De Wallen - Red Light District
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Recommended Reviews - De Wallen - Red Light District
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Just a delightful and fascinating area to visit. Besides the famous red light district, there were many other attractions as the "coffee shops" which aren't exactly serving coffee as I peaked in lol. Amazing bars that serve Heineken from tap! And ferries you can take to explore its history and vast canals. Area is very safe and clean. Lots of couple of all ages and backgrounds visiting this place.
I had a couple of hours to do a walk about in the city center of Amsterdam. A local mapped out a walking route that included the Palace, Rembrandt square, Leidse square, the canals and a walk through De Wallen back to Amsterdam Central Station. Maybe I am a prude but this was the least fun part of the tour. It was early evening when I went there and it was packed with tourists including families with young kids. I can see the fascination to this spot for young adults but for everyone else, it's not worth it. There's so much more to see in Amsterdam.
We had to walk around the red light district. I saw red lights on & attractive young women in the windows. There were porn shops, strip clubs, coffee shops & signs to keep the noise down as people live here. There was a prostitution museum & an erotic museum.
Reviewing the Red Light District felt odd at first, but this area is such a large part of Amsterdam. I feel like the red light district and Amsterdam are synonymous. You have not seen all of Amsterdam unless you see the bad with the good. Many women solicit prostitution in brightly red windows. It is hard not to walk through here because it is an intersection to many other destinations. During the day there may be some women in the windows but at night the red light goes as far as the eye can see. It is hard to ignore especially because the women bang on the glass to get your attention. Even if you try to avoid the bulk of it, there are some random windows placed away from the main street that you might run into. The area also has live sex shows and sex stores, so in all fullness, I would not recommend this area at night with kids or people sensitive to this environment. There is a red light museum in this area that I hear is very informative of the life and history of the district. I gave it four stars because I am not sure how to rate it since I am just a passerby but it is very much part of Amsterdam. I was permitted to take a photo of this empty room. Important: Do not take pictures of windows with women or there will be a lot of aggression. This is due to women's anonymity and the dangerous pasts they may be fleeing.
Walking through Amsterdams Red Light District is high on every must-do list when in this city. Of course so did we. We went in daytime, knowing there is less "action" than in nighttime. But it was during Covid-19, so it was a lot less busy anyways and we didn't really need to see all the party folks at night. There are lots of these windows, where the sex-workers are presenting themselves. During Corona a lot windows were empty. Lots with stickers: "For Rent". Since it wasn't our goal to stare at these ladies (and some gentlemen) that was fine for us. But it just gives you a glimpse, how many of them there were (or will be again). It's interesting to see, but once would be really enough. Next time in Amsterdam there's no reason to check out these windows. At least be respectful and don't make any pics of them. There are signs clearly stating that, but that won't stop many tourists. Besides that this District is nice for a walk. The two bigger canals (Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal) are worth a look and make for some nice pics and a good stroll. It's the Amsterdam you know from all the pics and promotions. Of course it's a hugely touristy area, but it was nice to see and there are some interesting buildings in the area to check out. Some cafés, restaurants and lots of shops around. Like I said, surely a must-do. But Amsterdam offers a lot more. Check this district out, but probably only on your first visit. So you can focus on other sights the next times.
