What to do and see in North Holland Province, The Netherlands: The Best City Tours

January 30, 2022 Etsuko Causey

Mostly jutting northward from its largest city of Amsterdam and its capital of Haarlem, the Noord-Holland region has much more to offer beyond those two wonderful cities. At Muiden is the magnificent Muiderslot Castle, as if it stepped out of a fairy tale. Showing more wear but no less interesting is Brederode Castle at Santpoort. At Zaanstad is Zaanse Schans, one of Holland’s top tourist destinations and a family-friendly open air museum of windmills, traditional buildings, crafts and shops.
Restaurants in North Holland Province

1. Sebi Boat Tours

Keizersgracht 198, 1016 DW Amsterdam, Netherlands Sebi Boat Tours
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5.0 based on 43 reviews

We are Sebi Boat Tours, two true Amsterdammers who want to share their love for this beautiful city. With our 100% electric boat which is open on sunny days and closed on rainy and windy days and has a toilet, we will provide a 2 hour intimate canal tour. We will pass all the highlights Amsterdam has to offer including the world famous canal belt, The Jordaan, The red light district, the river Amstel, the maritime area and places, where big tour boats cannot go. On the way we will make a stop at Amsterdam's best boat caterer, childhood friends of ours, to pick up some traditional Dutch snacks while you enjoy a wide variety of complementary drinks. All this while Captain Sebi will pass on his years of knowledge of the city and canals, on current events and Amsterdam people in Dutch, English and German!

Inclusions: Coffee and/or Tea, Snacks, Alcoholic Beverages, Soda/Pop, Bottled water, Restroom on board

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Reviewed By larserikmarcussen

My wife and I went on a really nice trip with Sebi yesterday. In fact, we were the only two passengers, but that did not put a damper on Sebi’s enthusiasm one bit. The trip was so great I really just need to summarize in bulletpoints: - beautiful boat, great for 12, luxurious for 2 - boat small enough to fit under the lowest bridges, you see what the others don’t - great and tastefully arranged drinks and snacks, incl hot, fresh snacks picked up from a catering kitchen - fresh flowers, blankets, pillows and all comforts - a REALLY knowledgable guide who is at least third generation true Amsterdamer. Ask him about his grandfathers passport tools! - a tailormade trip where you learn and see what really makes Amsterdam unique Is it worth the extra hour and twice the price of one-hour trips on big, 75+ passenger boats? Most definitely. It’s so worth it. An absolute joy and the highlight of our trip.

2. Private Boat Tour in Haarlem

Nieuwe Gracht 80a, 2011 NJ Haarlem, Netherlands Varen door Haarlem
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

We have a private boottour for about 75 minutes. We will show you the highligts, of the historical city of Haarlem. You and your friends or family are alone on this boat. You will get all the attention of the captain which can tell you a lot about Haarlem. There is also enough time to spend on yourself and to relax. We will have cold drinks and music on board, if you like. We are looking forward to welcome you!

Inclusions: Guided tour in Dutch, English & German., Music, Spotify music/playlist on request.

Exclusions: You can order drinks, like water, soda's, beer, wine to extra charge.

Reviewed By Emma L

The captain was very approachable and had a fantastic knowledge of the area. Would highly recommend to all. He showed us all of the city and was a great way to travel.

3. Private Tour: Complete Amsterdam Highlights & Must-Sees with a Local

Museumstraat 1, 1071 XX Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam Withlocals
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

If you’re wondering how to see the best of Amsterdam in just one day, this tour is what you need. Go to the must-sees of the city and cover more ground on this extended experience. See the essentials and learn what makes Amsterdam such a fascinating place, from food to hidden gems and landmarks. Get to know Amsterdam and its main spots on a 4-hour walking tour that will give you a more in-depth insight of the city. Check out the outside of the Rijksmuseum, a historic orphanage that was also a monastery, and the famous Rembrandt Square. Embrace the local Dutch culture as you stroll through the flower market by the canal, and cross some of the main bridges with unique stories behind them. And how about the hidden gems? Find a hidden courtyard only inhabited by Beguines, and discover a cool cafe with an incredible view over the city. Discover where the main gates of the city used to be and stumble into a theatre that’s a fantastic architectural gem designed in 3 different styles.

