Old Church (Oude Kerk) Tours
Amsterdam’s oldest church, the Old Church (Oude Kerk), is a curious sight. Consecrated in 1303, the triple-nave Gothic church is surrounded by the window brothels, coffee shops, and bars of the city’s notorious red-light district. Inside are an impressive Christian Müller organ, some scandalous 15th-century carvings, and a floor built of gravestones.
The Basics
A visit to the Old Church—replete with tidbits about its history, architecture, and tombs—is included in many old town Amsterdam and red-light district (De Wallen) walking tours. To make the most out of your time in Amsterdam, pick up an I amsterdam City Card, which includes free admission to the Oude Kerk as well as other top Amsterdam attractions such as the Rijksmuseum and the Rembrandt House, plus free unlimited use of public transportation.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The Old Church is just a short walk from Centraal Station and Dam Square. The church is difficult to reach by car, so plan on arriving by public transportation, bike, or on foot. From anywhere in central Amsterdam, take tram 4, 14, or 24 to Dam Square and then make the short 5-minute walk to the church.
When to Get There
The church is open 10am to 6pm Monday through Saturday and 1pm to 6:30pm Sunday. The Old Church sponsors an International Organ Festival each summer as well as year-round organ concerts and competitions. It also features rotating art exhibits and other special events throughout the year, so check the church calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
The Oude Kerk Tower
The Old Church’s leaning bell tower looms over Amsterdam’s red-light district and offers fantastic views of the city. Guides lead visitors up the narrow spiral staircase and a series of step ladders to the top of the 220-feet (67-meter) high tower. The tower is open only Thursday and Friday from April to September, and it may be climbed only with a guide.
The Basics
A visit to the Old Church—replete with tidbits about its history, architecture, and tombs—is included in many old town Amsterdam and red-light district (De Wallen) walking tours. To make the most out of your time in Amsterdam, pick up an I amsterdam City Card, which includes free admission to the Oude Kerk as well as other top Amsterdam attractions such as the Rijksmuseum and the Rembrandt House, plus free unlimited use of public transportation.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Old Church is a must for first-time visitors to Amsterdam.
- Nearby attractions include the infamous red-light district and the Museum Amstelkring.
- Climbing the church tower requires an additional fee.
- Many areas of the church are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
How to Get There
The Old Church is just a short walk from Centraal Station and Dam Square. The church is difficult to reach by car, so plan on arriving by public transportation, bike, or on foot. From anywhere in central Amsterdam, take tram 4, 14, or 24 to Dam Square and then make the short 5-minute walk to the church.
When to Get There
The church is open 10am to 6pm Monday through Saturday and 1pm to 6:30pm Sunday. The Old Church sponsors an International Organ Festival each summer as well as year-round organ concerts and competitions. It also features rotating art exhibits and other special events throughout the year, so check the church calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
The Oude Kerk Tower
The Old Church’s leaning bell tower looms over Amsterdam’s red-light district and offers fantastic views of the city. Guides lead visitors up the narrow spiral staircase and a series of step ladders to the top of the 220-feet (67-meter) high tower. The tower is open only Thursday and Friday from April to September, and it may be climbed only with a guide.
Address: Oudekerksplein 23, Centrum, Amsterdam, North Holland Province 1012, Netherlands
Admission: Varies
52 Tours and Activities to Experience Old Church (Oude Kerk)
Sort by:Featured
Sex Worker Guided Amsterdam Red Light District Walking Tour
Discover Amsterdam’s infamous Red Light District during this small-group guided walking tour. Led by a sex worker, this tour sheds light on the often misunderstood area that has made Amsterdam so famous. She explains all about her job, how prostitution functions in the Netherlands and more while you stroll along the canals and alleyways of the area.
…More
From
$49.48
From
$49.48
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Private Amsterdam Red Light District and Food Tour
Discover the truth behind the famous Amsterdam Red Light District on a private 2-hour tour, a great way for first-time visitors to orient themselves in the Netherlands’ capital. As you stroll along the UNESCO-listed Amsterdam Canal Ring, you’ll pass Oude Kerk (Old Church) and explore Chinatown. Plus, stop to sample three Dutch specialities, including cheese, kroket (croquette), and stroopwafel (thin waffles).
…More
From
$100.41
Price varies by group size
From
$100.41
Price varies by group size
Guides required to regularly wash hands
€25 per person Amsterdam Boat tour. With open bar!
Don't miss out!! Join the 1h cruise on our luxurious, electric handcrafted boat for an unforgettable experience through the Amsterdam city canals. Our professional and knowledgable captain will sail into the small secrete canals of Amsterdam to show you and tell you about all the hidden gems that this wonderful city has to offer.
This is the best boat tour you will experience in Amsterdam, combined with our in-depth knowledge of the city’s rich history, a fully stocked bar, and traditional Dutch snacks.
We guarantee a truly unique experience and luxurious comfort on board!!
…More
From
$17.63
$0.93 savings
From
$17.63
$0.93 savings
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Skip-the-line Rijksmuseum & Amsterdam City Center Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max
Skip the line at the popular Rijksmuseum, as well as get a comprehensive walking tour of Amsterdam's historic center during this half-day tour. Travel with a small group, which ensures personalized attention and the chance to ask questions. Your ticket to the Rijksmuseum is valid all day long, so you can explore at your leisure after the conclusion of your tour.
…More
From
$221.60
Price varies by group size
From
$221.60
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Historic Amsterdam Private Walking Tour
Learn how Amsterdam grew from a ramshackle medieval outpost built on the water into an international trading powerhouse and socially inclusive community. On this private walking history tour, see landmarks like the Dutch East India Company House, Red Light District, world’s first stock exchange, and Royal Palace as a guide unravels the forces that shaped the city. Ask all the questions you like on this personalized introduction to one of Europe’s great capitals.
…More
From
$29.69
From
$29.69
Amsterdam City Center & History Guided Walking Tour - Private Tour
Get a true insider's view of Amsterdam on this 2.5-hour private walking tour. Stroll around the city with the knowledgeable local guide and head to some lesser-known hidden gems in the city. Along the way, stop and learn about some of the major sites, too. Visit such spots as Dam Square, artists squats, leaning houses, Prinsengracht, Begijnof, the thinnest house, the oldest canals, the Sea Dike and China Town, The New Market Square (Nieuwmarkt) and the medieval city gate
…More
From
$90.48
Price varies by group size
From
$90.48
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
1.5 Hour Walking Tour of Amsterdam’s Red Light District with a Local
Amsterdam’s famous Red Light District is high on the must-see list for first-time visitors, but it can be hard to know where to start without a guide. Discover the best bars, clubs, and coffee shops on this evening walking tour, pass unique sights such as the world’s first condom shop and the Erotic Museum, and learn more about Amsterdam’s free-spirited culture.
…More
From
$40.82
From
$40.82
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Amsterdam Private Food Walking Tour with Tastings
Take a bite out of Amsterdam’s delectable culinary culture on a private walking food tour that takes you to authentic eateries and street markets, with a serving of history along the way. See landmarks including Dam Square, the Waag, and Chinatown with a foodie guide, stopping to sample local specialties like Dutch pancakes and croquets, gouda cheese, and sweet stroopwafels. It's a fun and personalized wait to satisfy your curiosity — and your stomach.
…More
From
$119.11
Price varies by group size
From
$119.11
Price varies by group size
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Amsterdam Red Light District Private Tour with a Local
Discover the stories and secrets of Amsterdam’s most notorious neighborhood on a private tour of the Red Light District. Break away from the curious tourist throngs as a savvy local guide ushers you through hedonistic alleyways and past bars and cafes. Learn the history behind the city’s famously permissive culture and explore hidden spots beyond the glowing red lights and windows.
…More
From
$53.19
Price varies by group size
From
$53.19
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Amsterdam Walking Tour
See the HIGHLIGHTS of AMSTERDAM in a 2,5 HOUR Walking tour and be photographed at the same time? Shoot Me! Photography takes you to the most epic places in Amsterdam with a professional PHOTOGRAPHER.
Tourists turn into models on this tour which takes you to all the famous places Amsterdam is known for. From a personal photoshoot with the Amsterdam skyline in the background, to a family portret near the canals in the city center. A perfect shot with your friends at Damsquare and a fun playful one of you on the Amstel. Its a guarantee you will go home with amazing pictures!
The Red light district, Anne Frank House and of course the Jordaan are also part of this tour.
The photographer takes amazing photos of you when and wherever you like.
AND Yes! ALL PHOTOS are INCLUDED.