I live in Las Vegas, and I am far from a prude. I'm a-ok with sex workers (as long as they aren't being abused and are consenting adults who are working in the profession because they want to, NOT because they are forced to). That being said, I have never been quite as disappointed in such an over-hyped "attraction" than I was with Amsterdam's Red Light District. It wasn't at all like I expected, and I am not sure if that's a good or bad thing. Hubby and I went down around 11:30 pm, hoping that was a good time to catch the most hubbub (not too early, not too late). It was. The District was hopping and the eerie glow of red light bulbs emanated from glass-walled rooms. As we walked closer, two things became clear: 1. the streets were clogged with gawking tourists and 2. staring at the women in the windows wasn't as interesting as you'd think. The women all looked the same, and it was weird because almost all of them had on Buddy Holly style glasses. I guess they think it makes them look smart? Who knows. All were clad in lingerie in various states of undress, while college bros and Japanese tourists giggled and laughed and pointed with mouths agape. Yes, I was staring too: but I also tried to treat the women with as much respect as I could afford, considering I was a voyeur outside of the fishbowl. Hubby got super uncomfortable as the women would openly flirt with all the guys outside her window, with one even making contact with him while rubbing her privates. They tend to taunt the shy guys the most, which is amusing in itself. He kept looking sheepishly at the ground until I practically held his eyes open and his head up and screamed "we came all this way so you need to look at this or you will regret it!!!" Remember guys: these women are willingly putting themselves on display, so you don't have to feel like a gross pervert for taking a gander at what they're selling. Doesn't mean you have to partake, but at least get your eyes full. I know I did. I'm the naturally curious type, so I really enjoyed this aspect of the Red Light District. Even more curious was seeing the customers coming out of the rooms. It was just...weird. The craziest thing I saw was when a young dude came sprinting out in nothing but his boxers (no shoes), frantically running with his ATM card to the nearest cash machine! I'll likely be chuckling about that for years to come. What I really didn't like about this part of Amsterdam is the general vibe of the area. It felt like a skeevy adult Disneyland that exudes a greasy, dirty, and gritty Ron Jeremy aura, except with tons of pot shops and trash everywhere. Pickpocketing is rampant here and is a huge problem, so hold onto your valuables. Better yet, leave them back in the hotel safe. The entire area stunk of stale urine, and the shop keepers in many of the stores were super creepy and just stood outside on their stoops and stared inappropriately (especially at women). I'm a pretty strong feminist, but I was very happy I had a guy with me and I would have felt even more unsafe alone or with a group of my female friends. Do take the time to window shop or even go inside to browse at the sex toy shops. The condom varieties alone are more than I have seen in my entire lifetime. Some of the shops sold some merchandise that made our eyes pop super duper far out of our heads (like the full size realistic hermaphrodite sex dolls -- yeah, dolls with both boobs and wieners)! Now THAT'S something you certainly don't see every day.
Just come here once to get the experience. its legal and window sex workers are new to watch which I am not sure any other city offers. It's near to central station, narrow streets led to many shops-bars- strip clubs, sex toy stores, and hyped sex workers red windows. I felt like I am visiting some kind of fair, have seen there many families with kids, couples enjoying, folks roaming with booze in hand. It was totally like some kind of small county fair scene. Marijuana smell is everywhere. It gets crowded at night and Police are there to control. 95 % of crowd - they are just scrolling through like me. I had read that photos are not allowed and I did not take any risk. There is even one-way street in this district to accommodate the crowd. Funny. Different experience. Had fun with friends.
Gotta at least see it. I don't want to ruin the surprise for anyone, but I will share some details in case you're thinking about visiting. First off, it's exactly what you think it is. They are prostitutes, and they are out there to solicit business. That means that they will stare at you, they will wink at you, they will try to call you in, so if that is something you will not like then do not walk down the streets. But if it is something you are curious about and just want to see how other cultures handle prostitution, it's a very interesting experience and I highly recommend it just to open up your eyes to a different way of doing things. The entire area is themed with different sex shows, strip clubs, and of course the actual booths that have the prostitutes themselves. It gets very busy and very touristy at night. So be prepared. It's still pretty cool so I would recommend visiting and honestly it's one of those iconic parts of the city. So walk down the streets with an open mind and enjoy.
As for a play on words, what's the big F'in deal? OK its the oldest profession in the world, here its legalized and hopefully safer because they have healthcare. Who knows, it was no big deal. Women standing in the window selling their wares and goods. Some of them looking as if this is something that they choose others look as though they are making a sale I under duress. The history behind the creation of the red light district is fascinating it actually makes sense. I can only conclude that this display remains as it is an attraction for tourists. I would just think in this day and age it would just be more lucrative to run your own business. Either through a PayPal account or Apple Pay etc. Work in a location that offers security or where you can add security. But whatever, if they like it I'm sure the man who makes a purchase loves it. There was nothing unusual about the women they were all basically the same, there was one that was a little older but not different. If men are looking for a variety I guess they would have to go somewhere else. Go into a local bar and buy a chick a drink you might save some money and a headache. But for tourists I guess this is interesting. The windows are clean I can't say that much for a girls because I don't know. But I guess you make a purchase at your own risk!
