Top 15 Unforgettable Tours in Amsterdam

Amsterdam stands as one of Europe’s most esteemed tourist destinations, replete with a diverse range of unique attractions and entertainment options.

Charming architecture and picturesque canals coexist with lively bars and cafes in what is arguably one of the most progressive cities globally.

Amsterdam presents a wealth of experiences beyond its primary tourist highlights and the Red Light District; a guided tour offers an excellent opportunity to engage with the city’s eclectic offerings.

Here are the 15 top tours and experiences available in Amsterdam.

1. Amsterdam Free Walking Tour

If you are mindful of your budget and wish to familiarize yourself with the city during your initial days, a complimentary walking tour is an excellent selection.

By arranging this tour online, you can secure a spot; however, a modest tip to the guide at the conclusion is customary.

This tour guides you through the most renowned landmarks, including the Anne Frank House, the Jordaan neighborhood, and the Red Light District.

The local guide possesses extensive knowledge and can provide valuable insights for the remainder of your journey.

2. Heineken Experience

Although Heineken has relocated its brewery, the original distillery remains accessible for visitation.

Here, you will discover the brewing process established since 1867 and learn about the significance of Heineken in Amsterdam’s local culture. Admission includes two beverages and a brief tasting session.

You will have the chance to learn how to pour your own beer, and there is a well-regarded Brew U ride within the venue for an interactive experience. This aspect proves popular among beer enthusiasts.

3. 75-Minute Water Colors Cruise

During winter, Amsterdam transforms into a visual feast in the evenings with the Amsterdam Light Festival.

A myriad of light installations adorn the city, celebrating its artistic and innovative spirit. A boat cruise along the canals presents one of the finest ways to appreciate the festival.

This cruise not only guides you to the prime light displays, but it also allows you to learn more about Amsterdam through commentary delivered by a knowledgeable local guide.

4. Van Gogh Museum Ticket

Renowned for its vast array of museums, Amsterdam is home to the largest museum dedicated to the works of Vincent Van Gogh. The exhibits chronicle the artist’s life, from his early creations to his final days in a mental health facility.

Due to the museum’s popularity, lengthy queues are common; this ticket permits entry without waiting and allows you to proceed directly into the museum at your designated time.

You will receive unrestricted access to all exhibits and may explore the museum at your leisure.

5. Johan Cruijff ArenA Stadium 75-Minute Tour

Football aficionados will appreciate this opportunity to partake in a guided tour of the home ground of AFC Ajax.

This tour encompasses access to the pitch and dugouts, along with areas typically inaccessible to the public.

It is advisable to undertake this tour on non-match days, which allows for visits to the changing rooms and team-exclusive regions.

The guide, an enthusiastic supporter of AFC Ajax, is well-versed in the team’s history and the football scene in the Netherlands.

6. A’DAM Lookout Premium Ticket Including 2 Drinks

The A’DAM Lookout tower, a recent addition to Amsterdam’s attractions, offers sweeping views over the ports and canals. This ticket grants entry to both the indoor and outdoor viewing areas.

Upon arrival, guests are treated to two complimentary beverages and an additional gift. A professional photograph can also be captured during your visit to the tower.

7. Keukenhof Entry Tickets and Transfers

The Netherlands is celebrated for its tulips, and Keukenhof Gardens serves as an exquisite location to admire the stunning floral displays and other regional flora. This package includes entry tickets and transfers from Amsterdam to the gardens.

Situated only 55 minutes from the city center, you can bypass the lines upon arrival with this ticket. A video presentation is provided, offering insights into the various flowers found within the gardens.

With over 7 million flowers in the park, visiting in spring is ideal for witnessing the most impressive displays.

8. Skip the Line Ticket and Audio Guide: Amsterdam Royal Palace

Gain an inside perspective of the lives of the Dutch Royal Family with this tour of Amsterdam’s Royal Palace.

Visitors will have access to the Royal Banquet Hall and the private quarters of the palace. The building is adorned with wealth and historical artifacts ready to be appreciated.

An audio guide in multiple languages enhances your understanding of the Royal Family’s history and the palace itself. Additionally, families benefit from specialized audio guides tailored for children.

9. Ultimate Party Pub Crawl – Red Light District

Amsterdam is renowned for its energetic nightlife, particularly within the liberal environment of the Red Light District.

This five-hour pub crawl guides you through the area’s most popular establishments. The itinerary includes five pubs and provides entry to a nightclub to conclude your evening. Complimentary drinks are available throughout, along with special discounts on additional beverages.

The proficient tour guide possesses extensive knowledge of Amsterdam’s nightlife and will enlighten you about the city’s progressive attitudes and their cultural implications.

10. Volendam, Marken & Windmills with Free 1-Hour Canal Cruise

For those seeking an escape from the urban landscape, this half-day tour ventures to the most picturesque spots in the Dutch countryside.

You will visit the iconic Zaanse Schans windmills, along with the fishing villages of Volendam and Marken, both nestled in the heart of rural Holland.

The tour guide facilitates a deeper understanding of Dutch heritage through visits to a cheese farm and a wooden clog factory. The experience concludes with a one-hour cruise along serene countryside canals.

Convenient transportation from Amsterdam, as well as multilingual audio guides, are included.

11. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Boat Tour

Hop-on hop-off buses represent a convenient way to explore a new city, particularly for transient visitors or those seeking a swift overview to orient themselves.
In Amsterdam, which is characterized by its canals, this ticket also grants access to a hop-on-hop-off boat, thus providing two experiences in one.

You may choose between either a 24-hour or 48-hour ticket, depending on your desired level of exploration and available time.

As implied by the name, you are free to disembark at attractions that pique your interest and subsequently reboard at no additional cost. Audio guides are available in several languages.

12. Moco Museum: Skip-The-Line Tickets

The Moco Museum serves as Amsterdam’s principal modern art gallery; this ticket facilitates immediate entry at your selected time, eliminating the need to wait in line.

This museum features both traditional modern art exhibits alongside alternative showcases that include street art.

The museum boasts a significant Banksy exhibition and periodically hosts displays featuring street artists from around the globe. Works from Warhol and Dalí are also showcased, alongside contemporary artists from the Netherlands.

13. Amsterdam Red Light District 2-Hour Walking Tour

The Red Light District is not only famed for its nightlife but also stands as a representation of the city’s progressive stance on prostitution.

This walking tour guides you through the district to delve deeper into the Netherlands’ open approach to sex work. You will have the chance to explore the Condomerie and hear narratives from local sex workers.

Your professional guide ensures safe navigation of the area’s streets while imparting knowledge regarding its historical background. The experience includes a complimentary shot at Belushi’s Bar, marking the tour’s conclusion.

14. 2-Hour History of Anne Frank Tour

The Anne Frank House serves as a highly frequented attraction; nevertheless, numerous other significant sites await exploration to uncover the history of Anne Frank and the Jewish community in the Netherlands.

This tour traverses the Jewish Quarter, where you will discover the experiences of those persecuted during the Nazi era, as well as the modern revitalization of the area. You will also encounter monuments dedicated to the Jewish community throughout the city.

Please note that this tour does not include entry tickets to the Anne Frank House; however, it concludes there, making it a suitable precursor to your visit.

15. Amsterdam Evening Pizza Cruise

This distinctive tour offers a delightful way to enjoy a canal cruise while learning about Amsterdam’s history and the narratives behind its key attractions.

Participants are treated to pizza and unlimited drinks while a knowledgeable tour guide discusses the local culture. You may also enjoy a tub of Ben and Jerry’s ice cream prior to disembarking.

A complimentary app featuring audio commentary in six languages is available for your convenience.

The pizza is supplied by the New York Pizza company, making this tour an excellent opportunity to uncover connections between Amsterdam and New York City.