Amsterdam’s reputation as a city of art, culture, and lively streets is well-earned, but its history is just as captivating. For those eager to explore the city’s story beyond the tulips and bicycles, Amsterdam offers a wide variety of historical Tours that reveal its layered past. Whether cruising through centuries-old canals, walking through the Jewish Quarter, or uncovering haunted alleys, there’s a tour for every curiosity. We particularly like the small-group canal cruises, where you can relax with drinks and stories from local guides, and the private walking tours, perfect for a personalized deep dive. For the darker side, the ghost walks add an eerie flavor to your visit. Read on for our carefully curated list of the 15 best historical tours in Amsterdam, each offering a unique window into the city’s past.
Quick Overview
Our list includes various types of tours: scenic canal cruises, thoughtful walking explorations, private history-focused experiences, and even themed ghost and dark history walks. You’ll find options suited for different budgets, interests, and time constraints. For example, the Amsterdam: 90-Minutes Small Group Canal Cruise with Drinks is ideal if you want a relaxed, social experience, while the Anne Frank and the Jewish History of Amsterdam Private Tour offers an in-depth, personalized look at one of the city’s most poignant stories. For the full spectrum, see the detailed reviews and highlights below.
1. Amsterdam: 90-Minutes Small Group Canal Cruise with Drinks
At number 1, this charming electric boat cruise is a fantastic way to see Amsterdam’s iconic waterways. It’s a small-group experience, meaning you’ll enjoy more personal interaction and better views. The crew, all wearing bright pink, adds a fun touch—look for Captain Jack Amsterdam. As you drift past historic sights like the Rijksmuseum and Herengracht, your local captain shares fascinating stories about the city’s hidden gems and history. Light Dutch snacks and drinks are available, making it a relaxed social outing. Reviewers love the laughter, intimacy, and storytelling, with a 4.7/5 rating from over 1,700 reviews. This cruise is perfect if you want a fun, laid-back introduction to Amsterdam’s past from the water.
Bottom line: For an engaging, comfortable trip with snacks and local insights, this cruise scores high and offers great value at only $24 per person.
2. Anne Frank and the Jewish History of Amsterdam Private Tour
Number 2 on our list is a 3-hour private tour that takes you through the poignant history of Amsterdam’s Jewish community. Starting at the impressive Portuguese Synagogue, you’ll explore the Jewish Historical Museum and walk past the Holocaust Memorial, Dokwerker, and Dam Square. The tour ends at the Anne Frank House, which you can visit on your own afterward—tickets need to be booked well in advance. This tour is highly rated, with a perfect 5.0/5 from 251 reviews, thanks to its personalized approach and in-depth storytelling. It also offers the opportunity to see a VR simulation if tickets are sold out, making it adaptable to your schedule.
This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an empathetic, detailed understanding of Amsterdam’s WWII history and Jewish heritage. The private format ensures your questions are answered, and the guide can tailor the experience to your interests.
Bottom line: If you want an intimate and emotionally moving journey through a crucial part of Amsterdam’s past, this tour delivers. It’s a slightly higher price point but well worth the depth of experience.
3. Anne Frank and Amsterdam Jewish History Walking Tour
Number 3 is a 2-hour small-group walking tour for those who prefer exploring on foot. It offers an up-close look at the streets where history unfolded, including lesser-known sites linked to Anne Frank’s story. This tour emphasizes personalized storytelling and avoids the crowds of the main museum. The guide shares insights about the Jewish community and WWII history, ending near the Secret Annex so you can continue your visit independently.
Rated 5/5 by travelers, it’s a great choice if you’re interested in walking at a relaxed pace with a small group (limited to 15). Guests note the guide’s knowledge and the thoughtful narrative that makes history come alive.
Bottom line: For a more personal, street-level perspective on the Jewish history intertwined with Amsterdam’s layout, this tour offers meaningful insights in a compact format.
4. LGBTQI+ History Tour of Amsterdam
Number 4 is a 2-hour walking journey through Amsterdam’s LGBTQ+ history. Led by a passionate local guide who lived through the early gay movement, this tour covers over 400 years of social evolution. You’ll visit landmarks like the Gay Monument, Dam Square, and the world’s oldest gay bar, “Het Mandje.” The guide’s personal stories and deep knowledge make this tour engaging, and the small group size ensures plenty of questions. With a 5.0/5 rating from 120 reviews, it’s praised for its inclusive atmosphere and historical depth.
