Your self-guided walking tour adventure begins at the famous Dam Square, in front of the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Listen to your audio-guide introduce you to the dynamics that fueled the booming development of the city and the so-called Dutch Golden Age during the 17th century. Continue the walk towards the De Wallen neighborhood, the medieval heart of Amsterdam and home to the lustful red-light district. Here, marvel at the oldest church in Amsterdam, where Rembrandt’s children were baptized and the place where his beloved wife was buried. Move onto the Waag building next and admire its fascinating architecture while listening to stories about the background of Rembrandt’s celebrated painting, The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp. Discover more about the dominant position of the guilds in Amsterdam’s economy as you enjoy a beautiful stroll through the scenic city streets. Stumble upon the beautiful canal houses of some of Rembrandt’s most affluent clients, such as the Trippenhuis, the Star House, and Jan Six’s house. This is a great opportunity to see some of the places where Rembrandt painted his famous portraits and learn about his professional contacts and career evolution. Throughout the tour, admire an array of prominent symbols of the thriving Golden Age, including the headquarters of the Dutch East India Company. Follow Rembrandt’s rapid rise to a first-rate master painter and his later financial collapse as you move from his house to the places that inspired him, including the stunning Zuidekerk and the dreamy Blue Bridge. The tour ends in from of the Rembranthuis Museum where the great painter lived a large portion of his life and where he produced a selection of his masterpieces.