Amsterdam is a cosmopolitan city with a strong pulse and, thus, millions of tourists coming to visit it annually. As a tourist, being in a position to wander around Belgium during the day makes you enjoy the good architecture, canals and a host of attraction sites. But some individuals often ask whether it is possible to walk around the city at night without putting their lives at risk. As mentioned earlier, this blog post aims to inform the reader about some things to consider about safety while walking at night in Amsterdam and give some practical advice on how to keep safe.
Non Specific Current Evaluation of Safety in Amsterdam
Countries of Europe: Amsterdam is safe to walk at night or maybe unsafe, depending on the area that tourists are going to explore. In terms of crime, the city is relatively safe compared and to modern metropolitan cities around Europe. The Netherland in general is a safe country and has competent police, the public facilities are also well developed.
However, as it will be seen Amsterdam, like many other cities has its fair share of street crimes. Bike theft and pick pocketing have remained pretty rampant and some parts of the city may be considered as no go zones due to a lot of undesirable characters. One should be always safe and should not let anyone take advantage of you or harm you in any way.
Advice on Walking in Amsterdam at Night
1. Stay in Well Illuminated and Busy Zones
When walking at night either during late dawn or mid-night, one should make sure takes relatively lit up and crowded areas. Erthus places like Dam Square, Leidseplein and Rembrandtplein are usually safe and always crowded, even during the night. It is advised not to the ‘black spots’ such as poorly lit roads or areas even if are little familiar with them.
2. Walk in a Group
It is always safer to walk together with people; this is felt most especially at night. It is equally, if not more, important in that it affords some measure of protection to a household, while discouraging would be offenders in the process. When doing the journey alone, it is advisable to hire a car or take a bus to the place.
3. Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Because after all, how many times do you really take a good close look at the city you live in or visit as a tourist? But always continue to be vigilant to be aware of your surroundings. It is good to be careful with your property for example when in areas that are packed or while using public means. Do not use your phone or listen to music with headphones, because criminals prefer targets easily identifiable as such.
4. Plan Your Route in Advance
Due to the expected disturbances during the night, it is advised that one should plot their moving way before they hit the road at night. It will be helpful to gain an understanding of important streets, buildings and transport means. This way you will also be able to have a plan b showing you areas that you should avoid especially if you are fearing for your safety.
5. Taxis or Safe Ride Hailing Services only
Whenever one is stuck out late at night with a long distance to travel, better options would be to hire registered and bonded taxis or even have to agree to register and bond with the service providers such as Uber or other such services. Do not pick the cab randomly from the street because they may not be legal or authorized. Amsterdam was going to be identified by licensed taxis hence possessing blue number plates with a roof light that has ‘TAXI’ written on it.
6. Trust Your Instincts
You should avoid dealing with people that you find uncomfortable or anything that appears suspicious to you. First of all, your own life and the life of your belongings should be considered most of all priorities. If needed, one can always turn to a close shop or restaurant for assistance or dial the police – which are always courteous and available in Amsterdam.
In Conclusion
Night walking in Amsterdam is safe, but if some precautions are taken then everything will be perfectly fine. It is advisable also to avoid deserted areas; where possible, always move in groups; know your environment; and take proper paths when planning your routes. Do not be reckless and go with your feelings or instincts during the game. Hence the following tips will enable you maximize your night time experience in this beautiful city while at the same time practicing good security measures.
