on any train during off-peak hours.

READ MORE | 21 beautiful towns in the Netherlands that aren’t Amsterdam

You can buy tickets on most trams and buses within cities. Metro and train stations have machines to buy tickets. The Netherlands also has an extensive night public transport system that you can use.

An OV-chipkaart (public transport card) can be the easiest option if you plan to make a lot of day trips from Amsterdam using public transport.

With this, you can load a balance on so you can check in and out of the turnstiles with ease.

You can usually buy an anonymous OV-chipkaart in the major train stations. Just go to the NS service desk and ask to buy one!

Hiring a car to visit Dutch towns and cities

There are five major car rental companies where you can hire a car: Avis Budget, Enterprise Rent-a-Car, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt.

If you’re flying into Schiphol Airport, you can rent a car from one of these companies directly at the airport. You can pre-book a car or just go with the flow and see what’s there on the day!

If you’re arriving in Amsterdam another way, these car rental companies have rental locations in the city itself. 

Biking on a day trip from Amsterdam

Biking around your desired day trip city is a great way to get a feel for Dutch cycling culture! 

If you have a personal OV chipkaart (only available to residents of the Netherlands), you can go full circle and rent an OV-fiets .

The NS has set up bicycle rental locations at most train stations, bus and metro stops, and P+R facilities which you can rent for a few hours at a time. 

If you only have an anonymous OV-chipkaart or none at all, you can rent a bicycle from companies in Amsterdam.

Different types of bicycles are available for hourly/daily rates. We promise you don’t have to bike like a seasoned Dutchie — but do be careful on the bike paths. 

What are the best day trips from Amsterdam?

Depending on how much time you have during your trip to Amsterdam, there are different trips you can take

Some beautiful locations are within 30 minutes by car or train, such as Haarlem or Volendam, while others can take two to three hours to reach, like Bourtange and Tilburg. 

You can choose to visit smaller towns and villages or a big city like Rotterdam — depending on whether you want to visit another urban space or get a break in the quieter, more rural areas, there are plenty of locations to pick from.

Where can I see windmills near Amsterdam?

The closest windmill town to Amsterdam is Zaanse Schans, less than 30 minutes by either car or public transport. If you’re looking for other windmill locations, you can check out Kinderdijk and Schiedam, close to Rotterdam.

Where can I see tulips near Amsterdam?

Tulip season runs throughout spring, so the best time to see the Dutch tulips is from March to May. The most popular tulip attraction in the Netherlands is De Keukenhof in Lisse, a large flower garden that features tulips. 

Lisse is about 1 hour and 22 minutes away from Amsterdam Centraal Station by public transport and 44 minutes by car. You can only enter the park with a ticket, so make sure to book them in advance if you’re interested in visiting. 

There are other tulip fields by independent farmers in Lisse while walking or cycling around — usually, you can visit these parks for free, but there’s no guarantee the farmers will let tourists near their tulips.

Can you do a day trip from Amsterdam to Bruges?

Yes! You can take a train from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Bruges.

Travel time and prices vary depending on the type of journey, which train you take, and whether you have transfers. The average travel time from Amsterdam to Bruges is between one to two hours.

Where is it easy to travel to from Amsterdam?

We recommend a location within 30 minutes from Amsterdam by car or train for extra easy travel. You can check out Haarlem if you want a change of scenery but want to stick to a city. 

Smaller traditional towns like Marken and Volendam will give you a great impression of the scenic Dutch countryside.

If you want to see other big cities, Amsterdam has direct trains that run every 15 minutes to Rotterdam and Utrecht — you can get to the city in less than 30 minutes on these trains! 

What’s close to Amsterdam by train?

Generally, the bigger the city/town, the easier it is to reach by train and public transport. So if you’re looking for a laidback day trip with public transport, going to a city like Den Haag, Leiden, and Gouda is the most convenient. 

Intercity trains connect most of the Randstad cities, so these trains run consistently — every 15 minutes in both directions from 5 AM to 12 AM.

Liked it? Try these on for size:

A summer break in oostende: not your average beach town, solar panels in the netherlands: the ultimate guide, best beaches in the netherlands: the ultimate guide to dutch beaches, what do you think.

How about Utrecht? Or Harderwijk? Edam? Or with a slightly longer drive Sneek or Bolsward, Harlingen, Leeuwarden? I could even provide some tips on why and what to enjoy.

Where is Haarlem on this list?? Closer to Amsterdam than Leiden, only 15 minutes by train. Full of history, canals, restaurants, bars and shops.

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10 Best Tours in Amsterdam

By Clodagh Kinsella

Knowing where to direct your steps in Amsterdam is far more complicated than just keeping an eye out for the constant onslaught of bikes: between the major museum renovations, the cutting-edge architectural innovation, and the chameleonic food scene, the city is enjoying a renaissance akin to its Golden Age glory days. While there are brilliant specialist operators running tours of the highlights—whether of food, art, or local photo opportunities—others, lingering longer in the memory, focus on the shadowy flipside to that 17th-century luminosity, from Amsterdam’s colonial past to its misprized sex industry. We've rounded up our favorites—be it an Amsterdam canal cruise, Amsterdam bike tour, Amsterdam walking tour, or one of the many highlighting the city's cultural offerings—including one standout through the Red Light District, to lead you in the right direction. No matter which one you choose, one thing remains: take to two wheels or the water if you really want to go Dutch.

Eating Amsterdam, Jordaan Food Tour Arrow

The Amsterdam spin-off of ace tour company Eating Europe—in six cities and counting—this isn’t a makeshift affair, and you’ll get well-produced local food maps as part of the package (but make sure to reserve ahead). The focus is very much on insider knowledge, with four-hour guided walking tours of the Jordaan district’s lesser-known corners, including a dozen stops for Dutch delicacies, and ample meet-and-greets with artisanal food heroes. Your companions: two historians, two professional chefs, and an architect—plus a local whose family have lived in Jordaan for generations, and an Indonesian/Dutch guide for explaining the former colony’s worthy contribution to the food scene. The vibe is fun and interactive, and the main course comes with an appealing slice of history on the side.

Black Heritage Tour of Amsterdam Arrow

Black Heritage Tours founder Jennifer Tosch is on a one-woman mission to shed light on the presence, and little told past, of the African diaspora in the Netherlands (she’s now added tours in NYC and, by request, Brussels). Rigorous, interactive three-hour boat trips are the big draw, luring two to 90 people via celebrities like activist and author Angela Davis (average group size is 10-20 guests). Eye-opening is the word here. Once you’ve been alerted to the hidden past of Amsterdam’s beautiful Golden Age museums and canal houses, you’ll start seeing signs of the city’s sinful colonial legacy everywhere. A visit to the Rijksmuseum (usually included) or Royal Palace won’t be the same again. Definitely book ahead—especially outside of summer, when trips are less frequent.

MokumBoot Arrow

There are a million Amsterdam canal cruises, and a million other tourists to take them. Sidestepping that, and exercising your navigational skills for two hours (or more, if you like) is a bit of a no-brainer. With a 50-strong fleet of slick monochrome electric motor boats, and six hire stations across town, this is the king of skipper-yourself boat rentals, but with the laid back attitude of a playboy prince. Not that they aren’t organized: Mokum (an old nickname for Amsterdam) take care of pillows (or ponchos and blankets, depending), suggested sailing routes, and instructions on how the boats work. Affable dock personnel go beyond, so you’ll get a super-clear brief on how to operate the boat, but if you want to escape the traffic or visit a particular spot, they’ll happily tailor your itinerary to that. For sunny weekends, reserve at least two days ahead to get the prime early-afternoon slots.

Architour Half Day Tours: IJburg & Golden Age Walk Arrow

As the market-leader for architectural tours in Holland, the brilliantly organized Architour can handle groups ranging from two to 240—whether town planning offices, Rotary Clubs, or architecture students. Their regular two-hour-long small group tours, for ten people max, and private tours, for up to 20 people, need advance booking. The two tours listed here are both on foot, though they also offer bike and canal tours. Directors Paul Vlok and Anneke Bokern (an architect and architecture journalist, respectively) have handpicked a dozen local architects to serve alongside them as guides. Fluent in Dutch and English (and some even German, French, and Japanese), all have personal insight into Dutch building culture, and how that stacks up against other countries, so no question is too specific.

Matt Ortile

Todd Plummer

Lauren Dana Ellman

Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

WeBike Amsterdam City Tour Arrow

Cycling is part of the Dutch DNA, and there are over 880,000 bikes in Amsterdam alone—though three-hour tours by this excellent indie outfit generally top out at around seven cyclists. Between the rave reviews online and the intimate numbers, it’s definitely best to reserve your slot in advance. Like many Dutch kids, mainstays Thijs and Jasper grew up on the back of a bike, and know how to combine humor with brilliant historical and architectural titbits. You’re not just following the leader here, but engaging in regular chat as you cruise from one fascinating spot to the next. If you want to bring babies or small kids, they’ve got the (well-maintained, comfortable) bike for that. In fact, there’s really no limit to the crowd you’ll be riding with, but safe to say that it’s not the same set that comes to Amsterdam for the weed and red lights, and people who never learned to bike really shouldn’t start here.

Context Travel's Rijksmuseum Tour: Crash Course Arrow

This is a formidable operation established and executed by tour experts, and you’ll only need to share the joy with five other equally sophisticated tourists. The Rijksmuseum docents are all art historians, ranging from Vermeer experts to TV personalities—so you can be staring at a Rembrandt in the company of an acclaimed author on the subject. Despite all this they don’t talk down to tour members, and many manage to be funny as well as brilliant (sigh). Itineraries are docent-dependent (and group-dependent), so it’s worth doing your research if you’re set on getting that Rembrandt expert, but in any case the master’s works will be par for the course—not least his masterpiece The Night Watch , enjoying pride of place at the heart of the museum. More obscure rooms are also on the agenda, and having a guide to navigate them may leave you with a lasting love of 17th century ceramics, furniture, or model ships.

PIC's Wallen Tour Arrow

Walking tours of Amsterdam’s Red Light District aren’t hard to find, but no other operator tells the story of the notorious neighborhood from the perspective of sex workers. Run by invaluable non-profit the Prostitution Information Center (PIC), walks aim to encourage an open debate about the misunderstood industry and increase respect for sex workers (the term preferred by prostitutes). Turn up to PIC’s community center, café, and exhibition space a few minutes before the tour—or come earlier to consult the sex library over coffee and cake. Guides are either ex-sex workers, ready to open up about their own stories, or researchers on the industry who are able to answer literally any query from how much money you can make in a shift to the ancient origins of the trade. Given PIC’s mission to change hearts and minds, there’s absolutely nothing rote about the delivery here—this is a real passion project for guides, and you might find yourself shedding a tear.

Amsterdam Photo Safari Arrow

This is really best for those with a vested interest, as the one-on-one attention is brilliant for making swift progress, and if you opt for a longer tour (they run from three to six hours, with four a recommended minimum) you’ll really be able to get off the beaten track. Your safari group might range from total amateurs getting to grips with the basics of composition to pros with pricy DSLRs looking for the inside scoop on the best places to shoot in the city. You can bring a friend with an iPhone or other handheld camera device for around 90 percent less than the regular tour price, so it might end up feeling like a private tour (those are available too, and are strongly recommended for people with mobility issues). Night safaris, beginning a couple of hours before sunset, are absurdly picturesque, as the lights start to come on over the city’s bridges, casting fairytale reflections over the canals (even amateurs will soon be capturing boats’ light trails with tips on the best long exposure settings).

Rederij De Jordaan Private Boat Tour Arrow

Slick, slick, slick. As VIP canal cruises go, captain Reinhard Spronk’s historic saloon boat tours (aboard 1932 teak beauty Welmoed , or 1908’s smaller Farahilde ) are really the business. He and his partner Miloe run the show, taking private groups (reservations necessary) on bespoke tours of Amsterdam’s legendary canals. Pick-up is from your waterside hotel or Cafe Van Puffelen, by their office. This is going to be the highlight of your European tour, combining an utterly beautiful vintage boat, the most sophisticated company in town, and (for a supplement) red roses, gourmet finger food, and bottomless champagne.

Brouwerij ‘t IJ Arrow

Compared to neighboring Belgium, the Netherlands isn’t exactly known as a beer powerhouse, but the big news is that the capital now has craft breweries to shout about. So skip the queues at the mammoth, more famous Heineken Experience, and head to signature local craft brewer ‘t IJ, which was raising the bar on specialty brews long before ‘small batch’ was a hipster rite of passage. Finding the venue, opened in 1985 in an old bathhouse, is child’s play: the biggest wooden windmill in the Netherlands is next door. Friday to Sunday afternoon tours of the Funenkade HQ are a snappy 20-minute crash course in the magic of malt, hops and yeast. With only 20 spots going, and no pre-booking, get to the bar early to grab tickets (a free beer is included with the entry fee). Don’t bother bringing your bachelor party though – after one too many messy experiences in the past, they’re now officially barred.

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The 14 Best Amsterdam Tours

Dive into this famously liberal city and its beautiful countryside with the help of a guided tour.

Getty Images

Exploring Amsterdam via its famous canals is a great way to see the city.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may be running more limited operations due to COVID-19 or may impose testing or vaccine requirements. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

There are so many can't-miss sights in Amsterdam , from the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum to the city's famous canals, houseboats and windmills. With the help of a friendly local, you're sure to see it all and gain some insider tips. After analyzing both traveler opinion and expert research, U.S. News determined the best Amsterdam tours. Whether you're hoping to walk or cycle your way through the city or even cruise its canals, you'll find each tour highlights the unique qualities only found in Amsterdam.

Stromma – Open Boat Tours Amsterdam

This cruise takes participants through the city's famous canals to view its top sights, including the Van Gogh Museum , the Amstel and more. Plus, because this boat is smaller than a normal tour vessel, you'll get to explore some of the lesser-seen waterways. Reviewers say this is a relaxing tour with captains who provide plenty of information. Boats run multiple times daily from three departure points; tours last about 75 minutes. Tickets start at 22.50 euros (about $24) for adults; children travel for half that. The company also offers dining cruises.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

Mike's Bike Tours Amsterdam – Countryside Bike Tour and Cheese Tasting

Get your fill of windmills and the beautiful Dutch countryside on this bike tour that runs up to 3 1/2 hours and covers about 10 miles. It also includes stops at a clog factory, a public park and a cheese farm, where cheese samples are offered to visitors. Reviewers praise the scenic countryside and the stop for the cheese tasting. They also appreciate the well-maintained bikes and the friendly guides. Tickets start at 42 euros (about $42) for adults and 39 euros (about $37) for youths ages 12 to 17; the trip is not suitable for children younger than 12. This tour runs daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The company offers many bike tours, including tours of the city and private cycle trips.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 .]

