Free Alternative Walking Tour Amsterdam
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This tour is tip-based, however we charge a €2 booking fee per person
Booking A Tour FAQ
Can I reserve the tour for more than 6 people?
Reservations for the Free Walking Tour Amsterdam are limited to a maximum of 6 people per booking. We keep our groups small to ensure the best possible experience for everyone.
The maximum group size for guided tours in Amsterdam is 15 people. Smaller groups make it easier for everyone to hear the guide, ask questions, and enjoy the stories along the way. It also creates a more relaxed and social atmosphere for travelers exploring the city together.
What happens if I make multiple reservations?
If you make several reservations to try to bring a larger group on the Free Walking Tour Amsterdam, we unfortunately won’t be able to take the extra participants. Those spots may instead be given to other travelers who are waiting to join the tour.
Can larger groups join the tour?
If you are traveling with more than 6 people, we recommend booking a private walking tour in Amsterdam. This allows your group to have a guide dedicated entirely to you and to choose a time that fits your schedule.
For group bookings we offer private tours here:
Private Tours with Guided Tour Holland
This way your group can still enjoy a great experience while keeping our Free Walking Tour Amsterdam comfortable and enjoyable for everyone.
What is the difference between the Classic Tour and the Alternative Tour?
The Alternative Tour dives into Amsterdam’s recent history, covering the period from 1950 to today. Explore how Amsterdam became a liberal city, the truth about marijuana legality, the hippie movement, counterculture, free love, squatting culture, and much more.
If you’re short on time, the Classic Tour offers a comprehensive look at both historical and modern-day Amsterdam, making it perfect for those with just one day to explore. For a deeper dive into the city’s recent history and urban culture, our Alternative Tour is the ideal choice.
Where do we go on the Alternative Tour?
We start the tour from the National Monument on Dam square, from there we walk towards the Gay monument, Anne Frank house, and into the beautiful Jordaan neighborhood. We walk along the Prinsengracht, back to our starting point on Dam square. In this way, you won’t get lost in the labyrinth of Amsterdam.
How much does the Alternative Tour cost?
The Alternative Tour is a Free Walking Tour. So you get to set the price, most people give about €10,- per person if the tour felt good. It is all up to you, we are happy with anything you can spare.
Apart from the tip we do have to charge €2 per person at the start of the tour. This is a booking fee to secure your reservation. To read more about the booking fee and cancellation policy, visit our Booking Fee & Cancellation page.
Is the Alternative Tour suitable for all ages?
That is up to you to decide.
We’ve had families join us with children of all ages, but please note that we do cover some explicit subjects, such as prostitution and drugs. As Dutch locals, we approach these subjects with a respectful and educational mindset, in line with our liberal attitude toward open discussions.
We don’t show any graphic images that might be unsuitable for kids, but keep in mind that during your visit to Amsterdam, you may encounter the sex industry and the smell of weed in certain areas. It’s all part of the city’s unique culture, but we approach these topics with respect and sensitivity.
Ultimately, as a parent you decide what’s best for your children.
Do we enter the Red Light District during the tour?
As of 2020, the city of Amsterdam has restricted all tour operators from entering the Red Light District due to issues caused by large groups disrupting the area. Unfortunately, this means that even educational organizations like ours are no longer allowed to conduct tours there.
However, our Alternative Tour covers the topic in-depth, giving you a solid understanding of the area’s history and significance. The tour ends nearby, so you’re welcome to explore the district on your own. In addition to the famous red-lit windows and erotic-themed bars, the area also hosts cozy bars and some of the city’s best Asian restaurants!
Discover the Underground Culture and History of Amsterdam
Our Alternative Tour takes you off the beaten path and into the heart of real Amsterdam. Starting at the National Monument on Dam Square, this 2-hour tour includes around 1 hour of storytelling and 1 hour of walking.
Our tour takes you through the Jordaan, one of Amsterdam’s oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods. You’ll discover how bike culture became a symbol of Dutch life and learn how Amsterdam evolved from a conservative city to the open-minded counterculture hub it is today. Learn about the hippie movement, the push for legalized marijuana and magic mushrooms, and the squatting movement.
We’ll wrap up back at Dam Square, where you can tip your guide based on your satisfaction. From there, you can continue exploring Amsterdam with a true insider’s perspective!
Start & End Of The Tour:
Dam Square – look for the white umbrellas in front of the National Monument. Most tours finish at or close to Dam Square.
This tour is tip-based, however we charge a €2 booking fee per person
Tour Language: English
Book this tour with a private tour guide
Duration: 2 hours
Dam Square
2 hours
All ages