This tour is perfect for anyone interested in social change, activism, or queer history, offering an authentic look at Amsterdam’s role as a gay capital. It also welcomes allies, fostering open conversations about rights and resilience.
Bottom line: For a heartfelt, socially conscious exploration, this tour is an eye-opener and a meaningful addition to your Amsterdam trip.
5. Amsterdam: Historic City Sightseeing Canal Cruise
Number 5 offers a 1-hour city canal cruise, ideal for a quick yet scenic overview. Departing from near the Anne Frank House, this boat glides past UNESCO-listed canal rings, historic warehouses, and bridges, with live or recorded narration. It’s a straightforward way to get a sense of the city’s geography and history without a long commitment. With more than 360 reviews and a 4.5/5 rating, travelers appreciate the informative commentary and relaxed atmosphere.
Practical for those on a tight schedule or first-time visitors, this cruise provides a convenient snapshot of Amsterdam’s waterways and architecture.
Bottom line: If you’re short on time but want to see the highlights from the water, this is an easy, well-rated choice.
6. Amsterdam: Historic City Centre Canal Cruise
Number 6 is a 1-hour cruise departing from central locations like Stationsplein or Prinsengracht. It features scenic views of iconic sites such as the Magere Brug, Waterlooplein, and the Negen Straatjes neighborhood. The knowledgeable skipper shares stories about the city’s history as you pass by historic neighborhoods and landmarks. The boat is heated and equipped with a toilet, adding comfort to the experience.
Guests praise the friendly guides and picturesque views, making this a good choice for travelers who want a short, informative tour with a relaxed vibe.
Bottom line: Perfect for a quick introduction to Amsterdam’s canal architecture and historic districts—a comfortable, scenic ride.
7. Private Boat Tour Amsterdam – 90 Min incl. welcome drink on historic saloon boat
Number 7 is a luxury private experience aboard a historic saloon boat built in 1912. With your own group of up to eight, you’ll enjoy a customizable route, sipping drinks from the minibar as your guide shares tailored insights into Dutch culture and history. The boat’s vintage charm, combined with personalized service, makes this a special way to celebrate or relax.
Rated 5/5 from 75 reviews, guests highlight Robert’s hospitality and the cozy, intimate atmosphere. It’s ideal for special occasions or those who want a bespoke experience.
Bottom line: For an elegant, private cruise with drinks and tailor-made commentary, this is a memorable way to see Amsterdam in style.
8. Amsterdam: Haunted History and Ghost Walking Tour
Number 8 is an interactive 2-hour walk that uncovers Amsterdam’s spookiest stories. Led by a friendly guide, the tour visits eerie sites like the Spinhuis prison and Blood Street, sharing tales of witch trials, executions, and ghostly legends. The tour is rated 4.5/5 from 301 reviews, with people loving the combination of history and supernatural tales.
This experience is perfect for those interested in dark history and looking for a thrilling, atmospheric exploration of the city’s hidden stories. It’s suitable for all ages and offers a different perspective on Amsterdam’s past.
Bottom line: If you enjoy ghost stories and haunted tales, this walk will send shivers down your spine and deepen your appreciation for the city’s mysterious side.
9. Amsterdam: Jewish Quarter and History Guided Tour
Number 9 gives a 2-hour guided walk through Amsterdam’s Jewish Quarter, with a focus on Nazi occupation, resilience, and landmarks like the Auschwitz Monument and the old synagogues. It’s rated 4.7/5 from 171 reviews, thanks to the guide’s engaging storytelling and detailed insights.
Perfect for history lovers interested in WWII, Jewish heritage, and social history, this tour provides a thought-provoking perspective on a key part of Amsterdam’s identity. The tour highlights the struggles and perseverance of the Jewish community, making it both educational and emotional.
Bottom line: It’s a powerful, well-rounded experience that reveals one of the most meaningful facets of Amsterdam’s history.
10. Amsterdam: Highlights & History Walking Tour
Number 10 is a 2-hour small-group tour covering major landmarks such as Dam Square, the Royal Palace, and the Anne Frank House. Led by a passionate local guide, you’ll learn about the city’s foundation, architecture, and notable stories. Guests rate it 4.6/5, often mentioning the guide’s engaging storytelling and the comfortable pace.
