Enjoy your guide’s expertise as you begin with the roots of this unique maritime metropolis, Amsterdam’s medieval harbor. Find the most interesting architecture in the Dutch capital along its waterfronts, from the historical canal area to artificial archipelagos. See the neighborhood’s most striking monuments, markets, street-art hot spots, and little-known local haunts that characterize this beautiful and lively area. Learn how and from where the Dutch began to sail the seas of the world. See Amsterdam’s unique housing boats and classic wooden sailing crafts along the wharf. See the picturesque and costly homes which in the past were warehouses used for storing the goods that came from Amsterdam’s port and learn about their famous owners. Continue into the Jordaan, which is Amsterdam’s most famous neighborhood. Watch how the gentrification of decades has worked to attract more galleries, restaurants, specialty shops, and upwardly-mobile residents to its "higgledy-piggledy" picturesque streets. Gain a deeper knowledge of how Amsterdam has evolved from a merchant stronghold to a predominant European cultural capital as you walk around its streets. Walk the "Nine Streets" on Amsterdam’s 17th-century canal ring area, and enjoy one of the marvels of this world’s architecture. Learn as your guide documents the history of this unique urban development, and find out just why this area has been designated by UNESCO as world heritage. Get an overview of the architectural style of Amsterdam’s rich past. See its very lively artisanal businesses, hidden cafés, restaurants, and galleries with specialized and authentic shops.