World War II in Amsterdam Private Walking Tour

Amsterdam , Netherlands

World War II in Amsterdam Private Walking Tour

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About this experience

Beyond the Shadows: Amsterdam’s Untold WWII Stories

Step back into the 1940s on this 2.5-hour private journey through the heart of occupied Amsterdam. Moving beyond basic history, this tour dives into the complex human reality of the war—from the profound reflections of Etty Hillesum to the daring resistance of Tony van Renterghem.

You’ll explore iconic landmarks like the Royal Palace and National Monument through a new lens. We separate myth from reality, tackling the nuances of collaboration, defiance, and the Holocaust with sensitivity and depth. This is an invitation to witness the city's darkest hours and its most inspiring acts of bravery.

Tour Highlights
- A deep-dive narrative focused on the Holocaust and Dutch resistance.
- Landmarks like Museumplein, the Canal Ring, and Dam Square.
- Discuss the real lives behind the resistance, from secret diarists to high-stakes espionage.
- A small-group setting designed for meaningful questions and thought exchange

Available options

Amsterdam Architecture Tour

Duration: 2 hours

What's included

Private Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Here we uncover the human heart of occupied Amsterdam. Standing in the shadow of the Concert Hall, we reveal the intersecting lives of an orchestra director, a secret diarist, and a forgotten resistance hero—contrasted against the dark legacy of the Holocaust’s architect. It’s a powerful look at the ordinary people who chose defiance in a city under siege.

Stop 2

Trace the tightening grip of the occupation along Amsterdam's iconic waterways. From the subtle oppression that pushed ordinary citizens to pull off a notorious bank heist, to the tragic fate of the city’s largest Jewish art collection, we explore the cost of war. We end at the site of the post-war tribunals, where the city finally began to reckon with its past.

Discover the extraordinary story of Jewish citizens who went into hiding and made a film about their situation, and how violent Nazis and Jewish fight clubs preceded Europe's largest anti-Nazi protest.

Stop 4

Here we reveal the high-end espionage of a forgotten war hero and the poignant meaning behind the "Stumble Stones" beneath your feet. Feel the tension of the Jewish District’s isolation and stand at the site of the dramatic Halifax bomber crash. It’s a fast-paced look at bravery and tragedy in the shadow of the Mint Tower.

Stop 5

At the city's heart, the full weight of the occupation converges. Hear the gripping tale of a heroic concierge standing ground against the Nazis, and see how daily life persisted in an occupied capital. We witness the horror of the tragic shooting that occurred after the German surrender and explore how Amsterdam’s culture of remembrance has evolved from 1945 to today.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN NL

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

In front of the Concergebouw, facing the Museum Square

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