What You Should Expect on a 1.5-Hour Walking Tour of the Red Light District in Amsterdam

Amsterdam is known for its vibrant nightlife, multifaceted culture and rich history. The city proudly offers visitors a unique sense of adventure and excitement, and the Red Light District is at the heart of it all. Whether you’re a first-time tourist or a regular in Amsterdam, you’ll want to experience the Red Light District on a 1.5 hour walking tour. This brief, but comprehensive tour will provide an eye-opening insight into what really takes place in the Amsterdam nightlife, from the sights and sounds to the history and culture of this famed area.

Upon arriving to the Red Light District, during your 1.5 hour guided walking tour, you’ll immediately take in the charming atmosphere and alluring sights. Here in this area of Amsterdam, you’ll find over 500 different bars and restaurants, many traditional Dutch pubs and places to grab a bite to eat. Amsterdam’s iconic red lights illuminates the district at night, stretching for about 0.4sq miles, and giving off an atmosphere reminiscent of the atmosphere in any major city. As your tour guide will explain, these red lights indicate that you have entered perhaps the world’s most famous adult entertainment district. Guided tours take place every day and night, starting from sunset until after dark, giving you a plethora of opportunities to explore this vibrant district.

Before embarking on your 1.5-hour walking tour of the Red Light District, it’s important for you to note that, while it is rife with history and culture, visitors are reminded that prostitution activities are still legal in the area and it’s advised you remain respectful whilst exploring it. During your tour, you’ll get to explore popular places such as the Zeedijk district where a lot of Chinese restaurants and smoking lounges are found. This area also provides a unique opportunity to explore various unique cultures that make up Amsterdam.

As you continue to explore the Red Light District, your tour guide will explain why it was possible for so many cultures to co-exist peacefully here in Amsterdam. One of the main reasons they will explain is due to its liberal laws and lack of censorship across media outlets like newspapers, radio and television. This has allowed people from every walk of life to come together and enjoy each other’s company without fear of judgement or persecution. Your tour guide will also be happy to answer any questions about Amsterdam’s laws here in the Red Light district.

Another important thing to note about the Red Light District area is that there are a lot of different types of entertainment available for visitors. From bars with live music performances to traditional Dutch pubs, casinos and sex shows, you can experience all types of adult entertainments here in the district. You should know that some venues have 18+ age restrictions so please bear that in mind before you decide to visit any type of adult entertainment venues.

You’ll also get to see some amazing sites as you venture out on your 1.5 hour guided walking tour of the Red Light District in Amsterdam. One of these noteworthy places is the Magere Brug, known as the Skinny Bridge, which is located across the Amstel River connecting two parts of Amsterdam. The views here are spectacular and your tour guide will be more than happy to explain why this bridge is so special and why it has become a symbol admired by locals and tourists alike!

As you make your way down the infamous street of Oudekerksplein, keep an eye out for petite women who display themselves in windows adorned with red curtains, who then wait for potential customers as they pass by. While this may be viewed as strange by many visiting from countries with less liberal laws or religions, in Amsterdam this is seen as perfectly normal and something your tour guide will not shy away from discussing when out on your 1.5 hour walk around the Red Light District.

One important thing to consider when taking these walking tours is that there is an immense amount of history throughout the district which can often be overlooked by those who come seeking only amusement. For example, some budding enthusiasts might want to visit Nieuwmarkt square – a lively public square which serves as a hub for many modern culture activities such as dance lessons, theater performances and all sorts of cultural festivals and events throughout the year. Also take note of some of the architectural styles that adorn the districts many buildings along your 1.5-hour walking tour.

At the end of your guided walking tour around the Red Light District in Amsterdam, you’ll leave not only with an appreciation for its culture but with an insight into how legalized prostitution can be regulated carefully so that it coexists with all other forms of entertainment offered here in Amsterdam. You’ll also hopefully gain a newfound respect for Amsterdam’s creative spirit as well as its diversity of cultures amongst its population which contribute to its charm and uniqueness as a city.

No trip to Amsterdam is complete without taking a 1.5-hour walking tour around the famed Red Light District! Make sure you book yours soon using Get Your Guide — your passport to an unforgettable experience!