Amsterdam: Ghost Walking Tour and Dark History

If you’re curious about the haunted corners and shadowy past of Amsterdam, this ghost walking tour might just be your perfect after-hours adventure. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, the consistently high ratings and glowing reviews suggest it’s a compelling way to see a different side of the city. For just $27 per person, you get a two-hour guided walk that promises spine-tingling stories and fascinating glimpses into Amsterdam’s darker moments.

What draws many to this tour are two key strengths. First, the guides seem to be genuinely passionate and knowledgeable, adding depth and personality to the storytelling. Second, the tour offers a mix of chilling ghost stories alongside real historical events, which keeps the experience both spooky and educational. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility issues, as it involves walking through narrow, sometimes uneven, alleyways and around historic sites.

This experience is well-suited for those who love history, enjoy a good ghost story, or are simply looking for a different way to explore Amsterdam after dark. It’s not necessarily a family-friendly activity, but for adults and older teens intrigued by tales of the supernatural and the city’s mysterious past, it can be a memorable evening.

Key Points

• Highly rated experience with a perfect 5/5 from 35 reviews.
• Guides are praised for their passion, knowledge, and storytelling skills.
• Affordable at $27, offering good value for an engaging 2-hour walk.
• Dark historic tales blended with ghost stories provide a balanced experience.
• Starting point at WesterKerk church, close to Dam square, makes it easy to find.
• Not wheelchair accessible, so check your mobility needs before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Special?

This ghost walk isn’t just about spooky tales; it’s a thoughtful look into Amsterdam’s eerie history that’s woven into the city’s architecture and streets. As night falls, the atmospheric alleyways and canals become even more captivating, making the stories come alive in a way that daytime sightseeing can’t match.

The guides, especially Maria and Pilar, receive high praise for their storytelling skills. They manage to strike a balance between historical accuracy and haunting legend, which keeps you both informed and on edge. The reviews highlight how engaging the guides are, with visitors noting that their passion really enhances the experience.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the New Church, an iconic Amsterdam landmark that sets the tone for your spooky journey. From there, you’ll head to Dam Square, one of the city’s most bustling spots, but at night, it takes on a more mysterious vibe. The guided 15-minute stops at key sites continue through the Begijnhof, a historic courtyard with old, seemingly silent houses that ooze stories of their own.

Next, you’ll stroll along Kalverstraat Street, a lively shopping street by day but probably quieter and more shadowy after hours. The route then takes you through the infamous Oudezijds Achterburgwal and Bloedstraat — streets with dark histories and ghostly tales. The narrow Spooksteeg (literally “Haunted Alley”) promises some of the most atmospheric moments, and the final stops at Prins Hendrikkade lead to the Weeping Tower, where the tour concludes.

Each stop offers about 15 minutes of guided storytelling, revealing tales of restless spirits, mysterious disappearances, and dark deeds that left their mark on the city. Though the tour covers a lot of ground, it’s designed to be manageable, with a focus on storytelling rather than strenuous walking.

The Atmosphere and Experience

Expect an eerie, sometimes chilling ambiance as the stories unfold against the backdrop of Amsterdam’s ancient streets and canals. The tour is conducted at night, which amplifies the sense of mystery and suspense. Guides such as Maria and Pilar don’t just recite facts—they craft a narrative that makes you feel immersed in Amsterdam’s darker tales.

A common thread in reviews is how the guides’ passion makes the stories come alive. “Maria was very knowledgeable and friendly,” says one reviewer, emphasizing her ability to connect history and legend. The stories are varied, from ghost sightings to tales of infamous executions, giving a well-rounded picture of the city’s haunted reputation.

Practical Details and Value

Priced at $27 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the length and depth of storytelling. It’s a two-hour experience, which is enough to satisfy curiosity without feeling rushed. The meeting point at WesterKerk’s main entrance makes it accessible, and the tour is wheelchair accessible, although it’s worth noting that the walk involves navigating some uneven surfaces.

The tour doesn’t include food or drinks, so if you’re planning to make an evening of it, consider grabbing a drink afterwards in Dam square or nearby. Cancellation is flexible—full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, making it easy to adapt your plans if needed.

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Authentic Feedback from Reviewers

Travelers often highlight the quality of guides as their favorite aspect. “Our guide Pilar was fantastic, friendly and knowledgeable,” one review states, reflecting how guides customize the experience based on interests. Others mention that the stories are “very interesting,” and that the tour provides a unique perspective on the city beyond its typical tourist spots.

Some note a small group size—occasionally just a few participants—which can make the experience more intimate and personalized. Even if you’re the only ones on the tour, guides tend to tailor the storytelling accordingly, as one reviewer pointed out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost walk is best suited for adults and older teens interested in history, ghost stories, or Amsterdam’s mysterious past. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy storytelling, atmospheric walks, and exploring a city’s darker side. The tour’s focus on history and legend makes it less suitable for those with mobility impairments or those seeking a more family-friendly daytime activity.

This Amsterdam ghost walking tour offers a fascinating blend of history, legend, and atmospheric exploration. It’s a fantastic way to see the city’s quieter, more mysterious corners while learning about its darker stories. The guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling talent elevate the experience, making it feel less like a tour and more like an engaging night-time story session.

If you’re after a reasonably priced, well-reviewed experience that’s both spooky and informative, this tour fits the bill. It’s especially suited for those who love stories about haunted places and enjoy hearing about a city’s lesser-known, shadowy corners.

While not for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues or seeking family-friendly daytime outings—it’s a memorable way to spend an evening in Amsterdam. Just be prepared for some spooky tales, narrow alleyways, and a whole lot of eerie atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is primarily aimed at adults and older teens who can appreciate the spooky stories and walking outdoors at night. It’s not specifically designed for children.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 2 hours, with guided stops at nine different sites.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the main entrance of WesterKerk church in Dam Square, near the Naked Expresso café.

Is there a dress code or special attire needed?
No special attire is required, but comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you’ll walk through alleys and historic streets.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, though some uneven surfaces could pose a challenge.

Are food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in the tour.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is offered in English.

Is this experience family-friendly?
It’s more suited for older teens and adults; younger children might find it too spooky or not engaging enough.

What makes this tour stand out from other Amsterdam attractions?
It’s a chance to experience the city after hours, with stories and sights that aren’t available on typical daytime sightseeing tours.

Hopefully, this review helps you decide whether a spooky night walk through Amsterdam’s haunted streets fits into your travel plans. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost-story enthusiast, or just curious about the city’s darker side, this tour offers a memorable peek behind the scenes.

You can check availability for your dates here: