Historic Haarlem: Hidden Courtyards, Great Stories and Local Life

If you want to truly understand Amsterdam and the Netherlands in a short time, I will make sure you get much more out of your visit than you would on your own. My tours are designed to help you see the city in context, understand the stories behind what you see, and enjoy a relaxed, personal experience without stress or rushing. What guests value most is that they leave with a clear understanding of Amsterdam. Not just the highlights, but how the city works and why it developed the way it did. I connect art, history, and daily life in a way that is easy to follow and enjoyable. Every tour is adapted to your interests, pace, and level of knowledge. My main areas of expertise are Dutch art at the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum, the history of Amsterdam, Jewish history in the Netherlands (with broader context beyond only the well-known stories), and Dutch water management. I also enjoy showing how modern Amsterdam functions today, from neighbourhoods and architecture to everyday local life. I now focus fully on half-day private walking tours in Amsterdam and Haarlem. These tours are flexible and personal. We walk where it makes sense, but we can also use public transport or arrange a private transfer when needed. For example, this works well for a visit between Amsterdam and Haarlem. The pace is always adjusted to your comfort and interests. I have worked in tourism for more than 20 years. Since 2015 I guide guests in Amsterdam and the Netherlands through ToursByLocals. I also hold several degrees in tourism and I am one of the few officially certified Dutch “National Guide” graduates with distinction. Before guiding, I worked as a travel organiser for Dutch travellers going abroad. This helps me understand exactly what international guests expect: clear communication, good organisation, and a smooth, well-planned day. My main motto is simple: our day together must be informative and fun. I only offer tours I am genuinely passionate about, because that is what brings the city to life for my guests. I enjoy working with curious travellers who want more than sightseeing. If you want to understand Amsterdam and the Netherlands in a meaningful way, I will make sure your time here is both enjoyable and valuable. I look forward to welcoming you in Amsterdam or Haarlem.