Amsterdam’s Red Light District: A Self-Guided Audio Tour 2023

Amsterdam is a city that attracts millions of tourists every year, and one of the most fascinating areas to explore is the Red Light District. However, as of January 1, 2020, guided tours of this district have been banned. Luckily, there is a way to still learn about the history and culture of this area with a self-guided audio tour. In this blog post, we will explore the details of this tour and provide useful information for planning your visit to Amsterdam.

What is a Self-Guided Audio Tour for Amsterdam’s Red Light District?

A self-guided audio tour is a great way to explore the Red Light District on your own. As the name suggests, this tour is audio-based and can be accessed via your smartphone. It works by using GPS technology, which means you can start and pause the audio commentary as you please, and even take breaks along the way.

The audio guide is available offline as well, which is great news for people who don’t want to use up their data while exploring. This audio tour is also fully compliant with regulations, which means you won’t have to worry about breaking any rules while exploring the Red Light District.

What Will I See on the Tour?

This self-guided audio tour offers a unique and insightful experience of the Red Light District. It provides detailed commentary on the history of the area, including the historical churches and flood defences. The tour also offers a glimpse into the role that legalized sex work plays in this city.

You’ll get to see famous landmarks such as the Belle statue, which commemorates sex workers, and the National Monument. You’ll also be taken through the famous Zeedijk street, which was originally built as a flood defense wall in the 1100s.

It’s worth noting that this tour provides a glimpse into the more controversial aspects of the district and therefore contains some sexual themes.

How Do I Book the Tour?

You can book this self-guided audio tour through Viator, which offers a lifetime access to the tour. Before you arrive in Amsterdam, you will need to download the VoiceMap mobile app and use the code provided in your confirmation email.

The tour starts at Dam Square, and you can start or pause the commentary at any point during the tour. The tour is available every day of the week and is fully compliant with regulations.

Is the Tour Accessible?

The tour is accessible to most travelers, but it’s not recommended for wheelchair users. Strollers are allowed on the tour, but infants must sit on laps. The tour is also near public transportation, so it’s easy to get to the meeting point at Dam Square.

Conclusion

Exploring Amsterdam’s Red Light District is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and this self-guided audio tour is an excellent alternative to guided tours. It’s a great way to explore the district at your own pace while learning about its history and culture.

To book this tour and experience the Red Light District like never before, head over to the Viator website and start planning your Amsterdam adventure today!

Insider’s Guide to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ capital and is known for its picturesque canals, narrow houses, and liberal culture. The city’s Red Light District is one of its most famous attractions, with the area’s narrow streets lined with brothels and sex shops. However, Amsterdam has much more to offer than just the Red Light District. From beautiful parks to world-class museums, there are plenty of things to see and do in this vibrant city.

Attractions

Amsterdam is a city of world-class attractions and landmarks that draw visitors from all over the world. Here are a few must-see attractions:

Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum is one of the Netherlands’ most famous museums, attracting millions of visitors every year. The museum’s vast collection of art and artifacts includes works by the Dutch Masters, such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. Visitors can also see masterpieces from other European and Asian artists. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Anne Frank House

Anne Frank House is a must-visit for anyone interested in World War II history. This museum is dedicated to the diary and life of young Anne Frank and her family, who hid from the Nazis for two years during World War II. The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily, but it’s best to book tickets in advance.

Vondelpark

Vondelpark is Amsterdam’s most well-known park and a clean, green oasis in the heart of the city. The park features lovely walking paths, beautiful gardens, and plenty of space to relax with a picnic or a good book. There are several great cafes and restaurants in the park, making it a great place to spend a day out.

Dining Spots

Amsterdam is known for its culinary scene, with a variety of international cuisine available throughout the city. Here are some of the best dining spots in Amsterdam:

Bakers & Roasters

Bakers & Roasters is a cozy cafe located in the De Pijp neighborhood that serves an excellent range of breakfast and brunch options. Visitors can enjoy espresso drinks, fresh juices, and pastries, along with favorites like pancakes, waffles, and eggs Benedict.

Restaurant Blauw

Restaurant Blauw is one of the best Indonesian restaurants in the city and one of the few places that serve authentic Dutch-Indonesian cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying the rijsttafel, a traditional Indonesian rice table featuring a range of small dishes.

The Seafood Bar

The Seafood Bar is a local favorite that serves up some of the freshest seafood in Amsterdam. The restaurant’s signature dish is the plateau, which features freshly shucked oysters, lobster, crab, shrimp, and more.

Cultural Experiences

Amsterdam is a city defined by its rich history and culture. Here are some cultural experiences to enjoy in the city:

Van Gogh Museum

The Van Gogh Museum is home to the world’s largest collection of works by the famous Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. The museum features over 200 paintings, including some of Van Gogh’s most famous works, such as “Sunflowers” and “The Potato Eaters.”

Canal Tour

No visit to Amsterdam is complete without a canal tour. Visitors can take a leisurely boat ride through the city’s famous canals and learn about Amsterdam’s rich history and culture. There are several different canal tour operators in the city, and most tours last 1-2 hours.

Heineken Experience

The Heineken Experience is a must-visit for beer lovers. The museum is located in a former brewery and offers visitors an interactive tour of the beer-making process. Visitors can also sample fresh Heineken beer and learn about the history of the iconic brand.

Local History

Amsterdam has a rich and fascinating history, from its days as a major trading port in the 17th century to its role in World War II. Here are some historical spots to visit in the city:

The Resistance Museum

The Resistance Museum is one of Amsterdam’s best museums for anyone interested in World War II history. The museum tells the story of the Dutch resistance during the war and features artifacts, photographs, and documents from that time.

Royal Palace Amsterdam

The Royal Palace Amsterdam is located in the heart of the city and is one of the most impressive landmarks in Amsterdam. The palace was built in the 17th century as a city hall and was later transformed into a royal palace. Visitors can take a guided tour of the palace and see the impressive rooms and royal collections.

The Jewish Cultural Quarter

The Jewish Cultural Quarter is a museum and cultural center that showcases the history and culture of Amsterdam’s Jewish community. Visitors can learn about the community’s history, see important artifacts, and visit the Portuguese Synagogue, one of the most impressive synagogues in Europe.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you’re looking for something a little bit different, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions for Amsterdam:

The Amsterdamse Bos

The Amsterdamse Bos is a massive park just outside the city, perfect for nature lovers. Visitors can rent bikes or kayaks and explore the park’s many trails and waterways. The park also features a goat farm and several small cafes and restaurants.

The NDSM Wharf

The NDSM Wharf is a former shipyard that’s been transformed into an art center and cultural hub. Visitors can explore the shipyard’s many galleries and workshops or check out one of the many festivals or events held here throughout the year.

De Pijp Neighborhood

De Pijp Neighborhood is a hip, trendy neighborhood just south of the city center. The neighborhood is home to some of the city’s best bars, cafes, and restaurants, as well as some excellent street art and graffiti. Don’t miss out on exploring the neighborhood’s famous Albert Cuyp Market, a bustling market featuring local specialties and international cuisine.

Amsterdam is a city that has something for everyone, from a vibrant nightlife to world-class museums. Whether you’re visiting the city for the first time or returning for the umpteenth time, there’s always something new to see and explore in this beautiful city.