Many visitors are curious about Amsterdam's Red Light District, a neighborhood famous for the presence of legal sex workers.
Our local walking tour guides have led thousands of Red Light District tours so they know all about it and its rules, which we explain in this post.
We also list some of the great non-X-rated things to see here from museums to historic churches, famous markets to coffee shops, guided tours and restaurants!
For even more helpful suggestions, we asked the more than 55,000 members of our Amsterdam Travel Tips Facebook group. See what they had to say below.
You don't have to join to read the posts, comments and recommendations. You can even ask a question yourself!
- Plan Your Visit
- Red Light District Rules
- 13 Things to Do
- Where to Eat
- Guided Tours
- Things to Do in Amsterdam
PLAN YOUR VISIT
Before you plan a visit to Amsterdam's Red Light District you likely have questions and we've answered some of them below.
What is the Red Light District?
Amsterdam’s Red Light District is a neighborhood famous for the presence of legal sex workers who work independently rather than for a brothel.
The district has about 300 small workspaces, known as window brothels or cabins, rented by sex workers.
The cabins have large windows lined with red neon lights, hence the name of the district.
From inside the windows, these sex workers hope to attract customers. Services are performed in private spaces in the cabin.
Despite the name, the district has so much more than these sex cabins. There are churches, palaces, museums, restaurants, hotels, bars, and coffee shops as well.
See below for 13 things to do in the Red Light District.
How Did the Red Light District Come About?
Because of the nearby harbor, since at least the 14th and 15th centuries, and likely further back, many sailors and visitors came into the city.
Some were looking for entertainment, which often led them to sex workers.
Rules changed from century to century when under Catholic and then Protestant rule. Sex work was at various times legal, then not legal, then legal again.
At times sex workers were banned, and at others, men in certain positions (the clergy, for example) were forbidden from entering the neighborhood.
Finally, in 1811 the ban on street prostitution was lifted, bringing with it health checks to prevent the spread of disease.
Healthy sex workers were given a red card that indicated they were disease-free.
Brothel owners then installed red gas lamps that signaled to customers the nature of their business.
Today anyone over the age of 18 can legally become a sex worker as long as they pay their taxes and do not leave their windows.
Where is the Red Light District Located?
The neighborhood is located in the center of Amsterdam, just a minute away from Dam Square and a short walk from Central Station.
Also known as De Wallen, this district is the oldest part of the city and is full of things to do, see, and eat.
What is the Most Famous Street in the Red Light District?
Something few tourists know is that there are three distinct Red Light districts in Amsterdam.
The largest is the one we discuss in this post, De Wallen, which has hundreds of individual sex cabins.
The famous streets are Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal as well as some connected alleys.
The second largest red light district, which has about 65 windows, is Singelgebied, near the corner of Spuistraat and the Singel Canal.
This is in a quiet tree-lined neighborhood and is much less lively than De Wallen.
The smallest is Ruysdaelkade which has about 40 windows and tends to be frequented by locals, rather than tourists.
Do You Need Cash in the Red Light District?
Other than that though, there's no cost to walk through the streets of the Red Light District.
For those hiring sex workers, cash is needed. They do not tend to accept credit cards.
What is the Best Time to Visit the Red Light District?
The answer to this question has several answers depending on what experience you want or prefer to avoid.
Our audio walking tour of the district is designed to be used any time of the day or night.
However, note that as day turns to night, the more likely it is that you'll run into rowdy bachelor parties and people who have been drinking a lot.
For those wanting to partake in other activities in the area, here are hours for various businesses:
Window brothels can be open for 22 hours a day. They must be closed between 6 am and 8 am. But many workers begin at 11 pm.
Cafes and bars must close at 2 a.m.
Sex shows at clubs have varying hours.
Moulin Rouge is open Monday - Thursday from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. and Friday-Sunday from 2 p.m. to 2 a.m.
Cassa Rosso opens at 7 p.m. and closes at 2 a.m. and 3 a.m.
Be sure to check online for the most recent hours in case they change.
Sex shops selling assorted paraphernalia tend to open between 10 a.m. and noon and close between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m.
Is the Red Light District Safe?