My favourite spot to hang out in Amsterdam has got to be the red light. Besides all the naked ladies in the windows there's a lot of great bars and places to hang out. Once night hits the atmosphere changes drastically, all the party people come out. You'll notice many bachelor or bachelorette parties and lots of Guy groups just there to get wasted and have a good time. I've been here 3 times now and I've never had any issues, you'll get lots of some what homeless guys telling you their story about how they came to Amsterdam and lost their way and that they need money. They're friendly not viscous so no need to worry. Each bar is different some close at 2-3-4 or 7, you don't need to call an uber all the bars are super close to each other. I suggest doing a boat tour as it's the best way to see all the gorgeous buildings.
You can't miss the Red Light District when in Amsterdam! It is THE entertaining area to be at all night! You can stroll through the narrow roadways, admire the city scenes, canals and just simply enjoy this community that is so different from the rest of the world!
We were in the area for 4 nights and we went to the red light district every day or night .. it's very different in the day .. but there are still some prostitutes in the windows .. not as many. It didn't feel like an unsafe area even at night. They keep the area clean up of trash. In the time we were there we didn't see any fights or violence. I think everyone is so high on pot they are pretty peaceful. Never smelled so much pot or cigarettes which was rough on my asthma. some very odd museums .. like prostitution museum and sex museum . one about Pot .. too .. wow this puts Vegas to shame.
The Red Light District is absolutely an area worth seeing in Amsterdam. The level of care and respect that is provided for sex workers is eye-opening and wonderful. We strolled through the streets and watched as all genders took to their windows for the evening under the glow of the red light. We passed many related shops and businesses. Though it is widely acceptable and for the most part extremely safe, when we were there a campaign was going on to have the district removed from the city centre. Fortunately as I write this, it still remind intact. It's a major tourist attraction and it just seems silly to remove it for that reason alone. It was a liberating experience to be able to take it all in. read more
3 years ago
Of course, while visiting Amsterdam for the 1st time (10/04/2023-10/07/2023) a visit to the Red Light District (RLD) was on our itinerary as a must-do/see. For those who don't know, both prostitution and marijuana are legal in Amsterdam and the Red Light District is most known for being the area that the sex workers are at BUT surprisingly the RLD had so much more to see than the ladies in each of their windows. Since I'm such a kind human ;), here are a few helpful tidbits about the Red Light District - -- Great location to visit during the day and at night time. During the day there are a few erotic shops and museums (Red Light Secrets Museum) to visit in the area and great to just walk around the area, which is so beautiful w/ the canals and the architecture of all the buildings. The area is very clean (see pics included in this review) and felt very safe both during the day and at night. You will see the very beautiful ladies in their windows while walking through the RLD but please be courteous and respectful and NOT take any pics or gawk at them. At night the area lights up in red lights everywhere, giving the "red light" effect (see pic included in this review) and it is really cool to see. -- Public Restrooms : There are public restrooms (called toilets by those in Amsterdam) but most charge a fee to use them ($1-$3) and you can pay using ApplePay. There is a public toilet called the "Sexy Loo" located in RLD that was very interesting to use w/ sexy videos on the doors in the ladies toilets (see videos included in this review) & I actually didn't mind paying the $3 fee to use these toilets because they are very clean & I just loved getting to look at the "eye candy" while using the loo ;)). To sum it up, I definitely recommend a visit to the Red Light District to explore and sightsee & yes, you might see a few xxx-rated things but just remember.."what happens in Amsterdam, stays in Amsterdam"! ;) Thank you Amsterdam for showing us a dam good time! Till next time, Rebecca read more
1 year ago
Wow. Pretty much just wow. You have to experience this area to believe it. Very safe and very fun ! read more
Just a delightful and fascinating area to visit. Besides the famous red light district, there were many other attractions as the "coffee shops" which aren't exactly serving coffee as I peaked in lol. Amazing bars that serve Heineken from tap! And ferries you can take to explore its history and vast canals. Area is very safe and clean. Lots of couple of all ages and backgrounds visiting this place. read more
I had a couple of hours to do a walk about in the city center of Amsterdam. A local mapped out a walking route that included the Palace, Rembrandt square, Leidse square, the canals and a walk through De Wallen back to Amsterdam Central Station. Maybe I am a prude but this was the least fun part of the tour. It was early evening when I went there and it was packed with tourists including families with young kids. I can see the fascination to this spot for young adults but for everyone else, it's not worth it. There's so much more to see in Amsterdam. read more
2 years ago
We had to walk around the red light district. I saw red lights on & attractive young women in the windows. There were porn shops, strip clubs, coffee shops & signs to keep the noise down as people live here. There was a prostitution museum & an erotic museum. read more
Reviewing the Red Light District felt odd at first, but this area is such a large part of Amsterdam. I feel like the red light district and Amsterdam are synonymous. You have not seen all of Amsterdam unless you see the bad with the good. Many women solicit prostitution in brightly red windows. It is hard not to walk through here because it is an intersection to many other destinations. During the day there may be some women in the windows but at night the red light goes as far as the eye can see. It is hard to ignore especially because the women bang on the glass to get your attention. Even if you try to avoid the bulk of it, there are some random windows placed away from the main street that you might run into. The area also has live sex shows and sex stores, so in all fullness, I would not recommend this area at night with kids or people sensitive to this environment. There is a red light museum in this area that I hear is very informative of the life and history of the district. I gave it four stars because I am not sure how to rate it since I am just a passerby but it is very much part of Amsterdam. I was permitted to take a photo of this empty room. Important: Do not take pictures of windows with women or there will be a lot of aggression. This is due to women's anonymity and the dangerous pasts they may be fleeing. read more
5 years ago
Walking through Amsterdams Red Light District is high on every must-do list when in this city. Of course so did we. We went in daytime, knowing there is less "action" than in nighttime. But it was during Covid-19, so it was a lot less busy anyways and we didn't really need to see all the party folks at night. There are lots of these windows, where the sex-workers are presenting themselves. During Corona a lot windows were empty. Lots with stickers: "For Rent". Since it wasn't our goal to stare at these ladies (and some gentlemen) that was fine for us. But it just gives you a glimpse, how many of them there were (or will be again). It's interesting to see, but once would be really enough. Next time in Amsterdam there's no reason to check out these windows. At least be respectful and don't make any pics of them. There are signs clearly stating that, but that won't stop many tourists. Besides that this District is nice for a walk. The two bigger canals (Oudezijds Voorburgwal and Oudezijds Achterburgwal) are worth a look and make for some nice pics and a good stroll. It's the Amsterdam you know from all the pics and promotions. Of course it's a hugely touristy area, but it was nice to see and there are some interesting buildings in the area to check out. Some cafés, restaurants and lots of shops around. Like I said, surely a must-do. But Amsterdam offers a lot more. Check this district out, but probably only on your first visit. So you can focus on other sights the next times. read more
I live in Las Vegas, and I am far from a prude. I'm a-ok with sex workers (as long as they aren't being abused and are consenting adults who are working in the profession because they want to, NOT because they are forced to). That being said, I have never been quite as disappointed in such an over-hyped "attraction" than I was with Amsterdam's Red Light District. It wasn't at all like I expected, and I am not sure if that's a good or bad thing. Hubby and I went down around 11:30 pm, hoping that was a good time to catch the most hubbub (not too early, not too late). It was. The District was hopping and the eerie glow of red light bulbs emanated from glass-walled rooms. As we walked closer, two things became clear: 1. the streets were clogged with gawking tourists and 2. staring at the women in the windows wasn't as interesting as you'd think. The women all looked the same, and it was weird because almost all of them had on Buddy Holly style glasses. I guess they think it makes them look smart? Who knows. All were clad in lingerie in various states of undress, while college bros and Japanese tourists giggled and laughed and pointed with mouths agape. Yes, I was staring too: but I also tried to treat the women with as much respect as I could afford, considering I was a voyeur outside of the fishbowl. Hubby got super uncomfortable as the women would openly flirt with all the guys outside her window, with one even making contact with him while rubbing her privates. They tend to taunt the shy guys the most, which is amusing in itself. He kept looking sheepishly at the ground until I practically held his eyes open and his head up and screamed "we came all this way so you need to look at this or you will regret it!!!" Remember guys: these women are willingly putting themselves on display, so you don't have to feel like a gross pervert for taking a gander at what they're selling. Doesn't mean you have to partake, but at least get your eyes full. I know I did. I'm the naturally curious type, so I really enjoyed this aspect of the Red Light District. Even more curious was seeing the customers coming out of the rooms. It was just...weird. The craziest thing I saw was when a young dude came sprinting out in nothing but his boxers (no shoes), frantically running with his ATM card to the nearest cash machine! I'll likely be chuckling about that for years to come. What I really didn't like about this part of Amsterdam is the general vibe of the area. It felt like a skeevy adult Disneyland that exudes a greasy, dirty, and gritty Ron Jeremy aura, except with tons of pot shops and trash everywhere. Pickpocketing is rampant here and is a huge problem, so hold onto your valuables. Better yet, leave them back in the hotel safe. The entire area stunk of stale urine, and the shop keepers in many of the stores were super creepy and just stood outside on their stoops and stared inappropriately (especially at women). I'm a pretty strong feminist, but I was very happy I had a guy with me and I would have felt even more unsafe alone or with a group of my female friends. Do take the time to window shop or even go inside to browse at the sex toy shops. The condom varieties alone are more than I have seen in my entire lifetime. Some of the shops sold some merchandise that made our eyes pop super duper far out of our heads (like the full size realistic hermaphrodite sex dolls -- yeah, dolls with both boobs and wieners)! Now THAT'S something you certainly don't see every day. read more
Just come here once to get the experience. its legal and window sex workers are new to watch which I am not sure any other city offers. It's near to central station, narrow streets led to many shops-bars- strip clubs, sex toy stores, and hyped sex workers red windows. I felt like I am visiting some kind of fair, have seen there many families with kids, couples enjoying, folks roaming with booze in hand. It was totally like some kind of small county fair scene. Marijuana smell is everywhere. It gets crowded at night and Police are there to control. 95 % of crowd - they are just scrolling through like me. I had read that photos are not allowed and I did not take any risk. There is even one-way street in this district to accommodate the crowd. Funny. Different experience. Had fun with friends. read more
2 years ago
Gotta at least see it. I don't want to ruin the surprise for anyone, but I will share some details in case you're thinking about visiting. First off, it's exactly what you think it is. They are prostitutes, and they are out there to solicit business. That means that they will stare at you, they will wink at you, they will try to call you in, so if that is something you will not like then do not walk down the streets. But if it is something you are curious about and just want to see how other cultures handle prostitution, it's a very interesting experience and I highly recommend it just to open up your eyes to a different way of doing things. The entire area is themed with different sex shows, strip clubs, and of course the actual booths that have the prostitutes themselves. It gets very busy and very touristy at night. So be prepared. It's still pretty cool so I would recommend visiting and honestly it's one of those iconic parts of the city. So walk down the streets with an open mind and enjoy. read more
As for a play on words, what's the big F'in deal? OK its the oldest profession in the world, here its legalized and hopefully safer because they have healthcare. Who knows, it was no big deal. Women standing in the window selling their wares and goods. Some of them looking as if this is something that they choose others look as though they are making a sale I under duress. The history behind the creation of the red light district is fascinating it actually makes sense. I can only conclude that this display remains as it is an attraction for tourists. I would just think in this day and age it would just be more lucrative to run your own business. Either through a PayPal account or Apple Pay etc. Work in a location that offers security or where you can add security. But whatever, if they like it I'm sure the man who makes a purchase loves it. There was nothing unusual about the women they were all basically the same, there was one that was a little older but not different. If men are looking for a variety I guess they would have to go somewhere else. Go into a local bar and buy a chick a drink you might save some money and a headache. But for tourists I guess this is interesting. The windows are clean I can't say that much for a girls because I don't know. But I guess you make a purchase at your own risk! read more
My favourite spot to hang out in Amsterdam has got to be the red light. Besides all the naked ladies in the windows there's a lot of great bars and places to hang out. Once night hits the atmosphere changes drastically, all the party people come out. You'll notice many bachelor or bachelorette parties and lots of Guy groups just there to get wasted and have a good time. I've been here 3 times now and I've never had any issues, you'll get lots of some what homeless guys telling you their story about how they came to Amsterdam and lost their way and that they need money. They're friendly not viscous so no need to worry. Each bar is different some close at 2-3-4 or 7, you don't need to call an uber all the bars are super close to each other. I suggest doing a boat tour as it's the best way to see all the gorgeous buildings. read more
12 years ago
You can't miss the Red Light District when in Amsterdam! It is THE entertaining area to be at all night! You can stroll through the narrow roadways, admire the city scenes, canals and just simply enjoy this community that is so different from the rest of the world! read more
We were in the area for 4 nights and we went to the red light district every day or night .. it's very different in the day .. but there are still some prostitutes in the windows .. not as many. It didn't feel like an unsafe area even at night. They keep the area clean up of trash. In the time we were there we didn't see any fights or violence. I think everyone is so high on pot they are pretty peaceful. Never smelled so much pot or cigarettes which was rough on my asthma. some very odd museums .. like prostitution museum and sex museum . one about Pot .. too .. wow this puts Vegas to shame. read more
The area was definitely more 'hyped up' than what we encountered when my girlfriend and I walked thru it for the 1st time. Prior to my arrival in Amsterdam, my expectation was that it was not the safest area and that prostitutes would be walking around trying to solicit men to come with them, but it was nothng like that. On the contrary, the area was pretty clean, safe, laid back and made for some interesting photo opportunities. To give readers the REAL rundown on what goes on in the Red Light District, in terms of the prostitution, basically prostitutes rent single-room 'cabins', which have windows/doors. As people walk thru the Red Light District, especially thru the alleys, there will be red lights lit up by the doors and the prostitutes will just stand by the door (on the inside) and stare at passerbys, hoping to catch the eye of men who are willing to pay for their services. Actually, it was kind of creepy with the women staring back and not making much movements. They almost looked like mannequins --- with really big boobs and lots of makeup. We got a chance to visit the district a few times and although it was much more lively during the evening hours, there were still prostitutes who were working in the single-room cabins during the day. If anything, our opinions were that it was quite entertaining and humorous watching the prostitutes standing on the inside of windows and gawking at passerbys, hoping to catch their attentions. Besides the prostitutes, there was a sex museum, theaters, peep shows and numerous sex shops. It was really nothing but harmless entertainment and a good time! read more
3 years ago
