A Guide to Amsterdam’s Red Light District: What to Know Before You Go

A Guide to Amsterdam’s Red Light District: What to Know Before You Go

Amsterdam’s Red Light District, also known as De Wallen, is one of the most famous and controversial attractions in the Dutch capital. It is a place where sex work is legal and regulated, and where you can find hundreds of window brothels, bars, clubs, coffee shops, museums, and more. But before you visit this fascinating area, there are some things you should know to make the most of your experience.

The History of the Red Light District

The Red Light District has a long and rich history that dates back to the Middle Ages. Amsterdam was a major trading port and a magnet for sailors, merchants, and migrants from all over Europe. Many of them were looking for entertainment and companionship, and the city became a hub for prostitution. The name “Red Light District” comes from the red lanterns that the sex workers used to hang outside their doors or windows to attract customers.

The area around the Oude Kerk (Old Church), the oldest building in Amsterdam, became the center of the sex industry. The church was tolerant of prostitution and even rented out rooms to brothel owners. The sex workers were mostly independent and self-employed and enjoyed a certain degree of freedom and respect.

However, things changed in the 17th and 18th centuries, when the authorities tried to crack down on prostitution and moralize the city. They imposed taxes, regulations, and restrictions on the sex workers, who were often harassed, arrested, or expelled. Many of them moved to other parts of the city or went underground.

In the 19th century, prostitution was legalized again, but brothels were still banned. The sex workers had to work in clandestine locations or on the streets, where they faced violence, exploitation, and disease. In the 20th century, the situation improved with the emergence of social movements and organizations that advocated for the rights and welfare of sex workers. In 2000, after decades of debate and activism, brothels were finally legalized and regulated in the Netherlands.

Today, the Red Light District is a vibrant and diverse neighborhood that attracts millions of visitors every year. It is also a place where sex workers can work safely and legally, with access to health care, social security, and unions. The city council and the police work together with the sex workers and their representatives to ensure that the area is clean, safe, and respectful.

The Culture of the Red Light District

The Red Light District is not just about sex work. It is also a cultural hotspot that offers a variety of attractions and experiences for all kinds of visitors. Whether you are interested in art, history, nightlife, or cannabis, you will find something to suit your taste in this area.

Some of the highlights include:

• The Oude Kerk: This 14th-century Gothic church is a stunning architectural landmark that hosts exhibitions, concerts, and events throughout the year.
• The Museum of Prostitution: This museum gives you an insider’s view of the world’s oldest profession. You can learn about the history, realities, and myths of sex work in Amsterdam and beyond.
• The Erotic Museum: This museum showcases erotic art and objects from different cultures and eras. You can see paintings, sculptures, photographs, films, and more.
• The Sexmuseum: This museum is dedicated to the history and evolution of human sexuality. You can see erotic artifacts, documents, posters, costumes, and more.
• The Hash Marihuana & Hemp Museum: This museum explores the history and culture of cannabis. You can learn about its origins, uses, effects, and legal status around the world.
• The Coffeeshops: These are establishments where you can buy and consume cannabis products legally. You can choose from a variety of strains, edibles, drinks, and accessories.
• The Bars and Clubs: These are places where you can enjoy a drink or a dance with your friends or meet new people. You can find pubs, cafes, cocktail bars, live music venues, and more.

The Etiquette of the Red Light District

The Red Light District is a place where you can have fun and explore your fantasies, but it is also a place where you need to respect some rules and boundaries. Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when you visit this area:

• Do respect the sex workers: They are professionals who offer a service for a fee. Treat them with dignity and courtesy. Negotiate clearly what you want and what you are willing to pay before entering their room. Pay them upfront and in cash. Follow their instructions and preferences. Don’t touch them without their consent or try to haggle or cheat them.
• Don’t take photos or videos: This is strictly forbidden and illegal. The sex workers value their privacy and security. If you try to take photos or videos of them or their windows, you may face a fine, a confiscation of your device, or even a physical confrontation. Some signs and cameras warn you about this rule. If you want a souvenir, you can buy postcards or books at the local shops.
• Do be aware of your surroundings: The Red Light District is generally safe and well-patrolled, but it is also a crowded and busy area where you may encounter pickpockets, scammers, or hustlers. Keep your valuables close and don’t accept any offers from strangers. If you feel uncomfortable or threatened, walk away or seek help from the police or the locals.
• Don’t be noisy or disruptive: The Red Light District is not only a tourist attraction, but also a residential and commercial area where people live and work. Don’t disturb them with loud noises, drunken behavior, or littering. Be polite and discreet. Don’t block the sidewalks or the windows. Don’t stare or make rude comments. Enjoy the atmosphere, but don’t cause any trouble.

The Future of the Red Light District

The Red Light District is constantly changing and evolving, as it has done for centuries. In recent years, the city council has launched several initiatives to improve the quality and sustainability of the area, such as:

• Project 1012: This is a plan to reduce the number of window brothels and other low-end businesses in the area, and to encourage more creative and cultural enterprises to set up here. The aim is to diversify the economy, reduce crime and trafficking, and preserve the historical character of the area.
• Ban on guided tours: This is a measure that came into effect in 2020 to prevent overcrowding and nuisance in the area. Tourists are no longer allowed to join organized groups or follow guides in the Red Light District. They can still visit the area individually or with friends, but they have to respect the rules and the residents.
• Relocation of window brothels: This is a proposal that is still under discussion and has not been implemented yet. It suggests moving some of the window brothels from the city center to other locations, such as a purpose-built erotic center or a floating island. The idea is to reduce congestion, pollution, and stigma in the area, and to offer better working conditions for the sex workers.

These changes are not without controversy and criticism, as they affect the interests and opinions of different stakeholders, such as the sex workers, the residents, the business owners, the tourists, and the authorities. The future of the Red Light District is uncertain, but it will surely remain an integral part of Amsterdam’s identity and culture.

The Red Light District in Amsterdam is a unique and fascinating place that offers a glimpse into the history, culture, and diversity of the city. It is a place where you can have fun and learn something new, but also a place where you need to be respectful and responsible. If you visit this area with an open mind and a curious eye, you will discover a world that will surprise you and challenge you.