With Locals – The 10 Tastings of Amsterdam

Get a "taste" of Amsterdam on this guided food tour that features 10 tastings, including beverage samples. In-the-know locals lead the three-hour walk that takes you through the De Pijp area of the city, as well as an outdoor market. Food samples could include a stroopwafel (a wafer cookie), herring and local cheeses. Reviewers highly recommend this tour, describing it as "fun" and "flavorful." They also extol the guides for their friendly, cheerful demeanor. Ticket prices vary depending on how many people tour; a couple can expect to pay around 95 euros (about $99) per person. The tour runs Monday to Saturday at multiple times each day. The company also offers tours of the city by bike or boat.

Free Walking Tours Amsterdam – Classic Tour

Learn about Amsterdam, its liberalism and the Dutch culture on this two-hour walking tour. Stops may include the red-light district, the canal belt area, the Waag building and more. Keep in mind each guide takes a slightly different route. Reviewers highly recommend the tour for travelers interested in a brief introduction to Amsterdam history. Tourgoers also applaud the guides for their engaging, funny storytelling. Tours depart daily at 10:30 and 11 a.m. and 1:30 and 4 p.m. The tour operates on a pay-what-you-wish basis, but you'll need to pay a city-mandated entertainment tax of 1.55 euros (about $2). The company also offers a food tour and an alternative tour of the city that explores Amsterdam's counterculture.

360 Amsterdam Tours – Anne Frank Walking Tour

See World War II through the eyes of Anne Frank on this two-hour tour through the Jewish Quarter. Highlights include the Portuguese Synagogue, the Hollandsche Schouwburg Museum and the Anne Frank House. Reviewers praise the guides' storytelling abilities and their knack for weaving in a substantial amount of information about Amsterdam and its role in World War II. Tickets start at 28.50 euros (about $30) per person and discounts are available for children. Tickets do not include entrance to the attractions on the tour. Tours operate daily at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. The company also offers an Anne Frank bike tour, among other options.

Courtesy of Hungry Birds

Along this tour with Hungry Birds, you'll eat like the locals do and learn about their favorite spots.

Hungry Birds – Original Experience

This delicious trip focuses largely on Amsterdam's street food and shares information about the city's culture, daily life and the people who make the dishes. During the 4 1/2-hour outing, you'll sample plenty of eats favorited by locals and you'll also try traditional foods like herring and Dutch cheese. Reviewers say the tour includes plenty of food and is a great introduction to local culture. Participants recommend coming hungry. Tours are generally available Monday to Saturday at 11 a.m. and start at 89 euros (about $93) per person; children younger than 6 can join for free. Food and drink samples are included in the ticket price. If you want to explore on your own, try Hungry Birds' self-guided bike tour.

We Bike Amsterdam – City Tour

Sightsee your way through the city using the preferred method of transportation among Amsterdammers: a bike. On this three-hour cycling tour, you'll see some of the most popular neighborhoods, as well as hidden spots frequented by locals. Top stops on the tour, which is limited to 11 people, include Vondelpark , the Jordaan neighborhood , the Western Church and the Rijksmuseum. Reviewers say this is a great way to see the city and that guides maintain a comfortable pace. Tickets cost around 30 euros (about $31) for adults with discounted fares for children. Tours depart daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. The company also offers a private bike tour and a countryside tour.

Lovers Canal Cruises – One Hour Amsterdam Evening Canal Cruise

See how Amsterdam comes to life after dark on this hourlong cruise that tours the incredible canals, traveling under illuminated bridges and past the historic city center. Boats are equipped with panoramic roofs, sliding windows and audio commentary. Reviewers say they enjoy seeing Amsterdam by night and that the audio guide is informative. Others wish the boat was less crowded. Tickets start at 19 euros for adults (about $20); children receive discounted tickets. Tours leave daily every half-hour from about 5 to 9 p.m. Lovers Canal Cruises also offers a variety of daytime cruises.

Those Dam Boat Guys

Over and over again, travelers praise Those Dam Boat Guys for a fun and informative tour of Amsterdam. During the canal cruise, guides share information about their city and offer helpful hints to make the most of your stay. Tours run on either covered or open boats (depending on weather and boat availability), so you won't have issues seeing the amazing sights. Up to eight passengers will be on the boat – another aspect of the tour travelers praise. Trips last about 90 minutes and run multiple times daily. Fees start at 29.50 euros (around $31) for adults. Private tours for up to 10 are also available.

SANDEMANs New Europe – Free Tour of Amsterdam

Learn about Amsterdam's rich history, including the Nazi occupation, its trade heritage and the city's enthusiasm for biking, on this three-hour walking tour. The excursion will also take you by the city's incredible canals, over its bridges and to see some of its best architecture. Reviewers describe the tour as "amazing" and say the guides are passionate and energetic about their city. Tours are free, but you will need to pay an entertainment tax of 1.50 euros (about $1.50) per person. Additionally, you are welcome to pay your guide what you wish at the conclusion of the tour. Tours are available daily at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; keep in mind you must reserve your slot online in advance. If you want to learn more about Amsterdam's famous red-light district, take the fee-based Red Lights and Dark Amsterdam tour.

Wooden clogs are one of the best-known symbols of the Netherlands.

Tours & Tickets – Countryside and Windmills Tour from Amsterdam – All-In Tour

Reviewers praise the number of activities packed into this nearly six-hour excursion and say the tour provides a great overview of the Netherlands. During the daytrip, you'll visit the village of Zaanse Schans to see more than 10 of the Netherlands' iconic windmills. Then, it's off to Volendam and Marken for a tour of a cheese factory and a wooden clog-making demonstration. Plus, along the way, you'll have access to an audio guide to enhance the commentary provided by your live guide. Tickets start at 45 euros (about $47) for adults and 22.50 euros (about $24) for children ages 4 to 13. Tours depart at 8:45 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. from Amsterdam Central Station from spring through early fall. Tours & Tickets operates multiple excursions in and around Amsterdam and Belgium.

Eating Europe – Jordaan Food Tour

Once a working-class enclave with roots dating back to the 17th century, the hip Jordaan neighborhood is the focus of this 3 1/2-hour walking tour. Learn about Jordaan's history, discover hidden areas and sample about 12 local delicacies from Dutch beer to apple pie to herring. Reviewers, who rave about the food, say this is a great way to sightsee through Amsterdam. Tours are available daily at 11 a.m. Tickets cost approximately 90 euros (about $94) for adults, 70 euros (about $73) for teens ages 13 to 17 and 55 euros (about $57) for children ages 4 to 12. Eating Europe also offers a food tour that includes a private canal boat ride.

FreeDam Tours – Free Walking Tour

For a crash course in the city's history, the future of the red-light district, Amsterdam's famous bike culture and lenient drug policies, consider this free walking tour. Along the 2 1/2-hour, 1.5-mile tour, you'll pass by a variety of popular areas, including Chinatown, the University District and the Royal Palace, among others. Reviewers recommend this tour if you're hoping to see a variety of top landmarks with a knowledgeable guide by your side. Tours operate daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. and start at the Stock Exchange. There is no cost for the tour, but you'll have to pay the city-implemented tourist tax of 1.50 euros (about $2). The company also asks you to tip what you feel the tour is worth at the conclusion of the trip. FreeDam Tours also offers a private walking tour of the city.

Babylon Tours – Rijksmuseum + Van Gogh Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Combo Tour

If you're hoping to explore the artsy side of Amsterdam, this semiprivate tour is for you. Guides take you and up to seven other participants through both the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum to talk about famous and lesser-known Dutch painters, including Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh, of course. The roughly six-hour experience includes tickets to both museums, which get you to the front of any queues that form. Tourgoers admit it's a long day, but the art smart guides and incredible works make it all worth it. Fees start at 199 euros (about $208) for adults, 179 euros (around $187) for kids 10 to 17 and 139 euros (approximately $145) for children 9 and younger. The outing includes a stop for lunch, which is at your own expense. Tours depart at 10 a.m. daily. If you're short on time, Babylon Tours also offers shorter, two-hour strolls that visit just one museum.

You may also be interested in:

• Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
• Best Hotels in Amsterdam
• Best Places to Visit in Europe
• Best Paris Tours
• Best London Tours

Tags: Tours , Netherlands , Travel , Vacations

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Netherlands Tours & Trips from Amsterdam

Find your perfect adventure! We have 32 tours of Netherlands that start in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The most popular month is April, and tour lengths range between 4 and 15 days.

32 Netherlands tour packages from Amsterdam with 180 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus

Best of the Netherlands

Everything was well organized and smooth. Lode was a really good tour guide.

Best of Holland (7 Days)

Tour was enlightening, accommodation served its purpose.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Christmas & New Year

Customized Netherlands Holiday with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Tailor-Made Best Netherlands Tour with Daily Departure

Netherlands Biking Adventure

• River Cruise

Dutch Delight (2024) (Amsterdam to Amsterdam, 2024)

Trip to Amsterdam for Four Days

Amsterdam is absolutely beautiful! My trip was only 4 days long but Wise Yatra made the most of it.

• Bike and Barge

Tulip Tour, Bike & Barge in Holland

Experience was good.

Cycling the Highlights of Holland

Through authentic Holland (port-to-port cruise)

From the big cities of Amsterdam and Rotterdam, to the smaller towns of Gouda and Delft, and all the villages, canals, churches, windmills, historic buildings, and country-side sights in between, we could not have asked for a better up-close and authentic

What people love about Netherlands Tours from Amsterdam

We enjoyed the nature and flowers and canals. The accommodation was good and the Fletcher hotels very peaceful in the country.

The tour of Holland was wonderful. Our tour director was great. Our driver was great. The weather was not so good. I think the heavy mist and rain made me ill. It was impossible to find any cold medicine in our busy schedule. Fortunately I brought some headache medicine with me just in case I needed it. I did not want to miss any of the scheduled visits but I was anxious to get home to deal with the symptoms.

• This was my first experience using travel agency for vacation and I couldn't be more satisfied. I highly recommend using Wise Yatra, they planned a wonderful trip that catered to all my personal needs. • First let's start with the location– Amsterdam is absolutely beautiful! My trip was only 4 days long but Wise Yatra made the most of it. They set up 3 tours within those days that gave the perfect opportunity to see a few of the key attractions within the Netherlands. One day was offered a walking tour through a popular local tour guide company. The guide was very knowledgeable of history and the downtown area, he was also very friendly. Another day offered the opportunity to see the Tulips, windmills and clogs through another local tour company. The company has coach bus accommodations to and from all attractions and meeting locations. The guide presented herself very professionally and also very knowledgeable of the history and attractions themselves. The last event offered through Wise Yatra was the canal cruise which offered an alternative perspective of the town via canal level. • Secondly, I could not ask for a better travel company to book through. Originally I booked this tour believing I would be joining a group. After realizing that was not the case, naturally I was apprehensive about moving forward with the trip. Associates at Wise Yatra reached out to me on a personal level to fine tune details… After expressing my concerns, the associates at Wise Yatra assured me they would be able to accommodate me as a solo traveler. My itinerary was made based on what I wanted, tours were upgraded from self guided to guided, my hotel was upgraded to a better location and I was able to stay in constant communication before, during and after my trip. They even made sure I made it home safe! Some upgrades came with a slight cost, some upgrades did not, however cost of upgrades were minimal and well worth it. The driver booked for airport transfer was local and very respectful. Also, all my questions about documents and information needed overseas were answered promptly and knowledgeable. All in all, Raj, Rachit, Nishchitha, and the rest of the team did a wonderful job. I look forward to using the Wise Yatra service again in the future.

Tours starting from Amsterdam

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• Family from Amsterdam (25)
• River Cruise from Amsterdam (19)
• Explorer from Amsterdam (9)
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The Top 10 Viator Tours of Amsterdam

You know how we love Amsterdam here at Lilly Likes? So do Viator!

We all know by now that Amsterdam is one of our favourite places in the world, here at Lilly Likes. Today, we are here to bring you some exciting news. We teamed up with our partners over at Viator to bring you some analytical feedback on the best tours of Amsterdam as offered by this thrilling company.

Let’s start with a little information on why Viator tours through Lilly Likes are a good idea. Next, we will cover the top 10 tours in and around Amsterdam to give you inspiration for your next A-Dam adventure.

Viator and Lilly Likes

For those that don’t already know, Viator is one of our treasured partners. They offer deals on exciting adventures all over the world, with Amsterdam tours one of their favourites. Viator offer 24 hour support, instant confirmations on tours and activities, free cancellations within 24 hours advance notice, and the ability to reserve now and pay later. Viator have a lot going for them, which is why we like them so much.

Viator boast some 345,000 things to do and counting. They have low prices, great products, and a range of options in entertainment. As ever, our job is to keep you amused, and Viator tours of Amsterdam area great way to do just that.

Let’s leave off on the flattery and move on to the tours.

Want inspiration on things to do in Amsterdam on your next visit? We are more than happy to help. Check out these top ten Viator deals in partnership with Lilly Likes.

1 – The Keukenhof Gardens Guided Half-Day Tour

It says something about the Lilly Likes team that the first of our list wouldn’t be inside the city at all, but rather a tour that leaves from the city. The Keukenhof Gardens are disturbingly beautiful. They are a site you will not forget for as long as you live. Go along in April-July months to see the most spectacular flower beds you have ever set eyes on. This tour is an experience that you won’t forget.

There’s something magical about letting the sights, sounds, and scents, of some of Europe’s largest flower fields tingle your senses. The tour we chose of the many Amsterdam Keukenhof Garden Tours with Viator has 56 4 or 5 star reviews to date and carries their Badge of Excellence. It’s a full half day, taking approximately 5 and a half hours to complete. There are 79 acres of gorgeous gardens for you to explore. You’ll take some of the best photos you’ve ever taken, set against the backdrop of striking colours and stunning views.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Keukenhof (@visitkeukenhof)

This tour is best in spring when the tulips are in full bloom. There are hyacinth beds, daffodil beds, and more. This is a guided tour which comes with the Viator 24 hour cancellation we mentioned earlier. Transport to and from the gardens is included by way of an air-conditioned coach. If you only do one outing from Amsterdam, make this it. For more information click here

2 – The Private Amsterdam Canal Ring Tour

Coming in at high speeds with 89+ 5 star reviews, the private 1.5 hour long canal tour of Amsterdam is the most romantic way to enjoy the canal experience. Amsterdam is built partially on waterways. Over the centuries, builders have raised the city and cleared out the waterways of silt and debris. As a result, a full section of the city thrives at the sides of the canals. A tour of these will take you past any number of internationally famous attractions. You can see the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank house, the UNESCO world heritage listed canal district, and more.

