The story of the Jordaan 

On many levels the story of the Jordaan is the story of Amsterdam. When Dutch people think of things that they consider to be quintessential to Amsterdam, they usually refer to things that are quintessentially from the Jordaan.

In this private Jordaan tour Historical Amsterdam Tours brings take you to Amsterdam’s typical – in fact typically Jordanese – almshouses; old brown cafes and local markets. You will get acquainted with the people that personified Jordaan: the singers, criminals, artists and philanthropists that gave the Jordaan its colorful history.

Westertoren

You start your tour right outside of the Jordaan, beneath the tower of the Westerkerk at the little Anne Frank monument on the Westermarkt. This 85 meter tall church tower served as a beacon for the inhabitants of the Jordaan. Therefore the iconic tower resonates in many typically Jordanese songs and will be a point of reference during our tour.

Courtyards

With your private guide you will discover the quiet side of Amsterdam. In the many secluded courtyards you’ll find an oasis of tranquility. Learn more about this early example of social housing that gives the city its unique character. Why did rich people back in the days invest in houses for the poor? How does this tradition of affordable housing continue in today’s Amsterdam?

Picturesque canals

Enjoy the charm of flower dotted bridges and canals as seen these days and get the stories of the working class’, dirty and industrial past of the Jordaan. Why is the street pattern in the Jordaan so different from the canal ring? What were all the riots, protests and downright criminal activity all about?

Lively markets and art galleries

The Jordaan is a true shopping paradise, with its art galleries, markets and many narrow streets. In spite of the skyrocketing prices for real estate, this neighborhood has managed to preserve a fair amount of craftsmen. Creative entrepreneurs and small businesses still give color to the streets and canals. On Saturday’s we can indulge ourselves at the local weekly market.

Cafes and singing culture

Being relatively isolated from the rest of the city, the Jordaan has developed a truly unique culture, which is mostly evident in its music. Get to know the local heroes of the Jordaan and their significance today. End up in one of the neighborhood’s oldest bar with a ‘pikketanussie’ (Dutch gin). The Jordaan Tour gives you a great insight into what Amsterdam is all about.