Amsterdam: the beginning
Everyone on Dam Square is taking pictures of the palace. The most interesting bit is right under your feet. The dam that stood here is where Amsterdam’s story began.
Where it all began
We’ll spend two hours walking through the old centre, from Dam Square towards Rokin, with turns towards the Old Church and Nieuwmarkt. Why does Amsterdam’s first written mention have to do with tolls? Who’s buried beneath the church floor? And who actually paid to watch a dissection?
Why go on day one?
Starting with a specialist tour is like putting on the third Godfather halfway through. It’s interesting, sure, but who are all these people and why are they here? Get a feel for how water and trade shaped Amsterdam, then decide which side of the city you want to see next.
Who it’s for
If you’re here for the first time, start here. If friends or family are visiting, take them along. And if you’ve been crossing Dam Square for years, here’s your chance to finally ask what’s under your feet.
How we do it
We take a detail you could easily walk past and see where it leads. Take the old city gate. How did an anatomy theatre end up inside it, and who thought to sell tickets? That’s how we walk: spot something odd, ask a question and see how it fits into the bigger story. We’ll take it at your group’s pace and follow the questions you’re curious about.
Included
A private city walk with a guide in your chosen language.
Extra
Food, drinks, museum tickets and additional services, unless expressly included in your agreed offer.
Meeting point & booking
We agree a time and meeting point in central Amsterdam. Before payment, we confirm availability, group size, the final price and cancellation terms. Weather, access and your interests may change the route.
Price & practical details
The price depends on your group size: €200 for up to six guests, then €20 per additional guest. Choose your group size in the calculator to see the total. This route takes up to 15 guests.
Questions & answers
Can you adapt the route to our interests?
Of course. It’s your private tour, not a school trip with a compulsory itinerary. Tell us what interests you and we’ll adapt the route as far as the time and city rules allow.
Are the tours suitable for children?
Yes. We don’t have to discuss 17th-century architecture for two solid hours if you’re bringing a child. Tell us their ages and we’ll adapt the pace and topics. We’ll discuss Amsterdam after dark separately: that one has its own considerations.
What happens if it rains during a walking tour?
Bring a jacket and comfortable shoes. Good advice here in any season. Light rain doesn’t cancel a tour. If the weather turns properly nasty, we’ll discuss what to do.
