The sex works area which is located in the heart of Amsterdam people refer to as the red light district, De Wallen or Rosse Buurt. Especially the red lit windows for which it is known for portraying the working women of the region. But they missed out on much more than what the district has to offer apart from the sex trade. Welcome to the Amsterdam Red Light District sightseeing and activities blog post where we will lead you through the most important sights and things to do in the area.
1. Oude Kerk
Oude Kerk, or the Old Church, on the Kanalstraat Street is evident in current modern era in the middle of the Red Light District. Amsterdam has many attractions with different types of architecture, but the oldest building that can be visited today is the Gothic church. They can look at the façade of the Roman Catholic Church, there is art poking through the stained glass windows and such more, one will also get to know its importance of this church to the community.
Tips:
Take a tour up the church tower to get a great view of the area in the district.
For details of what the Oude Kerk is up to in terms of cultural happenings and shows, visit their website.
2. Red Light Secrets Museum
Curious to learn more about How the Red Light District actually functions, you have to check out the Red Light Secrets Museum. This will definitely make anyone take a new perspective into what the museum offers at a look into the world of prostitution. You will learn about the profession, its history and the workers’ experiences. It is educational as well as erm, enlightening.
Tips:
Tickets should be bought online in order to spare time in line.
I disagreed with the guidelines and did not take pictures inside the museum.
3. Zeedijk Street
Zeedijk Street is a very popular and colorful avenue that is located in the middle of the District. They are dotted with restaurants, bars, shops and so on. Visit Zeedijk Street, relax and walk about while exploring the area; certainly make sure you try the Dutch specialties. It will be a shame if you don’t take the time to sample some real Indonesian cuisine at one of the numerous Indonesian restaurants available within the region.
Tips:
You should also taste real Dutch crappy foods like bitterballen and stroopwafel.
Chinese Temple – this place will give you some insights about diverse culture of Amsterdam.
4. Casa Rosso
Casa Rosso is well known and a much frequented bi sexual adult theatre situated in the heart of Red Light District. But on this it gives a new and exciting outlook incorporating live shows performance and cabaret. Of course, if you are ready for not very traditional and quite raw nightlife of Amsterdam, you will definitely want to go to Casa Rosso.
Tips:
Please look under casa Rosso on the internet to find when they are performing and how you can get tickets.
Remember to follow some basic etiquette and do not contraven a violation of the rules of the place.
5. Sexmuseum Amsterdam
If travelers want to learn about the history of sex and erotism in Amsterdam, it’s would be of interest to visit Sexmuseum Amsterdam. It is located at the heart of the city within a stone’s throw of the Red Light District and seeks to offer visitors a tour through the sexual history of the world. In as much as they may portray the early man and primitive societies, the artefacts give a very special outlook on human sexualities as presented in modern societies.
Tips:
Prepare yourself for adult content and for some degree of nudity.
Like any other museum, personal photography is prohibited in the facilities as well.
Just a word of caution, it is also important to have a look at some of the smaller streets and side lanes of the Red Light District as well. There are lovely breakfast places, trendy clothing outlets, and out-of-sight gourmet specialty shops. When visiting the Red Light District it is recommended to arrive without prejudice toward the workers, and possessing knowledge of the area’s past and present. Have a good time visiting this area of our great city!