The captain of your vessel will give you input as a guided tour. Reviewers say you can take as much or as little input as you like. If your desire is for an undisturbed 1.5 hours enjoying the scenic cruise, then you are free to do so. You can even customise the itinerary entirely, just plan ahead and let your captain know. It is this planning that makes this tour amazing. It’s romantic, special, it’s an excellent surprise for a loved one… it’s just the best way to see the city. For more information click here

3 – The Icebar and Cruise Tour

There’s a pub in Amsterdam that you may or may not have heard of. It’s called the Xtracold Icebar and inside it, everything is made of ice. This remarkable idea features glasses carved from the ice itself, so you get a fresh chilled drink, every single time you order. The Icebar is quite exclusive and they won’t let you in without prior arrangement. This tour lets you visit the icebar, get inside, and includes a one hour canal cruise so you can make a day of it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Amsterdam Icebar (@amsterdamicebar)

This Viator tour allows you an hour inside the Icebar and an hour on the boat. The boat itself is a luxurious glass-topped canal boat. During your visit, you get three complimentary drinks in the bar. This mellow tour is described as super-cool, and we love how it combines sites like the Anne Frank Huis and one of Amsterdam’s finest drinking establishments. It’s the second on our list that’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. How likely are you to forget about a bar with ice-stools, ice-glasses, and ice-walls? Fore more information click here

4 – The Anne Frank & Jewish History Tour

Those visiting the city for religious reasons, to study, or to learn more about their heritage, could receive help from the Anne Frank and Jewish history tour. This private tour takes three full hours, so it’s for the serious consumer only. This private tour will lower in price the more of you there are in the group. You get a personalized experience where your tour guide talks about the Jewish Quarter of Amsterdam, Anne Frank’s life and times, the old Synagogue, and the former Jewish Theatre.

This tour includes team travel within the heart of the city. Tickets to the Hollandse Schouwburg are included in the price, that’s the old Jewish Theatre. Coffee and tea, drinks and snacks are included in the deal. You will see the synagogue, explore the streets, and all the while, a guide will explain the significance of Jewish Amsterdam and how it changed over the years. Importantly, this tour doesn’t go to the Anne Frank House itself. Tickets will have to be bought separately. For more information click here

5 – The Private Through the Eyes of Van Gogh Tour

You simply cannot come to Amsterdam and not browse the museums that hold the works of the great master himself. Amsterdam is the former home of Vincent Van Gogh, and its museums hold much of his work as it stays today. He was a penniless artist towards the end of his life, living in the very streets you have come to visit. There is nowhere on earth where you can closer experience the world as he did. The through his eyes tour makes it even more realistic.

This tour takes approximately two hours. You receive insights and local knowledge from a resolute guide. The ticket includes a line bypass, so you don’t need to wait in the lengthy ques at the door to the museum. You can learn about his life and influences through a private tour. You can choose whether you go in the morning or afternoon. For more information click here

6 – The Private Rijksmuseum Tour

This private tour of the Rijksmuseum lets you skip those lines. It is a popular activity and it does sell out fast, so book up early in advance. This tour has 54+ five star reviews and carries the Viator Badge of Excellence, so you know it is a great day out before you step foot out of your hotel.

This two hour tour lets you see the works of Van Gogh, Vermeeer, and Rembrandt. While you peruse the paintings by the masters, your private guide will explain when each piece was created and fill you in on other details of their lives and styles. You can learn about the history of Dutch art on this tour, a culturally significant movement that is still alive today. Admission fees are included and you have 24 hours to cancel if you have to. For more information click here

7 – The Amsterdam Red Light Walking Tour

This Red Lights District walking tour takes only an hour to complete – but it will be the most eye-opening hour you spend in the city. Prostitution is regulated intensely in Amsterdam, in order to keep the sex workers safe. Dutch politicians long since learned that people will do what people will do, so they might as well make money off it. This tour takes you through the De Wallen area of the city.

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This tour includes a local guide, who will talk you through the history and politics of the area. They will help you understand how something like this could exist. The tour involves a colourful walk through the Chinatown district of the city and takes you past some of the canals. It’s picturesque, it’s eye opening, and it’s the third site on our tours of Amsterdam list that you won’t forget in a hurry. For more information click here

8 – Madame Tussauds, Amsterdam

Madame Tussauds is one of the few places you don’t really need a tour guide to know what you are looking at. This creative wax works has had a home in the city for as long as it has existed. Madame Tussauds is exactly like the one in London, but it holds a rich mix of European celebs, as well as British and American faces. This deal pays for your admission and lets you skip the ticket queues so you can go on ahead and enjoy it.

Expect to be inside the building for about an hour and a half to see all the sights. You are free to photograph the wax idols and use their special interactive app to further enhance your experience. This is a great activity on a rainy day in Amsterdam and will give you a good laugh. For more information click here

9 – The Zaanse Schans Windmills and Cheese Tour

Yup. Windmills and cheese. What else could you want? It’s the best trip you will ever make.

Zaanse Schans is outside of the city. It is a small village on the water which has 10 windmills of varying beauty. It’s one of the most photographer areas of The Netherlands. This small tour takes you out there, lets you snap all the pics you want, and even feeds you cheese. Some of you might not make it home.

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Ideal for a small group, this tour takes about three hours. You visit a clog-makers, learn about the 18 th century history of the town, and delight in the spinning cogs and sails of the weatherboard windmills. It’s amazing. For more information click here

10 – The Heineken Experience and 1 Hour Cruise

Last but by no means least – do you like beer? Heineken is Amsterdam’s very own favourite brewery and you can take a tour of it that includes a one hour canal cruise for you to sober up or keep going. Put aside a total of 1.5 hours for this unique experience. The cruise will take you down those UNESCO heritage canals, while your ticket includes entry into the experience with two free drinks included.

The tour here is given by an audio set. You receive a hassle free entrance without any queuing. You also get the choice of soft drinks if you don’t want alcohol. This is a tour made for beer lovers though, so if you’re not into breweries, you might want to try something less… beer-filled.

What’s Your Favourite Amsterdam Attraction?

If you think we missed your favourite Amsterdam attraction, we have plenty of choices in days out over on site, Lilly Likes Amsterdam . Don’t forget that our partners at Viator offer unique choices in day out whether you are travelling or staying put this summer season. We have something for everyone. All you need to do is scroll.

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• Netherlands

15 Best Food Tours in Amsterdam for a Culinary Journey Through Dutch Flavors

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When it comes to finding the best food tours in Amsterdam , visitors can expect to be treated to a veritable smorgasbord of local specialties.

Historically, the Dutch capital is famous for its winding canals and nefarious nightly activities — but more travelers are discovering the culinary side of things to do in Amsterdam .

