Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before you join us. Can't find your answer? Email us at info@pastforwardtours.com and a real person replies.
Booking & Payment
How do I book?
Straight through this website, or via Viator or GetYourGuide if that's easier for you. You'll get an instant confirmation by email with your exact meeting point, the start time, and a way to reach us on the day.
When do I pay?
At the time of booking, in euros, through our secure booking provider. We never see or store your card details. Prices include VAT where it applies. All bookings are processed through Stripe, a secure payment platform.
Is there a minimum number of people? Will my tour still run if I'm the only one booked?
It runs. Once you've booked, the tour is on, and we don't cancel for low numbers. Whether you're one guest or a full group, we'll be at the meeting point. The only exceptions are the rare cases described under "Weather" and "Anything else" below.
How big are the groups?
Small by design. Amsterdam allows a maximum of 15 guests per guide, and we like to keep it intimate so you can actually hear the stories and ask questions.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes: get in touch through info@pastforwardtours.com and we will arrange it.
Changing or cancelling
What if my plans change?
No problem, as long as you give us notice. You can cancel or reschedule free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund or a new date of your choice (subject to availability).
What happens if I cancel last-minute?
Cancellations within 24 hours of the start, and no-shows, aren't refundable. Your spot was held and the tour was planned around it. If something genuinely unexpected happens, email us. We review each case individually, but we can't promise a refund.
How do I cancel or move my booking?
Use the link in your confirmation email, or email us at info@pastforwardtours.com. If you booked through Viator or GetYourGuide, cancel through them, since their terms also apply to that booking.
How long do refunds take?
Refunds go back to your original payment method, usually within a few business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or payment provider.
Weather
Do tours run in the rain?
Yes, rain or shine, the tour happens! The Dutch drizzle is honestly part of the experience, and it's often when the city is at its most atmospheric and least crowded. Bring a rain jacket or umbrella and comfortable, weatherproof shoes and you'll be glad you came.
Is a tour ever cancelled for weather?
Only when it's genuinely unsafe. To keep it clear and fair, we use one objective standard: if the KNMI (Royal Netherlands Meteorological Institute) issues a Code Red weather alert for the Amsterdam region covering your tour time, we cancel and give you a full refund or a free reschedule. Ordinary rain, snow, wind, cold, or heat that doesn't reach Code Red isn't a reason to cancel. We'll simply dress for it and, where it's safe and helps, use more sheltered spots along the route.
Should I check the forecast?
Worth a glance the evening before. Locals swear by the Buienradar app for spotting a passing shower. Dress for the day and you're set.
On the day
Where do we meet?
The exact spot is in your confirmation email, but the meeting point is simple; the Central Train station of Amsterdam. Please arrive at least 5 minutes early so we can start on time.
What time does the tour start, and what if I'm late?
Tours leave promptly at the booked time. If you're running late, contact us right away using the number in your confirmation and we'll do our best to help you join. We can't hold the whole group, though, and if the tour has already left, the booking isn't refundable. Head out on time and give yourself a buffer; Amsterdam is a distracting place to walk through.
How long is the tour, and how far do we walk?
A little less than 2 hours and a bit over 2.0 km on foot, at a relaxed pace with plenty of stops to look, listen, and take photos.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Children of all ages are welcome when accompanied by a responsible adult who supervises them throughout.
Is it accessible / wheelchair-friendly?
Our route covers a fair bit of cobblestone and isn't fully wheelchair accessible. If anyone in your group has reduced mobility or specific access needs, email us before booking and we'll tell you honestly whether it'll work for you. If not, we'll try to suggest an alternative.
What should I bring / wear?
Comfortable shoes above all, because those cobbles are charming and unforgiving. Then dress for the forecast: a rain layer if needed, or water and sun protection in summer. That's really it.
Are toilets and coffee available?
There aren't public stops built into the route, so it's worth going before we start. We finish near Spui, where there are lovely cafés, and your guide will happily point you to a good one.
What's this tour actually about?
It's the story of medieval Amsterdam's hidden monasteries, which were once a fifth of the city, run largely by women, and almost all of it demolished. It's designed for curious first-time visitors. No prior history needed, just bring your curiosity.
Is it in English?
Yes, all tours are guided in English. We also offer tours in Romanian, Spanish and Greek. To book a tour in a different language, please contact us directly at info@pastforwardtours.com
Do I need to know anything beforehand?
Not a thing. We built this for people seeing Amsterdam for the very first time.
Can I take photos?
Please do, and tag us, we love seeing your shots. We only ask that you don't record the full tour commentary for commercial use.
Furthermore, please be mindful of your surroundings when taking pictures; the Red Light Area generally frowns upon unsolicited pictures. When in doubt, ask your guide!
Will you take photos of us?
We sometimes snap a few for promotion. If you'd rather not appear, just tell your guide at the start and that's completely fine. If we'd like to feature you specifically, we'll always ask your permission first.
Anything else
What if you have to cancel my tour?
Very occasionally we may need to cancel, for example because of guide illness, a KNMI Code Red alert, or circumstances beyond our control. If we cancel, you'll always be offered a full refund or a free reschedule, and we'll tell you as early as we can.
Is my booking safe if there's a strike or a city event?
Some things are beyond anyone's control: transport strikes, road closures, demonstrations. If one forces us to cancel, you get a full refund or a free reschedule. If it only affects your own travel to the meeting point, the normal cancellation policy applies, so do leave a little extra time.
Should I have insurance?
We recommend all guests carry their own travel and personal insurance. It's good practice for any trip, and it covers the things we can't. Check our Policy for more information.
I have another question!
Email us at info@pastforwardtours.com. We'd genuinely rather answer a question before you book than have you wonder, so ask away. Do you have a burning question that cannot wait 1-2 business to be answered? No worries, you can call us at +31 616 44 88 78 and we will do our best to answer or call back as soon as we can!