Western Islands

Famous occupants

Bickerseiland, Prinseneiland and Realeneiland have an eventful history of commerce, shipping and industry that can be traced back to the beginning of the 17th century. Many relics of that history can still be admired today. Thanks to their rather isolated position, these islands have retained a somewhat rustic character, in spite of being located at the very centre of Amsterdam.
About the Giant of Bickerseiland and the winter that the famous Willem Barentsz spent on Nova Zembla.

Your tour will feature impressive warehouses, picturesque houses, nostalgic bridges and modern architecture. You will also get to admire some public gardens and Amsterdam’s only surviving small shipyard.
Your guide will point out the house where the famous photographer Jacob Olie was born, the former workshop of the artist Georg Breitner and the present studio of the artist Ans Markus.

Walwindas?

Pay a visit to the area where Amsterdam’s defensive wall once stood, from where you will have a great view of the Oude Houthaven (Old Timber Harbour) and the ships moored there. Listen to the stories behind various stone tablets, learn all about the Giant of Bickerseiland and the winter that the famous Willem Barentsz spent on Nova Zembla and find out how Galgenstraat got its name.

Here you’ll also be able to see Amsterdam’s only surviving windlass that used to be used for hoisting barrels.

Other preferences?

Would you prefer this tour in a language other than Dutch or at a departure time outside of the scheduled 11:00 or 14:00 hours? Feel free to share any additional ideas or desires you may have regarding the guided tour; there are various options available. However, we recommend contacting us well in advance if you wish to organize a customized tour.