Amsterdam: Red Light District & City Tour (Private tour)
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Amsterdam's history, culture, and the red light district on this 2-hour guided tour. Visit historical sights such as Dam Square, the royal palace, the oldest church in Amsterdam, and the historic stock exchange building.
Discover how Amsterdam turned from a fisher's village into one of the most significant trade nations worldwide. Experience the vibrant flair of Amsterdam's famous red light district with your passionate English or German tour guide. Learn about sex work, prices, and the window system, and take a critical perspective on sex work.
Additionally, explore Amsterdam Chinatown and dive deeper into the history and politics of coffee shops. Visit the oldest coffee shops in the red-light district and hear about the impact of mass tourism on recent policies.
Interested in combining history, culture, and the red light district all at once? Then this is the tour for you!
Available options
History & Red Light German
History & Red Light English
What's included
1.50€ tourist tax
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Explore the origin story of Amsterdam right where it all began: on Dam square.
2
Stop 2
Discover more about the royal history of the Netherlands and the role of monarchy today.
3
Stop 3
Learn more about the establishment of Amsterdams famous red light district and find out how this is connected to the oldest church in the city.
4
Stop 4
Discover the LGBTQ+ part of Amsterdams red light district as you're strolling past some of the most infamous gay bars
5
Dive deeper into Amsterdams rich trade history and find out how it became one of the richest cities in the world during the "Golden Age".
6
Stop 6
Explore the old harbour area of Amsterdam and let your guide answer all burning questions you may have regarding sex work in Amsterdam.
Is sexwork in the red light district legal? How much do different services cost? How is the window system regulated and how much do they cost? Find the answers to those and more questions at this stop.
7
Stop 7
Take a picture at one of Amsterdams most picturesque spots and take a critical perspective towards the red light district. Find out about the dark sides of sex work and learn about the special situation in Amsterdam.
8
Dive deeper into Amsterdams multi-cultural nature while strolling through the oldest Chinatown of Europe.
9
Learn more about the history and politics of coffee shops in Amsterdam. Explore how the coffee shop culture evolved over the years and take a critical perspective in relation to mass tourism in Amsterdam.
10
Stop 10
Take a look at one of Amsterdam's most historical and important buildings: de "Waag".
Get some insider information and personal tips from your guide to make the most of your experience in the red-light district. Visit a '70s peep show and enjoy the district at your own pace after the tour.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
6 reviews
5★
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
We will meet on the steps of the national monument right on Dam square. It is a white obelisk and your tour guide will wait for you in front. You can recognise him or her through the red name tag around their neck.
About Amsterdam
Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is renowned for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Known as the 'Venice of the North,' the city offers a rich blend of art, history, and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum is the Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history. It houses an extensive collection of paintings, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Museum
2-3 hours
€20
Van Gogh Museum
The Van Gogh Museum is dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries. It houses the largest collection of Van Gogh paintings and drawings in the world.
Museum
1.5-2 hours
€20
Anne Frank House
The Anne Frank House is a biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank. The building is where Anne Frank and her family hid from Nazi persecution during World War II.
Historical
1 hour
€16
Dam Square
Dam Square is the central square of Amsterdam and a historic site. It is home to the Royal Palace, the National Monument, and various other landmarks.
Historical
1 hour
Free
Jordaan
Jordaan is a picturesque and lively neighborhood known for its narrow streets, canals, and vibrant atmosphere. It is a great place to explore, shop, and dine.
Neighborhood
A few hours to explore
Free to explore, varies for shopping and dining
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stroopwafel
A thin, round waffle made from two layers of baked dough joined by a caramel-like syrup filling
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat and sugar
Bitterballen
Deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a creamy, spiced ragout, typically made from beef or veal
Snack
Contains meat, gluten, and dairy
Haring
Raw herring fish, traditionally served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by its tail and lowering it into your mouth
Dish
Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians
Poffertjes
Miniature pancakes made from a batter of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast, served with powdered sugar and butter
Dessert
Vegetarian, contains wheat, eggs, and dairy
Popular Activities
Canal kayaking
Bike tours
Escape rooms
Canal cruises
Visiting parks and gardens
Spa and wellness treatments
Museum visits
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
June to August
The peak tourist season in Amsterdam is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals, but it's also the busiest and most expensive period.
15°C to 22°C
59°F to 72°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: English, German, French
- English: Widely spoken, especially in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, with some areas requiring caution
Amsterdam is generally a safe city for travelers, with low violent crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bike theft, can occur, particularly in tourist areas and on public transport. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of your surroundings, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis and agree on the fare before starting your journey
Getting there
By air
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 17.5 km from city center
By train
Amsterdam Centraal
By bus
Amsterdam Sloterdijk, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Getting around
Public transport
Amsterdam's tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with 14 day and night tram lines. A single ticket costs €3.20, and day passes are available.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Amsterdam
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Jordaan
De Pijp
De Wallen (Red Light District)
Museumplein
Amsterdam-Noord
Day trips
Zaanse Schans
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A picturesque and open-air museum featuring traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, showcasing the history and craftsmanship of the region.
Haarlem
20 km from Amsterdam • Half day to full day
A charming and historic city known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene, often considered a smaller and more relaxed version of Amsterdam.
Utrecht
50 km from Amsterdam • Full day
A vibrant and historic city known for its beautiful canals, medieval architecture, and lively cultural scene, with a unique and charming atmosphere.
Festivals
King's Day (Koningsdag) • April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th is a Sunday)
Amsterdam Pride • Late July to early August
Amsterdam Dance Event (ADE) • Mid-October
Pro tips
- Use the OV-chipkaart for seamless and convenient public transport
- Rent a bike to explore the city like a local, but be aware of cycling rules and etiquette
- Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
- Explore the city's neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm
- Try local specialties, such as stroopwafels, bitterballen, and Dutch pancakes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