Ideal for first-timers, this tour offers a broad overview of Amsterdam’s history and highlights in a fun, relaxed format. It’s also a good way to get oriented before exploring on your own.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive yet personal introduction, this walking tour hits all the highlights.
11. Amsterdam Private Historical Walking Tour
Number 11 is a personalized 2-hour tour designed for those who want an in-depth, tailored experience. Visiting Dam Square, the Royal Palace, and the floating flower market, your guide will share detailed stories about each site’s history. With a perfect 5/5 rating from 65 reviews, travelers appreciate the customization and expert insights.
This tour suits travelers who prefer a more private, flexible experience and want to focus on specific interests, such as flower markets or historic squares.
Bottom line: For a bespoke exploration of Amsterdam’s most iconic spots, this private tour is hard to beat.
12. Amsterdam: Anna Frank and World War II History Walking Tour
Number 12 offers a 2-hour walk focused on WWII and Anne Frank’s story. It emphasizes the Jewish community’s experience during the Nazi occupation, with the outside of the Anne Frank House as a key stop. Rated 4.8/5, it’s praised for its insightful narration and emotional depth.
This tour is well-suited for travelers interested in personal stories of resilience and wartime history. It’s an excellent complement if you’re already planning to visit the Anne Frank House or other WWII sites.
Bottom line: For a respectful, educational journey into one of history’s darkest chapters, this walk offers perspective and understanding.
13. Amsterdam Haunted History and Ghost Walking Tour
Number 13 provides a 2-hour spooky tour exploring Amsterdam’s ghost stories, including visits to Nieuwe Kerk and the Weeping Tower. The tour, rated 5/5 from 47 reviews, combines history with paranormal tales to give an entertaining, chilling experience.
Perfect for those who enjoy supernatural tales and want a different lens on the city’s past, this tour is both fun and informative. It’s suitable for all ages and offers insights into witch trials, executions, and ghost legends.
Bottom line: If ghost stories thrill you, this tour offers a memorable, spine-tingling look at Amsterdam’s darker stories.
14. REDKULT: Red Light District & Historical City Center
Number 14 combines sightseeing of Amsterdam’s Red Light District with the historic city center. Led by Anne, this tour offers an honest look at the red-light scene, along with stories about the district’s history and current culture. Rated 4.7/5, it’s praised for its humor, knowledge, and personal approach.
Ideal for travelers interested in urban culture, social history, and nightlife, this tour provides context for an area often misunderstood or stigmatized.
Bottom line: For a frank, lively exploration of Amsterdam’s notorious district, this tour balances history, culture, and candid storytelling.
15. Amsterdam: Ghost Walking Tour and Dark History
Last but not least, this dark history walk covers haunted alleys, mysterious disappearances, and unsolved crimes. Rated 5/5 from 35 reviews, it’s a concise 2-hour journey into the city’s most sinister moments with chilling tales of the past.
This experience is perfect if you’re attracted to mystery and dark stories, and want to see a different facet of Amsterdam’s history. The guide’s storytelling keeps the atmosphere immersive and engaging.
Bottom line: For a spooky, atmospheric tour that reveals the city’s shadowy side, this walk is both fun and enlightening.
How to Choose the Right Historical Tour in Amsterdam
Picking among these options depends on what you’re most interested in. If you want a relaxed, scenic introduction to the city, the canal cruises (such as the 90-minute small group cruise) offer beautiful sights and storytelling. For deep, personal history, the private tours (like the Anne Frank private tour) or custom private walks (like the private historical walking tour) are ideal.
If your interest leans toward darker or more niche topics, the ghost walks and dark history tours (such as the haunted ghost walk) provide a spooky, atmospheric experience. Budget-conscious travelers might prefer the shorter cruises or group walking tours, while those celebrating special occasions may enjoy the luxury private boat experience.
Remember to book early, especially for popular sites like the Anne Frank House, and consider combining different types of tours if your schedule allows for a richer, more layered understanding of Amsterdam’s complex history.
Final thoughts
Amsterdam offers a wide array of historical tours suited to all interests. For a leisurely water-based overview, the small-group canal cruise is hard to beat. For a personal, in-depth dive, the private Jewish history tour remains a top choice. For fans of spooky stories, the haunted ghost walks are both fun and chilling. Whichever you pick, early booking and careful planning will ensure you make the most of your journey into Amsterdam’s past.