Amsterdam: Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood

If you’re looking to experience Amsterdam beyond the typical tourist spots, this self-guided food tour in De Jordaan offers an authentic taste of the neighborhood’s vibrant food scene and charming streets. Designed for independent explorers, it lets you wander at your own pace, sampling some of the best local bites without feeling rushed.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is how this tour combines delicious food with storytelling — each stop reveals a little about the community and its culinary heroes. Plus, the exclusive tastings and discounts are a real bonus—especially considering the modest price of only $14 for all those bites. The main consideration? Not every stop is open daily, so you’ll want to plan your visit accordingly. This experience suits curious travelers eager to enjoy authentic Amsterdam flavors while exploring at their own pace.

If you love discovering family-run businesses and local favorites, this tour offers a comfortable, budget-friendly way to deepen your understanding of De Jordaan’s culinary culture.

Key Points

• Independent & flexible: Self-guided means you set your own pace.
• Great value: For $14, enjoy exclusive tastings at six of seven spots, including Dutch classics.
• Authentic experiences: Visit family-owned businesses loved by locals.
• Rich storytelling: Learn about the neighborhood’s food heroes and history.
• Convenient: Easy-to-follow PDF guide with Google Map links.
• Taste a variety: From cheese and herring to apple pie and ice cream.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the De Jordaan Food Tour

Starting Point: Broodje Mokum, the Local Lunch Spot

The tour kicks off at Broodje Mokum, a well-loved local lunchroom that has become a staple in De Jordaan. Here, you’ll get your first taste of the neighborhood’s laid-back yet passionate approach to food. Expect a traditional Jordanese sandwich with a range of local toppings—perfect for fueling your walk ahead. Reviews highlight the authenticity of this spot, and many appreciate the opportunity to start their day with a genuine local meal.

Exploring the Neighborhood’s Food Culture

De Jordaan is known not only for its picturesque canals and quirky architecture but also for its warm “Jordanese attitude.” As you walk from stop to stop, the PDF guide provides detailed directions and insights. This neighborhood was once impoverished but transformed into a hub of artistic expression and culinary tradition. The tour’s structure helps you connect these stories with the food you’re tasting, making each bite more meaningful.

Cheese Tasting at a Famed Cheese Shop

One of the highlights involves sampling Dutch cheese at a renowned local shop. You’ll see a variety of cheese—from young to aged, flavored to classic—carefully curated by a local cheese expert. This stop offers a genuine, hands-on experience in Dutch cheese-making tradition. Whether you’re a cheese lover or just curious, this tasting underscores the high quality and craftsmanship behind Dutch dairy.

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Sweet Stop: Italian Ice Cream & Apple Pie

A favorite among travelers is visiting a top-rated ice-cream parlor, where you can indulge in a scoop of authentic Italian gelato or ice cream. Many reviews rave about the quality here, making it a refreshing break. Then, you’ll step into a historic brown cafe to sample what some consider one of Amsterdam’s best apple pies—a dessert so good that even a U.S. president was reportedly smitten.

Savory & Iconic Fish Sampling

Next, the tour includes tasting kibbeling (fried cod) and herring—two of the neighborhood’s most iconic fish dishes. The history of herring in Dutch culture adds an intriguing layer to this tasting, giving you an authentic bite of local tradition. Many reviews note the freshness and flavor of these offerings, which are staples of Amsterdam’s street food scene.

Unique Food & Drink Pairing at a Concept Store

Your final stop is at a creative Amsterdam concept store, where a slider and drink combo is prepared by a renowned local chef. This spot reflects how De Jordaan continues to innovate while respecting its roots. It’s a fitting end, combining casual ambiance with inventive flavors.

The Value of This Experience

All of these tastings, discounts, and stories come with a modest price—approximately 25 euros per person for the food alone, plus the $14 tour fee. Considering you’re visiting family-run businesses and enjoying exclusive deals, the value is strong, especially for independent travelers who prefer their own schedule.

Practical Details & Tips for the Tour

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour provides a PDF guide with detailed directions, Google Map links, and information about each stop. It includes exclusive discounts and tastings at 6 of 7 locations, so be sure to show the guide on your phone at each stop. The cost of food is around €25, providing a well-rounded sampling without breaking the bank.

Timing & Accessibility

The tour lasts approximately two hours, but because it’s self-guided, you can extend or shorten your experience. It runs rain or shine, making it flexible for all weather. The activity is wheelchair accessible, which broadens its appeal.

Practical Tips

Bring your credit card and cash—some places might prefer cash for tips or additional purchases. Ensure your smartphone is charged and you have internet access to follow the guide and maps. With no in-person guide, you’ll need to be comfortable navigating on your own, but the detailed instructions are straightforward.

Considerations & Limitations

Since not every stop is open daily, it’s wise to check the availability before planning your day. Vegetarian options are available at five of the stops, but the tour isn’t suited for vegans or those with gluten sensitivities. You might find the overall experience less suitable if dietary restrictions are strict.

Authenticity & Feedback from Travelers

The tour’s appeal lies in its authentic, local flavor. Many reviews mention good value and delicious food, especially the tapas-style bites. However, one review simply said “Yrrr,” indicating that not every experience resonated equally. Still, with a 3.4/5 rating based on 10 reviews, it’s clear that some travelers find this a worthwhile, enjoyable way to explore De Jordaan.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for independent travelers who enjoy discovering neighborhoods at their own pace. Food lovers keen on authentic Dutch snacks and classic dishes will appreciate the variety and stories behind each bite. It’s especially suitable for those on a budget, given the low cost and exclusive tastings. If you’re seeking a structured guided tour, this isn’t it; but if you value flexibility, local flair, and tasty bites, this is a smart choice.

Final Thoughts

This self-guided food tour offers a genuine taste of De Jordaan without the high price tag or rigid schedule of larger group tours. You’ll stroll through one of Amsterdam’s most charming districts, sample a good variety of local foods, and learn about the neighborhood’s history and food heroes. The inclusion of exclusive deals and a practical PDF guide makes it a convenient, value-packed option for curious explorers.

While it may not suit everyone—especially vegan or gluten-free travelers—the experience provides a delightful, authentic look into Amsterdam’s culinary soul. Perfect for independent foodies or those short on time, this tour can deepen your appreciation of what makes De Jordaan so beloved.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
You receive a self-guided PDF with directions, stops, and exclusive discounts at 6 of 7 locations. The tastings are included in the discounts, and the total food cost is around €25.

How long does the tour take?
It’s designed to last about 2 hours, but you can adjust your pace since it’s self-guided. You can also extend your visit if you wish.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, you need to reserve online. After booking, you’ll get a download link for the PDF guide within 24 hours.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for travelers with mobility considerations.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, at five of the stops, vegetarian options are offered. However, it’s not designed for vegans.

Can I take this tour in bad weather?
Absolutely, it runs rain or shine, so just dress appropriately.

What’s the best time of day to do the tour?
Most travelers will enjoy it in the late morning or early afternoon, but it’s flexible based on your schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Broodje Mokum and concludes back at the same spot, completing a loop of tasty discoveries.

Do I need cash or cards for the tastings?
Both are recommended—show the guide on your phone and pay with your preferred method at each stop.

Is there a guide or person leading the tour?
It’s entirely self-guided, so there’s no in-person guide; you navigate using the PDF and maps.

In summary, this self-guided food tour in De Jordaan is a smart, budget-friendly way to enjoy some of Amsterdam’s best local flavors while exploring one of its most charming neighborhoods. Perfect for adventurous, independent travelers eager to taste authentic Dutch dishes and learn local stories at their own pace.

You can check availability for your dates here: