Amsterdam: Food Walking Tour

Amsterdam: Food Walking Tour Review

Exploring Amsterdam through its food offers a delightful way to get to know the city beyond its famed canals and historic buildings. This 2-hour guided food tour takes you through some of the most iconic and hidden culinary spots, blending tasty bites with fascinating local stories. Offered by Jasmin Tours, it’s designed for those who want a practical, authentic taste of Dutch cuisine while soaking up Amsterdam’s vibrant atmosphere.

One of the things we love about this tour is its balance of food and culture. You won’t just sample cheese; you’ll learn about its history and the city’s character along the way. The cheese tasting at Henri Willig is a highlight, giving you the chance to taste 20 varieties with accompanying sweet and sour sauces—an ideal way to indulge in Dutch flavors. That said, a possible consideration is that the tour’s focus on meat and cheese might not appeal to everyone, particularly vegetarians or vegans. Still, for curious travelers eager to explore Dutch cuisine in a relaxed, intimate setting, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for foodies, history buffs, or anyone looking for a fun, guided introduction to Amsterdam’s culinary scene. It’s especially valuable if you appreciate a small-group, private setting where personalized attention and local insights shine.

Key Points

• Authentic Dutch flavors: Cheese, herring, street snacks, waffles, and more.
• Cultural insights: Guides share stories about Amsterdam’s history and architecture.
• Short and sweet: 2 hours makes it easy to fit into a busy itinerary.
• Inclusive of cheese tasting: Sample 20 varieties with sauces.
• Visit iconic landmarks: Stops include The Schreierstoren Tower and Dam Square.
• Ideal for food lovers: Especially those interested in local traditions and stories.

An In-depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Amsterdam Centraal Railway Station

The tour kicks off conveniently at the main gate of Amsterdam Central Station, making it accessible for travelers arriving by train or cruise. From the moment you meet your multilingual guide, you’ll notice how passionate they are about the city’s food and history. The guides seem to go beyond just delivering facts—they’re eager to share insider tidbits, making the experience both educational and engaging.

A Bite at Schreierstoren Tower

Your first stop is The Schreierstoren, also known as the Weeper’s Tower. This historic site adds a tangible sense of Amsterdam’s maritime past. Here, you’ll get a chance to try some local snacks—bitterballen—paired with a local beer. The 25-minute break allows you to stretch your legs, take photos, and chat with your guide about the city’s fascinating history. This stop sets the tone for a tour that seamlessly weaves food with stories about Amsterdam’s past.

Cheese Tasting at Henri Willig

Next, you’ll visit the Henri Willig Cheese Shop, renowned for its high-quality Dutch cheeses. During a 15-minute tasting session, you’ll sample 20 types of cheese with accompanying sweet and sour sauces—a true cheese lover’s dream. The guide explains the different varieties, their origins, and the traditional methods of cheese-making, which adds a layer of appreciation to each bite.

One reviewer, Mercedes from the United States, praised the guide Chinara for her phenomenal knowledge about both food and architecture, noting how she went out of her way to make the experience special. The emphasis on the cheese’s history and the pairing sauces enriches the tasting, making it more than just a snack.

Street Food and Local Fast Food

Moving into the lively streets of Amsterdam, the tour pauses at local fast-food joints. Here, you’ll sample deep-fried snacks, giving you a taste of authentic Dutch fast fare. It’s a casual, fun part of the experience that offers a glimpse into everyday Dutch life—quick bites that locals enjoy between errands or after a night out.

Trying the Herring Fish

The iconic Dutch herring is next—an experience that’s often polarizing but undeniably authentic. You’ll learn the best way to eat it, usually by holding the fish by the tail and taking a bite. The guide might share stories of how herring has been a staple in Dutch diets for centuries, and you’ll get to decide whether it’s a hit or a miss.

Final Stop: Dam Square

The tour concludes at Dam Square, where you’ll learn about its historic and cultural significance. As you stand amidst the bustling city center, your guide shares insights into notable buildings and the square’s role in Amsterdam’s history. This ending spot allows for further exploration or a relaxed walk back to your accommodation.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $59 per person offers good value, considering the inclusion of a multilingual guide, a walking tour, and extensive cheese tasting. Having a guide enhances the experience, providing context and answering questions about the city’s food and culture.

However, the tour doesn’t include the cost of food and drinks at the stops, which means you should budget extra if you’re planning to indulge beyond the samples provided. That said, the quality and variety of tastings seem well worth it.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes since the tour involves walking through city streets.
• The tour operates in multiple languages—English, Russian, Turkish, Azerbaijani—making it accessible for diverse travelers.
• It’s a private group experience, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Feedback from past participants highlights the knowledgeable guides and the quality of the food as major highlights. One reviewer remarked that Chinara, their guide, demonstrated a “phenomenal knowledge of the city, not only its food and culture, but also its architecture,” which shows the tour’s potential for well-rounded storytelling. The cheese tasting at Henri Willig received particular praise, with guests mentioning the variety of 20 cheeses paired with sauces as a standout feature.

Most appreciated, however, was the personalized attention and friendly demeanor of the guides, which made the experience feel less like a tour and more like exploring with a local friend.

Final Thoughts

The Amsterdam Food Walking Tour offers a practical and engaging way to experience the city’s culinary delights. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy tasting their way through a city while learning about its history and culture from passionate local guides.

While it’s not a comprehensive meal, the quality and variety of tastings provide a satisfying snapshot of Dutch cuisine. The tour’s small-group format, combined with the knowledgeable guides, creates a relaxed and educational environment—perfect for curious visitors eager to see a different side of Amsterdam.

This tour will suit foodies, history enthusiasts, and those looking for a relaxed activity that combines tasting with storytelling. If you’re seeking an authentic, hands-on taste of Amsterdam’s flavors and stories, this experience is a clear choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
This tour focuses on cheese, herring, and fried snacks, so it’s not suitable for vegans or vegetarians. If you have specific food allergies, it’s best to check directly with the provider.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable activity that fits easily into a day’s sightseeing.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the main gate of Amsterdam Central Station, a convenient spot for travelers arriving by train or cruise.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a multilingual guide, a walking tour, and cheese tasting at Henri Willig. Food and drinks at other stops are not included.

Is it a private group?
Yes, this is a private group experience, allowing for personalized interaction and attention.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but keep in mind it involves walking and sampling foods like herring and deep-fried snacks.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as walking is involved. You might also want to bring a small bottle of water.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
Yes, guides speak English, Russian, Turkish, and Azerbaijani, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

Is there an age limit or activity restriction?
The tour is not suitable for vegans or people with certain food allergies. Pets and smoking are also not allowed.

In sum, if you’re after a taste of Amsterdam’s culinary culture with the benefit of local insights and a friendly guide, this tour offers excellent value. It’s best for those eager to explore the city’s traditions through its flavors, and who appreciate a relaxed, private atmosphere combined with authentic food bites.