
Top 5 Photography Ideas For Amsterdam
In this blog Historical Amsterdam Tours has curated some of the most iconic spots, as well as several snappy ideas to capture this vibrant old city.
We meet at the CoBrA Cafe ATM, in front of the Rijksmuseum, at the museum square side of the museum.
2,5 hours | Elevators available
- The Dutch Masters of the Golden Age
- The Dutch Revolt against Spain
- Rembrandt’s Night Watch
- The Museum Library
See Booking page
We meet at the CoBrA Cafe ATM, in front of the Rijksmuseum, at the museum square side of the museum.
2,5 hours | Elevators available
- The Dutch Masters of the Golden Age
- The Dutch Revolt against Spain
- Rembrandt’s Night Watch
- The Museum Library
See Booking page
Experience the Rijksmuseum, the largest and most prestigious museum in the Netherlands, through the lens of a professional art historian. Our private tour explores the rise and fall of the Dutch Republic and the masterpieces of the Golden Age, providing a deep dive into the cultural soul of Amsterdam.
Learn how a young nation of merchants became a global superpower. Our “crash course” in 1600s history covers:
The Struggle for Independence: How the Lowlands took up arms to become a sovereign powerhouse.
Key Historical Figures: Get to know the leaders who shaped the era, including Prince William of Orange, Admiral Michiel de Ruyter, and the statesman Johan de Witt.
Why is 17th-century Dutch art so unique? We go beyond the canvas to explain the techniques and stories behind the museum’s most famous works:
Johannes Vermeer: The domestic tranquility of The Milkmaid.
Rembrandt van Rijn: The psychological depth of his mysterious portraits and the iconic Night Watch.
Jan Steen: The chaotic and humorous symbolism of a “Jan Steen Household.”
Frans Hals: The innovative group portraits of the civic guards.
Albert Cuyp: The golden, Italianate light of his lush Dutch landscapes.
The Rijksmuseum also bridges the gap between the 17th and 19th centuries. We explore how the Dutch Masters influenced a new generation:
Vincent van Gogh: View his early Dutch works and self-portraits.
Breitner & Mauve: Discover how the Hague School and Dutch Impressionists integrated French influences into the Lowlands tradition.
The building itself is an architectural masterpiece. Your private guide will reveal:
The Pierre Cuypers Design: Why this “Cathedral of Art” was controversial when it opened in 1885.
Hidden Details: Uncover the secrets of the museum’s decor, its library, and its role as a national institute for culture.
The Eventful History: From the 19th-century inception to the massive 21st-century renovation.
Exclusive Access to Knowledge: Go beyond basic plaques with academic-level insights.
Tailored Itinerary: We focus on the areas that interest you most, from weaponry and ship models to fine lace and oil paintings.
Skip the Overwhelm: Navigate the massive collection efficiently with a curated path through the highlights.
Unlock the secrets of the Netherlands’ greatest treasures.
Operator: Amsterdam Red Light District Tours
Our tour guide Martin was engaging from the very beginning. Very well informed and interesting. Questions were responsed to. Highly recommend this tour.... read more Totally enjoyable!!
Maarten was our tour guide. Very punctual, friendly and informative. Booked for my partner who is a finance professional and he loved it. Other positives: well structured and researched; happy... read more to answer questions; and good value! Also worth mentioning that Maarten was happy to include...More
Gerben Post is an outstanding and knowledgeable tour guide. He provided a moving experience about a topic that is difficult and painful. His ability to provide important and... read more meaningful stories about people made the walk come alive. His sensitivity and ability to describe the impact...More
Tijs is one of the people that makes us wish the day to have more than 24 hours! :) Not only a guide who makes the fascinating Amsterdam even more... read more fascinating! His vision for the city reveals the past, the present, and create great perspectives for the future. With all the secrets of each street, you learn not only about Nederlands but also its World's Influence. Knowledge, culture, amazing angles for photos and a real lesson of lively history in just one day, I can imagine how wonderful it would be if we had the privilege to spend a week with our new Dutch Friend! Absolutely recommended, I have no doubt he will be an essential part of my tours! …

In this blog Historical Amsterdam Tours has curated some of the most iconic spots, as well as several snappy ideas to capture this vibrant old city.