The red light district
The Amsterdam Red Light District is world famous and a big tourist attraction. Actually there are three seperate red light districts, but the main one is located in the heart of the old city center, just minutes away from Dam Square and central station.
Although the area is historical and has many beautiful buildings most visitors will come to see its typical red lights in the windows and the women that work behind them. It is estimated that over a million men are served each year. Besides red lights you will find 'toy' shops, coffeeshops, bars, peep shows and 'theatres'.
Typically it is perfectly safe to walk around the 'wallen' (as it is called in Dutch), especially during the day or early evening you'll note that the district has simularities with a well run theme-park, be it with a not so common park theme. Later at night you'll notice that the atmosphere changes a bit and mostly men will be walking around.
The area is centered around the 'oude kerk' or 'old church' and roughly measures something like 500 by 250 meters.
Main attractions
There are several establishments that have a certain reputation:
- Casa Rosso - Live shows in probably the biggest theater of the district. It's a good place to go to when you're a couple, around 30 euro per person entrance fee.
- Banana bar - Girls that do things with bananas that you'd normally not see. Go with your mates, expect to pay extra to see some tricks. Same management as Casa Rosso.
- Moulin Rouge - Generally higher valued then the Casa Rosso, live shows (also with bananas), good place for couples to go to.
A word of warning
Although the area is generally safe there are some things you should be aware of:
- The girls do not like to be photographed, if you take a photograph you risk a confrontation with one of the pimps.
- Do not buy drugs on the street, it is dangerous and you probably get fake stuff anyway.
- The area is generally safe, but be aware of pick pockets. Don't let your wallet hang out of your jeans and always keep an eye on your belongings when sitting at a cafe terrace. Use your common sense, like you should do in any city.
More information
There is a little museum / information point called de wallenwinkel (the Red Light District shop). This place is very informative and also organizes walking tours in the area. You can also download self guided tours at their website.