If one happens to visit Amsterdam their sure to find one of the most popular and interesting places to visit the Red Light District. This place also has the name De Wallen; besides the hot night clubs, amazing architecture, there are many girls, dressed in provocative outfits, with the red light on from behind in the windows where they work. Follow us throughout this blog post where we will take you through some tourism attractions and must-visit activities in the red light district of Amsterdam.
1. Oude Kerk
First site to visit in the Red Light District is the Oude Kerk, the oldest building in Amsterdam. This church of Gothic architecture was built in the 13th century, but today’s tourists can admire the view and its history. The inside of the buildings is gloomy but you can see stained glass windows are colorful and witness a quiet place surrounded by an active street.
2. Red Light Secrets Museum
If you still fascinated by the windows illuminated in red, then Red Light Secrets Museum is place for you. This adventitious museum offers a clear and dignified view of the prostitution in Amsterdam to the general public. Here you will learn about the lives of prostitutes, and the history of the legislation concerning such profession at the moment.
3. Coffeeshops
Cannabis products are legal in Amsterdam, and you can find many coffeeshops, as well as bars and clubs in the Red Light District. However, it ought to be understood these places only sell soft drugs and visitors should ensure that they do not take much of what they cannot handle.
3.1 The Bulldog
Self The Bulldog coffeeshop is one of the oldest and famous coffeeshops in Amsterdam. It has been inexistence since 1975, making it one of the oldest and probably the most popular establishment in the city. Feel comfortable with the personnel, and have a great number of products to select.
3.2 Barney’s Coffeeshop
Another well-known and much valued venue is Barney’s Coffeeshop. Offering one of the best quality of weed in town, a warm atmosphere inside and a friendly staff, Barney’s earned its place among the locals and visitors favourite places to visit.
4. Erotic Museum
If history and culture of erotica interest you more, it is better to visit the Erotic Museum. This museum displays a great deal of erotica art, photographs and articles that can be informative and humorous at the same time. Stroll around other floors that house a number of rather thought provoking displays and get to know more about culture of nudity across centuries.
5. Canal Cruise
When in the Red Light District, however, make use of the beautiful canals that characterize Amsterdam. Take a ride on the canal, and spend some time sightseeing on the beautiful and cultural water ways. Have a completely different night in the Red Light District and enjoy the view of the Amsterdam city at the same time.
6. Bars and Restaurants
The area, named Red Light District, is diverse when it comes to restaurants and other eating establishments. Whether it is an old fashioned Dutch ‘brown café’ or a more cosmopolitan meal, there will be something to eat. A few examples pertaining to chocolate and cheese are Café De Dokter, Wynand Fockink and De Kas.
7. Walking Tour
Those people who are keen on history, culture and social problems of the Red Light District may take a walking tour. Local tour guides with ample experience around the area will tour you through the neighborhood, which will give you interesting information and history on the transformation of the entire locality.
Conclusion
While the accessories that Amsterdam flaunts consists of numerous shocking-sounding sights, the essence of this city is so much deeper. Now restaurants and a number of bars, the bustle of traffic, stores selling exclusive design furniture and clothing, and a range of historic attractions such as museums and old buildings all make me becoming a big fan of this neighbourhood. Always approach the travel with an open-minded attitude, avoid offending the local population with the color of their skin, or their culture, and be ready to enjoy the close-knit Amsterdam community.