Amsterdam is a city that practically invites exploration. Its compact center, lined with winding canals and historic buildings, makes walking, biking, and small-group tours ideal for truly experiencing what makes this city unique. Whether you’re interested in the profound story of Anne Frank, curious about the city’s lively Red Light District, or eager to explore Dutch countryside by bike, Amsterdam offers tours that cater to every curiosity. We’ve selected the best options, from guided walks with passionate storytellers to bike rides through vibrant neighborhoods, ensuring you’ll find a memorable way to uncover the city’s layers.
For example, the Anne Frank Walking Tour gives an intimate look at the Jewish Quarter. Or, if you prefer a lively, quick immersion, the Red Light District Tour in multiple languages offers a fun, candid look at one of Amsterdam’s most talked-about areas. Whatever your style, Amsterdam’s rich mix of experiences can make your visit both meaningful and entertaining.
Quick Overview
The list below highlights the 13 best tours in Amsterdam, covering a variety of interests and pacing. From emotional WWII history walks to cycling adventures through the scenic Dutch countryside, each tour offers a unique window into the city. For a detailed look at each, read on.
1. Amsterdam: Anne Frank Walking Tour
At number 1, the Anne Frank Walking Tour provides a powerful, personal experience with the Jewish Quarter. The tour lasts about 2 hours and is available in small-group or private formats, featuring a guide passionate about sharing Anne Frank’s story alongside the history of the Holocaust in Amsterdam. You’ll visit sites like the Jewish Cultural Quarter, the Portuguese Synagogue, and memorials, including the Auschwitz Monument.
What makes this tour stand out? The guide’s stories are vivid, making Anne Frank’s diary come alive, and the walk through the Jewish neighborhood is deeply moving. Reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and the emotional impact, with many saying it’s a tour they’ll never forget. It’s perfect for history lovers who want a meaningful, personal connection to the city’s wartime past. At just $27, it also offers excellent value for such a rich experience.
Bottom Line: A thoughtful, emotionally resonant tour suitable for those interested in WWII history or Anne Frank’s story.
2. Amsterdam: Red Light District Tour in German/English/Italian
Coming in at number 2, the Red Light District Tour takes you through Amsterdam’s most infamous area in about 1.5 hours. Led by lively guides in your language of choice, this tour offers a critical, insightful look behind the scenes of the district’s sex work, coffeeshops, and nightlife. You’ll explore key spots like Condomerie, Oude Kerk, and the district’s narrow streets, with stops to photograph iconic sites.
What sets this tour apart? Its lively tone and honest discussion about sex work, politics, and culture make it both fun and educational. Reviews are glowing, praising guides like Francesco and Risheet for their knowledge and engaging manner. It’s ideal for travelers who want to understand the district’s complex reputation without feeling uncomfortable. The tour’s 15-minute stops also allow for plenty of personal exploration afterward.
Bottom Line: An entertaining, honest way to learn about Amsterdam’s red light district with a local guide.
3. Amsterdam: Anne Frank Walking Tour – Guided in EN/DE/IT/ES
Position 3 is again the Anne Frank Walking Tour, but this version offers a more immersive experience. Spread over 2 hours, the guide speaks English, German, Italian, or Spanish, and the tour emphasizes not only the story of Anne Frank but also the resistance against the Nazis and Jewish sites like memorials and Stolpersteine.
What makes this tour valuable? The guide’s passionate storytelling, combined with passages from Anne Frank’s diary, create an emotional journey. Reviewers mention guides like Zoe and Marie for their depth of knowledge and personable approach. The detailed itinerary includes the Jewish Historical Museum and Holocaust memorials, providing a comprehensive picture of the wartime period.
Bottom Line: A profound, multilingual experience ideal for those interested in WWII, resistance stories, and Jewish heritage.
4. Big Bike Tour Amsterdam – See all in 3 unforgettable hours
Number 4 on our list, the Big Bike Tour is perfect for covering a lot of ground in just 3 hours. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this cycling adventure visits the Jewish Quarter, Anne Frank House, Westerkerk, De Pijp, and highlights like the Skinny Bridge. It’s a comprehensive way to get a feel for the city’s neighborhoods while enjoying the outdoors.
Guests appreciate the guide Miriam’s expertise and the chance to see both iconic and local spots. The tour is well-paced, with a Vondelpark break, making it suitable even for those who aren’t seasoned cyclists. The $42 price includes bike rental and a scenic overview that’s hard to match.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a broad, outdoor introduction to Amsterdam in a short time.
5. Amsterdam: Cultural Highlights Walking Tour in EN/DE/IT
Ranked 5th, the Cultural Highlights Walking Tour offers a lively 2-hour walk through the city’s main sights, including Dam Square, the Royal Palace, and the Anne Frank Monument. The guide shares stories about Amsterdam’s history, politics, and culture, while you stroll past charming canal houses and bustling squares.
Reviews mention how knowledgeable and personable the guides are, with many recommending it for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded overview. The tour offers useful tips for exploring afterward and is priced at a very reasonable rate.
Bottom Line: Perfect for newcomers who want a lively, informative introduction to Amsterdam’s main sights.
6. Amsterdam: Off the Beaten Path Bike Tour in French
Number 6 is the Off the Beaten Path Bike Tour, a 2.5-hour ride exploring neighborhoods less visited by travelers. Led in French by a local guide, it takes you through the Jordaan, the Dutch countryside, and historical sites like the Holocaust memorial and the windmill of D’Admiraal.
Guests love how this tour uncovers the quieter, authentic parts of Amsterdam away from crowds. The route includes stops at the Holocaust memorial and the windmill, with plenty of time to absorb local stories. The small-group format and the quality bikes make it a comfortable and educational ride.
Bottom Line: Best suited for French-speaking travelers wanting an intimate look at Amsterdam’s lesser-known spots.
7. Amsterdam: Johan Cruijff ArenA VIP Tour
For sports fans, the Johan Cruijff ArenA VIP Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at Ajax’s home stadium. In 2 hours, you’ll explore the dressing rooms, board room, and enjoy a drink in a skybox, feeling like a true VIP. The tour is well-suited for football lovers who want to see the legend’s stadium close-up.
Guests praise the exclusive access and the opportunity to see historic areas usually off-limits. The $73 price includes a unique experience for fans of sports and stadium architecture. It’s a highlight for those seeking a different kind of tour in Amsterdam.
Bottom Line: Perfect for football fans or anyone wanting an exclusive stadium experience.
8. Zaanse Schans Windmills & Volendam Guided Tour
Number 8 is the Zaanse Schans & Volendam Tour, a 5-hour trip showcasing the Dutch countryside. You’ll visit historic windmills, watch cheese being made, and explore the fishing village of Volendam. This tour offers a deep dive into traditional Dutch crafts and scenery.
Guests love the cheese tasting and the chance to see windmills still turning after centuries. The guide provides engaging commentary throughout, and the mix of sightseeing and free time makes it well-balanced. At a competitive price, it’s great for those interested in Dutch culture.
Bottom Line: An excellent day trip for lovers of Dutch crafts, scenery, and authentic villages.
9. Amsterdam: Giethoorn Tour with Boat Ride & Afsluitdijk Visit
Number 9, the Giethoorn Tour, is a full 9-hour day exploring the “Dutch Venice.” You’ll cruise past farmhouses, visit the Afsluitdijk, and explore Giethoorn’s canals and wooden bridges. The highlight is the boat ride through this picturesque village.
The tour is perfect for those wanting to see the quintessential Dutch rural scenery. Reviews mention the peaceful boat cruise and the beauty of the houses and windmills. It’s a long day but offers a relaxing, scenic side of the Netherlands outside Amsterdam.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a tranquil, scenic escape to the countryside.
10. Windmill, Cheese, and Countryside E-Bike Tour
At number 10, the E-Bike Tour combines scenic countryside riding with visits to windmills and cheese farms. It covers Broek in Waterland, Monnickendam, and Katwoude across 4 hours, including stops at a traditional windmill and cheese farm.
Guests love how the electric bikes make pedaling easy, and the stops at local farms give authentic insights into Dutch food production. The route is well-paced, suitable for most fitness levels, and offers a relaxing way to see rural Holland.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want an easy-paced, scenic rural experience.
11. Amsterdam: Red Light District Tour in English or German
Number 11 repeats the Red Light District Tour but in a straightforward format. It’s a 2-hour tour exploring the district’s history, brothels, and coffeeshops with a guide in English or German. The route includes Dam Square, Condomerie, and the Oude Kerk.
It’s perfect for travelers wanting a quick, lively overview with honest commentary about the district’s character. Many reviewers mention the guide’s friendly approach and informative style.
Bottom Line: Best for those short on time who want an authentic, no-nonsense tour of the district.
12. Van Gogh Museum Guided Tour & Entry Ticket (Max 6 ppl)
Number 12 offers an intimate Van Gogh Museum tour led by an art historian. In just over an hour, this small-group experience gets you straight to Van Gogh’s masterpieces, with insights into his life and artistic periods.
Guests love the personalized commentary and the chance to skip long lines. The guide’s knowledge about Van Gogh’s struggles, relationships, and influences makes this tour especially meaningful. The small size ensures a more detailed experience, making it well worth the $161.
Bottom Line: Ideal for art lovers wanting a focused, in-depth look at Van Gogh’s works with a true expert.
13. Amsterdam: Guided Ganja Walking Tour of Coffee Shops
The final entry, Ganja Coffee Shop Tour, offers an insider look at Amsterdam’s cannabis scene. Led by Erik, the tour visits boutique coffee shops, explains medical cannabis, and meets like-minded travelers. It lasts 45 minutes to 2.5 hours.
Guests appreciate the relaxed, candid approach and the chance to explore lesser-known spots. The tour emphasizes mindfulness and education about cannabis use, making it more than just a sightseeing walk. The reviews highlight the guide’s experience and the fun, informal atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best for curious travelers interested in understanding Amsterdam’s cannabis culture in a low-key setting.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Amsterdam
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, time, and energy. History buffs should consider the Anne Frank walking tours or the WWII-focused Anne Frank guided tour, while culture seekers might prefer the Cultural Highlights.
For a physical adventure, the Big Bike Tour and E-bike countryside are excellent choices. Art lovers should not miss the Van Gogh Museum, especially if you want a focused experience.
If you’re after a lively, fun insight into local life, the Red Light District and Ganja Coffee Shop tours are ideal. Budget-minded travelers can find strong value in the walking tours, while those seeking a splurge might opt for the VIP stadium or art museum experiences. Book early, especially for popular tours like the Van Gogh Museum or the Anne Frank walks.
Final Thoughts
Amsterdam offers a remarkable range of tours that suit all interests and travel styles. Whether you’re drawn to poignant history, lively neighborhoods, or scenic countryside, you’ll find a memorable way to experience this lively city. Two or three tours stand out as especially worthwhile: the Anne Frank Walking Tour for history lovers, the Big Bike Tour for outdoor explorers, and the Van Gogh Museum tour for art enthusiasts. Booking early is recommended—Amsterdam’s tours fill quickly, especially in peak seasons. Now, pick what excites you most and start planning your unforgettable trip!