Yes. Many people live and work there so there are always people around. There are many police officers as well.
As with many tourist neighborhoods, watch out for pickpockets. This is likely the biggest threat to tourists.
Can You Avoid the Red Light District?
Absolutely.
However, if you are interested in sites and attractions in the district, like those we list below, you should plan your visit for the daytime.
RED LIGHT DISTRICT RULES
It’s easy to think that anything goes in the Red Light District.
But there are rules you should know, as well as tips on conduct that is considered improper or risky.
First, while sex work is legal, taking pictures of sex workers standing in their windows is strongly frowned upon.
It's also considered rude to tap on the widows, to stand and stare at the workers, or to shout out insults.
Second, it is not legal to consume either in public. If caught, you will be fined.
Third, street dealers may try to sell you drugs. Don't take the risk of getting bad drugs, robbed, or scammed by dealers.
The situation is bad enough to have caused the city to launch a campaign against dealers.
Fourth, especially at night, bouncers at peep shows, live sex shows, strip shows, etc. may call out to you to coax you inside. Don't feel pressured. Ignore them and keep walking.
How Does Sex Work Operate in the Red Light District?
Soliciting the services of a sex worker on the street is illegal, and can carry a fine for both the worker and the customer.
To hire a Red Light District sex worker, one knocks on a worker's window or door to negotiate a price.
Once the service and price are agreed on, the sex worker and customer can go back into a private room behind the glass viewing area.
Customers must be 16 years old or older, according to the country’s age of consent laws.
Can Anyone Go to the Red Light District?
Yes. These are regular streets, along canals, surrounded by homes and businesses.
The streets are full of tourists. Some are interested in the attractions in the neighborhood.
Others go to see the famous red windows or are there to hire sex workers and go to shows.
13 THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN THE RED LIGHT DISTRICT
From museums and coffee shops to churches, you might be surprised at what the district has to offer besides the red windows.
Below is a list of things to do and see in the neighborhood.
BONUS: Audio Tour
We offer an audio tour of the Red Light District, researched, written, and recorded by one of our tour guides.
With an audio tour, you can explore the area at your own pace.
You can stop in at various sites, stay as long or as short as you want, and continue when you are ready.
Click here to listen to a sample.
- Purchase an audio tour – $2.99
- Get a confirmation email with .mp3, .pdf, and embeddable Google Map
- Enjoy the tour(s).
We can also recommend these pay-what-you-will guided tours of Amsterdam.
1. See a Museum
There are multiple museums in the Red Light District. Most are related to the culture of the district, but not all.
Red Light Secrets is the only Museum of Prostitution in the world. Learn about Amsterdam’s history of the sex work industry and what life is like for a window worker.
From the history of cannabis use to hemp fashion around the world, you can learn a lot at the Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum.
The Erotic Museum in Amsterdam is filled with exhibits about the district. You can even legally take pictures in front of the museum’s window replicas.
Those interested in archaeology should head to the Allard Pierson Museum, whose collection holds Egyptian, Greek, and Etrian artifacts, among others.
Tip: If you would like to go to a lot of museums and save money, we recommend looking into the Amsterdam Museum Pass.
2. Go to a Strip Club or Sex Show
Visitors who want a closer encounter with the Red Light District workers without purchasing intimate services can go to a strip club or sex shows.
For an upscale sex show, Casa Rossa is set up theatre-style with velvet seats in front of the main stage.
The Banana Bar is one of the more famous clubs in the area and is often the location of bachelor parties. Waitresses serve drinks and perform party tricks.
The acts onstage rotate and repeat throughout the night, so there is no need to arrive at a certain time.
Another popular club is Moulin Rouge where all seats are near the stage. Patrons can volunteer to participate if a volunteer is requested for an act.
3. Attend Cannabis College for Free
New to Cannabis or want to learn more?
The Cannabis College has knowledgeable employees who can give you advice for safely using Cannabis - whether for recreation or medicinal purposes.
They give tours of their indoor Cannabis garden and educate visitors about Cannabis Activism.
They’re active in pushing for legislation reform all over the world.
4. Learn the History and Current Trends of the Sex Work Trade
The Prostitution Information Center (PIC) was started in the 1900s by a girl who became a sex worker at the age of 16 and wanted to help reform the laws around this then-illegal trade.
