Amsterdam Alternative Tour: Drugs Policy, Street Art & Jordaan
4.3 / 5 · 12 traveler reviews
How did Amsterdam become known for its liberal outlook? Join a local guide for a two-hour walk exploring the people, protests and ideas behind the city’s counterculture. Discover the Jordaan, spot street art and houseboats, and hear stories about the hippie movement, squatting, LGBTQ+ history and Dutch soft-drugs policy. Your guide connects Amsterdam’s reputation with the everyday city around you, with time for questions and local recommendations. The tour is in English, with a maximum of 15 participants per guide. We discuss the Red Light District’s history and culture, but do not enter the district. Your Viator payment includes all mandatory fees. There is no additional compulsory payment at the meeting point. Tips for your guide are entirely voluntary; you decide whether and how much to give.
Your experience
Stop 1
Our tour starts at the National Monument on Dam square, close to where Amsterdam was founded. Our tour also ends here.
Stop 2
Originally built as a town hall, the historic palace is the most culturally significant building of the Netherlands. A visit is highly recommended after the tour and can be booked on the Royal Palace website.
Stop 3
Explore the captivating neighborhood of Jordaan in Amsterdam and immerse yourself in its rich history and irresistible charm. Walk along its narrow streets lined with cozy cafes, art studios, and independent boutiques, and uncover the stories of rebellious artists, working-class heroes, and the struggles of a bygone era.
Stop 4
Amsterdam is famed as a liberal city, but it wasn't always like this. Stop at Amsterdam's Gay Monument and pay tribute to the LGBTQ people who were persecuted because of their gender or sexual preference.
Stop 5
We will stop at various locations showcasing Amsterdam's street art, graffiti & houseboats. As of 2020, tour operators aren't allowed inside the Red Light District, however, we do cover the subject and its relevant backstory.
What’s included
- English-speaking guide
- Engaging storytelling by licensed guide
- An educational dive into the city's counterculture
Not included
- Food and Beverages, (bring some water)
- Transportation (we walk everything)
- Entry into the Red Light District (tour groups are restricted from entering)
Meeting and pickup
Meet in front of the National Monument on Dam Square ten minutes before your booked start time. Look for the white umbrella with the orange logo. The tour departs on time, and joining after departure is not possible. Guides cannot answer calls while leading the walk.
Before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children aged 0–17 join free when accompanied by a parent. Please include them in your reservation; they count towards the maximum of six participants per booking and fifteen per guide. Adults aged 18 and over pay €2.99. Guide tips are voluntary. The tour discusses drug policy and sex work, so parents should decide whether these subjects are suitable for their children.
- No catching up with the group if you are late (please book a new time slot)
- Book for up to six participants per reservation, including children. The maximum tour size is 15 participants per guide.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Check the policy for your selected date and option before booking.
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