Amsterdam: Food Walking Tour

When it comes to experiencing a city like Amsterdam, food tours are an excellent way to combine culture, history, and local flavors. This Amsterdam Food Walking Tour by Jasmin Tours has been highly rated, with a perfect 5-star score from five reviews, and it promises a delightful blend of history and Dutch cuisine—all for just $59 per person. While we haven’t personally tested this tour, the detailed description and glowing reviews paint a vivid picture of what participants can expect.

Three things we really like about this experience are its focus on authentic Dutch flavors—from cheese to herring—its walking through historic landmarks, and the chance to learn about Amsterdam’s culture from a multilingual guide. The only potential consideration might be the physical aspect: comfortable shoes and a moderate pace are necessary, especially since it includes visits to multiple sites and food stops. This tour suits foodies, history buffs, and anyone eager to enjoy Amsterdam’s culinary scene in an engaging, social setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch cuisine: Cheese, herring, and local snacks provide genuine flavors.
• Historic locations: The tour visits iconic landmarks like the Schreierstoren and Dam Square.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Chinara deliver insightful commentary on city history and architecture.
• Well-paced walking: Designed for a relaxed, enjoyable experience without feeling rushed.
• Inclusive cheese tasting: 20 types of Dutch cheese paired with sweet and sour sauces.
• Flexible booking options: Pay later, with no upfront cost, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

Starting Point at Amsterdam Central Station

The tour kicks off right at the main gate of Amsterdam Central Station, making it incredibly convenient for travelers arriving by train. From here, the group heads into the heart of the city, setting the tone for a day filled with stories, flavors, and sights.

Visit to The Schreierstoren Tower

The first stop is the Schreierstoren (Weeper’s Tower), a historic monument dating back to the 15th century. This site offers a glimpse into Amsterdam’s maritime past and provides a scenic backdrop for your first taste of local snacks—bitterballen served with local beer. As one reviewer noted, the guide Chinara was “extremely kind and thoughtful,” making the history come alive, and she shared fascinating tidbits about the architecture and significance of the tower.

Exploring Old City and Food Tastings

Strolling through Amsterdam’s charming streets, the tour continues with a focus on the city’s culinary staples. Expect to taste 20 types of Dutch cheese, each paired with sweet and sour sauces, which showcases the variety and quality of local dairy. The cheese is described as “delicious,” with some reviewers mentioning that the diversity exceeded expectations, making it a highlight of the tour.

Next, the group visits traditional fast food spots for some deep-fried snacks. These could include kroketten or other local favorites, giving a taste of everyday Dutch comfort food. Such stops add a fun, casual element to the experience, and the guide’s local knowledge ensures you get the best spots.

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Sampling Herring and Other Local Delights

One of the most iconic Dutch foods, herring, is revealed next. Tasting fresh herring from a trusted local vendor offers a chance to enjoy a true Amsterdam specialty. Reviewers mentioned that the herring was “fresh and flavorful,” providing insight into Dutch seafood traditions. The guide also shares stories about these dishes, helping you understand their cultural roots.

Cultural and Historical Insights at Dam Square

The tour wraps up at Dam Square, where you’ll learn about Amsterdam’s major cultural and historical buildings. This spot is perfect for those looking to connect the food experience with the city’s broader story. The guide’s commentary about the architecture and history of the square adds depth to the visit, making the overall experience more enriching.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For just $59, you receive a multilingual guide, a walking tour through some of the city’s most picturesque areas, and a cheese tasting featuring 20 varieties. While the price covers the main activity, travelers should budget for their own additional food and drinks at the stops, especially if they want to sample more or enjoy beverages.

The tour’s length is not explicitly stated, but given the stops and tastings, it’s likely around 2-3 hours of engaging exploration. The group size seems manageable, with the guide’s personalized attention highlighted in reviews.

Meeting Point and Practical Details

Meeting at the main gate of Amsterdam Central Station makes this tour easily accessible, especially for travelers arriving by train or cruise. The ending point is back at the same location, simplifying logistics. Comfortable shoes are strongly recommended, given the amount of walking involved.

The tour is offered in several languages, including English, Russian, Turkish, and Azerbaijani, catering to a diverse group of travelers. Flexible booking options, including “reserve & pay later,” allow you to secure your spot with confidence, knowing you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Authenticity and Guides

From reviews, guides like Chinara are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. One review mentions that Chinara “demonstrated a phenomenal knowledge of the city, not only its food and culture, but also its architecture,” making the tour both educational and enjoyable. Such personalized insights enhance the overall value and authenticity of the experience.

Value and Suitability

Considering the price, this tour offers excellent value for those interested in Dutch cuisine, local history, and engaging storytelling. It’s a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups who want a relaxed, immersive way to explore Amsterdam’s culinary scene without the hassle of planning individual tastings.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to try authentic Dutch flavors, from cheese to herring. It also suits those wanting to combine sightseeing with tasting, especially if they enjoy walking and learning about city landmarks. The guide’s engaging manner makes it ideal for travelers who appreciate a friendly, informative approach.

Those who prefer a more structured, food-focused experience without extensive walking may want to check the duration and plan accordingly. It’s also a good fit for curious travelers who enjoy stories about history and architecture, as the guide shares insights beyond just the food.

The Sum Up

The Amsterdam Food Walking Tour by Jasmin Tours offers an enjoyable, balanced introduction to Dutch cuisine and Amsterdam’s historical sites. The combination of cheese, traditional snacks, and herring, along with insightful commentary from guides like Chinara, creates a memorable experience that feels authentic and friendly.

At just $59, it provides excellent value, especially considering the variety of tastings and the opportunity to explore iconic city sights. It’s best suited for curious travelers who love to eat, learn, and walk at a relaxed pace—perfect for first-time visitors or anyone wanting a taste of local life beyond typical tourist spots.

This tour is an ideal way to deepen your connection with Amsterdam’s culture in a fun, flavorful, and informative setting. Whether you’re a solo explorer or traveling with friends, it’s a deliciously worthwhile experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegans or people with food allergies?
No, the tour is not suitable for vegans or those with food allergies, as it features cheese, herring, and other traditional Dutch snacks that may not accommodate special dietary needs.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the main gate of Amsterdam Central Station and ends at the same location, making logistics simple for travelers arriving by train.

How long does the tour last?
While not explicitly stated, similar city food tours usually last around 2-3 hours, including stops for tastings and sightseeing.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended. You can reserve and pay later, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as the tour involves walking through the city streets and historic sites.

Are drinks included?
The tour includes cheese tastings and snacks. Additional drinks might be available at some stops, but they are not included in the price.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information provided focuses on walking, so those with mobility challenges should inquire further to confirm accessibility.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English, Russian, Turkish, and Azerbaijani, ensuring a comfortable experience for diverse travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: