Before visiting Amsterdam’s Red Light District, it’s crucial to do your homework. Failing to do so could lead to a disappointing experience, and you might miss out on the most beautiful attractions in the city. You wouldn’t want that!
Red Light District Video
To get started, here’s a video showcasing Amsterdam’s Red Light District:
Gain insights about prices, attractions, regulations, the history of the area, tours, hotels, and more. This guide also features numerous pictures from the Red Light District.
Scroll down to explore the ultimate guide to the Amsterdam Red Light District today!
Where Is the Amsterdam Red Light District?
The Amsterdam Red Light District is a legally regulated area for prostitution located in the city center. Bordered by canals, it’s within walking distance of major attractions like Dam Square, The Waag, Central Station, and The Old Church.
The district boasts a rich history, officially established in the 17th century. In recent years, it has drawn an increasing number of tourists, becoming one of Amsterdam’s most recognizable areas.
Though primarily known for its window brothels and sex shops, the Red Light District also features museums, theaters, and cozy cafes.
Directions to the Amsterdam Red Light District
Planning a visit to the Dutch capital? Knowing how to get to the Red Light District is essential, so you don’t miss out!
Fortunately, this area is easy to locate, especially from Amsterdam Central Station—just a quick 5-minute walk away.
- Head straight from the station towards the center over the bridge.
- Turn left at Hotel Park Plaza Victoria; you’ll see picturesque houses along the water.
- Continue and follow the road, taking the first right onto Nieuwebrugsteeg.
- This street marks the official start of Amsterdam’s Red Light District.
Map of the Red Light District
Still wondering where the Red Light District is located? Check out the helpful map below, which outlines the path from Central Station.
You’ll also see how close this area is to Dam Square and Nieuwmarkt, along with the locations of window brothels marked on the map.
Windows & Route
- Zoom in on the Red Light District map.
- Click on the blue line for directions.
- Hit the red lights to find the window brothels.
Attractions in the Amsterdam Red Light District
There are plenty of enjoyable activities in the Red Light District, which serves as both an entertainment and residential area. There’s something for everyone! Discover all the attractions in the Amsterdam Red Light District below.
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Need more recommendations? No problem! Check out these 31 fun things to do in Amsterdam.
Fun Activities in the Amsterdam Red Light District
- Window brothels
- Coffeeshops (cannabis stores)
- Schreierstoren (Weepers Tower)
- De Waag
- Nieuwmarkt
- Trompettersteeg (Amsterdam’s narrowest alley)
- Condomerie (World’s first condom shop)
- Cafe ’T Aepjen (Authentic Dutch bar)
- Canals
- Borstplaat (a relief on the Old Church Square)
Pubs in the Amsterdam Red Light District
With over 100 pubs in the Red Light District—ranging from large to small, historic to modern—there’s a vibrant nightlife waiting to be explored. Below are some of the most popular spots among tourists and locals alike.
- The Old Sailor | 4.4/5 stars | 2,092 Google reviews
- Brouwerij de Prael | 4.4/5 stars | 3,556 Google reviews
- Cafe ’t Aepjen | 4.4/5 stars | 416 Google reviews
- Wynand Fockink | 4.7/5 stars | 1,700 Google reviews
- Red Light Bar | 4.3/5 stars | 2,600 Google reviews
- Het Elfde Gebod | 4.6/5 stars | 557 Google reviews
- San Francisco | 4.0/5 stars | 292 Google reviews
- Bar The Pint | 4.3/5 stars | 243 Google reviews
- The Black Tiger | 4.3/5 stars | 715 Google reviews
- Excalibur Cafe | 4.6/5 stars | 2,900 Google reviews
Costs in the Red Light District
The vibrant hub of Amsterdam’s nightlife, the Red Light District draws millions of curious tourists annually and plays a vital role in the city’s economy. Local establishments like quirky bars, cafes, souvenir shops, and traditional eateries benefit from the significant foot traffic in the area.
Window brothels, a hallmark of this district, have their own pricing structure. Typically, an encounter with a window sex worker starts at around 50 to 60 euros, offering an accessible and regulated experience.
Here, window workers set their own prices for services rendered, emphasizing their independence. While market rates exist, final prices are generally negotiated directly at the entrance of the window brothel, in a manner rooted in mutual respect and understanding. It’s essential to initiate negotiations respectfully, as pricing discussions often begin above the 50 euro mark. This reflects not only on the client’s intentions but also on their understanding of the professional norms upheld within this environment.
1 | Areas of the Red Light District in Amsterdam
Fun Fact: In Dutch, this area is referred to as “De Wallen,” rather than the Red Light District.
Prostitution Areas in Amsterdam
There are three designated window prostitution areas in Amsterdam:
De Wallen
The largest and most famous district is De Wallen, synonymous with the Red Light District of Amsterdam.
The name “De Wallen” derives from the city walls that once enclosed this region. Located centrally, this area is compact yet brimming with sights and activities.
Here, numerous sex shops, brothels, strip clubs, and sex shows coexist with various museums and historical landmarks. The district exudes a relaxed and open atmosphere, making it safe to stroll around both day and night. De Wallen is an ideal spot for people watching and experiencing Dutch culture—a must-see when visiting Amsterdam!
Ruysdealskade
Another prominent red-light area is located on Ruysdaelskade, home to about 40 window brothels. This historic street was once part of the Amsterdam port and was used for transporting goods during the Dutch Golden Age.
Ruysdealskade is named after Dirck Ruys, a notable figure from the 14th century. This beautiful street is worth a visit, featuring many shops, restaurants, museums, and markets.
Singel & Spuistraat
The third area with window brothels is around Singel, Spuistraat, and Oude Nieuwstraat, showcasing about 40
windows of prostitution. Especially Oude Nieuwstraat is known for its numerous window displays showcasing sex workers. You can check out Google Street View below.
The Red Light District shown above in Google Street View, is also located in the city center, but is distinct from the De Wallen area, focusing instead on Oude Nieuwstraat.
If you visit one place in Amsterdam, it should be the infamous Red Light District. It’s the liveliest place with countless options for bars and coffeeshops. Strolling through the alleyways at night is a must-have experience.
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2 | Windows
De Wallen is the largest and oldest prostitution area in the Netherlands, with 201 windows spread across 17 alleyways and streets.
Prostitution has existed here since the founding of Amsterdam in the 13th century. The concept of window brothels is relatively new, originating from the 1940s.
The number of window brothels in Amsterdam’s Red Light District has significantly decreased over the years. In 2006, there were 403 window brothels; currently, 201 remain.
Generally, window prostitutes operate exclusively from their windows.
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3 | Sex Workers
Given that De Wallen houses 201 window brothels that are operational during the day and night (but not all at once), it is estimated that around 375 sex workers are active in this area.
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4 | Red Light Windows
Sex workers in the Red Light District pay rent to the window brothel operators, which typically ranges from 80 to 100 euros during the day and 150 to 180 euros at night.
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This amount is a fixed fee that sex workers must pay in advance after submitting all relevant documents to the operator.
Window workers are independent entrepreneurs who can set their own service charges without having to pay commissions to the brothel operators.
5 | Prices for Prostitutes in Amsterdam
Prostitutes in the Red Light District charge a minimum of 50 euros for 15-20 minutes of service. Prices are not fixed but generally range from 50 to 100 euros, depending on factors such as service type, duration, and the client’s demeanor.
Some clients may be willing to pay significantly more for specific erotic services.
6 | Pictures in the Red Light District
You may be curious about the rules around taking pictures in Amsterdam’s Red Light District.
While you are not officially prohibited from photographing in this area, doing so with sex workers is considered highly disrespectful. Many sex workers lead double lives; their family and friends often remain unaware of their profession due to stigma. Therefore, they may not want to be photographed to protect their privacy.
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Although photography in the area is generally allowed, it’s vital to respect the wishes of sex workers. Many brothel windows display signs indicating no photos are allowed, and some workers may actively confront those attempting to take pictures.
7 | Security
All window brothels in Amsterdam, including elsewhere in the country, are well-protected by security systems. They are equipped with panic buttons and monitored by exterior cameras.
If a sex worker activates a panic button, a loud alarm rings, alerting people in the vicinity while also notifying the brothel owner and the police. This high level of security is a significant reason why many (foreign) sex workers choose to work in this area.
8 | Sex Workers and Client Refusal
Prostitutes frequently have the option to refuse clients. They do not feel obligated to accept every visitor, asserting their autonomy as independent workers.
9 | Police Surveillance
According to a local report, approximately 50 police cameras are deployed throughout the Red Light District, providing 24/7 monitoring for increased safety.
10 | Public Consumption of Alcohol
Alcohol consumption has been officially banned in De Wallen for several years. Violators can face an immediate fine of 95 euros. Local authorities strictly enforce this regulation, as indicated by numerous anti-alcohol signs placed throughout the area.
