The Jordaan District is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Amsterdam, known for its lively bars and shopping, as well as its bustling markets, and deep history.

On a Jordaan District tour in Amsterdam, you can admire numerous attractions as you learn all about the rise of this former poverty-stricken area of the city. Discover the harrowing history of Anne Frank, explore one of the city's most impressive churches and be awed by this spectacular area.

Here's all you need to know about the Jordaan District, one of the most remarkable sightseeing tours in Amsterdam.

Where is the Jordaan District located?

The Jordaan District is located in the center of Amsterdam and sits between four of the city's main canals — Prinsengracht, Lijnbaansgracht, Passeerdersgracht, and Brouwersgracht. The neighborhood can be walked to from Amsterdam Central Station in around 20 minutes.

Alternatively, if you don't feel like walking, you can catch the Line 17 tram from Amsterdam Central or hop onto one of the local buses that depart the station regularly.

What are the best things to do in the Jordaan District?

West Church

West Church — also known as Westerkerk — is a Dutch Protestant place of worship, located in the Jordaan District. It was built over an 11-year period in the 17th century and was constructed in typical Renaissance style by the architect Hendrick de Keyser, who was later buried on site.

This was one of the first religious buildings built specifically for the Protestant religion, while other churches in Amsterdam were converted from Catholicism during the reformation in the 16th century.

Anne Frank House

The Anne Frank House is dedicated to the young girl who kept note of her life as a Jewish teen in hiding during WWII. Anne went into hiding in a secret annex of this house with her family and four others during the Nazi occupation of the city.

The family spent 761 in the attic until they were discovered and killed by the Nazi party, although her tale lives on as one of hope, and mercy.

In 1960, a museum opened on-site to pay respects to both Anne and the rest of the Jewish community, and serve as education on life during WWII.

What are the best tours to visit in the Jordaan District?

Jordaan District food tour

Let your taste buds guide you through the center of the Jordaan District on this food tour in Amsterdam.

As part of a small group, you'll travel through the neighborhood's bustling streets to find the eateries where the locals hang out. As you walk from place to place, your guide will fill you in on the history of food in the city and how it has shaped the Amsterdam you see today.

Must-try dishes on a food tour include pickled herring — a Dutch delicacy — as well as smoked sausage and Dutch cheese. You'll visit eight different food outlets in total, giving you a culinary education on Amsterdam's restaurant scene.

Walking tour in Jordaan District

Discover the highlights of the Jordaan District with the personalized attention of your own private guide on this walking tour in Amsterdam.

With your knowledgeable guide by your side, you'll set off for a stroll around the historic Jordaan District. You'll see West Church — a Renaissance masterpiece built in the 17th century — as well as a traditional Dutch Hofje.

Depending on the day of your excursion, you may have the opportunity to immerse yourself in one of Jordaan District's energetic markets, where you can find antiques and street food.

As you wander leisurely through the streets, you learn all about the uprising of the neighborhood and its origins as a district of French immigrants.

Private tour in Jordaan District plus Red Light District

Explore two of Amsterdam's most famed neighborhoods on this tour in the Jordaan District and the Red Light District.

Starting at Amsterdam's Central Station, you'll take a walk through the Red Light District, known for its association with prostitution. This area has a long-standing history and is named after the red lights that frame businesses' windows, indicating that a sex worker is available for hire.

Move on to the Jordaan District, which has seen a transformation from a poverty-stricken immigrant neighborhood to an animated and trendy corner of the city.

You'll discover West Church, as well as the sorrowful house where Anne Frank hid from the German occupation in WWII.

Feast on a local lunch before traveling to the De Pijp District where you'll find the largest outdoor market in the country, selling a range of goods from fashion accessories to souvenirs and tasty treats. Wander through the city's Jewish Quarter before wrapping up your tour in Dam Square.

Amsterdam canal tour of Jordaan District plus Amstel and Port

Enjoy the relaxed pace of this Amsterdam canal cruise if you want to see the city from a unique perspective, hop on a boat and explore Amsterdam from its ancient canal system.

On board a small boat, you'll travel along Amsterdam's waterways, admiring the myriad of landmarks and monuments that line their banks. Hear about the history of Amsterdam, as well as interesting tidbits on the modern city from an enthusiastic and engaging guide.

What are the prices of Jordaan District tours?

The most budget-friendly tour in the Jordaan District takes place along the city's canals from the seat of a boat. This costs around €80 per person and your group will be the only one aboard.

Jordaan District tours that revolve around food cost around €90 each and take place as part of a small group. You'll be accompanied by no more than 11 other guests and you'll have the opportunity to try 12 different dishes.

A private Amsterdam walking tour of the Jordaan District costs approximately €100 per person and includes a drink at a local cafe, as well as the services of a local guide.

Alternatively, you can opt for a private walking tour of the Jordaan District and the Red Light District together for around €110 each.

Where do Jordaan District tours start?

Tours in the Jordaan District begin in a variety of destinations, depending on which other areas you'll be exploring. Meeting points are usually recognizable landmarks that are easy to reach by public transportation.

You can see the starting destination of each tour before booking so that you can arrange any necessary transportation in advance.

When is the best time to visit the Jordaan District?

One of the best times to take a tour of the Jordaan District is during the spring months of April and May. During this time, the temperatures are mild — between 13 and 17 degrees Celsius — and the flowers are in bloom.

Plan your Jordaan District visit during the afternoon or evening, when you'll find the neighborhood brimming with life. Alternatively, travel to the Jordaan District on a Monday morning to experience the flea market at Noordermarkt.

Travel tips

Tours in the Jordaan District usually take place on foot, so ensure you're wearing comfortable shoes.
The weather in Amsterdam can be unreliable throughout the year, so take an umbrella and an extra layer with you on your excursion, just in case.
See how many landmarks are visited before making a decision on which tour to choose. Select the one with the most complete itinerary for a deep dive into Amsterdam's history and culture.

Jordaan District Tours in Amsterdam