Having decided to visit Amsterdam, one of the most famous and significant districts that a traveler would like to come across is called the Red Light District. Famous for active night life and the special architecture of the buildings, the Red Light District is one of the attractions which draws a great number of the tourists each year. In this blog post, we aim at helping you know how to get to the Red Light District and we offer you some helpful tips for you to consider.
1. Arriving at Schiphol Airport
As the tourist, your path to the Red Light District starts at the airport because you’re flying into Amsterdam. After collecting your luggage, you have several options to reach the city center:
Train: Several railway lines connect Schiphol Airport to Amsterdam Central Station and these are now departing every 10 to 15 minutes. It cannot take more than 15-20 minutes for the journey. When you get to the Amsterdam Central Station, the Red Light District is easily within walking distance.
Taxi: Taxis are on arriving zone at Schiphol Airport where passengers arrive after they have landed. Although it costs considerably more than other forms of transportation, using a taxi means that one does not have to hassled with transfers or catching buses; the driver drops you off at your destination of choice.
Bus: There are also shuttle services, both the buses from Schiphol Airport going to Amsterdam Central Station. They cost travellers less Hebrews than opting for a taxi.
2. Exploring through Amsterdam’s Public Transportation
Once you’ve arrived at Amsterdam Central Station, you can easily explore the city and reach the Red Light District using various modes of public transportation:
Trams: Public transport, that is trams are always on the move carrying people from one point to the other within Amsterdam. Number 4, 14 and 24 are some of the easiest accessible tram lines for anyone that wants to visit the Red Light District. These lines do not go to this district but the Dam Square is just a walking distance from the area.
Bicycles: Amsterdam is often referred to as a bicycle, or bike-friendly city. A bicycle is a good example of a local transport mode that will give you the feel of the country. Rental shops can be easily located at Amsterdam Central Station so one can easily cycle around the city and visit district on their own.
Walking: Amsterdam is a small city and is perfect for walking if you like to walk as a mean of transport. Located in the south of the city’s central canal district’s, the Red Light District is just 10-15 minutes walk from Amsterdam Central Station. Almost always take a map or global positioning system with you when you are going out in the streets.
3. How to get to red light district
Located in the city center of Amsterdam, the Red Light District is not difficult to find. Here are some key landmarks to help you find your way:
Dam Square: I have already described that Dam Square is one of significant places in Amsterdam and an effective way how reach Red Light District. From Dam Square head down the perpendicular streets that lead toward Oudezijds Voorburgwal.
Oude Kerk (Old Church): Being already mentioned, the Old Church is located in the Red Light District and recognizing this place will be helpful during navigation. Practically all the streets running through the district cross each other at the Old Church, which makes getting one’s bearings here easy.
Zeedijk: The Zeedijk is another one of the lengthy streets which covers the territory of the Red Light District. They include different restaurants and bars, and it may be a point of reference, to start or to get oriented.
4. Visiting the Red Light District
So, you are in the Red Light District, what to do next? Here are a few tips to make the most of your visit:
Respect: Although Amsterdam is famous for the Red Light District, one has to keep that in mind, that the area is occupied by people. Always be polite of the laws and by-laws of the area, as well as people around you.
Nighttime Safety: As much as Red Light District is relatively safe, then it is advisable that tourists take extra precaution at night. Staying in areas that are well lit is advisable, and it’s also advised that you don’t talk to anyone who approaches you with a shaky demeanor.
Explore Beyond the Main Streets: The Red Light District does not consist just in the main streets. Don’t just confine yourself to the restored old city, but make time to walk through some of the older side streets to find scrumptious cake shops, artistically quirky mini-shops and good pubs.
Learn the History: The Red Light District is very vibrant full of history and tradition. If interested more about the history of the area, one may opt for guided tour or you may visit the PI or the Prostitution Information center.
Applying all these tips will help make certain that you get to the Red Light District in Amsterdam and enjoy as much as possible. I hope you will always follow some simple tips, such as planning the trip, being safe, and enjoying the mood of one of the most famous and extraordinary districts.