Her goal was to educate the public about industry conditions for the workers. Now the PIC defends prostitutes’ rights.
There is also a PIC store that sells books about sex work, legislation, and guides of the Red Light District.
5. Enjoy a Coffee Shop
Coffee shops are integral to the culture of the Red Light District.
They began popping up in the 1970s and are now synonymous with Cannabis Dispensaries.
You can read more about guided coffee shop tours and coffee shop etiquette here.
The Bulldog is one of the first coffee shops in the city - and the first to open in the Red Light District.
If you want to experience smoking, make sure you ask questions about what the staff recommends and start slowly.
And don’t forget to try their coffee and desserts :).
6. See an Attic Church
You might not expect to find one of the most interesting Amsterdam churches in the Red Light District, but On's Lieve Herr op Solder (Our Dear Lord in the Attic), previously called Amstelkring, has some fascinating history.
When the area became Protestant by law in 1578, Catholics had to go into hiding.
The Catholic church was hidden inside multiple canal houses, covering the top floor, and was built by a wealthy merchant.
Now a museum, you can see the entire house preserved as it was in the 1700s - including lavish furniture and an impressive art collection.
7. Visit the LGBTQ+ Friendly Warmoesstraat
Right on the edge of the Red Light District is one of the most well-known districts for gay bars and LGBTQ+-friendly spaces.
Amsterdam is known for building Europe’s first gay club, and today has a vibrant queer community.
You can find multiple gay clubs on Warmoesstraat.
One of the most popular is Getto, which serves food in the early evenings and proceeds to host cabaret shows later in the night.
Other popular spots include Queen’s Head and Eagle Amsterdam.
8. Play at TonTon Club Centre
Head to The TonTon Club to play some classic arcade games, foosball, air hockey, or Mortal Kombat.
This "barcade" was opened after a popular crowdfunding campaign to the delight of video and board game enthusiasts across the city.
The bright colors and decor set the mood for a Dance Dance Revolution competition.
Don’t forget to sample their craft beer. And if you get hungry, you can sample their nostalgia-inducing nachos, hotdogs, and other snacks.
9. Browse the Nieuwmarkt Market
The city’s oldest and most popular market is located just next to the Red Light District.
While it holds a daily market, the reason Nieuwmarkt Market is popular throughout the day and into the evenings is the collection of restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops that line the square the Market sits on.
You can find some excellent coffee and pastries or have lunch on a terrace. Or you can join the evening crowd for dinner and cocktails.
If you’re here between May and October and you love browsing a lively market, make sure to arrive on a Saturday morning to see the produce. Antiques are sold most Sundays.
10. View the Oldest Church in Amsterdam
This beautiful gothic building is Amsterdam’s oldest building, which also makes Oude Kerk the oldest church in the city.
You won’t be able to miss this architectural masterpiece if you walk past it.
It was consecrated in 1306 with Saint Nicolas as its patron saint.
It is now home to an impressive collection of art.
Check the website to see what exhibitions are on.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go around to the back of the building for the (paid) guided tour up into the bell tower.
It is quite a steep climb to the top, but the views of the city are worth it, as is getting up close and personal to the bells!
11. Visit the Condomerie
This novelty shop usually features a crowd of onlookers outside its doors taking pictures of the display.
The Condomerie sells a multitude of condoms, souvenirs, postcards, and other items.
You’re not allowed to take photos inside the shop, but anything set up in the window can be photographed.
12. Winston Hotel
The Winston Hotel and Nightclub isn’t just a conveniently located place to party and sleep on the edge of the Red Light District. It is a piece of popular film history.
This is a picture of one of the hostel rooms at The Winston. Look familiar?
It is rumored that director Quentin Tarantino spent several months in isolation at the hotel/hostel working on the script of Pulp Fiction.
While it was set in Los Angeles, he wanted to be halfway around the world for a chance to concentrate without any distractions.
13. Madame Tussauds Amsterdam
Right in the middle of the Red Light District is an internationally-recognized name: Madame Tussauds.