Great place to walk and burn calories cause all you're gonna do is walk and walk Haha there are plenty of girls in the windows trying to lure you in. They have beds right behind them and close the curtain if you decide to go with them. Going rate is is 50 euros for a 10 minute blow job. 100 euros for 20 minutes sex one position lol and 150 euros for 30 minutes clothes off and multiple positions. I walked the entire place and asked every girl what their going rate was and they all charge the same price. You have to negotiate beforehand what you get for that money. Negotiate specifics like clothes off on how many positions etc. Most of the girls are from Eastern Europe. Croatia, Romania, Slovania. All sorts of different kinds of girls. Fat ones, skinny, fake tits and ass or natural. Even saw a couple Asians and black girls. I kind of feel bad for these girls. Every tourist is walking by laughing at them all night. I didn't really wanna do it since I'm really spoiled by Mexico but I figured gotta try it since I'm here already. Overall it was alright. You won't get any girlfriend experience here. Just business and churn and burn as quickly as possible. The girl I got was nice and friendly. We talked for a bit after and I got to know her. We smoked a joint together and she recommended some of her favorite pot coffee shops to me. We'll meet up when she comes to visit California. As far as red light district, my expectations were high for this place, but I was a little disappointed. Mexico red light in Tijuana is much better as far as being able to enjoy more time and drink with the girls and get the girlfriend experience. The thing I enjoyed about this red light, that Mexico don't have, is the being able to smoke weed everywhere without having to worry about getting in trouble. I smoke weed in Mexico too but I gotta worry about the cops. It's worth visiting just to check it out, smoke weed freely, and people watch. Weed in california is still cheaper and better haha No photos allowed the chicks will get pissed and the cops will make you delete them if they see you taking pics. Will I go back? Only if I'm in the area again but not to go out of my way to come back for the Red light district. I'll stay in the Mexico red light district haha read more
It's MUST visit place when you are visiting Amsterdam... just have to see it for yourself to see what all the fuss is about. The area is crowded with tourists but everyone seems to be peaceful. There are many restaurants, bars, coffee shops, gift stores of all kinds. It is pretty closed to Chinatown... so if you are craving for Peking ducks, you find it here. There's also a catholic church and a Buddhist temple nearby if you feel spiritual after visiting RLD! There is red light neon and red curtain window everywhere... when the curtain is up, the lady is available. There are not so much of show I would expect. The women in their bikini, some waving at you, some pretending on the phone and some putting on their make-up! They seem a bit tame comparing to Las Vegas or New Orleans! Overall, it is a fun place to visit. We were there until midnight and did not feel unsafe. I was told not to take pictures of the ladies... read more
Came here a few months ago, but I thought I'd finish my review before I forget how memorable the Red Light District was. And I'd say, once you've been in the Red Light District, that's just about it. You've been there! In other words, I walked and walked and walked and was totally excited at first, saw lots of interesting things to see. Did some window shopping, but never purchased. Chilled at a cafe or two and met a few nice tourists, and locals. Then after a while, overall I just didn't care for it. I was too busy thinking about the next restaurant I'm gonna yelp about lol! Other than seeing the Red Lights, here's a few highlights: ~ The number of places to eat! Man o'man, there's so many restaurants that have yet to be reviewed. I'd yelp a place and be like, "Sweet, another FTR candidate. Yippee!" ~ Frites stands! Long lines for them too. I had it once, but didn't think it was anything special. I guess it's that mayo stuff they put on it. Plus I've eaten way too many fries in my days. ~ Hemp shops around every corner that sell everything from seeds, to blooms, vape stuff, edibles, etc. Talk about stoner heaven! But here's what's even worse, and my weakness... ~ Being here for the first time, I didn't know Amsterdam was known for CHEESE SHOPS!!! OMG!!! Like the hemp cafes on every corner, so were the cheese shops. I swore I probably stopped into every store! My eyes exploded, my hands grabbed every sample. I was growing whiskers and my fingers turned yellow. If anything, I was more worried about closing up my luggage with all the cheese I bought lol. ~ Bakery and candy shops. Eh, there were enough of those too. ~ Strolling through each alley, then alley after alley was just like HEY yay another alley. Some were interesting, some boring. The window shopping was like WOW, just like in the movies! So what was said about this place was true! I even witnessed one dirty old man leave one prostitute's room, opened up the next door, and into another girl's room. I'm just laughing and thinking... "What an old gross sick f---!" Here's a 'dislike' about the RLD: ~ I know I'm forever going to be a tourist here, but seeing the hoards of tourists in large groups was just ridiculous. Now I'm talkin' groups of like 30-60 (I'll just say) foreign people. With stupid tour guides holding megaphones and their group sign. They'd sardine the alleys even on a very