9 Little Streets: Your Guide to the Best Tickets & Passes

The 9 Little Streets (or Negen Straatjes, as they’re called locally) is that kind of place; those delightful web of narrow streets in Amsterdam’s Jordaan area, practically overflowing with independent boutiques, quirky cafes, local designer shops, and just very pleasant vibes. If you are trying to make the most of your visit, you will probably be asking yourself, ‘Do I need tickets or passes?’ Well, in a way, yes and no! Accessing the streets themselves is, of course, completely open and free; very much the charm of Amsterdam is in simply wandering and seeing what catches your eye. However, some tours and experiences certainly could give you a richer appreciation for the area. Let’s have a look at some great options.

1. Canal Cruise Combos

So, Amsterdam’s canals are super iconic, and taking a canal cruise is, you know, practically a must-do. Quite a few cruises specifically glide through the canals surrounding the 9 Little Streets, which offers fantastic views of the charming architecture and the general comings and goings. These cruises are actually frequently combined with entrance tickets to other spots in the city, such as the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, or the Van Gogh Museum. A combo package can, too, make good economic sense, and will save you time queuing, as well. It’s good to note that a canal cruise typically lasts for about an hour, which provides you with plenty of time to soak in the beauty of the Negen Straatjes from a distinct vantage point. It’s nice how the tours often come with audio commentary giving you the history of the buildings.

2. Guided Walking Tours

A guided walking tour can almost uncover many hidden gems that, actually, you could easily miss just wandering around on your own. Quite a few tour companies will actually offer specialized tours of the Jordaan district, which, of course, does include the 9 Little Streets. These tours will often provide some background on the history of the area, as well as stories about the people who’ve shaped it. What’s more, your guide might actually be able to point out particularly interesting shops or cafes that are popular among the locals. It’s actually very fun to stroll along, ask questions, and begin to feel almost more connected to the atmosphere! Just think of them like getting a friend’s personal tour! Make certain that you check how long the tour lasts and what’s covered. You know, comfy shoes could be very important, too!

3. Food Tasting Tours

For all you foodies, that 9 Little Streets neighborhood is definitely a delicious spot! So, there are specialized food tours that will have you sampling local treats; everything from ‘bitterballen’ to ‘stroopwafels’. This could be an outstanding way to actually experience the Dutch culture through its cuisine. The guides on these tours typically are really very passionate about their food and are rather enthusiastic to share all kinds of fun facts. Expect to sample several different items, with enough food to almost make up a full meal, and possibly learn a few very nice phrases in Dutch, as well. Verify to see if any drinks are included, and definitely make note of any possible dietary restrictions when you are booking your ticket.

4. Amsterdam City Card

Okay, so the Amsterdam City Card might actually be something you want to think about if, you know, you’re intending to see quite a bit more of Amsterdam than just the 9 Little Streets. It gives you free entry to quite a few museums, plus free public transport; this definitely might take the stress out of getting around. While the card likely doesn’t include any ‘specific’ tours of the 9 Little Streets themselves, that free public transportation may actually make it far easier for you to travel there; likewise, it could be combined with one of those walking tours that begin near Amsterdam Central Station. This makes excellent sense if you intend to go museum hopping plus some boutique window-shopping. Check to see exactly which attractions are included and consider whether you’d use it enough to make it worthwhile.

5. Bike Tours

Being that Amsterdam is basically bicycle heaven, this kind of a bike tour through the 9 Little Streets might really be fun. Several companies now will rent bikes and propose some routes; that let you see quite a lot more of the city in the exact same time. Keep in mind that although you will be on the roads, certain routes really can take you via charming alleyways that might not be visited otherwise. Consider whether or not the group will dismount at certain places to stop and examine them; you can, too, choose routes to see things in line with your preferences. Bike tours might also be the most appealing on days that don’t have a very large probability of rain. Plus, it’s cool to notice, Amsterdam actually really knows its biking culture!