And while Amsterdam ’s food and drink scene — and Dutch cuisine as a whole — don’t enjoy the status of some of its neighbors, perceptions are changing one perfectly golden bitterbal at a time.

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• food tours in Amsterdam

1 – Amsterdam’s Jordaan Cozy Food Tour with Eating Europe

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1059 reviews )

“The most memorable aspect is being welcomed into small family run shops where we sampled the flavors of Amsterdam with our warm, friendly and knowledgeable guide.” James, Viator

Apart from being one of Amsterdam’s most famous and historically important neighborhoods, the Jordaan District is also the epicenter of a burgeoning food scene. These storied streets are specked with cozy eateries and artisanal delicatessens that epitomize the concept of “gezellig.”

It’s exactly this feeling that Amsterdam Food Tours by Eating Europe aims to explore, taking visitors into the warm embrace of Dutch culture through cuisine. Travelers will dive into the rich history that surrounds the local food scene, learning how international trade helped shape the tastes of the capital — while exploring numerous local restaurants, delis and eateries under the guidance of your personal Dutch foodie.

This food tour of one of Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhoods perfectly encapsulates the vibrant local food scene. Every eatery visited and dish sampled is an absolute winner, from the apple pie to start with to the Bitterballen and Jenever at the end. Be sure not to miss the chance to eat herring like a local!

• Jordaan District Tours in Amsterdam

2 – Amsterdam: Cultural Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 88 reviews )

“Great tour. Our guide -Marina from amsterdamliebe- gave us a great afternoon. In addition to various delicacies, we also received interesting insights into the history of and life in Amsterdam.” Igor, Viator

Imagine a food tour where the warmth and eccentricity of Amsterdam is perfectly explored through the means of German precision. That’s exactly what’s on the menu for this culinary foray from Amsterdamliebe , a German outfit that also offers its experiences in English and Dutch.

This gastronomic expedition explores a large area of the city, venturing into the city’s hidden gastronomic corners — while also paying attention to famous landmarks and popular attractions. The mission of the outing is to leave travelers well and truly sated in both the physical and metaphorical sense of the word.

This food tour achieves a perfect balance between exploring Amsterdam’s local specialties and the city’s illustrious history — while simultaneously exuding a sense of charm that many other Amsterdam tours tend to lack. If you want a more personal experience you should consider opting for the small group or private tour option.

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3 – Food Lovers Tour in Amsterdam

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 202 reviews )

“Truly a great experience. Fun, informative and very tasty. All the stops were great and it’s really difficult to decide which would be the best. Roman is an amazing host. Thank you Roman” Stephen, Viator

An Amsterdam food tour is only as good as its guide, and that’s the reason why this gastronomical expedition is counted among the city’s best. Owned and operated by Romain — the vision behind Shaker Cocktail Club — this outing leaves the confines of his stylish cocktail-making class behind by exploring the winding streets of Amsterdam.

The food tour visits some of the city’s less-busy areas, substituting bustling streets for hidden gems that only locals know about. Through it all, Romain passionately shines a light on the taste and way of life in Amsterdam, giving travelers the confidence to eat like true Amsterdammers.

The star of this tour is the guide, Romain who’ll keep you utterly enthralled and entertained — not to mention well-fed — throughout your journey. During this memorable and yummy expedition, you’ll be treated to eight Dutch specialties — while traveling through the city and learning more about its fascinating history. The highlight of the outing is the Stroopwafel, a treat that you shouldn’t miss!

Read more: Best city tours in Amsterdam

4 – Amsterdam Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 223 reviews )

“Our guide, Lori, was a wonderful guide and very knowledgeable of the region and its foods. My wife and I enjoyed every bite.” Russell, Viator

Amsterdam’s circular streets give the city a labyrinthian character, making it quite difficult to navigate on your own It also means that there is a legion of amazing eateries secreted in alleyways, just begging to be explored.

Secret Food Tours & Secret Tours does precisely that, leaving behind the well-worn paths and tourist-laden streets — exploring instead lesser-known spots that few visitors will find on their own. But don’t worry, you’ll still pass some of the city’s iconic attractions on your way to the next treat — and your foodie guide is always at hand with an interesting tidbit or anecdote.

This tour allows participants to explore a side of the city that they wouldn’t have been able to do on their own. The guides are super knowledgeable, always ready to answer questions and provide more information — and the food is absolutely scrumptious.

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Read more: Best Walking Tours in Amsterdam

5 – Amsterdam: Private Red Light District and Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.8/5 ( 48 reviews )

“We spent a wonderful 2 hours wandering the streets and learning about the history of this part of Amsterdam. Agapios, our guide, was excellent.” Michelle, Getyourguide

The experienced team at Trigger Tours helps countless travelers to Amsterdam explore the notorious Red Light District in a safe and informative way. These storied streets make up what is arguably the most famous, if not infamous, neighborhood in the world. This outing explores the district’s history while highlighting some of the unique dishes that you’ll find here.

But this tour explores more than just reputation, helping visitors understand the origin of the Red Light District and the important role that it has played throughout history — from destigmatizing sex work to fighting for the rights of the individual practitioners.

This tour is flawlessly executed by the guide, and they expertly balanced the expectations of a Red Light District food tour with the reality surrounding this neighborhood. The only element that is more satisfying than the delicious specialties on offer is the neverending stream of information and insight from the guide.

• Red Light District tours

6 – Amsterdam Food & Canals Tour with Eating Europe

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 91 reviews )

“Great trip with Kataya!! Perfect first night in Amsterdam to experience all the food, drinks, and ending with the perfect canal tour. Thanks Kataya! Highly recommend!” Callie, Viator

Making our list for the second time is the team at Amsterdam Food Tours by Eating Europe , but this time they make sure they leave nothing off the plate — by giving foodies in Amsterdam the opportunity to explore the food scene on land and water.

This Amsterdam food and canal tour combo proves that you can have your cake and eat it too — as your knowledgeable guide takes you across the city in search of mouthwatering morsels. Apart from the staggering 12 tastings you’ll also enjoy a 1-hour-long boat tour with drinks and refreshments included.

This street food and boat tour combo is a highlight of any trip to Amsterdam. Discover a myriad of delectable dishes under the passionate guidance of your resident foodie, Katya. Travelers expecting a large generic tourist barge will be pleasantly surprised by the smaller vessel employed — making it the perfect way to end off an unforgetable food tour!

• Amsterdam canals tours

Read more: Best boat tours in Amsterdam

7 – Grand Dutch food and Amsterdam history tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 363 reviews )

“Bo, did an amazing job. We learned so much history , are group was fun and the food excellent. Great cheese experience with wonderful host.” Kellee, Viator

It can be quite difficult to live up to a name like the Grand Dutch food and history tour, but this outing from the people at Amsterdam Food Tours does so with little fanfare.

The goal of this enlightening tour is to give you a holistic view of the city’s culinary heritage — explaining how its colonial past determines the present and shapes the future. The smaller tour group size and informative guide combine to create a personable setting that enables guests to explore the intricacies of this world port — through a steady stream of Dutch specialties and dishes.

This Amsterdam food tour might seem a bit expensive at first glance, but it makes up for it with generosity and authentic Dutch hospitality. The overall experience provides a delightfully balanced half-day tour filled with delicious local dishes and a broad scope of the city’s history.

