Absolutely Amsterdam - the Essential Introductory Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Discover the fascinating history of the most liberal city in the world with FreeDam Tours. On this unique tip-based* sightseeing & storytelling tour, you will discover how freedom and tolerance shaped the city and its people throughout the ages.
Your super-local guide will combine beautiful sightseeing with exciting storytelling, and with the clever use of pictures and maps, you will learn everything you need to know about Amsterdam in one tour: history, modern life, culture, art, fun facts, and personal stories for a unique insider’s perspective on life in Amsterdam.
Be prepared to challenge all your preconceived ideas about this city because after this tour you will never look and think of Amsterdam the same way!
* Tip-based means you only pay a small booking/marketing fee to the platform and you can tip your guide directly what you think the tour was worth. That motivates us to give the best possible tour and you always get the best value for your money!
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Our guides support their tours with pictures, paintings and maps that help bring history back to life!
A unique souvenir
On the tour you will be treated to typical Dutch Cookie
Super Local Guides who are are also happy to share share their (restaurant) recommendations with you
What To Expect
Beurs van Berlage
In front of the stock- and commodities exchange buildings, built where the Amtel river used to flow, we discuss the origins of Amsterdam and how water and finance influenced the city.
Damrak
In the old harbor, we discuss the origins of the Red Light District, the role of the Church, and how the holy and the profane have found surprising ways to work and profit from each other over time & the state of prostitution in the 20th and 21st Century: how and why prostitution became a legal profession, how the neighbourhood has changed over time and the current challenges facing the most infamous neighbourhood of Amsterdam.
Options
Summer Evening Tour
Tip-Based Tour
Reviews
3,346 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Great tour, a must for first timers
Judith Z,
Sep 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00It was a very informative and fun tour, got to see the hidden gems that I otherwise would have missed. Ramses was a fantastic guide, super well informed and friendly!
Amsterdam walking tour
Christina H,
Sep 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00Really enjoyed the walking tour. Our guide David was great. Very informative and took us on a tour of the city giving lots of information on the buildings and history of Amsterdam and how it became what it is today. The group was small so it was easy to follow David and hear everything that was said. Would recommend this tour to anyone going to Amsterdam for the first time.
Very informative &...
Juliet V,
Sep 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00Very informative & interesting tour . We learnt so much about Amsterdam & the history of the Netherlands in a fun way , this is definitely not a boring tour.
Highly recommend to see...
Shannon W,
Sep 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00Highly recommend to see different parts of Amsterdam that as a tourist you may not see. Karl was an excellent guide
Great introduction to Amsterdam
tracie g,
Sep 6, 2025
- Viator
5.00Ramses was awesome! Very knowledgeable. Loved that he shared unique historical details. Was the perfect way to be introduced to beautiful Amsterdam! Thank you.
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Operated by FreeDam Tours