From monarchs to starlets and from firebrands to craftsmen, you can chart Amsterdam’s history through its most precious stone. A medieval marriage inadvertently set up the country for its war of independence. A spoiled queen tried to fight a war from her gilded carriage. An organizer improved the lives of people across the Netherlands. At the center of them all? The diamond.
This walking tour through central Amsterdam explores the history of this unique city through its diamond connections. Some of the stories are scandalous and fun. Some are inspiring and thoughtful. All are engaging while showing a new side of Amsterdam.
To get a solid sense of this important industry, we end with a VIP experience at the Gassan Diamond Factory. Get a tour through the factory, seeing the various methods used across the ages to cut the hardest substance in nature, and then indulge in champagne while checking out Gassan’s modern creations.
Duration
3.5
Hours *
Minimum
1
Person
Maximum
10
People
Starting at
250
Euros **
* 2.5-hours city walking tour and 1-hour factory tour
** Up to 5 guests for a flat fee of €250, then €25 / additional guest
All taxes & fees included!
Duration
3.5
Hours *
Minimum
1
Person
Maximum
10
People
Starting at
250
Euros **
* 2.5-hours city walking tour and 1-hour factory tour
** Up to 5 guests for a flat fee of €250, then €25 / additional guest
All taxes & fees included!
Daily:
9:30am & 1pm
Interested in a different time? Contact us!
Due to the diamond factory’s hours, the last tour must begin by 1pm.
Tours go rain or shine.
(But if looks too dicey, we’ll contact you in advance.)
Wear good walking shoes and dress for the weather! Factoring in wind, standing outside for two hours on even a mild day can get quite chilly, so bundle up just to be sure.
The 2.5-hour walk starts by looking at the Queen Wilhelmina statue on the Rokin, goes through the UNESCO World Heritage Canal Belt, the old Jewish quarter and some of the Plantage neighborhood. It ends at the Gassan Diamond Factory.
We hear you.
Is that a diamond in that tower? Why does this quiet street have a building that looks like a castle? Is that an Amsterdam architectural style? And how did the people who built this fight religious and gender discrimination while raising the Dutch standard of living?
Is that a diamond in that tower? Why does this quiet street have a building that looks like a castle? Is that an Amsterdam architectural style? And how did the people who built this fight religious and gender discrimination while raising the Dutch standard of living?
Two options:
Yes, entrance to the Gassan Diamond Factory is included as part of your booking. We’ll take care of all arrangements for you.
Yes. Just you and your guests will be exploring the Amsterdam and the diamond factory with our guide.
You’ll be treated to a special diamond demonstration at Gassan’s diamond factory, seeing a variety of diamonds and getting a better understanding of their specific qualities, while enjoying a glass of champagne (for those of legal age).
It is! Gassan is one of two remaining diamond factories still in operation in Amsterdam. During the tour, guests can also see diamond cutters and polishers at work with the latest stones and techniques.
Absolutely. The Diamond City Tour goes through Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage Canal Belt, and along the way, guests will see some of the spots that make the city truly special, while also seeing some hidden gems.
Definitely. The VIP Experience at Gassan ends with their showroom, and guests are welcome to buy a gift for themselves or a loved one (or simply take a look at the items on display).
Absolutely. This private tour can be adapted to age and interests, so please reach out to us ahead of time if there’s something on your mind.
For the moment, yes, but please reach out to us if you are looking for a museum tour in another language.
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