Your Own Amsterdam. The Old Side

Explore Amsterdam’s Old Side with a 3-hour private walking tour for $165 per person. Starting at Amsterdam Centraal station, this guided experience takes you through narrow houses, secret courtyards, and historic bars, revealing stories that bring the city’s past to life. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll see main sights like Rembrandt’s old home and the Portuguese Synagogue, while also uncovering lesser-known gems. This tour is perfect for those interested in a personalized experience, with the flexibility to focus on your interests and curiosities.

The tour provides a fascinating look into how Catholics and Protestants shaped Amsterdam, passing medieval weight houses, ancient watchtowers, and diverse spiritual sites. Expect to stroll along serene embankments draped in ivy and blooms, sample herring and oysters, and enjoy pause in cozy cafes. The journey balances history, local tales, and vibrant city life, making it an engaging exploration for anyone eager to understand both the old city and its modern spirit.

While food and entrance fees are not included, the focus on stories, secrets, and scenic surprises offers excellent value. The small group or private options ensure an intimate atmosphere. The tour has earned high praise, notably for its guides’ expertise, especially in storytelling, making it a highlight for those craving an authentic, detailed look at Amsterdam’s character.

Key Points

• Personalized 3-hour walking tour focusing on Amsterdam’s Old Side and its stories.
• Starts at Amsterdam Centraal and ends at Portuguese Synagogue.
• Explore hidden spots, secret courtyards, and historic sites, with pass-by visits to notable locations.
• Learn about the city’s religious and cultural diversity, from medieval times to today.
• Sample local delicacies like herring and oysters, with pause in cozy cafes.
• Guided in English, Russian, and Ukrainian, with options for private groups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point: Meeting at Amsterdam Centraal Station

The tour begins in front of the main entrance of Amsterdam Centraal, a convenient and iconic location in the city’s heart. The guide welcomes guests here for a timely start, ensuring all participants are ready to explore Amsterdam’s historic core. This spot is easily accessible from various parts of the city, making it simple to join the adventure.

The meeting point’s central location allows for a smooth start to discovering hidden gems and famous sights alike. The tour ends at the Portuguese Synagogue, closing a journey that blends history, culture, and local stories seamlessly.

Visiting the Basilica of Saint Nicholas and Local Bar

The first stops include a guided walk past the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, a striking church with notable architecture and spiritual significance. The guide shares stories behind this historic landmark, setting the tone for the day. Next, a local bar becomes a brief stop, giving a taste of Amsterdam’s lively bar culture and a chance to hear anecdotes about city life.

Both stops are pass-by experiences, meaning the focus is on storytelling and understanding the historical context rather than long stays. This approach helps keep the pace lively, while still offering moments to appreciate local architecture and atmosphere.

Exploring Amsterdam Chinatown‘s Unique Atmosphere

The tour moves through Amsterdam Chinatown, a vibrant area filled with colorful shops, temples, and eateries. A 20-minute walk here reveals cultural influences that have shaped the city’s diversity. The guide points out facade boards, shops, and historical details that connect old Chinatown to modern Amsterdam.

This stop highlights the city’s multicultural layers and spiritual diversity, passing by Catholic, Protestant, Buddhist, and Jewish sites. It’s a great chance to see how past and present coexist in lively, authentic surroundings.

Discovering Nieuwmarkt en Lastage

A 30-minute photo stop at Nieuwmarkt en Lastage offers perfect opportunities for pictures of medieval architecture and bustling market scenes. The area features old brick homes and lively markets, reflecting Amsterdam’s trading history. The guide shares stories behind the famous weight house and ancient watchtowers.

This part of the tour emphasizes Amsterdam’s maritime history and its ongoing vibrancy, blending historical sights with today’s lively street life. Visitors can also glimpse local shops and cafes, adding to the area’s character.

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Exploring the Jewish Quarter and the Rembrandt House

Next, the tour passes through the Jewish Quarter, a neighborhood rich in history and spirituality. A 20-minute sightseeing walk offers insights into the area’s significant past and its present-day multiculturalism.

A pass-by of Rembrandt’s old home follows, providing a glimpse into the life of this legendary artist. The guide shares stories about Rembrandt’s life and work, connecting the artistic heritage to the city’s visual landscape.

Visiting the Secret Stop and Local Café

A brief 10-minute break at a secret spot introduces an element of surprise. The guide may lead visitors into unexpected courtyards or shops, emphasizing the hidden layers within the city.

Following this, there’s a 20-minute pause at a cozy café, offering a chance to relax and enjoy local drinks like mint tea. While food and drinks are not included, this part of the tour adds a personal, intimate feel, allowing for informal conversations and reflection.

Uncovering a Hidden Gem and Photographing the City

A 20-minute photo stop at a hidden gem allows visitors to capture unique views of Amsterdam’s architecture and street scenes. The guide highlights facade boards and artistic details that might otherwise go unnoticed.

This segment emphasizes visual storytelling, giving travelers moments of quiet appreciation amidst the lively exploration.

End at the Portuguese Synagogue

The tour concludes at the Portuguese Synagogue, one of the city’s most historic and beautiful sites. Here, the guide wraps up the experience, ensuring all guests leave with a deeper understanding of Amsterdam’s diverse spiritual landscape.

The location also offers a convenient endpoint, allowing easy access to other parts of the city or transportation options.

Practical Details: Group Size, Languages, and Flexibility

This private tour can be tailored to your interests and is available in English, Russian, and Ukrainian. The group size can be small or entirely private, ensuring an intimate experience.

Booking is flexible, with full refunds available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, and the option to reserve now and pay later. The tour’s nature makes it suitable for those seeking a relaxed pace with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and explore at their own pace.

Unique Features that Set This Tour Apart

What makes this Old Side tour especially appealing is its focus on hidden spots and local stories that are often missed on traditional sightseeing walks. The guide’s ability to weave history, art, and modern life into a single narrative enriches the experience.

A highlight is the balanced itinerary that combines main sights with secret corners, ensuring that both classic and offbeat Amsterdam are covered. The sampled local foods and drinks — like herring, oysters, and mint tea — add flavor to the walk, though these are not included in the price.

While no entrance fees are included, the guided storytelling and exclusive access to certain areas make this tour excellent value for those interested in a deep, personalized understanding of the city.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice for Enthusiasts

This Your Own Amsterdam tour suits travelers eager for a detailed, authentic exploration of the Old Side, especially those who appreciate storytelling and hidden discoveries. The personalized approach ensures that the experience aligns with your interests, whether in history, art, or local culture.

The high praise for guides’ knowledge and passion indicates you’ll be in capable hands. The small group or private options guarantee a comfortable and engaging atmosphere, perfect for intimate conversations and customized insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food or drinks included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you will have opportunities to sample local delicacies during the stops.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included in the tour price.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts in front of Amsterdam Centraal Station and ends at the Portuguese Synagogue.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English, Russian, and Ukrainian.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private group options are available, allowing for a more personalized experience.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $165 per person.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate walking and historical focus suggest it suits most adults and older children.

What makes this tour stand out?
Its focus on hidden spots, local stories, and personalized attention set it apart from more generic sightseeing options.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance. You may reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

This Your Own Amsterdam tour offers a well-balanced, engaging way to see the Old Side of the city. Combining historic sites, secret corners, and local tales, it provides a deep dive into Amsterdam’s unique character for anyone eager to go beyond standard sightseeing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby