Why CityAppTour?
Explore a city in 1 day
Stories from local guides
Pause whenever you want
Affordable
Stress-free navigation with audio guidance
English guide
Amsterdam, with its intricate canal system, earned its nickname "Venice of the North" for good reason. The city's 165 canals stretch over 100 kilometers, creating a unique urban landscape where water and land intertwine in perfect harmony. This UNESCO World Heritage site combines Golden Age architecture with progressive modern design, offering a fascinating contrast between 17th-century merchant houses and cutting-edge contemporary buildings.
As you wander through Amsterdam, the gentle lapping of water against canal walls creates a soothing soundtrack to your exploration. The self-guided tours in Amsterdam allow you to pause whenever inspiration strikes – perhaps to photograph a perfect canal reflection, explore a hidden courtyard, or simply enjoy a stroopwafel at a waterside café. With Amsterdam walking tours on your smartphone, you'll discover stories behind the iconic facades and hidden gems in Amsterdam that most visitors miss, all at your own pace.
Things to do in Amsterdam
Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Experience the best tours in Amsterdam from the water with a 1-hour canal cruise. See the city's famous houseboats, bridges, and waterfront buildings from a unique perspective.
Rijksmuseum Skip-the-Line Entry
Explore the Netherlands' largest art and history museum housing masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. Book in advance to avoid long queues at this must-see place in Amsterdam.
Anne Frank House
Visit this moving museum housed in the actual building where Anne Frank wrote her famous diary. Tickets sell out weeks in advance, so plan accordingly for this essential Amsterdam sightseeing tour stop.
Van Gogh Museum Skip-the-Line Ticket
Admire the world's largest collection of works by Vincent van Gogh, including "Sunflowers" and "The Potato Eaters." Perfect for art lovers exploring Amsterdam without a guide.
Heineken Experience
Discover how this world-famous beer is made in the former brewery. Interactive exhibits and tastings make this a fun activity for adults.
Albert Cuyp Market
Wander through Amsterdam's largest outdoor market with over 260 stalls selling everything from stroopwafels to clothing. A great way to see Amsterdam in one day alongside locals.
Vondelpark
Escape the urban bustle in Amsterdam's most popular park. Rent a bike, enjoy a picnic, or simply people-watch in this green oasis in the heart of the city.
NDSM Wharf
Explore this former shipyard turned creative hub featuring street art, hip restaurants, and cultural events. One of the best areas to explore in Amsterdam for those seeking alternative vibes.
Foodhallen
Sample Dutch and international cuisine at this indoor food market housed in a former tram depot. Perfect for foodies looking to taste multiple dishes in one location.
Best Time to Visit
Amsterdam is magical year-round, but spring (April-May) offers the perfect combination of blooming tulips, moderate crowds, and pleasant temperatures. Summer brings vibrant energy with longer days and outdoor festivals, while winter transforms the canals into potential skating rinks during cold snaps. For the best Amsterdam walking tours experience with fewer tourists, consider visiting mid-week in shoulder seasons (March-April or September-October).
Getting There
Amsterdam's excellent public transport makes self-guided tours Amsterdam incredibly convenient. From Schiphol Airport, direct trains reach Amsterdam Centraal in just 20 minutes. Within the city, the comprehensive tram, metro, and bus network is complemented by the OV-chipkaart for seamless travel. For the authentic Amsterdam experience, rent a bike from numerous rental shops (€10-15 per day) – the city's flat terrain and dedicated cycle paths make this the locals' preferred transportation.
Opening Hours and Holidays
Most museums and attractions in Amsterdam open around 9-10am and close between 5-6pm, with many museums closed on Mondays. Shops typically operate from 9am-6pm on weekdays (with Thursday evening shopping until 9pm) and 9am-5pm on Saturdays. Sunday shopping is common in central areas from noon-5pm. Plan your Amsterdam sightseeing tours around national holidays like King's Day (April 27), when the city transforms into an orange-clad street party.
Comfort on the Go
Amsterdam's changeable weather means layers are essential for comfortable Amsterdam walking tours. Always carry a light raincoat regardless of the forecast, and wear comfortable, waterproof shoes for cobblestone streets. The city's excellent tap water means you can refill bottles at public fountains. For longer explorations of must-see places in Amsterdam, a portable charger is recommended as navigation apps can drain your battery.
Local Customs and Etiquette
When exploring hidden gems in Amsterdam, remember that many canal houses have large windows as residents historically displayed their wealth. However, respect privacy by not photographing people in their homes. Always use designated bike lanes and be aware of cycling traffic – locals use bells liberally! In cafés, service is typically added to your bill, but rounding up is appreciated. Finally, while cannabis cafés are part of the culture, public consumption is technically illegal.
Yes, children can enjoy our Amsterdam walking tours, though the content is primarily written for adults. Kids from about 12 years old will appreciate stories about Amsterdam's quirky buildings, the city's relationship with water, and tales of historical figures. For younger children, the tour's flexibility allows for playground stops and ice cream breaks along the way.
Yes, Amsterdam’s Red Light District is safe for visitors and well monitored. However, remember that photographing the workers in the windows is strictly prohibited. Our audio guide takes you through historically interesting parts of the district, such as the Old Church (Oude Kerk), without focusing on the more controversial aspects. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, it’s best to visit during the day.
No, our Amsterdam sightseeing tours work completely offline after initial download. This is particularly useful in Amsterdam where public WiFi can be spotty in some areas, and international data charges can be expensive. Download the tour before leaving your accommodation's WiFi and you're all set for a day of exploration.
An audio guide gives you the freedom to explore Amsterdam without a guide dictating your pace or schedule. You can pause whenever you want – perhaps to photograph a perfect canal reflection or enjoy a leisurely lunch at a waterside café. Additionally, our Amsterdam walking tours are affordable and flexible, costing significantly less than private guided tours while providing the same quality information.
The “Seven Bridges” at the intersection of Reguliersgracht and Herengracht offer a unique view where you can see seven bridges lined up. The Magere Brug (Skinny Bridge) illuminated at dusk and the corner of Brouwersgracht and Herengracht are other must-see photo spots you’ll discover during your app-guided walk through Amsterdam.
Beyond our audio guide, Amsterdam offers exceptional museums like the Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum. Consider taking a canal cruise for a different perspective of the city, or venture to nearby Zaanse Schans to see traditional windmills. See our "Things to Do in Amsterdam" section for more detailed suggestions.
You need at least one full day to experience Amsterdam properly. While our self-guided tours Amsterdam can technically be completed in 3-4 hours if walked continuously, the real joy comes from taking your time. Stop for apple pie at a brown café, browse a floating flower market, or simply sit canal-side watching boats pass by – these moments make Amsterdam special.
Amsterdam stands out with its unique concentric canal ring system, a 17th-century urban planning masterpiece. Unlike Rotterdam's modern skyline or The Hague's governmental character, Amsterdam blends Golden Age heritage with progressive attitudes. The city's tolerance has historically attracted freethinkers, creating a uniquely liberal atmosphere not found elsewhere in the Netherlands.
While "free" walking tours exist in Amsterdam, they typically expect substantial tips (€10-20 per person), often making them more expensive than our fixed-price audio guide. Our self-guided tours Amsterdam offer superior value with professional narration, carefully researched content, and the freedom to explore at your own pace without group pressure or awkward tipping situations.
To see Amsterdam in one day efficiently, start early with our audio guide covering the historic center, then rent a bike for the afternoon to explore outer neighborhoods like Jordaan or De Pijp. Prioritize one major museum (Rijksmuseum or Van Gogh), take a quick canal cruise, and end with dinner in a local neighborhood rather than tourist-heavy spots.
We're a team of travelers passionate about sharing local stories. Our Amsterdam walking tours are created by historians and locals who know every brick and bridge in the city, combining academic knowledge with insider perspectives. We believe the best way to experience Amsterdam is through stories that connect you to both its famous landmarks and hidden corners.
Absolutely! Our self-guided tours Amsterdam are perfect for sharing with friends and family. Everyone can use their own smartphone to listen simultaneously, and we offer attractive group discounts. Check our product page for current pricing options for your group size.