Amsterdam has an incredibly rich literary history. Did you know that over 70 Amsterdam street names were named after Dutch writers and poets? Multiple factors provide the key to an understanding of the remarkable success the Dutch Republic had in the sphere of publishing, printing, and bookselling. In the 17th century, more books were printed in the Netherlands than in all other European countries put together.
We meet and have a short tour (entry fee included) of Amsterdam's most obscure library (Dan Brown's inspiration), then walk through the city, visiting the most interesting literary landmarks, see locations of books set in Amsterdam (i.e. The Goldfinch), and book markets.
Then a stop at a local literary cafe for a coffee or tea (included). We continue on, with more landmarks and end up at one of the most beautiful modern libraries in the world with a rooftop cafe and amazing views of Amsterdam.
Some names you'll hear: Spinoza, Irving, Vondel, Multaluli, Erasmus, Gilbert, Haas.
I provide a printed list and map of every street in Amsterdam named for Dutch writers, a list of banned books and Amsterdam reading recommendations.
