Description
Ah, Tour de BonTon – one of Amsterdam’s best-kept secrets and a truly unique experience that’ll make your visit to our beautiful city unforgettable. As a local, I’ve seen my fair share of tourists flock to the usual spots, but this hidden gem offers something truly special. Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam, just a stone’s throw from the iconic Rijksmuseum and the ever-popular Heineken Experience, Tour de BonTon gives you an exclusive peek behind the curtain of Amsterdam’s most high-end strip and sex club.
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Is this really for me?” Well, let me tell you, it’s not your average tourist attraction. Tour de BonTon is all about education, breaking taboos, and gaining a deeper understanding of an industry that’s been a part of Amsterdam’s history for centuries. The tour takes place in an old Amsterdam canal house, spanning from the first to the fifth floor. It’s an intimate setting that really adds to the atmosphere.
During your visit, which typically lasts about an hour, you’ll be guided through the club by knowledgeable staff who’ll give you the inside scoop on the sex industry in Amsterdam. They’ll share fascinating stories, debunk common myths, and provide insights that you simply won’t find in your average guidebook. And trust me, as someone who’s lived here for years, even I learned a thing or two!
One thing to keep in mind – this tour isn’t suitable for everyone. You need to be at least 18 years old to participate, and unfortunately, due to the nature of the building (those classic Amsterdam staircases!), it’s not accessible for people with mobility issues. But if you’re able-bodied and open-minded, you’re in for a treat!
Key Features
Alright, let’s dive into what makes Tour de BonTon so special. First off, the location is pretty darn cool. It’s housed in a traditional Amsterdam canal house, which gives you a glimpse into the city’s architectural history while you’re learning about its, well, more risqu√© history. The tour spans five floors, each offering a different perspective on the industry.
One of the standout features is the quality of the guides. These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill tour guides reading from a script. Many of them have firsthand experience in the industry, which means you’re getting authentic, unfiltered insights. They’re open to questions too, so don’t be shy – this is your chance to satisfy your curiosity about a world that’s often shrouded in mystery.
Another key aspect is the tour’s focus on education and destigmatization. It’s not about titillation or sensationalism; instead, it aims to provide a balanced, informative view of the sex industry. You’ll learn about the history of prostitution in Amsterdam, the current laws and regulations, and the realities of working in the industry. It’s eye-opening stuff, trust me.
The tour also gives you a behind-the-scenes look at how a high-end strip club operates. You’ll see the dressing rooms, the main stage, and even the private rooms. It’s all done tastefully, of course – this isn’t a peep show, but rather an educational experience.
One thing I particularly appreciate about Tour de BonTon is how it addresses the less glamorous aspects of the industry. They don’t shy away from discussing the challenges and risks faced by sex workers, which I think is crucial for a well-rounded understanding of the topic.
Oh, and here’s a little insider tip – if you’re lucky, you might get to meet some of the performers. They sometimes stick around after hours to chat with tour groups, which can lead to some fascinating conversations. Just remember to be respectful – these are real people with real lives, not tourist attractions.
Best Time to Visit
Now, let’s talk timing. Tour de BonTon is open Wednesday to Sunday, from 12:30 PM to 7:30 PM. The last tour kicks off at 6:30 PM, so make sure you don’t rock up too late. In my experience, the best time to visit really depends on what kind of atmosphere you’re after.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed, intimate experience, I’d recommend going for an early afternoon tour. The club is quieter then, which means you might get more one-on-one time with your guide for questions. Plus, if you’re anything like me and tend to get a bit sleepy after lunch, this is a great way to keep yourself awake and entertained!
On the other hand, if you want to get a sense of the pre-show buzz, aim for a late afternoon or early evening tour. You might catch glimpses of performers getting ready for the night ahead, which adds an extra layer of excitement to the experience. Just keep in mind that these later tours tend to be more popular, so you might be in a slightly larger group.
As for the best day to visit, I’d say weekdays are your best bet if you want a more personal experience. Weekends can get pretty busy, especially during the peak tourist season (generally June to August). But if weekends are your only option, don’t worry – the tour is still fantastic, just a bit more lively.
Speaking of seasons, Amsterdam’s weather can be… let’s say, unpredictable. Tour de BonTon is indoors, so it’s a great option for those inevitable rainy days. In fact, I once ducked in for a tour to escape a sudden downpour, and it ended up being one of the most interesting afternoons I’ve had in the city!
One last thing to keep in mind – if you’re planning to visit during a major event or holiday (like King’s Day or Amsterdam Pride), book your tickets well in advance. The tour can sell out quickly during these busy periods, and trust me, you don’t want to miss out.
How to Get There
Alright, let’s get you to Tour de BonTon! The club is located at Stadhouderskade 64-1, 1072 AD Amsterdam. It’s in a prime location, right in the heart of the city, which makes it pretty easy to find. But I know from experience that Amsterdam’s winding streets can sometimes feel like a maze, so let me break it down for you.
If you’re coming by public transport (which, let’s be honest, is often the best way to get around Amsterdam), you’ve got a few options. The easiest is probably Metro 52 – hop off at Vijzelgracht station and use the Vijzelgracht exit. From there, it’s just a short walk to Tour de BonTon.
Prefer to travel above ground? No problem. You can take tram 1, 7, or 19 and get off at the Vijzelgracht stop. Alternatively, tram 24 will get you to Marie Heinekenplein, which is also just a stone’s throw away. Trust me, after living here for years, I can tell you that Amsterdam’s tram system is a godsend – efficient, frequent, and a great way to see the city as you travel.
Now, if you’re more of a walking type (and kudos to you if you are – it’s the best way to experience Amsterdam), Tour de BonTon is easily reachable on foot from many central locations. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Rijksmuseum, for example. Just head down Stadhouderskade, and you’ll find it between the shops of Van Beek Art Supplies. Pro tip: keep an eye out for the canal – if you can see water on your right, you’re going the right way!
Cycling? Even better! Amsterdam is a cyclist’s paradise, and there’s usually plenty of bike parking near Tour de BonTon. Just remember to lock your bike securely – bike theft is unfortunately common in the city.
If you’re arriving by car (though I’d advise against it – parking in central Amsterdam can be a nightmare), your best bet is the Apcoa Parking Heinekenplein. It’s about 300 meters from Tour de BonTon, located at Eerste van der Helststraat 6, 1072 NV Amsterdam. But seriously, unless you absolutely need to drive, I’d stick with public transport or walking.
One last piece of advice – Tour de BonTon’s entrance can be a bit tricky to spot if you’re not paying attention. Remember, it’s between the Van Beek Art Supplies shops. If you find yourself wandering up and down the street looking confused (we’ve all been there), don’t hesitate to ask a local for help. Despite our reputation for directness, most Amsterdammers are pretty friendly and will be happy to point you in the right direction.
And there you have it! Everything you need to know about visiting Tour de BonTon. It’s a unique, eye-opening experience that offers a glimpse into a side of Amsterdam that most tourists never see. So step off the beaten path, embrace your curiosity, and get ready for a tour you won’t forget. Who knows? You might even bump into me there – I’m always up for learning something new about my city!