10 Tastes of Amsterdam: Food Tour by UNESCO Canals and Jordaan

Amsterdam’s 10 Tastes of Amsterdam: Food Tour by UNESCO Canals and Jordaan offers an engaging way to experience the city’s culinary scene in just around 3 hours. Priced at $112.38 per person, this small-group tour is highly rated with a perfect 5.0 out of 5 from 1,594 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate. It features over 10 tastings at five local eateries, many of which are often overlooked by visitors, making it ideal for those eager to explore authentic Dutch flavors. The tour departs from Gastrovino Amsterdam – De Mannen Van Kaas and ends near the Anne Frank House, providing convenient access and a scenic stroll through Amsterdam’s canal-lined neighborhoods.

What makes this experience stand out is the combination of delicious tastings, insightful guidance, and walking through iconic areas like the Jordaan and the Nine Streets. The small-group size, with a maximum of 12 participants, ensures a personalized, relaxed pace. Plus, options for vegetarian and pescetarian diets cater to various dietary needs, adding to its accessibility. Even with a few stops that involve standing or walking, the experience promises full belly and lively stories, making it a great choice for food lovers and culture seekers alike.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch Tastings: Includes over 10 samples at five carefully selected local spots.
• Expert Guides: Led by knowledgeable local guides who share insights about Amsterdam’s food and history.
• Flexible and Inclusive: Vegetarian and pescetarian options are available; private upgrade possible.
• Scenic Route: Walks through canals, Jordaan, and Nine Streets, with plenty of photo-worthy views.
• Convenient: The tour begins inside a cheese shop and ends near the Anne Frank House, accessible by public transport.
• Value for Money: Enough food for a full meal, drinks included, plus a to-eat list for after the tour.

Starting Point at Gastrovino Amsterdam

The tour kicks off inside Gastrovino Amsterdam, a renowned cheese shop in the wine cellar, where a Gouda cheese tasting sets the tone. The admission to this initial stop is included, and the guide begins by explaining the nuances of aged and young Gouda paired with a seasonal Dutch liquorette or port. This underground start offers a cozy and authentic atmosphere, perfect for cheese lovers eager to discover local flavors.

From here, participants are led on a leisurely walk through Amsterdam’s historic streets and canals, with the guide sharing stories and recommendations along the way. The small-group size ensures plenty of interaction and personalized attention.

Exploring Amsterdam’s Historic Neighbourhoods

The tour takes place in vibrant areas like Spui, known for writers, students, and artists, and the Nine Streets, famous for their boutique shops and lively cafés. These neighborhoods showcase authentic Amsterdam, away from typical tourist routes, offering a genuine feel of the city’s local life.

Walking between stops along the canals, guests enjoy views of Golden Age merchant houses and 16th-century architecture. The pace is relaxed, allowing ample time to appreciate the scenery and ask questions, making it suitable for those who prefer a more laid-back experience.

Sampling Dutch Cheese and Liquor at De Mannen Van Kaas

The first tasting stop is at De Mannen Van Kaas, a top-rated cheese shop. Here, guests sample aged and young Gouda cheeses, carefully paired with a Dutch liquorette or port, offering a flavorful start. The shop, set underground in a cellar, provides a cozy ambiance to savor this classic Dutch delicacy.

This stop gives insight into how Dutch cheese is made and aged, making it both a sensory and educational experience. The admission is included, and the guide shares tips on how to distinguish different types of Gouda.

Indulging in Fresh Stroopwafels at Hans Egstorf Bakery

Next, the tour visits a 200-year-old bakery where stroopwafels are made fresh before the eyes of your. These syrup-filled waffles are crispy on the outside and gooey inside, often considered a beloved Dutch treat.

The bakery offers a chance to taste these gooey, sticky waffles, and the guide explains their history and cultural significance. The admission is free, and the process of making stroopwafels is showcased to deepen appreciation for this iconic snack.

Trying Dutch Sashimi: Herring at JONK

A highlight for seafood fans is the JONK Herring Stall, where visitors can taste Dutch sashimi, a traditional herring dish served by a family business operating since 1982. This 10-minute stop provides an opportunity to try raw herring, typically offered with onions or pickles.

The herring is a staple of Dutch cuisine, eaten for over 1,000 years, and offers a fresh, salty flavor. It’s ideal for early risers, as the stop is only available before 16:00 due to opening hours.

