The Jordaan area and glorious Canal Belt Tour

Nice to meet you! My name is Monique and I’m a true Dutchy. My grandfather even came from a family of famous tulip traders. I grew up close to Amsterdam and fell in love with the city as a child. I moved here 25 years ago, and it’s still my favorite place in the world. And after 11 years of guiding I could walk through the city blindfolded, but I still love to discover new things and be amazed by the beauty. With a background in journalism, I’ve always been curious about people, history, art and the stories behind what we see. That’s exactly what I love about being a guide: bringing the streets with cobblestones, canal houses, monuments and paintings to life through fascinating stories, surprising anecdotes and the little details. Art is one of my greatest passions, and the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum are among my favorite places to guide. I have extensive experience in both museums and love introducing visitors to their extraordinary collections. From Rembrandt’s masterpieces and the fascinating world of the Dutch Golden Age to the remarkable life and paintings of Vincent Van Gogh. My tours go beyond simply admiring famous works of art. I enjoy sharing the stories of the artists, the people they painted, and the world they lived in, helping you see the paintings in a whole new way. Another subject which is close to my heart is Amsterdam’s Jewish history, including the Second World War and the story of Anne Frank. It’s an essential part of understanding the city and its people, and a history I’ve spent many years exploring and sharing with visitors. Of course, there’s also the wonderful city itself! Whether we’re wandering along the picturesque canals, exploring the charming Jordaan and Nine Little Streets, discovering Amsterdam’s rich history and architecture, or visiting its famous landmarks and hidden gems, I love showing you the city through the eyes of a local. After years of guiding private tours, I’ve learned that every guest is different. Some visitors love to dive deeply into history and art, while others prefer a relaxed introduction to the highlights, a little shopping, a lovely café or an enjoyable day exploring with their children. I love both! What matters most to me is creating an experience that suits your interests, curiosity and pace. You’re very welcome to tell me what you’d love to see or experience, even if it’s not mentioned among my tours. I look forward to meeting you! My credentials: * 11 years of experience as a tour guide in Amsterdam * Bachelor’s degree in Journalism * Official guide at the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum * Licensed to guide in Amsterdam * Registered with the Dutch Chamber of Commerce