You do not want to miss this…
…More
From
$46.88
Price varies by group size
From
$46.88
Price varies by group size
Small-Group Amsterdam Beer Tour
Find beervana on this 3-hour evening Amsterdam beer tour that avoids the tourist-traps and showcases some of Amsterdam’s quality bars. An in-the-know guide takes a small group, limited to just 12 beer nuts, around the picturesque city to popular local watering holes, including a brewery in the Red Light District and a beer hall boasting more than 200 types of frothy goodness! Along the way, sample three beers and learn about the Netherlands' beer-brewing history.
…More
From
$72.55
From
$72.55
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Guides required to regularly wash hands
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
Amsterdam History Walking Tour
During the Amsterdam History Tour you will discover some of Amsterdam’s most iconic squares, buildings, canals and old streets, while learning about the city’s history, liberal culture and Dutch people.
Our knowledgeable local guides will take you on a great walking tour straight through Amsterdam’s historic center. During this 1:45 hour tour our licensed experts explain how freedom and tolerance were born in the Netherlands and how they impacted Amsterdam’s financial development; turning a scanty fishing village into the centre of world trade.
We describe how these same values from the 16th century still shape the attitudes of today’s Amsterdammers. This Amsterdam City Tour is a feast for the eyes; so don’t forget to charge your camera!
…More
From
$29.58
From
$29.58
Amsterdam Red Light District Walking Audio Tour by VoiceMap
Amsterdam banned guided tours of its notorious Red Light District on 1 January 2020. But you can still learn the ins and outs of this fascinating area by downloading this great audio guide, which uses your phone’s GPS but works even when you’re offline. Learn about historic churches, flood defences, and Amsterdam history, and the role that legalized sex work has played in this tolerant city.
…More
From
$5.41
From
$5.41
Amsterdam Private Tour: Red Light District Exploration Game
Embark on a quest around Amsterdam by solving clues to find a lost treasure in the Red Light District, all on your smartphone. Unlock new stories as you discover on your own the Amsterdam Old Town, Rembrandt House, Oude Kerk, Amsterdam Canals, and more.
+ Discover popular and lesser-known places in Amsterdam
+ Visit the places where Rembrandt used to hang out
+ Find out fascinating stories and legends about Dutch sailors
+ Discover a secret church in the Red Light District
Each clue will lead you from one place to another, giving you precise directions, so you won’t need a map, a GPS or a guide. When you solve it and guess the answer, the secret story of that place is unlocked.
After you buy the quest, you will receive an access code that you can use in the app for unlocking the game. It will take you 1-2 hours to complete, but there’s no time limit, you can finish it at your own pace.
…More
From
$8.03
Price varies by group size
From
$8.03
Price varies by group size
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Regular temperature checks for staff
Paid stay-at-home policy for staff with symptoms
Amsterdam City Center & History Guided Walking Tour - Semi-Private 8ppl Max
Immerse yourself in the history of Amsterdam during this walking tour of the city center. Spend time in the company of an engaging guide and small group of just eight people or fewer as you see famous landmarks including the Red Light District, the Flower Market, Dam Square, and walk around the city's famous canals which have been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
…More
From
$90.48
Price varies by group size
From
$90.48
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Panoramic Private Tour of Amsterdam
Tour the best of Amsterdam in the comfort of your private vehicle. Enjoy picturesque canals and charming gabled facades lining the waterways. Exploring drawbridges, wonderful house boats and the museum district will allow us to discover the stories and scenic views behind Amsterdam’s most outstanding sights.
Tour Highlights:
• Canal houses
• Picturesque bridges of Amsterdam
• Old Town
• Royal Palace
• Dam Square
• Red Light District
• St. Nicholas Basilica
…More
From
$402.00
Price varies by group size
From
$402.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Private walking tour in Amsterdam
Acclimate yourself to the complex canals and must-see attractions of Amsterdam on a private 3-hour walking tour. The flexible itinerary is completely customized to match your personal interests, so you make the most of your limited time in the city. Possible highlights include the Red Light District, New Church, Old Church, and Royal Palace. Skip-the-line tickets are provided by your guide as needed.
…More
From
$178.00
Price varies by group size
From
$178.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Skip-the-line Rijksmuseum & Amsterdam City Center Guided Tour - Private Tour
Combine a private walking tour of Amsterdam with skip-the-line access to the popular Rijksmuseum on this half-day tour. Breeze past the crowds at the often crowded Rijksmuseum for a guided tour with your dedicated guide, then stroll through the city to learn about what it was like during the 18th and 19th centuries. This private tour ensures personalized attention for you and your party.
