Red Light District
The majority of people have heard about Amsterdam’s Red Light District well before their visit. Leaving nothing to the imagination, most stereotypes about this area are true: there are plenty of sex shops, peep shows, brothels, an elaborate condom shop, a sex museum and of course prostitutes in red-lit windows. In addition to the fact that there is much more to the city than this district, there are a few more truths to be known about this (in)famous part of Amsterdam.
Let's be honest
Prostitution has enjoyed a long tradition of tolerance in Amsterdam and, as with soft drugs, the Netherlands’ approach is to legalise the trade and impose regulations. Basically, they know people are going to do it anyway, so they may as well keep it safe for those involved. In addition to preventing forced prostitution, this open and honest approach means sex-workers here have their own union, plenty of police protection, an information centre (for visitors as well), frequent monitoring and testing and professional standards.
Visiting the Red Light District
The best time to see the fluorescent red glow of the Red Light District is once the sun goes down. The area is bustling with visitors and groups of tourists. It is best to travel in a pair or in a group, as the area also attracts some seedier characters. Grab a map and venture out or if you’re keen to learn more take one of the many specialised tours.
Not everything goes
There are certain rules in place to ensure the safety of prostitutes and visitors to the Red Light District. It is forbidden to take photos of the women, and this is strictly enforced. Although there is 24-hour video surveillance in most parts of the district, be aware of pickpocketers. They tend to target crowds of distracted tourists, so keep an eye on your belongings and leave your valuables in a safe at the hotel. Many families and people who need to get up for work the next morning live in this area. Respect their neighbourhood, and do not yell or cause disturbances.
There is more to the Wallen
The Wallen, also known as the Rossebuurt to Amsterdammers and the Red Light District to visitors is actually the oldest part of Amsterdam. The neighbourhood is chock-full of interesting shops, pubs, fantastic restaurants, leaning gabled houses and the city’s most charming canals. Don’t miss the vibrant Nieuwmarkt square, the gothic Oude kerk or a walk along the centre of Amsterdam’s Chinatown, the Zeedijk (also home to an impressive Buddhist temple).
Historic Amsterdam & Red Light District Tour
Let Zoom Tour guides uncover Amsterdam's hidden history for you and explain what makes it so different. They will explore the red light district's bright and dark sides. They.. Read more... »
Walking tour Dark Amsterdam
This walking tour leads you through the famous Red Light District and includes a visit to the Prostitution Information Centre, where you will be offered a drink. A former.. Read more... »
Erotic Museum
Collection of erotic art throughout the centuries from the old masters to contemporary artists. A varied offer including sculptures, pottery, paintings, drawings, photographs and.. Read more... »
Molly Malones
Molly Malones is located in one of the oldest warehouses in the Red Light District, bordering a small canal. Molly’s aims to provide top quality food, drink, service and.. Read more... »
Sexmuseum Amsterdam Venustempel
The "Venustempel" in Amsterdam is the world's first and oldest sex museum. A leading museum on the theme of sensual love with an extensive collection of erotic pictures,.. Read more... »
Amsterdam's narrowest street
The Trompettersteeg is the narrowest street of Amsterdam. This ally is situated in the middle of the Red Light District and undoubtedly the most busy narrow ally of Europe. Read more... »
Descubre Amsterdam
These excursions are only offered in Spanish. Descubre Amsterdam es una organización turística que presenta otra forma de conocer Ámsterdam a los visitantes de habla hispana... Read more... »Amsterdam Red Light District Dinner Tour
After the Amsterdamse Wallen Tour, you will be able to enjoy a nice dinner in a historic entourage. Read more... »Amsterdam Red Light District Evening Tour
Experienced guides will take the group to the VOC- Café for a beer and a extended explanation about the Red Light District. During the tour, the guides will try to show you what.. Read more... »Drake's of LA sexshop and cinema
This modern, gay sex shop and cinema is centrally located 300m from central station. Read more... »
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