Amsterdam is the capital as well as one of the most famous cities in the Netherlands that attracts attention with the nightlife, culture and wonderful canals. Along with the numerous landmarks, the city also uniques in its red-light districts, – attractions that should also interest any tourist.

What is a Red-Light District?

A red-light district can be defined as an area of city or town that can offer services associated with sex, including brothels, sex shops and adult theaters. These districts are easily recognizable since most areas having such will be having red colored lights to show that such areas exist. However, it is necessary to mention that prosotitucion is legal and officially recognized in the Netherlands and the red light district is not only in Amsterdam city but also in another Dutch city.

Amsterdam’s Main Red-Light District

The largest and probably the most famous area of Amsterdam where prostitution is legal is known as “De Wallen.” It is an indoor area around several streets and canals in the middle of the city, major containing Oudezijds Voorburgwal, Oudezijds Achterburgwal, and Bloedstraat street. The windows of De Wallen are brightly lit and the tourists themselves get to appreciate the various sex workers.

What to Expect in De Wallen?

It must be noted that of course, De Wallen is much more than just the place of sex workers, however, visiting the area is not exactly resembling an ordinary sightseeing. It also has other appealing attractions like some of the old structures, café joint, and may other fun making facilities. During your journey in the mentioned district, you will realize that this area is very active, many people, including citizens of the city and visitors.

More Amsterdam Red Light Districts

Although De Wallen is the primary and by far the largest district of such establishments located in Amsterdam, there are a couple of other somewhat smaller areas of the same sort. These districts include:

• De Pijp: Bohemian district in the South of the city, De Pijp is distinguished by a dynamic atmosphere as well as a large number of restaurants, bars and shops. Though it does not contain such a saturation of the red-lit windows like an area of De Wallen, you might want to faco some businesses that are providing sexual services.
• Singelgebied: Another red light district is Singelgebied located close to Amsterdam’s Central Station. That is a nightlife district which comprises of bars, night clubs as well as related adult entertainment venues.
• Rijnstraat: The second area mentioned here is Rijnstraat with fewer houses as compared to De Wallen and situated in the Rivierenbuurt. It is mainly famous for a few hidden call-girl centers and city’s strip clubs.

Guidelines to Clienteling the Nightlife Entertainment Districts

If you’re curious about exploring Amsterdam’s red-light districts, here are some tips to ensure a safe and respectful experience:

• Respect the rules: It is important to learn more about the legal requirements in the state. Photography is also forbidden and Census wants to preserve the dignity of the sex workers it helps.
• Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings: Some parts of the red-light districts may be crowded, that is why it is advisable to secure your valuables before walking around the deserted area.
• Do not engage in illegal activities: It is also important to note that even though prostitution is legal in the Netherlands, for instance buying drugs is not. Stay legal and have fun enjoying your stay.
• Support local businesses: Aside from the bars and the strip clubs, red-light districts allow restaurants, cafes and several other peculiar shops. These are places that one should visit for an eye opener.
• Engage respectfully: Please bear in and mind that sex workers are also professionals. This is especially important due to the fact that you working with them, so show them the same professionalism as they show to you.

In Conclusion

Dutch cities, including Amsterdam, have most peculiar areas that may be considered unique; the red light districts especially, De Wallen. Although De Wallen is by far the most popular and lengthy district devoted to such establishments, there are few others areas in Amsterdam where these points of interest are located. Thus, the given tips will help to visit these interesting parts of the city as safe and without offending local traditions and historical experiences.