late Sunday night. Mind you, the alleys are fairly narrow too. And being so late, why would you even think about bring kids? So freakin' irritating! I actually sympathized for the women in the windows, as they too seem very irritated seeing the flood of tourists. They went from smiles to frowns in seconds. Oh well, at least I can say that, I came and I saw! Amsterdam in general is a beautiful city! And with it being quite active, there's really no fear in cruising through here. Plenty of activities, and plenty to keep yourself visually and physically entertained. Or should I have said "stimulated" lol. The RLD is fun, but belive me there's more to discover outside of it. I'll be back! But more over to gather cheese wedges if anything! read more
4 years ago
10 years ago
No matter it's a weekday or a weekend, this area is packed at night. Even if you aren't interested in banging a hooker, it's still great to wander around and see what this is all about! They're famous for their display windows framed with red neon lights for their legalized prostitutes. For the sake of respect, no photography and video should be taken. It actually was less extensive as I thought. There were only about 3 alleys as far as I knew. One alley was all black women, the other blonde and the other that I couldn't quite categorize. It's quite funny seeing a guy coming out from the building with a smile on his face haha. At least he had a good time! Besides the prostitution, it's also a lively place full of music and noise coming from bars, restaurants and just the crowd on the streets. There's definitely a lot going on and you won't be bored here at night. The last tram leaves some time between midnight and 00:30 from central station (check schedule again, might have changed since this review was written.) Otherwise Uber and taxi are always options. read more
8 years ago
It was everything I expected the RLD to be. Fun, exciting, dirty, scary, sad and too crowded! It's such an iconic place to be. Lots of "windows", shops and restaurants. At night, lots of obnoxious drunks! So scary almost. read more
We all came out to Amsterdam On the Canals shoreline To make memories to last a lifetime But we didn't have much time Babes in the windows Red fire in the sky Smoke on the water A fire in the sky... ...What do you mean I cannot take pictures??? I always take pictures of my food... .... ...Well, that was quick... read more
It's my 200th review, and what a statistic! So now a review of my hood, the Red Light District!! "Coffee Shops", drunks and hookers, DON'T TOUCH! Small side note, it's called 'De Wallen', in Dutch :) Stag and hen groups, this review you can pass You'll be pissed-off belligerent, probably showing too much ass. But aside from the red light girls, waiting and loose I love this neighborhood, hence, to you I will introduce! Oudezijds Voorburgwal, at where I reside In some of the alleys, are gems bonafide Looking for spirits, try Wynand Fokkink Homebrewed beer you say? to De Prael in a blink! Oudezijds Achterburgwal, The Sailor?.... what a crime... Skip that - walk to the end, for Mata Hari's a good time! For instagramic shots of a romantic canal Head south along the water, you'll see my rationale! As last parting words, I would like people to know There is more to De Wallen, if you know where to go And I hate to be so sour, but there is one more thing... DON'T WALK ON THE STREETS OR WE WILL RING RING RING!!! read more
9 years ago
The architecture on the buildings is breathtaking and the history behind the area is interesting. There are many shops that sell amazing desserts and pastries. However, I'm not sure I would go back because it's out of my comfort zone. Definitely NOT appropriate for kids. read more
11 years ago
Wowza! The two things Amsterdam is best know for is sex and pot, and this neighborhood combines both those vices/ tourist curiosities / revenue professions in one place, making for a neat package. Btw, did find it funny that Chinatown is located right next door so if you are hungry after a visit to a red door or just experiencing a bad bout of munchies, succor is right next door, so very well played indeed to the Dutch urban planners!! I loved walking thru, even though walking by the lighted red windows did feel a bit weird/ awkward - and bumping into men who were exiting from the red windows was even more excruciating and happened a number of times...! But there is a vibe to the streets here, that is undeniably exciting and vibrant and the graffiti was either mostly about sex or a variation on the topic thereof. Def go visit and have fun wandering thru the streets in this district. read more
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More info about De Wallen - Red Light District
1012 GX Amsterdam
The Netherlands
De Wallen, Centrum
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