Inclusions: Local guide, Delicious Dutch Snack - Bitterballen, 2 alcoholic & non alcoholic drinks: beer, wine, Private tour

Exclusions: Hotel pick-up and drop off, Food and beverages not listed as inclusions

Reviewed By orlannamorris

My dad bought me this as a birthday gift due to concern we wouldn’t be able to visit Amsterdam! Luckily it is looking like we can go so Sebastian took us through the wonderful Dutch history and also gave us places and spots to visit during to bring the story to life! Loads of helpful tips and a really easy guy to talk to! Little bit of trouble with the time difference but he was really flexible and soon sorted! Thank you!

4. Private City Kickstart Tour: Amsterdam

Café the Schreiertower, Prins Hendrikkade 94-95, 1012 AE Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam Withlocals
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5.0 based on 140 reviews

Receive a warm welcome to Amsterdam on a private tour that will kick off your time in the city in the best way possible! In only 90 minutes, a local guide will get you acquainted with Amsterdam to help you enjoy the rest of your stay to the fullest. Discover where to find main attractions like Dam Square and Nieumarkt, and how to explore them away from the crowds. And what about that unique family owned restaurant or that amazing local hotspot? We got you covered; the local guides are experts in the subject! Forget about touristy traps; on this city kickstart tour, your guide will point you in the right direction. Private City Kickstart Tour: Amsterdam is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.

Inclusions: Private Tour, Small-group tour option available, Local Guide, Local Tips and Tricks, City Orientation

Exclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, Food and drinks

Reviewed By simkm

Efi did a fab job of keeping 8 of us together on a walking tour of Amsterdam and showing us all the main sights and giving us some great background into the history of this amazing city. Great job Efi - definitely recommend a tour with you.

5. Amsterdam Old City Center Small-Group Tour by Boat

Amstel 51C, 1018 EJ Amsterdam, Netherlands Amsterdam Boat Adventures
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5.0 based on 105 reviews

Join our boat tour and escape the hectic Amsterdam street life while enjoying the relaxed atmosphere on the best canal cruise in town (#1 on TripAdvisor). Your friendly captain and guide will show you the best Amsterdam has to offer and take you on an adventure through the beautiful canals and also explore some of the city's more peaceful waterways, while telling you about the many sights along the unique route through our captivating city. Our canal boat is a super comfortable, modern, electric and silent, small open boat and we take a max of 12 passengers and can therefore guarantee a more personal experience. Drinks are for sale onboard, however you are also welcome to bring your own drinks and snack along. Don't miss this opportunity to see and experience Amsterdam from this unique and magnificent view.

Inclusions: Blanket, Life vest (upon request), English speaking guide

Exclusions: Alcoholic Beverages, Soda/Pop, Bottled water

Reviewed By sudoslav84

We were looking for such trip and came into this one by accident, we asked about it and it turned out that the trip will start within next 3 minutes so we decided to give it a try! We were very happy and excited about this decision! The trip was great, with lots of interesting informations about Amsterdam city and it’s history. I can fully recommend this to anyone! Apart from above, you have drinks included in the price of 1.5h trip! Thank you!

6. Small Group Alkmaar City Walking Tour

Koorstraat 7, 1811 GM Alkmaar, Netherlands Alkmaar Tours
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5.0 based on 21 reviews

Discover the charming Dutch town of Alkmaar in this 2 hour small group tour!  Join your guide as you walk along the cobbled streets and picturesque canals and get a sense of Dutch history, culture and way of life without the big-city crowds.  Learn all about the history of Alkmaar and why 'Victory Begins at Alkmaar'.  Your guide is a friendly Canadian who lives in Alkmaar and is enthusiastic about living in Alkmaar and the Netherlands!

Inclusions: Small-group walking tour with a friendly English speaking Canadian guide

Exclusions: Transportation to and from Alkmaar is not included

Reviewed By hony2015

We had a delightful ride into the countryside from Alkmaar to Egmond aan Zee, through woodland, farm land and dunes. Jennifer (Jen) was a delightful guide, who came to our rescue at the last minute when another bike ride operator cancelled at short notice. It was well worth the expense, not to have to rely on Google maps to find a bike ride and anyway the added bonus of local knowledge is incalculable.

7. Bike Tour of Amsterdam's Highlights and Hidden Gems!

Spuistraat 30, 1012 SR Amsterdam, Netherlands We Bike Amsterdam
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4.9 based on 286 reviews

We are proud to be Amsterdam's smallest bike tour company! We work with a maximum of 12 participants (usually less!) per tour group to ensure you a personal and high quality tour. This three hour bike tour focuses on Amsterdam's undiscovered area's and the city's hidden gems. We will meet each other at our office in Amsterdam's city centre to pick up our first class bikes. You will discover secret courtyards, hidden churches and off-the-beaten path neighborhoods. While crossing canals and cruising through parks you will learn about Amsterdam fascinating history as well as the current city life of Amsterdammers.  Hop on and we'll bike the extra mile!

Inclusions: Local taxes, Professional guide, Use of bicycle

Exclusions: Food and drinks during our short break (You're never oblidged to order)

Reviewed By AnjaJ12345

Lovely trip to the Dutch countryside, which - it turns out - is just a short ride outside of the buzzing Amsterdam city streets. Thijs shared great insights on the area we cycled through and I now have some villages & cafes to return to and more on the list to explore! Thanks for the nice ride & break from lockdown routine!

8. Amsterdam Canal Cruise in Classic River Boat With Drinks & Dutch Cheese

Prinsengracht 263, 1016 GV Amsterdam, Netherlands Flagship Amsterdam
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4.9 based on 965 reviews

On this 1h15min All-In Luxury Classic River Boat Cruise, you will explore the city, its famous landmarks, culture, and rich trading history whilst relaxing with a drink in your hand. During the cruise, our skipper will take you through many highlights our city has to offer and our hostess will provide you with drinks and Dutch Gouda cheese. The cruise is live guided, so expect an interactive tour, with enough space for questions and any needed recommendations for your further stay in Amsterdam. All tours are in ENGLISH.

Inclusions: All taxes, fees and handling charges, Local guide, Dutch Gouda Cheese, Alcoholic Beverages, Soda/Pop

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Reviewed By alexissF6408SU

I loved the boat trip. all the guides, especially Charly, were very friendly (Charly is very handsome). My boyfriend and I enjoyed the explanation and the fun facts about Amsterdam. I would take the trip with them again.

9. A Full Day In Amsterdam With A Local: Private & Personalized ★★★★★

Amsterdam, Netherlands CityUnscripted
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4.9 based on 7 reviews

A day in Amsterdam is at your disposal, you lucky thing. Make the most of it with one of our hosts in a customized experience of the city. Visit iconic venues like the Anne Frank House or Van Gogh Museum, or stroll The Nine Streets (De Negen Straatjes) that connect the city’s main waterways. Perhaps you’d like to take in traditional Dutch architecture whilst cruising down the famous Herengracht canal? But wait, did someone mention food? Stop at a street vendor for some traditional Dutch sweets, pop in to a local eatery or visit a food market. Our handpicked hosts are culinary connoisseurs and history buffs, bakers and bankers, students and seniors. Like the people who travel with us, they have different backgrounds and interests – but they’re all so passionate about the place they call home, they choose to spend their free time sharing it with the like-minded travelers matched to them.

Inclusions: Private and personalised experience, 8 hours with a host, Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options), Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Tickets to any attractions, Transportation costs, Gratuities

Reviewed By cbassmix

Anna Aksionova was my tour guide for a 5 hours visit of Amsterdam and I really enjoyed it She was very well educated of the places and history of Amsterdam. I will remember this tour for a very long time!

10. Private Tour: Amsterdam Red Light District and Coffee Shop Tour

Amsterdam, Centraal Station, 1012 TM Amsterdam, Netherlands Trigger Tours, Private tours in Amsterdam
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4.8 based on 85 reviews

Join this educational and amusing 2.5-hour private walking tour through Amsterdam and learn about the history of the city's famous Red Light District and coffee shops. Walk through the small alleys of the Red Light District with your local guide learning about the history of prostitution in Amsterdam. Then pass by a coffee shop, as the guide explains the liberal marijuana laws, or visit the Sexmuseum Amsterdam (if option selected.)

Inclusions: Local guide, Private tour

Exclusions: Food and drinks, Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviewed By derenl2021

Very interesting and exciting tour! Our guide, Jan, showed us all the interesting sites in Amsterdam. He shared much information and even gave us some tips to get some good food, as restaurants are still closed. Very friendly and informative! Great tour and great day!

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