…More
From
$221.60
Price varies by group size
From
$221.60
Price varies by group size
Face masks provided for travelers
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
60 Minute Small Group Tour by Captain Jack
Cruising the canals of Amsterdam is a must for first-time visitors to the city. This family-friendly cruise provides a personalized experience with a small boat and a maximum of 20 passengers on-board. Get to know each other as you sip drinks, tuck into snacks, and enjoy entertaining commentary from Captain Jack. Cruise around the UNESCO-listed canal ring, spot landmarks including the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House, and hear fun facts and stories about Amsterdam as you discover the city.
…More
From
$22.27
From
$22.27
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Gear/equipment sanitized between use
Amsterdam Bike Tour
See the highlights of Amsterdam and be photographed at the same time? Shoot me! Photography takes you to the most epic places in Amsterdam with a professional photographer. Tourists turn into models on this tour which takes you to all the famous places Amsterdam is known for. On this 3 hour bike tour the photographer takes amazing photos of when and where ever you like. From a personal photoshoot with the Amsterdam skyline in the background, to a family portrait near the canals in the city center. A perfect shot with your friends at museumsquare with the I Amsterdam sign and a fun playful one of you in the Vondelpark. It's a guarantee you'll go home with amazing pictures!
The Windmill, red light district, anne frank house and of course the Jordaan are also part of this tour.
You do not want to miss this…
And yes !! ALL PHOTOS are INCLUDED.
…More
From
$67.42
Price varies by group size
From
$67.42
Price varies by group size
Private Tour: Highlights of Amsterdam + Zaanse Schans village + Cheese Farm
During the tour, you will travel to the village of Zaanse Schans, past the Dutch landscapes of polders and canals, where you will visit a windmill, a workshop for making wooden shoes, a cheese farm with a tasting of Dutch cheese.
Then you will return to Amsterdam, where you take a panoramic tour. You will see Central Railway Station, St. Nicholas Basilica, Dam Square, Oude Kerk, Nieuwe Kerk, Royal Palace, Canals and bridges of the city, Canal houses, Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Red Light District, etc.
The tour ends with a return transfer to your hotel.
…More
From
$761.00
Price varies by group size
From
$761.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Best of Amsterdam on a Private Panoramic Tour
Sightseeing tour with a professional guide and driver on the highlights of Amsterdam. You will see Central Railway Station, St. Nicholas Basilica, Dam Square, Oude Kerk, Nieuwe Kerk, Royal Palace, Canals and bridges of the city, Canal houses, Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, Red Light District, etc.
The tour ends with a return transfer to your hotel.
…More
From
$419.00
Price varies by group size
From
$419.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Amsterdam Night Professional Photoshoot and Fun Walking Tour
We'll meet at Damrak.Then we will get to some hidden streets close to the Red Ligh District, and will snap photos with neon lights background, alleys, underground spots, indoor places etc. We'll take photos around amsterdam hearth amazing spots for create your creative pictures!
If you're a photographer I can also offer you a night Workshop Experience in Amsterdam, just send me a message!
…More
From
$235.03
From
$235.03
Private Walking Tour of Amsterdam + Join-in public Boat Tour
Tour includes walking City Tour of Amsterdam and 1 hr join-in public boat tour. You will see Central Railway Station, St. Nicholas Basilica, Dam Square, Oude Kerk, Nieuwe Kerk, Royal Palace, Canals and bridges of the city, Canal houses, Red Light District, etc.
At the end of the walking tour, you will say goodbye to a guide who will give instructions on how to return to the hotel after a boat trip.
A boat tour starts and ends by the Central Railway Station.
…More
From
$429.00
Price varies by group size
From
$429.00
Price varies by group size
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Face masks provided for travelers
Things to do near Amsterdam
- Things to do in Zaandam
- Things to do in The Hague
- Things to do in Rotterdam
- Things to do in Dordrecht
- Things to do in Leeuwarden
- Things to do in Eindhoven
- Things to do in Zaventem
- Things to do in Ghent
- Things to do in Bruges
- Things to do in Brussels
- Things to do in Cologne
- Things to do in Dover
- Things to do in North Holland
- Things to do in South Holland
- Things to do in Flanders