Beyond the Golden Age: Amsterdam's Colonial Past Walking Tour

5.0
(13 reviews)
Amsterdam, Netherlands

2 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

Uncover the hidden stories behind Amsterdam's grandeur on this insightful and eye-opening walking tour. While the Dutch "Golden" Age is often celebrated for wealth, art and trade, few know the full extent of the colonial expansion, exploitation and slavery that funded it.

Over the course of two hours, visit key historical sites across the city, tracing the rise of the VOC and WIC, the transatlantic slave trade, and the role of ordinary citizens in colonial enterprise. Along the way, hear stories of resistance, resilience and voices that challenged injustice.

Gain a critical and balanced perspective, connecting Amsterdam's past to present-day debates around memory, identity and justice. Perfect for curious travellers, history students or anyone looking to go beyond the postcard image of the city.

What's Included

Live tour guide of your chosen language
2-hour in depth Colonial History of the Netherlands
Tips & Gratuities

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
Nieuwmarkt 4

Find your guide in front of Restaurant-Café In de Waag. Look for the orange umbrella!

End point
National Monument

The tour ends at Dam Square.

Itinerary

Duration: 2 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Nieuwmarkt

    The tour starts in front of Restaurant-Café In de Waag. Your guide will be holding an orange umbrella for recognition.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Oostindisch Huis

    The rise of the East-India Trade

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Binnengasthuisstraat

    Foundation of the West-India Company.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 4
    Stadsarchief Amsterdam

    NHM was a Dutch trading and financial company, established in 1824, in The Hague by King William I to promote and develop trade, shipping and agriculture.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Herengracht

    The Mayor's residence has a commemorative plaque in front of he house.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 6
    De Gouden Bocht

    The most prestigious and chique canal of Amsterdam; "The Golden Bend".

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Singel

    Resistance against slavery.

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 8
    Statue of Multatuli

    Abolition of slavery in Indonesia.

    10 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 9
    Royal Palace Amsterdam

    The role of the Royals during colonialism.

    5 minutes • Admission ticket free
  • 10
    Dam Square

    National War Memorial

    15 minutes • Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by 360 Amsterdam Tours

Tags

Private and Luxury
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Walking Tours
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 13 13 reviews
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