Amsterdam Red Light District Safety: A Reality Check

The Red Light District (De Wallen) is infamous. It’s the first thing your friends ask about when you say you’re going to Amsterdam. And the question is always the same:

"Is it safe?"

The short answer: Yes. The long answer: Yes, but don't be an idiot.

Here is the reality check on safety, dealers, and how to survive the neighborhood without losing your wallet or your dignity.

1. It’s Not "Dangerous" (But It Is Chaotic)

The Red Light District is one of the most policed areas in the world. There are cameras everywhere. There are police on foot, on bikes, and on horses. Violent crime is extremely rare here. You are not going to get mugged at knifepoint. What you are going to get is pickpocketed.

The Danger: Crowds. The streets are narrow. The crowds are thick. When you are squeezed between a bachelor party and a tour group, you are a target. Keep your wallet in your front pocket. Keep your bag zipped. For more official advice, check the Amsterdam Safety Guide.

2. The "Dealers"

As you walk down the Oudezijds Achterburgwal, men will whisper to you. "Coke? Ecstasy?" Ignore them. The Reality: These are not drug dealers. They are selling crushed aspirin, laundry detergent, or worse. If you buy from them:

1. You are wasting money.
2. You are supporting street harassment.
3. You might end up in the hospital if you actually ingest what they give you.

The Rule: If you want cannabis, go to a coffeeshop. If you want anything else, you are in the wrong place.

3. The Holy Rule: NO PHOTOS

This is the one way to get into actual trouble. Do not take photos of the sex workers. Not "just a quick one." Not "sneaky video." If you do:

• The worker will tap on the window (loudly).
• A very large security guard will appear.
• Your phone might end up in the canal.

Respect the women. They are doing a job. Would you want someone filming you at your desk?

Photo by Caterina Beleffi on Unsplash

4. Don't Stand in the Bike Lane

This applies to the whole city, but especially here. Tourists stop to stare at the windows. They step backward... right into the bike path. The Result: You get hit by a local on a bike. They will not stop. They will yell things at you that you probably shouldn't translate.

5. Be a Decent Human

The Red Light District is a residential neighborhood. People live here. Families live here. When you are screaming at 3:00 AM, you are waking up kids who have school in the morning.

• Don't scream.
• Don't vomit on the doorstep.
• Don't pee in the canal.

There is more to De Wallen than red lights. This is the oldest part of Amsterdam. The Oude Kerk (Old Church) is right in the middle of it. Our audio tour tells you the history of the neighborhood that existed long before the windows. Hear the history →

Conclusion

You’re all good. Just behave yourself and be a decent human.

For a complete guide on staying safe in the whole city (including what to do if you lose your passport), read our General Amsterdam Safety Guide.