Amsterdam has more than 700 years of dynamic history flowing through its streets and a city tour is the best way to capture the city’s magic.

Let a tour guide take you to all the hidden gems and major attractions, retelling the history of the city and sharing little-known anecdotes to add whimsical detail to your portrait of Amsterdam.

From medieval canals and fortresses to modern museums and architecture, the Dutch capital offers something for everyone and a city tour in Amsterdam is the best way to see what’s on offer.

Here's all you need to know about a city tour, one of the most captivating sightseeing tours in Amsterdam.

What are the best city tours in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam highlights bike tour

When in Amsterdam (as they say, "When in Rome"), take to the streets by bike, just like hundreds of thousands of locals do every day. This 2-hour city bike tour in Amsterdam is a very comprehensive option and the most popular way to explore the city.

You will pedal past the idyllic waterways of Amsterdam and visit the old western harbor. Along the way, you will veer into quaint courtyards to see the charming spirit of Amsterdam come to life.

Your guide will take you on a journey through the city’s history and take you through several neighborhoods that will reflect the various eras of Amsterdam’s development.

Ride through the Jewish Quarter and admire the stunning homes, including Rembrandt House Museum. Another cultural institution on your route is the Rijksmuseum where more than a million priceless paintings adorn the walls.

The last leg of your ride will be through the Red Light District to see more of Amsterdam’s underground culture, one of the most famous parts of the city.

This Amsterdam city tour is also available as a private tour if you want a more intimate experience or in the back of a rickshaw if you don’t feel like pedaling yourself around.

Self-guided city tour through Amsterdam

Not everyone loves the pace of a guided tour so opt for a self-guided walking tour in Amsterdam to enjoy the city more leisurely. You will get access to an app with a map and various audio samplings that guide you through the city.

The tour takes you on a journey through the life of Rembrandt and his works and you will explore the significance of the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century.

For a more interactive adventure, book a scavenger hunt through Amsterdam. The tour is also completed on your phone but you must solve riddles and answer questions to get clues to your next destination.

Amsterdam culinary and culture tour

The Dutch are well known for their indulgent and delectable snacks and a culture tour that also crosses over into the culinary landscape is a brilliant way to fully experience Amsterdam.

Start the tour at Dam Square to learn about the city’s history and admire the beautiful architecture. Head on over to Torensluis to try the imports C’s of the city: coffee, cheese and chocolate.

After this food tour in Amsterdam, the next treat is a visit to the Jordaan District to visit the houseboat museum, a unique part of Dutch culture, and indulge in an apple tart and whipped cream. Lastly, you will pay a visit to the National Monument, Nieuwe Kerk and the Amsterdam Canals.

Which places are visited?

Amsterdam city tours take you all through the charming streets of the city and past some of the most notable monuments. Each tour takes you on a unique route, focusing on the multiple faces of the city.

Explore the cultural side of the city, eat your way past the city’s indulgent street food or delve into the historic past of Amsterdam. Walk past the Rembrandt House, Rijksmuseum, Dam Square, Red Light District and many more as you tick locations off your Amsterdam bucket list.

How much do city tours in Amsterdam cost?

The least expensive way to enjoy an Amsterdam city tour is with a self-guided audio tour. The scavenger hunt costs €5 per person while the more in-depth Rembrandt cultural tour costs €10 per person.

The most popular option for a city tour in Amsterdam is by bike. Enjoy a small group bike tour for €30 per person or take a private tour for around €200 per person, depending on the size of your party. A private rickshaw costs €110 for a 2-hour tour and two people can participate.

A culinary city tour of Amsterdam costs €65 per person and includes a selection of delectable treats and your entry ticket into the Houseboat Museum.

What is included?

Most Amsterdam city tours don’t enter museums or buildings, and there is no need to include entry tickets. The culinary tour does, however, go into the Houseboat Museum and your ticket is included. All the snacks on the tour are also included in your ticket cost.

Bike tours all include the use of a bicycle along with safety equipment. You will also have a dedicated guide to take you on your journey through the city.

Self-guided tours only give you access to the tour app and you can download it to your phone to use at your own leisure.

Where does it start?

There are many different kinds of city tours in Amsterdam, each one with a different starting location. Bike tours start at the operator’s office or stand and they will send you clear information on how to get there once you book.

Private tours often offer hotel pickup if you stay in a central area but if it is a walking tour you will meet your guide at a pre-arranged location.

Areas like the Central Station or Dam Square are popular starting points as there are many attractions in proximity to them.

How long does it last?

Most Amsterdam city tours last between 2 and 2.5 hours. Private tours often last a little longer and you can expect around 4 hours for those. Culinary tours are also a little longer than basic city tours and they take around 3.5 hours to give you time to enjoy all the delicious treats along the way.

When is the best time for a city tour in Amsterdam?

Most city tours in Amsterdam happen in the late morning or early afternoon around lunchtime. At these times, the city isn’t too busy like during rush hours but there is still enough going on to give you a glimpse into city life.

Try to take your Amsterdam city tour at the beginning of your stay. You will get a lay of the land and have a better frame of reference for when you venture out on your own.

Are there any combos available with city tours in Amsterdam?

Amsterdam City tour and Rijksmuseum combo

Take a private walking tour through Amsterdam and enjoy the privilege of having a private guide on a visit to the Rijksmuseum, one of the most notable art museums in the world.

Travel tips

Wear comfortable shoes as your Amsterdam city tour will cover a significant distance.
Amsterdam has unpredictable weather so bring a weatherproof jacket or a small umbrella.
Let your guide know ahead of time if you have any food allergies if you are doing to culinary and cultural tour.

City Tours in Amsterdam