The Best Churches in Amsterdam Private Guided Tour
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover local history and legends as told through the most important and beautiful churches in Amsterdam. Visit Westerkerk and the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and see the Oude Church. Extended option: visit the Nieuwe Kerk.
Choose one of our excellent tour options tailored to your needs and interests. Read the description of the options carefully as each option includes a different program.
2-hour: Westerkerk & Basilica of St. Nicholas
Choose this tour to visit the Westerkerk and the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and see highlights of the Old Town, such as the Royal Palace, Oude Kerk and Nieuwe Kerk (exteriors).
3-hour: Westerkerk, Basilica & Nieuwe Kerk
Choose this tour to visit the Nieuwe Kerk, Westerkerk and Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and see highlights of the Old Town, such as the Royal Palace and Oude Kerk
Present-day Amsterdam is known as a multicultural and secular city, its many churches have played an important part in local history and culture since the early Middle Ages
Available options
3h:Westerkerk+Basilica+Nieuwe
Duration: 3 hours: Choose this tour to visit the Nieuwe Kerk, Westerkerk and Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and see highlights of the Old Town<br/>,: such as the Royal Palace and Oude Kerk.<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. NEAM029
2h: Westerkerk & Basilica
Duration: 2 hours: Choose this tour to visit the Westerkerk and the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, and see highlights of the Old Town<br/>,: such as the Royal Palace, Oude Kerk and Nieuwe Kerk (exteriors).<br/>Expert-Guide: Official 5-Stars Guide who is an Expert in this kind of tours. Guide speaks fluently in chosen language. NEAM029
What's included
Skip-the-line tickets to Nieuwe Kerk (3-hour option only)
(number of attractions depends on the selected option)
Free admission to Westerkerk and the Basilica of Saint Nicholas
Expert commentary on local history, religion and architecture
Private tour of the Basilica of Saint Nicholas, Westerkerk and Nieuwe Kerk
5-Star Licensed Guide who is fluent in the language of your choice
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Meet your guide next to the Anne Frank Monument, Westermarkt 74, 1016 DL Amsterdam, Netherlands
2
Stop 2
Westerkerk, a 17th century Renaissance church known for its iconic 85-meter church tower, the stunning Doeschot organ, and the remembrance stone to Rembrandt. As you explore its tranquil interior, your Private Guide will share with you Anne Frank’s memories of this church. You will also learn more general information about the history of religion in the Netherlands.
3
Stop 3
Enjoy live commentary as you stroll through the Old Town and see landmarks such as the exteriors of the Nieuwe Kerk, the Royal Palace, and The Oude Kerk, which is the oldest building in Amsterdam.
4
Stop 4
Finally, you will reach the Basilica of St. Nicholas, which is the city’s only basilica. Its interiors will astonish you with beautiful neo-Baroque and neo-Renaissance elements, sculptures, paintings and other works of art. It’s a great place to visit to learn about the crown of Maximilian I, which is a symbol seen throughout Amsterdam.
5
Stop 5
It is one of the most important churches in all of the Netherlands, as it is used for Dutch royal investiture ceremonies. Apart from being used for royal events, the church also hosts cultural events and art exhibitions. Skip-the-line tickets are included for your convenience.
What's not included
Tickets to the Westerkerk Tower (optional, price: 7-8 eur)
Skip-the-line tickets to Nieuwe Kerk (2-hour option)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
RU
EN
IT
PL
FR
NL
ES
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please note that the number of attractions depends on the selected option. Tickets to Nieuwe Kerk are not included in the basic 2-hour tour.
Guided tours inside the churches during masses and scheduled events are limited. If entry is not possible, the guide will provide all information outside.
Westerkerk is open for visitors Monday to Saturday from 11am to 3pm.
The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is open for visitors Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 5pm
Skip-the-line tickets to New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) grant you immediate entry at your booked time, without waiting in line at the ticket office. Admission includes the ongoing exhibition.
In Amsterdam, the rule is that a licensed guide can show a group of 1-15 people, so the price of the tour will be higher if you need more than 1 guide. For 16-30 people we will provide service of 2 licensed guides. For 31-45 people we will provide service of 3 licensed guides
Please check your tour the day before the tour for important information.
Due to city regulations, guided tours are not allowed to pass through the Red Light District, so you will see the Oude Kerk from a nearby street.
Meeting point
Meet your guide next to the Anne Frank Monument, Westermarkt 74, 1016 DL Amsterdam, Netherlands
Important notes
Information for the customer (Know before you go)
- Please check your tour the day before the tour for important information.
- Please note that the number of attractions depends on the selected option. Tickets to Nieuwe Kerk are not included in the 2-hour tour.
- Guided tours inside the churches during masses and scheduled events are limited, therefore the guide may provide all information outside.
- Westerkerk is open to the public from Monday to Saturday 11am - 3pm.
- The Basilica of Saint Nicholas is open for visitors from Monday to Saturday at 12 pm - 5pm
- Due to city regulations, guided tours are not allowed to pass through the Red Light District, so you will see the Oude Kerk from a nearby street.
- Skip-the-line tickets to New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) grant you immediate entry at your booked time, without waiting in line at the ticket office. Admission includes the ongoing exhibition.
- In Amsterdam, the rule is that a licensed guide can show a group of 1-15 people, so the price of the tour will be higher if you need more than 1 guide. For 16-30 people we will provide service of 2 licensed guides. For 31-45 people we will provide service of 3 licensed guides.
About Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the 'Venice of the North,' the city offers a rich blend of art, history, and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Museum
2-3 hours
€20
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. It houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings in the world.
Museum
1.5-2 hours
€20
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II.
Historical
1 hour
€16
Dam Square
Dam Square is the central square of Amsterdam and a historic site. It is home to the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and various other landmarks.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Jordaan
Jordaan is a picturesque and lively neighborhood known for its narrow streets, canals, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great place to explore, shop, and dine.
Neighborhood
A few hours to explore
Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stroopwafel
A thin, round waffle made from two layers of baked dough joined by a caramel-like syrup filling
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat and sugar
Bitterballen
Deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a creamy, spiced ragout, typically made from beef or veal
Snack
Contains meat, gluten, and dairy
Haring
Raw herring fish, traditionally served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by its tail and lowering it into your mouth
Dish
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians
Poffertjes
Miniature pancakes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast, served with powdered sugar and butter
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat, eggs, and dairy
Popular Activities
Canal kayaking
Bike tours
Escape rooms
Canal cruises
Visiting parks and gardens
Spa and wellness treatments
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak tourist season in Amsterdam is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, but it's also the busiest and most expensive period.
15°C to 22°C
59°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution
Amsterdam is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bike theft, can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
Getting there
By air
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 17.5 km from city center
By train
Amsterdam Centraal
By bus
Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Getting around
Public transport
Amsterdam's tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with 14 day and night tram lines. A single ticket costs €3.20, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Amsterdam
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jordaan
De Pijp
De Wallen (Red Light District)
Museumplein
Amsterdam-Noord
Day trips
Zaanse Schans
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A picturesque and open-air museum featuring traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of the region.
Haarlem
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene, often considered a smaller and more relaxed version of Amsterdam.
Utrecht
50 km from Amsterdam • Full day
A vibrant and historic city known for its beautiful canals, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene, with a unique and charming atmosphere.
Festivals
King's Day (Koningsdag) • April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th is a Sunday)
Amsterdam Pride • Late July to early August
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) • Mid-October
Pro tips
- Use the OV-chipkaart for seamless and convenient public transport
- Rent a bike to explore the city like a local, but be aware of cycling rules and etiquette
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm
- Try local specialties, such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, and Dutch pancakes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
