moderate
5.5 hours
Requires moderate fitness to comfortably walk several kilometers including museum touring with standing intervals.
Spend 5.5 hours diving into Amsterdam’s vibrant past with Babylon Tours—a semi-private journey through the Rijksmuseum’s masterworks and the city’s historic heart. Discover hidden layers of culture framed by iconic canals and centuries-old architecture.
5.5 hrs | Entry Included! | Perfect mix of culture, history, and sightseeing
Embark on a captivating 5.5-hour journey through Amsterdam's artistic and historical treasures. Begin at the Rijksmuseum, marveling at masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, then stroll through the city's iconic canals and landmarks. With a small group and expert guide, uncover the rich stories that define this vibrant city.
For those who aren’t familiar with Dutch culture – and who is really? – we will explore its rich and vibrant past on this popular combo tour. It’s the perfect way to mix culture, history, and sightseeing while spending the day with one of our vibrant young guides. The 5.5 hour semi-private tour will include a visit to the Rijksmuseum followed by a historic walking tour of the city center. Groups will not exceed 8 people, so personal attention is guaranteed. Guides will provide you with a ticket that allows you to skip the line at the museum.
Begin at Holland’s answer to the Louvre, called the Rijksmuseum. Explore Dutch history through a selection over 8000 objects on display. We’ll discuss familiar names like Rembrandt as well as lesser known items like 17th century dollhouses. Understand the meaning behind Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid” and marvel at the expansive 19th century library. At the end of the tour, you’ll have a good overview of the museum’s collection and you may even know how to pronounce its name correctly.
After a break for lunch, move outdoors and orient yourself to Amsterdam with an introduction to its history and learn how a small 12th century fishing village with a simple dam became one of the most popular capital cities in the world. Our guides will crisscross its iconic canals and bridges while peeking into its quiet courtyards, offering a postcard image of the city. You will discover its leaning houses and other landmarks while learning how to navigate the oftentimes tricky streets of the city center. Our local guides are also eager to share their insider knowledge so that you can maximize your time spent in Amsterdam.
Meeting your guide 10 minutes before the tour ensures a timely start and smooth entry into the Rijksmuseum.
Expect moderate walking on cobblestone streets and around museum galleries, so sturdy shoes are recommended.
Only small bags or thin backpacks are allowed inside the museum; avoid large backpacks or suitcases.
Tours run rain or shine; bring a rain jacket or umbrella during wetter seasons to stay comfortable.
Amsterdam grew from a 12th-century fishing village protected by a dam into a global powerhouse during the Dutch Golden Age, a transformation embodied in the Rijksmuseum’s collection.
Amsterdam prioritizes sustainable tourism with careful preservation of historic sites and efforts to reduce visitor impact on its delicate canal network and urban ecosystems.
Supportive shoes are crucial for walking on uneven cobblestones and navigating museum floors.
Protect yourself from Amsterdam’s frequent showers during cooler seasons.
spring|fall|winter specific
Stay hydrated throughout the walking portion of the tour.
Only small bags are allowed inside the Rijksmuseum’s security checkpoint.