Enjoying Dutch Chocolates at Puccini Bomboni

The tour introduces guests to Dutch pralines at Puccini Bomboni, a boutique chocolatier. The Dutch import $1.54 billion worth of cacao annually, and the guide shares how Dutch people are among the world’s top consumers of chocolate, even eating it for breakfast.

Guests sample a variety of artisan chocolates, experiencing the rich flavors and craftsmanship that make Dutch pralines famous. This 10-minute stop provides a sweet contrast to earlier savory tastings.

Exploring the 9 Streets and Canal Ring

The 9 Streets area offers a 35-minute walk through a lively part of Amsterdam filled with cafes, boutiques, and history. The guide shares stories connecting Dutch trade history to the eclectic food scene. This stretch vividly captures Amsterdam’s transformation from a fishing village to a global trading hub during the Golden Age.

Guests get to see historic merchant houses and canal views, enriching the tasting experience with cultural context. Free to explore further after the tour, this area provides photo opportunities and shopping options.

Savoring Poffertjes in Jordaan District

In the Jordaan, renowned for its cozy brown cafés, visitors sample poffertjes, small fluffy pancakes drizzled with butter. This 30-minute stop immerses guests in local food traditions, as they enjoy the heavenly sweetness paired with a local beer or beverage.

The guide discusses Jordaan’s history and its reputation for authentic Dutch hospitality, making this a memorable highlight. The tasting is included, and the atmosphere invites relaxation.

Walking the Amsterdam Canal Ring

The tour continues with a 15-minute walk along the 17th-century canal ring, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The guide explains how the canal system influenced Amsterdam’s development and how it remains iconic today.

Guests enjoy the scenic backdrop while learning about the city’s architectural history. This segment is free of tastings but adds an enriching cultural dimension to the experience.

Visiting Café Hegeraad: Dutch Courage and Apple Pie

Finally, the tour concludes at Café Hegeraad, a centuries-old brown pub known for local beer and homemade apple pie. This spot offers a relaxed environment to toast the end of the tour and reflect on the Dutch spirit.

The admission is free, and guests can enjoy a final drink while soaking up the historic pub setting. The 10-minute stop encapsulates the Dutch love for hearty, comforting food.

The Sum Up: A Practical Taste of Amsterdam’s Food and Culture

This 3-hour guided food tour combines delicious tastings, scenic walks, and local stories to give a well-rounded introduction to Amsterdam’s culinary scene. With more than 10 tastings at five spots, including cheese, stroopwafels, herring, chocolates, and local drinks, the tour offers enough food for a full meal.

The small-group setting, guided by knowledgeable locals, makes it particularly appealing for those wanting an intimate, personalized experience. The tour’s flexibility, including options for vegetarian or pescetarian diets, increases its accessibility. The route covers iconic neighborhoods like Jordaan and the Nine Streets, with stunning canal views and cultural insights.

A key strength is the balance of food, history, and scenery, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors or anyone eager to learn about Dutch customs. The downside is that the tour involves walking and standing, which may be less suitable for those with mobility issues. Also, herring stops are only available before 16:00, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers great value, combining local flavors with cultural stories, making it a must-do for foodies and curious travelers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Gastrovino Amsterdam – De Mannen Van Kaas and ends near the Anne Frank House.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian and pescetarian options are available upon request.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Yes, most kids can participate, although strollers might need to be parked outside during stops.

Do I need to make reservations in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made around 32 days in advance. The tour is popular and fills quickly.

What is included in the price?
The price includes tastings, drinks (liquor, wine, coffee, tea, soda, water), and a full belly. Gratuities are optional.

Can I upgrade to a private tour?
Yes, there is an option to upgrade to a private experience for a more personalized outing.

What’s the best way to get to the meeting point?
It’s an 8-minute walk from Dam Square, with public transportation nearby, including Rokin Metro.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, the tour can accommodate vegetarian and pescetarian diets. Gluten-free options are available at most stops starting 16:00 or earlier.

Is there an option to extend the experience with a canal cruise?
Yes, ask the guide about a 1-hour canal ride with drinks to end the day in style.

This 10 Tastes of Amsterdam Food Tour offers an authentic, flavorful, and scenic way to discover Amsterdam’s neighborhoods and culinary traditions in just a few hours, making it a smart choice for foodies and culture lovers alike.