Things to do in Amsterdam Red Light District

Situated in the heart of Amsterdam, the Red Light District is one of the most vibrant areas of the city. Here, visitors will find a unique mix of restaurants and bars, nightclubs, cafes and coffeeshops, and of course, the infamous Red Light District itself. Whether you’re a first-time tourist or a local resident, here’s a guide to some of the best activities and attractions Amsterdam’s Red Light District has to offer.

A Brief History of Amsterdam Red Light District

Amsterdam is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, and the Red Light District is one of its oldest districts. The area was first established in the late 17th century as a residential district for the working-class. Over time, it became known as a center for prostitution and other illicit activities. In the 19th century, it was declared a “free zone” and became home to a diverse population of immigrants, including many sex workers. Despite its reputation, the Red Light District has remained an important part of Amsterdam’s culture and identity.

What to Do and See in Amsterdam Red Light District

If you’re looking for things to do in Amsterdam’s Red Light District, you’ll find no shortage of attractions. From nightclubs and bars to art galleries and street performers, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in the area:

Explore the canals

One of the best things to do in Amsterdam’s Red Light District is to explore its canals. The district’s canals are some of the most picturesque in the city and provide a unique view of Amsterdam’s colorful facades and bridges. You can take a canal tour or rent a private boat and cruise through the canals at your own pace.

Visit a museum

Amsterdam’s Red Light District houses several museums that give visitors an insight into the area’s history and culture. The Red Light Secrets Museum of Prostitution is one of the most popular museums in the district, as it provides an interactive experience that allows visitors to learn more about the lives of sex workers. The Museum of Prostitution is open seven days a week and offers guided tours to visitors. Other museums in the area include the Erotic Museum, which offers visitors an interactive history lesson on the sex industry, and the Hash Marijuana & Hemp Museum, which displays artifacts related to cannabis culture and seeks to educate visitors about its history.

Shop for souvenirs

The streets of Amsterdam’s Red Light District are lined with souvenir shops, where you can buy anything from T-shirts to keychains to postcards. Whether you’re looking for something unique or just want to pick up a few memories of your trip, you’ll find plenty of options in the area.

Enjoy the nightlife

Amsterdam’s Red Light District is home to some of the city’s most vibrant nightlife spots. From cocktail bars and nightclubs to live music venues and comedy clubs, there’s something for everyone here. Some of the most popular spots include Club Paradiso, which hosts live music events throughout the week, and Boom Chicago, which offers comedy shows with both local and international performers.

Experience an adult show

The district is also home to several adult shows and cabarets, including Casa Rosso and Moulin Rouge. These shows offer visitors a unique opportunity to experience a different side of Amsterdam’s nightlife. Casa Rosso is one of Amsterdam’s most famous adult shows, featuring cabaret performances and risqué performances that may not be suitable for all audiences.

Popular Tours in Amsterdam Red Light District

For those looking for a unique way to experience Amsterdam’s Red Light District, there are several popular tours available. From food tours to photography tours, these tours offer a unique insight into the area and its culture. Here are two popular tours in Amsterdam’s Red Light District:

Food Tour

One popular tour in Amsterdam’s Red Light District is a food tour. This tour takes visitors on a culinary journey through the area, with stops at some of the district’s most iconic eateries. On this tour, visitors will sample some of Amsterdam’s most iconic dishes, such as stroopwafels and Dutch pancakes, as well as traditional Dutch cheeses, sausages and more. Along the way, guests will learn about traditional Dutch cuisine and its history. To book a food tour in Amsterdam’s Red Light District, click here.

Photography Tour

Another popular tour in Amsterdam’s Red Light District is a photography tour. This tour takes visitors on a journey through the area with their camera in hand, giving them an opportunity to capture some unique shots of Amsterdam’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems. On this tour, visitors will learn about photography techniques such as composition and lighting, as well as how to get the most out of their camera equipment. To book a photography tour in Amsterdam’s Red Light District, click here.

Conclusion

Amsterdam’s Red Light District is one of the most vibrant and unique areas of the city. Whether you’re looking for nightlife or sightseeing, there’s something for everyone here. From exploring the canals to visiting museums or watching an adult show, there are plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy in this historic district. If you’re looking for something more unique, you can book a food or photography tour to get an insider look at this unique area of Amsterdam. There’s no better way to experience it than by exploring it yourself!