Overview
Embark on a fascinating journey through the history of Amsterdam with our self-guided tour. Discover the origins of the city at the original dam on the river Amstel in 1200. Learn about the city's transformation during its Golden Age in the 17th century, filled with wealth, power, and artistic brilliance. Uncover the secrets of Amsterdam's past and immerse yourself in its rich culture. Solve puzzles, explore the city, and find hidden gems at your own pace. Try a new type of experience with your smartphone, the perfect mix between a walking tour, sightseeing, and a scavenger hunt.
Itinerary
1. Royal Palace Amsterdam
Discover the historic Dam Square, home to the iconic National Monument - the main World War Two memorial in the country. This bustling square serves as a popular meeting spot and gathering place, with rich significance during significant national events like Remembrance Day. Feel the pulse of Amsterdam's growth as you explore this vibrant and expanding city hub.
2. Oude Kerk Amsterdam
Discover the fascinating history of the Old Church in Amsterdam, dating back over 700 years. Built in 1306 and dedicated to Saint Nicholas, it stands tall at 70 meters. Explore the unique coexistence of the church with the nearby Red Light District, reflecting a curious interplay between sin and salvation. Uncover stories of sailors, prostitutes, and the intriguing blend of societal norms within this historic landmark.
Duration: 10 mins
3. Our Lord in the Attic Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder
Where’s the hidden church? Well obviously it’s hidden, so you can’t see it. The hidden church is the building across the canal with the bottom two floors that are white, the rest is brick; it doesn’t look like a church but that was the point - it was hidden.
4. Zeedijk
Discover the historic Zeedijk in Amsterdam, standing at a lofty 1.7 meters above sea level! Originally a sea dike from the 13th century, this area boasts unique hoisting systems on its houses and narrow doorways leading to steep steps inside. Experience a piece of the city's past while exploring this charming neighborhood.
Duration: 10 mins
5. Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple
Discover the vibrant Chinatown in Amsterdam and explore the largest Buddhist Temple in Europe built in Chinese palace style. Admire the intricate roof animals representing the Chinese Zodiac and experience the cultural fusion of Dutch and Chinese influences on the street names. Don't miss the opportunity to visit this symbol of religious freedom, opened by Queen Beatrix in 2000.
Duration: 10 mins
6. Restaurant-Café In de Waag
Discover the fascinating history of Amsterdam at the Sint Anthonis Gate, a medieval entrance gate turned weighing house. Originally a defensive structure, it became a hub for trade and guild meetings. Admire the intricate carvings by stonemasons and learn about the city's powerful merchant families.
Duration: 10 mins
7. Rembrandt House Museum
CHeck out the historic Rembrandt House in Amsterdam, where the famous artist lived and worked from 1639 to 1658. Explore the beautifully restored house, offering insights into Rembrandt's life and the art scene of the 17th century (optional entry).
Duration: 10 mins
8. South Church
The historic Zuiderkerk is a picturesque landmark completed in 1614, known for its unique Protestant design and 80-meter tower offering stunning city views. With a rich history that includes serving as a temporary resting place during WWII, this site also inspired renowned artist Claude Monet's work.
Duration: 10 mins
9. The Dancing Houses
Discover the architectural marvels along the Amstel River in Amsterdam, where houses tilt sideways due to the city's swampy foundation. Learn the fascinating history of wooden pylons and hoisting systems that give these buildings their unique charm.
Duration: 10 mins
10. Rembrandtplein
The Rembrandt square was used to be known as the Butter Market but was renamed in modern times in honor of the city’s most famous painter - whose statue you see here. Today it’s a famous place for nightlife with big clubs and plenty of bars and coffee shops nearby.
Duration: 10 mins
11. Munt Tower (Munttoren)
Step back in time as you explore the Munttoren, a historic tower that once guarded Amsterdam's south entrance. Originally a city gate from 1480, this iconic landmark boasts a rich history - from housing the city treasury to being rebuilt by renowned architect Hendrick de Keyser. Today, it houses a Delftware porcelain shop, offering visitors a glimpse into Amsterdam's past. Check out the gable stone, rumored to reveal the city's mysterious origin!
Duration: 10 mins
12. Residence Flower Market
Visit the unique floating flower market, steeped in Dutch history and tulip mania. Discover the world of tulip cultivation and indulge in the beauty of these prized flowers. Open daily from 9 am - 5:30 pm (Sundays from 11 am).
Duration: 10 mins
13. Dampkring Coffeeshop
Discover the iconic Dampkring coffee shop at number 29 Handboogstraat in Amsterdam. Known for its stunning interior and featured in movies, immerse yourself in art and color. Keep an eye out for the friendly house cat while enjoying the upscale surroundings near Kalverstraat.
Duration: 10 mins
14. Begijnhofkapel
Discover the historic Begijnhof courtyard, an oasis of serenity dating back to 1346. Initially a refuge for persecuted Beguine nuns, now a residential haven for 104 women. Seek out the tombstone of Cornelia Arens, a nun memorialized since 1654, amidst peaceful surroundings.
Duration: 10 mins
15. Kalverstraat
Discover the historic Kalverstraat in Amsterdam, once a bustling ox market until the 17th century. This famous shopping street boasts 150 stores with an average rent of 45,000 per month. Take a leisurely stroll and explore the charming monuments, including the historic Burgerweeshuis orphanage.
Duration: 10 mins
Inclusion
Full flexibility: start at any hour, take a break at any time and resume later
Next-gen mobile app guides you through each step of your adventure
Explore the surroundings with a truly unique, immersive, GPS-enabled experience
Interactive self-guided tour lets you move at your own pace
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Requires installing a mobile app (instructions in confirmation email)
Not recommended for people with impaired mobility
Not recommended for seniors over 80
Not recommended for visually impaired people