8 – The Real Amsterdam Food Tour with Adam & Eve.

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 251 reviews )

“We had a great time with our excellent guide Katya. The tour included great food, great drinks, and exciting local history.” Kristoffer, Viator

This outing from Adam & Eve Amsterdam Food Tours will have you believing in paradise, — especially at the end when digging into a deliciously authentic Amsterdam apple tart… The team behind these excursions has been exploring Amsterdam’s streets and eateries for over 10 years, and they show no signs of stopping anytime soon.

This street food tour in Amsterdam is perfect for discerning travelers who want to avoid the typical fare and delve deeper into what the Dutch capital offers. The outing is exclusive to small and private groups and visitors may expect to try over 10 dishes while exploring the historical neighborhoods of the Spui and Jordaan district.

The Real Amsterdam Food Tour with Adam and Eve does not disappoint. You’ll be treated to a wide selection of local dishes and restaurants —all of which are real hidden gems. The team goes out of their way to ensure that this doesn’t feel like just another mass tourism activity and the attention to detail is great.

9 – The Award-Winning Private Amsterdam Food Tour: 6 or 10 Tastings

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 174 reviews )

“Had wonderful time on this tour the guide never made us feel rushed and brought us to a great variety of places.” Bill, Viator

If you’re looking for a more personal experience, you should look no further than this tour from the good people at Withlocals — a tour platform that helps you discover Amsterdam through the eyes of one of the city’s inhabitants.

However, having a local foodie guru by your side is only one part of this brilliant outing — the other being the fact that it’s a private tour, allowing you to determine the itinerary. This is great for visitors with specific dietary needs or when traveling as a family. Take charge of your day out — choosing what you’ll eat and where you’ll go!

When it comes to privacy and convenience few tours can keep pace with this award-winning private food tour in Amsterdam. For 2 or 3 hours the city will be your oyster, and the choice of what to eat and where to go will be entirely up to you!

• private food tours in Amsterdam

10 – Discover Amsterdam’s Culinary Scene: Morning Food Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 4 reviews )

“This tour gave a real insight in to the food scene in Amsterdam as well what and where the locals eat. I was able to try many different types of food, from various cuisines, as well as even try the original stroopwafel!” Alex, Viator

Breakfast is one of those meals that offer you a glimpse into the heart of a culture, and that’s exactly what’s on offer during this outing from EatWith — a network that connects travelers with locals eager to share their culture, customs and cuisine.

A mid-morning departure allows for a laidback exploration of Amsterdam as the city rubs the sand from its eyes. Try local breakfast dishes like uitsmijters, herring served with onions and pickles and bitterballen, capping it all off with a delicious stroopwafel — all while listening to your passionate local guide.

The tour leader, Fusina, goes out of her way to share her love for this amazing city with her guests. Her knowledge and passion for the local food scene are second to none and you’ll leave feeling confident to explore the local restaurants and foods during the rest of your trip.

11 – Amsterdam: Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood

Rating: ⭐️ 3.5/5 ( 14 reviews )

“Yummy food” Amy, Getyourguide

De Pijp is one of Amsterdam’s most vibrant districts and the Bohemian neighborhood is famous for its quirks and independent spirit. It’s therefore fitting that this self-guided street food tour option from Who Is Amsterdam Tours should focus on this bustling borough.

As a bonus, it’s one of the least expensive options available and it allows an unmatched level of freedom and convenience. To help you navigate Amsterdam’s winding streets, you’ll enjoy the company of a mobile guide on your phone — ensuring that you’re well taken care of every scrumptious step of the way.

If you’re an independent traveler trying to maximize your time in Amsterdam, or if you’re simply on a budget, then this is the perfect tour for you. The mobile guide is super easy to navigate and you’ll be able to set your own pace from one Dutch specialty to the next.

12 – Amsterdam Food & History Half Day Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 5 reviews )

“We had a great morning wandering around the historic centre and Jordaan neighborhoods in Amsterdam with Eduardo. We tried a little bit of everything, from stroopwafel to fries, and finished with a unique tea tasting at the end.” Cy, Viator

This is another activity from the team at Who Is Amsterdam Tours , and this time you’ll enjoy the company of an in-person guide during a bumper-packed half-day food and history tour. Setting for from the historic Spui neighborhood, your tour party will plunge into the depths of Dutch cuisine, exploring the city’s illustrious history — as well as its most unmissable dishes.

Learn exactly how the Dutch culture and cuisine have been shaped by its days as a global superpower and how its colonial past is shaping its future. In all, your English-speaking guide will accompany you to seven different locations where you’ll enjoy more than 10 local dishes.

This food and walking tour combo in Amsterdam will keep you busy and entertained for the entirety of the 4 hours. You’ll visit some of the oldest bakeries in Amsterdam and sample mouthwateringly good morsels throughout the journey. The highlight is the fries at the Vlaams Friteshuis — so good that you’ll be sure to go back for more.

13 – Free Food Tour Amsterdam

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 (311 reviews)

“Wendelin was the best tour guide! Do this tour! We had so much fun.” Taylor, Google review

“You get what you pay for…” the adage is usually spot on, but when it comes to this tour it couldn’t be further from the truth.

Brought to you by the people at Free Food Tour Amsterdam , this tour has been delighting travelers for years, absolutely free of charge — and it constantly makes the list of the best things to do in Amsterdam.

During your fiscally responsible foray, you’ll have the option of sampling a wide variety of local dishes — including herring, local cheese and some of the best chocolate that Amsterdam has to offer.

This is one of our go-to tours when people ask for advice when visiting Amsterdam. Not only does it present unbeatable value for money, but the thought and care that went into the itinerary is amazing. Honestly, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better way to spend 2 hours in the Dutch capital.

14 – Hungry Birds Street Food Tours

Rating: ⭐️ 4.9/5 (212 reviews)

“This was a lovely experience! Ended up having a private food tour which resulted in one of the highlights of the trip as we spent time learning more about the history and culture of Amsterdam.” Derek, Google review

If you’ve joined one too many food tours that left you with an overwhelming feeling of “meh…” then the team at Hungry Birds Street Food Tours has just the perfect outing for you. The Hungry Birds first spread their wings in 2013, and they’ve been soaring ever since.

The goal of the company is to concentrate on quality over quantity, using food to bring people together in a sustainable way. Their excursions are available in various shapes and sizes — with their flagship offering, “The Original Street Food Tour”, enthralling guests for a jaw-dropping 4.5 hours.

This is one of the best tours out there if you want to explore the colonial history of the Netherlands and its culinary legacy. Apart from the local specialties that Amsterdam is famous for, you’ll also discover Surinamese and Indonesian food, while learning how the erstwhile Dutch thirst for commerce created today’s Netherlands.

15 – Hidden Gems food tour with Streat Bites

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 (73 reviews)

“Wonderful tour! I had the opportunity to try so many delicious things thanks to the great guide. Highly recommended” Lior, Google review

Bringing up the rear of this list of the best food tours in the Dutch Capital are the guys at Streat Bites Amsterdam . Their Hidden Gems Food Tour is a case of saving the best for last, avoiding all the tourist traps in search of those spots that only locals know about.

The tour is a combination of a culinary experience and a cultural expedition and you may look forward to connecting with the city’s vibrant heritage and traditions through its food.

This hidden gem’s food tour lives up to its name and will surprise even the most grizzled of Amsterdam’s visitors. This is mainly due to the time and energy put into the experience by Guy, Inbal and Roy as they strive to remain at the head of the Amsterdam food scene by uncovering one diamond in the rough after the other.

How to book food tours in Amsterdam?

Finding the food tour in Amsterdam that ticks all the boxes can be quite a task. Not only are there a myriad of tour companies, each with several offerings, but they present these on different booking platforms, typically at different price points.

TourScanner solves this by searching all of the tours and finding one that speaks to your specific needs, saving you time, money and energy.

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Experience the best of Amsterdam with Withlocals

Find the perfect private tour

Select one of our local experts

Enjoy Amsterdam like a local

Let our local experts guide you through a handpicked selection of things to do on a private tour. Think hidden gems, insider stories, and all the local vibes. Ready to find your private tour of Amsterdam? Your adventure-packed day is just one click away!

Top 10 tours in Amsterdam

Make your stay in Amsterdam complete with these things to do

1 The 10 Tastings of Amsterdam

2 Highlights & Hidden Gems of Amsterdam

3 Private Boat Tours Amsterdam & welcome drink Amsterdam canals

4 Mini Romantic Boat Tour Amsterdam including Bubbles & Bites

5 Withlocals Your Way! - Amsterdam City Tour

6 Green Gears: Amsterdam’s Urban Farming Cycle Tour

7 Explore the Van Gogh Museum with a Local Guide

8 Charming private historical boat tour

9 Explore the Rijksmuseum with a Local Guide

10 Treasures of Amsterdam: Coffeeshops and Red Light District Tour

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The 10 Tastings of Amsterdam

Highlights & hidden gems of amsterdam, private boat tours amsterdam & welcome drink amsterdam canals, mini romantic boat tour amsterdam including bubbles & bites, withlocals your way - amsterdam city tour, green gears: amsterdam’s urban farming cycle tour, explore the van gogh museum with a local guide, charming private historical boat tour, explore amsterdam with our incredible locals.

Learn about their personal stories and find out how you can explore Amsterdam with locals

Explore the Rijksmuseum with a Local Guide

Treasures of amsterdam: coffeeshops and red light district tour, drinks & bites in amsterdam tour, culinary kickstart tour: amsterdam, family fun tour on a unique ride, the beauty of amsterdam by bike tour, the ultimate zaanse-schans day trip, amsterdam canals by bike with a local, find experiences by category.

Discover experiences based on your interest

• City highlights tours 22
• Food tours 8
• Off the beaten track tours 6
• Art & Culture tours 4
• Day trips 4
• Photo tours 4
• Skip the line tours 1

Travelers love our locals

What other guests say about our tours and locals

Hidden Gems

"Olga was very easy to get a hold of from the start. She provided restaurant ideas that we tried and definitely loved. She was very knowledgeable and we were able to see many places that we would not have seen on our own. Even after the tour she was willing to answer my questions and provide tips. We enjoyed our time learning about Amsterdam with Olga and would definitely recommend any tour with her. Thank you for making our time in Amsterdam memorable."

Amazing Amsterdam Tour with Sebastian

"I had an awesome time on Sebastian's tour of Amsterdam! He's super friendly, really helpful, and knows so much about the city and the Netherlands. His passion for Amsterdam is contagious, and he shared tons of cool facts and stories. Sebastian made sure everyone felt welcome and answered all our questions. The mix of history, personal stories, and hidden gems made the tour special. If you want a fun, informative, and memorable tour of Amsterdam, go with Sebastian. Highly recommend!"

Excellent tour and guide

"Marten was a great guide and we really enjoyed this tour. We learned about the art, the history of Amsterdam and Dutch culture. He is an excellent storyteller and this was a very good way to see the Rijksmuseum"

Excellent! Recommend Estella!

"We had a lovely time touring Amsterdam with Estella! She is a walking textbook of information about Amsterdam and Holland. She is warm and friendly and easy to spend the afternoon with. We learned so much, but in a relaxed and chill way that felt like spending time with an old friend. Thank you Estella for a great introductuon to Amsterdam!"

Beautiful day in a beautiful city

"Olga made our day perfect. Great 3 hour walking tour. We enjoyed seeing many different areas of this beautiful city. Weather was nice. Wear comfortable shoes"

The Greatest Guide!

"Estella was amazingly responsive in tailor making my tour to my very specific interested and needs. I found her to be so very knowledgeable about fascinating details of architecture, history and local culture. And on top of that Estella is a very personable, friendly and - importantly - genuine and real. Thumbs up!!!"

Interesting and fun tour

"Marten is a great and fun guide , very well informed and gives you great tips on where to go and places to visit. We had a great time with him. "

Very interesting and enjoyable

"Marten was a great guide and really made us enthralled with the story and history behind each art piece and the artists themselves. "

Review about Carl

"It was a delighting Journey . We saw Most beautiful places. Carl was amiable good prepared and we could ask many things. I wish him all the best for his Future Sincerely Dagmar Binder"

Biking with Ann! Best part of our trip!

"Hi Ann!! My husband and I didn't really know what to expect when we signed up to take a tour of Amsterdam with Ann, but boy did we have the time of our lives. Ann guided us on our bikes through central Amsterdam to the ferries where we crossed over to Amsterdam North and saw some beautiful gardens and enjoyed hot tea surrounded by gorgeous plants and greenery. After hopping back on the ferry, Ann was happy to answer all of our questions. She was so enthusiastic about her volunteer work and about Amsterdam in general that she made the whole experience one of our favorite parts of our 10 day stay in Amsterdam. I highly recommend signing up for a bike tour with Ann. "

Enjoy the Best of the Amsterdam Like a Local

Private & personalized tours in amsterdam with a local.

When you hit the road and land in a new city like Amsterdam, there's an exciting way to dive into its soul: personalized local tours. Forget the typical touristy routes – these tours are like having a local friend show you around all the cool spots.

Imagine having someone who lives and breathes Amsterdam spill its secrets. That's what local guides bring to the table. They know the hidden alleys, the best bites, and stories that never made it to the guidebooks. Whether you're into munching through food tours, wandering the city's streets, or going off the beaten path, a local guide hooks you up with a private tour that's authentically Amsterdam.

The best part? These tours are all about you. No herding in big groups or rushing through places you're not interested in. With private tours, you're the boss. Whether it's snapping pics at iconic landmarks, diving into history, or checking out the art scene, the tour is tuned to your vibes at your tempo.

But it doesn't stop at city limits. Day trips let you escape the urban jungle and explore nearby wonders. And if you're just setting foot in Amsterdam, kickstart tours give you a taste of everything. Think of it as a crash course in Amsterdam awesomeness, guided by a local who knows the city like the back of their hand.

So, next time you're in Amsterdam, ditch the ordinary. Grab a local tour and unlock the city's real magic – the stories, flavors, and places that make it uniquely Amsterdam. Get ready to explore like a local!

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• Food Tours in Amsterdam
• Art & Culture Tours in Amsterdam
• Day Trips in Amsterdam
• Off The Beaten Track Tours in Amsterdam
• Photo Tours in Amsterdam
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• Cooking Classes in Amsterdam
• Skip The Line Tours in Amsterdam
• Walking Tours in Amsterdam
• Bike Tours in Amsterdam
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