"Follow the Money" - Amsterdam Cultural Walking Tour

Starting out as an inconsequential medieval fishermans village, Amsterdam suddenly grew to be the most powerful trading nation in the world, from the 17th Century onwards. To this day, Amsterdam is still profiting from the business, as well as the freedom and tolerance that came to be in this Golden Age of the city. How could Amsterdam reach such a spectacular place in the world? As a historian, I'll guide you past the places that tell you this story. You'll learn about the financial and social innovation, but also about the amazing creativity and displays of wealth. And, as a true Amsterdammer, I won't be afraid to talk about the dark side of the richness too. As a beauty lover, I'll show you 700 year-old gothic architecture, spectacular Renaissance sculptures, romantic churches and canal houses, but also a 17th century backstreet and social project. Enjoying a drink in a cosy Amsterdam pub with a nice atmosphere, I'll share personal anecdotes of a female student's life in the world's most liberal city.

-First, we'll walk from Beursplein to make a round in the oldest parts of town where we'll see medieval buildings of up to 700 years old, from a gothic church to a dramatic tower. -Secondly, we'll go over to Dam Square, where the very founding of the city connects to the Golden Age, because here the merchants literally built their own Kingdom specially to make the great royal rulers of their time rage with jealousy. -Then, we'll explore the Southern parts of the centre canals, where you'll learn what 17th century entertainment and science could offer to the ordinary Amsterdammer, the good AND the bad ones. -We'll then reach Rokin, a river street with archeological findings and a miracle that made the city even richer. -Next, we'll explore the Venice of the North: the canals with thousands of city palaces, each reflecting the charm and stubborn individuality from their old owners. -We will end at the 17th Century Westerchurch, where you might transfer to a romantic canal boat. Customizable itinerary.