11 | Smoking Cannabis in the Red Light District
There is no explicit prohibition against smoking weed or hash in public within Amsterdam’s Red Light District. Unlike the anti-alcohol signage, no such warnings exist regarding cannabis use. As such, it’s common to observe people indulging in these substances on the streets.
12 | Residents of the Red Light District
The Red Light District in Amsterdam has a population of 4,520 residents.
This marks an increase of 430 people from 4,090 in 2013 to 4,520 in 2021, equating to an 11% rise. The residents are counted based on the population register as of January 1.
Residents come from all walks of life, including young, old, low-income, and affluent individuals. Some reside above sex shows, directly adjacent to window brothels, while others live near coffeeshops.
Interestingly, there is even a daycare center positioned next to window brothels in the heart of the Amsterdam Red Light District.
13 | Coffeeshops in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is home to 164 coffeeshops, 14 of which are situated in the Red Light District. Some well-known establishments include The Bulldog, Voyager, Jolly Joker, Het Gelderse, and Rusland.
14 | Cars & Parking
You won’t see many cars in Amsterdam’s Red Light District, as local authorities have made it a car-free zone for several years now. Main thoroughfares, like Warmoesstraat, are accessible only to residents and delivery personnel. Parking can be quite challenging, with very few spots available.
Open or Closed?
As a residential area, De Wallen is open to everyone around the clock, including holidays! However, specific establishments like coffeeshops, window brothels, sex shows, cafes, and restaurants have their closing times. Window brothels tend to have the most flexibility, needing to close only between 6 and 8 in the morning.
How to Visit
The best way to experience the Red Light District is on foot, given the narrow alleys and the plethora of things to see. It’s advised to download the Amsterdam Audio Tours app, where you can learn more about the oldest neighbourhood in Amsterdam.
Download the Amsterdam App
Get the Amsterdam app today! This app includes an audio tour of the Red Light District featuring a virtual guide, stories from 22 experts, photos, and a GPS map. Available on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store.
17 | Blue Light Area
Amsterdam’s Red Light District is also home to streets where transgender sex workers operate, often signaled by blue lights instead of red. You can find the blue light area in Koestraat.
18 | Undercover Police
In addition to visible police presence, undercover officers monitor the Red Light District, focusing primarily on pickpockets and street dealers. While generally safe, like any urban area, there can be risks involved.
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Tip: Keep your valuables secure in your accommodation and avoid interactions with street dealers.
19 | Social Control
One of the key factors contributing to the safety of this neighborhood is social control. The continuous presence of locals, residents, entrepreneurs, and employees fosters a secure environment due to high foot traffic.
The diverse mix of organizations, residences, and the area’s good accessibility creates a safe atmosphere through social regulation. For instance, any incidents at a window brothel would likely be witnessed by many individuals present.
This social control in Amsterdam’s Red Light District serves as a deterrent to unlawful behavior.
20 | Minimum Age of Sex Workers
All sex workers must be at least 21 years old to work in the windows. This is the minimum age requirement. In Amsterdam, escorts may work from the age of 18, but window prostitutes must be at least 21 years old and present identification whenever they rent a window from the brothel operator.
21 | Sex Shows
The Red Light District is renowned for its alluring entertainment, featuring seven sex shows open to visitors aged 18 and above. Many of these are located on Oudezijds Achterburgwal, the district’s main street.
Casa Rosso
The most renowned sex show is certainly Casa Rosso Amsterdam, well-known throughout the Netherlands. Located on the Red Light District’s main street, this venue has been an integral part of Dutch culture for over 50 years, presenting 60 to 80-minute sex shows, frequently featuring live performances. Casa Rosso offers an exciting and unforgettable experience that can only be found here in Amsterdam.
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But that’s not where it ends; there’s more to uncover, including the Moulin Rouge, a 5D Porn Cinema, and various peep shows. Dive into the world of Amsterdam sex shows!
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22 | Amsterdam 5D Porn Cinema
Nestled in the heart of the Red Light District, adjacent to a daycare, is the 5D Porn Cinema. This venue presents exciting and amusing films that feature the Red Light District prominently.
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Interestingly, patrons of the daycare seem unfazed by its proximity, as it enjoys popularity. The daycare has coexisted alongside window brothels for decades, showcasing how De Wallen represents Dutch liberalism and open-mindedness.
23 | 3D Printed Bridge