In the Amsterdam location, you can find music stars like Ariana Grande, Zayn Malik, and Afrojack as well as famous film scenes.
Kids will love the Marvel Avengers room, and everyone can enjoy the TV broadcaster's room where you can read from the teleprompter and experience life as a news anchor.
Note: Madame Tussauds is included in some Amsterdam City Passes.
TAKE A GUIDED TOUR
Want some more information as you walk through the Red Light District? You can get the history and interesting facts narrated to you on a walking tour.
We have an in-depth review and comparison of various Red Light District tours here.
Tours through the district are most often offered in the evenings to give you the full experience of seeing the glow of the red lights.
You can take your pick of walking tours from those that focus on the history of the area, the sex work industry or the neighborhood’s food and pubs.
On this walking tour, you'll learn about the District, experience a coffee shop with your guide, and even learn how to roll a joint.
You can also book a visit to the Red Light Secrets Museum together with a 1 Hour Canal Cruise.
You can also see more of Amsterdam from a boat on a canal tour.
Enjoy a self-guided mystery game in which you explore some of the Red Light District and other parts of Amsterdam.
We have an in-depth review and comparison of various Red Light District tours here.
RESTAURANTS AND DINING OPTIONS
Here is a list of some of the most popular places to eat in the Red Light District.
Wok to Walk
This made-to-order Asian restaurant offers stir-fries, and noodle bowls, and has vegan options.
They have a hole-in-the-wall atmosphere with a front window facing the glow of the Red Light District.
Van Kerkwijk
Van Kerkwijk is a small cafe and restaurant popular with locals and tourists alike.
The menu changes depending on what seasonally-fresh ingredients are available and the waitstaff verbally informs customers of the day’s available dishes.
Brouwerij de Prael
Brouwerij de Prael is a 13-year-old microbrewery that has become well-loved for its beer selection and vibrant atmosphere.
The crowd that frequents De Prael is generally younger. They serve lunch, dinner, late-night snacks, and their in-house brews.
Amsterdamsche Vishandel
Amsterdamsche Vishandel is an old-fashioned fish shop, the perfect place to try some local specialties.
The Dutch store’s specialty is fresh herring. The quaint decor adds to the atmosphere and they get their fish fresh daily from the market.
Stach
Stach is a quiet little shop that is home to some delicious pastries and other baked goods. If you’re looking for a snack, this is the place to go.
They also serve smoothies and full meals in addition to pre-packaged healthy snacks.
Pancakes Amsterdam
Breakfast is a perfect meal any time of day, which is how they like it at Pancakes.
This is the perfect opportunity to taste Dutch pancakes, which range from sugar-dusted to bacon and banana gourmet toppings.
TIPS FROM LOCALS AND TRAVELERS
We hope you found this post helpful to your planning a visit to the Red Light District. We recognize that much of the district’s activities are unconventional.
So we thought it would be a good idea to offer you some thoughts from locals and travelers about other sights and things to do in the area.
We asked the more than 55,000 members of our Amsterdam Travel Tips group on Facebook and here are some suggestions.
The most frequent answer was the On's Lieve Herr op Solder, #6 on our list above.
With so many group members recommending a visit, you should consider seeing it, even if you don't plan on seeing anything else in the Red Light District.
Here group member Scott covers it all! But his favorite thing to do is people-watch. The Red Light District is a fun place to do this.
Sometimes it isn't the unique sights in a neighborhood that make it interesting. Sometimes, as Kirsty suggests, it’s the vibe.
Just walking around without a particular destination is a great way to take in the neighborhood's uniqueness.
Another activity recommended by group members is FOOD! We agree.
See our list above for some places to try.
Along those lines, having a drink will give you a taste of what locals do in the area.
There are lots of pubs, bars and clubs to try. Rit recommends the Old Sailor pub at Oudezijds Achterburgwal 39-A.
Here’s a sight we didn’t include as it’s a less than a 5 minute activity, this group member felt it is worth a stroll over.
The MX3D Bridge was 3D-printed using 4,500 kilograms of stainless steel. Robots in a factory spent more than six months creating it before it was placed over the canal in 2021.
For more helpful advice, make sure to read our Amsterdam Travel Tips group on Facebook.
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