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Beyond the Golden Age: Amsterdam's Colonial Past Walking Tour

13 Reviews 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 13 reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Amsterdam, Netherlands
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 21 (0) days in advance.

2 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
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Overview

Uncover the hidden stories behind Amsterdam's grandeur on this insightful and eye-opening walking tour. While the Dutch "Golden" Age is often celebrated for wealth, art and trade, few know the full extent of the colonial expansion, exploitation and slavery that funded it.

Over the course of two hours, visit key historical sites across the city, tracing the rise of the VOC and WIC, the transatlantic slave trade, and the role of ordinary citizens in colonial enterprise. Along the way, hear stories of resistance, resilience and voices that challenged injustice.

Gain a critical and balanced perspective, connecting Amsterdam's past to present-day debates around memory, identity and justice. Perfect for curious travellers, history students or anyone looking to go beyond the postcard image of the city.

What's Included

  • 2-hour in depth Colonial History of the Netherlands
  • Live tour guide of your chosen language
  • Tips & Gratuities
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Meeting Location

Meeting point

Nieuwmarkt 4
1012 CR Amsterdam, Netherlands

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Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

End point

Dam
1012 JL Amsterdam, Netherlands

The tour ends at Dam Square.

What To Expect

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Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
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Nieuwmarkt

The tour starts in front of Restaurant-Café In de Waag. Your guide will be holding an orange umbrella for recognition.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Oostindisch Huis

The rise of the East-India Trade
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Binnengasthuisstraat

Foundation of the West-India Company.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Stadsarchief Amsterdam

NHM was a Dutch trading and financial company, established in 1824, in The Hague by King William I to promote and develop trade, shipping and agriculture.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Herengracht

The Mayor's residence has a commemorative plaque in front of he house.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

De Gouden Bocht

The most prestigious and chique canal of Amsterdam; "The Golden Bend".
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Singel

Resistance against slavery.
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Statue of Multatuli

Abolition of slavery in Indonesia.
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10 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Royal Palace Amsterdam

The role of the Royals during colonialism.
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5 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Dam Square

National War Memorial
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15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Beyond the Golden Age: Amsterdam’s Colonial Past Walking Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (CET). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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Activity code: C-8718P68

Traveler Photos

Reviews

5.00
13 reviews

Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 13 traveler reviews collected by City Balloon Tours and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
13
4 stars
0
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
0
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 21 (0) days in advance.

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What's Included

Activity name

  • 2-hour in depth Colonial History of the Netherlands
  • Live tour guide of your chosen language
  • Tips & Gratuities

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Service animals allowed
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 30 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name