Amsterdam is a lively and favourite city, which is the capital of the Netherlands, tourists like to visit because of wonderful canals, interesting architecture and tolerant attitude. Nevertheless, as always when it comes to an overnight visit to a big city, one has to be cautious in choosing the areas. To respond to such questions, this blog post will cover a number of oft-heard questions and provide you with important information for a safe and comfortable stay in Amsterdam.
To achieve this, it is necessary to get an understanding of the Safety situation.
To some extent, I can still agree that Amsterdam is a safe city. The crime rates in the Netherlands, in general, are relatively low compared to many other countries around the globe. But one must be careful still and where possible avoid dangerous behavior especially during the nights. It should always be very important to be alert, use your intuition and always use what most people will call ‘good-sense’ to keep you and others safe.
Navigating the City
Amsterdam as a city is relatively safe at night as long as one ventures into lit up and crowded places. They are commonly targeted by pick pockets and generally patrols by police are frequently seen within the city center especially in the areas that one is likely to find tourists like Dam Square, Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein. Other wide canals such as Herengracht, Keizersgracht, and Prinsengracht are also well security escorted for the walk-through.
Anyway, let it be known that in the dead of night, or at least at night, Amsterdam’s Red Light District may turn even more daunting. It is fairly safe for tourists to navigate the area but can admit rather loud company; thus, it is always wise to be polite of the space around.
Transportation Safety
Public transportation is well developed in Amsterdam and represented by buses, trams, and train. These modes are rather safe for use during the night. But it is advisable not to take a nap in completely unmanned stations or at places where there are few people around. If you want to use a taxi, then make sure you are in an authorized taxi, or use a reliable application to order a car. It is also advisable to inform the driver the name and address of the destination in writing in case you lose the way.
Useful Tips to Enhance Safety
Here are some practical tips to enhance your safety while exploring Amsterdam at night:
Travel in a group: As they say, the best travels are done in groups especially at night when everyone wants to be finding their way home.
Stay visible: Walk outdoors more but make sure that the place is brightly lit; if it gets extremely dark in some areas, it might be useful to take a flashlight or use an application on your phone that’ll help you to illuminate the area.
Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol taken in large proportions is well known to affect your decision making abilities and hence; makes you a soft target. Take your drink lightly especially if you are single.
Secure your belongings: Never carry pockets or bags on the front side ; be alert on the men with sharp tools who mug people.
Trustworthy accommodation: Select the area of the city that is safe and has good reputation, when selecting the hotel.Emergency Service Telephone NumberEMA & Fire Brigade 112t?
Emergency Numbers
It’s essential to have important contact numbers readily available should you need assistance:
Emergency Service Contact Number
Police 112
Ambulance & Fire Department 112
In Conclusion
Amsterdam is known to be quite safe, but being the home of ‘Strassen’ it doesn’t mean that you should not be careful or alert especially after dark. Make sure to walk in lit and crowded areas, use reliableforms of transport and follow the above tips good luck if you are planning to visit Amsterdam.