Adventure Brief
Discover Amsterdam’s vibrant history on a flexible self-guided walking tour through its Old City Center. Use your phone to unlock stories of iconic figures and landmarks at your own pace.
2–4 hours
easy
From €10.00
Family Friendly
Discover Amsterdam’s vibrant history on a flexible self-guided walking tour through its Old City Center. Use your phone to unlock stories of iconic figures and landmarks at your own pace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires moderate walking for several hours
Wildlife
History
Amsterdam’s city center dates back to the 12th century and was officially established in the early 13th century, becoming a hub of trade in the Dutch Golden Age.
Conservation
Efforts are underway to preserve Amsterdam’s historic buildings and waterways while promoting sustainable tourism that minimizes environmental impact.
Badass Tours
Discover Amsterdam’s vibrant history on a flexible self-guided walking tour through its Old City Center. Use your phone to unlock stories of iconic figures and landmarks at your own pace.
Badass Tours is a Amsterdam-based tour operator located in Noord-Holland that highlights overlooked stories across the city. Featured on The Adventure Collective, Badass Tours offers self-guided and guided experiences focused on women's, Jewish, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC histories, plus private custom tours and special Rijksmuseum guided visits led by expert Tanja Bladt‑Cohen.
Tours include a two‑week Self‑Guided Tour unlocked by phone for flexible group exploration, the Hidden Gems Tour visiting sites such as the Artist's Resistance Monument and the Portuguese Synagogue, and focused walking tours that explore Women's History, Jewish History, and LGBTQ+ History. Many walking experiences run rain or shine; several exclusive options add wheelchair accessibility and private customization. A Customized Private Tour lets visitors tailor routes and themes to specific interests.
Badass Tours emphasizes accuracy and accessibility. The company highlights verifiable historical sites across Amsterdam's historic center and integrates context about four centuries of Jewish presence, local LGBTQ+ landmarks including early drag venues, and stories of influential women and BIPOC figures. The Shifting the Frame Rijksmuseum tour reframes canonical collections to include female, LGBTQ+, Jewish, and BIPOC artists, led by a named expert.
Practical booking features include phone-unlocked self-guides, private reservations, and small-group walking formats. These options make Badass Tours suitable for solo travelers, groups, and visitors seeking themed, educational experiences. Bookings are offered online, via partners, for private events, small groups, solo travelers, and educational visits too.
Location
Amsterdam, Noord-Holland
Historic center tours
Self-Guides
2-week access
Phone-unlocked for group flexibility
Expert Guide
Tanja Bladt-Cohen
Leads Rijksmuseum guided tours
Tours Offered
17 Experiences
Self-guided, walking, museum, private
Choose self-guided, guided, or custom private tours — flexible bookings, wheelchair-accessible options, and expert-led Rijksmuseum tours available.
Charge Your Phone Fully
Ensure your device is fully charged before starting the tour to avoid interruptions.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Cobblestone streets require sturdy, comfortable footwear for prolonged walking.
Download Offline Maps
Save maps ahead of time to avoid connectivity issues while navigating the city.
Mind the Weather
Check weather forecasts and bring an umbrella or sun protection as needed to stay comfortable.
Smartphone with Tour App
Provides access to detailed tour content and navigation.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Necessary for walking on uneven city pavements and cobblestones.
Portable Charger
Keeps your phone powered during long outdoor exploration.
Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Protects you from rain, wind, or sun depending on the season.