Guided Walking Tour Amsterdam - Legends, History & Ghost Stories
Active
1h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Legends, History & Ghost Walking Tour in Amsterdam
Discover Amsterdam’s mysterious past on this guided walking tour of history, legends, and ghostly tales. Explore haunted streets, historic sites like “Ghost Alley” and the “Weeping Tower,” while learning about witches, criminals, and restless spirits that still linger in the city. Wander historic streets, uncover hidden stories, enjoy a sweet Dutch treat along the way, and take home a souvenir.
This interactive tour isn’t just stories — you’ll be challenged to spot the seven virtues and seven sins hidden in the tales. What makes our tour unique is how we connect legend and fact. We’ve dug deep into Amsterdam’s archives to uncover real events behind the whispers and love sharing the authentic source material. You’ll leave with fresh insights into the city’s dark past — and maybe some goosebumps.
Perfect for history buffs, fans of legends and mysteries, and curious travelers seeking a unique Amsterdam experience.
Available options
Dutch Evening Tour
Dutch Tour - Daytime
English Tour - Daytime
English Tour - Evening
What's included
Local Guide
Souvenir at the end
Typical sweet treat from Amsterdam
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Pass by
The first eerie tales are set around Waterloo Square.
2
In 1833 crowds gathered for days to see ghost appearances. What were they really witnessing — trickery, rumor, or mass imagination?
3
Stop 3
Pass by
At the Nieuwmarkt we recount the story of a woman accused of witchcraft in 1624, while also exploring the history behind the nearby ‘Blood Street’ and what its name tells us about the city’s past.
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Step into the past as we explore one of the city’s oldest streets, with historic landmarks like the Spinhuis and the Trippenhuis.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Walking along the Zeedijk, we encounter three tales of Amsterdam’s colorful and mysterious past: Ghost Alley, sailor's café ‘In ’t Aepjen’ and the "Weeping Tower".
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Near Central Station, we uncover the odd grandeur of a historic hotel and step into one of Rembrandt's drawing, where a mysterious woman is depicted on the gallows fields — her identity has been a mystery for centuries.
7
Stop 7
Pass by
Warmoesstraat has seen centuries of history: from bustling markets to shady deals, this street tells the story of Amsterdam’s vibrant and sometimes scandalous past.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
NL
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
18 reviews
5★
18
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
We’ll meet at the Blauwbrug, by the benches opposite the National Opera & Ballet. Look for your guide holding a canvas bag or Umbrella with the Urban Legends City Quest logo.
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
