Exploring Amsterdam’s Red Light District on a Private Group Tour: Everything You Need to Know

For many people, Amsterdam’s Red Light District – or De Wallen – is synonymous with the city itself. Home to hundreds of prostitutes, a vibrant nightlife and quirky food venues, the area has come to symbolize the city’s carefree liberalism.

Getting to know De Wallen is a must when you’re in Amsterdam, so here’s everything you need to know about participating in a private group tour of the area. From essential information on what to wear, what to expect and everything in between – this guide is all you need for the perfect introduction to Amsterdam’s infamous Red Light District.

What is Amsterdam’s Red Light District?

Located in Amsterdam’s old city centre, the Red Light District is a hub of activity and home to some of the most interesting attractions in the city. Women are often seen in illuminated windows advertising sex for sale and visitors can also find fetish shops, live pubs and coffeeshops where marijuana and hashish are sold freely.

The area is steeped in history, dating back to the early 1400s. De Wullen has always been a place of prostitution, but many of its iconic buildings and homages to sex work the now-famous red lights only began appearing in the late 1800s.

While many believe that the area is set aside as a “sinister’ place, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, Amsterdam City Council has done much to protect sex workers and ensure that they can operate as safely as possible. This, naturally, means that crime in the district is much lower than expected – making it a safer area for first-time visitors than other European capitals.

What To Expect on a Red Light District Group Tour

A private group tour of De Wallen is a great way to get insider knowledge about this unique neighbourhood. Here’s what you can expect:

• An expert guide: Professional tour guides are well-trained and fully knowledgable about the area, so you can get a great insight into its history and culture on one of these tours.
• Local hotspots: Your guide will likely take you to some of the local hotspots in De Wallen, helping you sample its infamous nightlife firsthand.
• Informative talks: Expect informative talks about the history of sex work in Amsterdam alongside stories about the district’s most iconic buildings and attractions.
• Relaxed atmosphere: Given that you’re on a private tour, you don’t have to worry about feeling rushed or waiting around for larger groups. This means that you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere and spend as much time absorbing the atmosphere of De Wallen as possible.

What Should You Wear for a Red Light District Walking Tour?

It goes without saying that visiting Amsterdam’s Red Light District isn’t like a normal sightseeing tour. Attire should therefore be smart but casual.

• Top and bottoms: Aim for something comfortable and easy – like skinny jeans, a t-shirt and some flat shoes.
• Outerwear: If you’re visiting in summer, you won’t need an extra layer. However, it can get cold in the Netherlands during the spring and autumn months, so ensure that you pack a cardigan or light jacket just in case.
• Accessories: Simple jewellery and accessories are fine if they complement your outfit. Just make sure not to wear anything too flashy – De Wallen is an area best explored without drawing unwanted attention.

Things To Keep In Mind While Visiting The Red Light District

To make sure that your walk through De Wallen is a positive experience from start to finish, there are a few things you should do (and more importantly, not do!) with your guided group:

• Respect local customs: When visiting The Red Light District, bear in mind that sex work is considered legal – however it should still be respected. Refrain from taking pictures of sex workers or getting too close to their windows.
• Mind your boundaries: Guides in The Red Light District will take you past unique venues such as coffee shops, but bear in mind that boundaries should still be respected. Refrain from entering each shop if your guide hasn’t given prior approval.
• Stay together: It should go without saying that it can be dangerous to roam De Wallen alone, so make sure to stick with your group at all times!

How To Book A Private Group Tour Of The Red Light District

Luckily for visitors, booking private group tours of the Red Light District could not be easier. Simply head over to GetYourGuide’s website, select your preferred option and book your tickets hassle-free. Here, you’ll be able to find options with guides speaking different languages such as English and Spanish – perfect if English isn’t your native language!

Exploring De Wallen on a guided tour with a private group is an experience like no other. With this thorough guide, you can prepare for your trip accordingly and be assured that your introduction to Amsterdam’s Red Light District will be unforgettable. So why not take the plunge and explore one of Amsterdam’s most notorious neighbourhoods firsthand? Book your tickets today!