During our tour of Amsterdam's De Wallen district, we quickly realized that the area is really very special, but it is as much a part of Amsterdam as the canals, the cheese and the incredible number of bicycles.

It is not for nothing that Amsterdam is considered particularly tolerant: the red-light district De Wallen, Amsterdam's China Town and the important Oude Kerk are also part of it. What is particularly interesting and very profound is the fact that countless tourists come here every day: they just come to have a look.

Chinatown, Red Light District and Oude Kerk

We rode our bikes from the campsite to the De Wallen district, then left the bikes safely secured in a bike parking space and went to the “Waag” castle tower (now a well-known restaurant); The striking building was to be our starting point again later.

In 1488, a castle complex was built to defend the city called Sint Antoniespoort, which also served as a city gate. The area was expanded from 1614 and the defence system was converted into a weighbridge in 1617/1618. At that time the place was called Lastage.

Part of the Kloveniersburgwal canal was drained to create a new market square, hence the name Nieuwmarkt. Initially it served as a cattle market and execution site; convicted criminals were put here to the guillotine. In the 14th century, the residents celebrated a folk festival on the Plein twice a year, which regularly ended in clashes. The community board then banned the fair attraction in 1876, which led to a “popular uprising”.

Amsterdam’s Chinatown begins right on the side street. The Chinese came to the city in the 1920s mainly as sailors. Today they have opened restaurants and supermarkets where you can try very good traditional Chinese cuisine. The He Hwa Buddhist Temple, which was built for the immigrants, is also located in the district.

Oude Kerk – a church right in the red-light district

The location of the Oude Kerk alone is something special: you would hardly expect a church in the middle of the red-light district. But right here, between the scantily clad women in the shop windows, you will find the Oude Kerk, the oldest surviving building in the Dutch capital. Right next to the Oude Kerk is the old Bethany monastery on Nieuwemarkt. The monastery is still inhabited by nuns today.

We were heading towards the old church, past coffee shops and brothels with scantily clad women sitting in the windows. The neighbourhood was one of the first in the world to allow prostitution. To this day, prostitutes can be found sitting in the windows of brothels. Amsterdam became known for these shop windows.

However, prostitution has been significantly restricted in the De Wallen in recent years. Since these measures, we can look forward to more visitors again! As a result, De Wallen was able to experience development into a trendy district.

Here in the neighbourhood everyone is simply accepted for who they are. You can find gay and lesbian bars every few meters along the streets, but you can also enjoy small art studios or small alternative restaurants. Just take a quick look at a free exhibition and get to know a new artist better in the café - where is that possible?

Oude Kerk, the oldest building in Amsterdam.

The church was built in the 13th century, when there was already a small chapel with a surrounding cemetery at its current location. As early as 1300, an independent parish church was built, which was designed by its builders as a Gothic hall church. Numerous smaller chapels were grouped around the hall church and a taller tower was also added. In the 15th century, however, iconoclasm reached the Oude Kerk, most of the interior of which was destroyed.

To this day, however, it has been preserved as a smaller church next to the "Nieuwe Kerk", which was built later. It was only when it was built that the "Oude Kerk" was given its name to indicate the church's special status as the oldest place of worship in the city. The Nieuwe Kerk was eventually elevated to the status of the coronation church of the Dutch kings. For the Oude Kerk, however, the red-light district remained as an environment, which became more and more established during this time. Today there are plans to locate more shops and restaurants around the church and thus move the red-light area less close to the church.

At first glance, the Oude Kerk's interior appears very simple, but a second look reveals some treasures: here are, among others, Saskia van Uylenburgh, the wife of the great artist Rembrandt, and the captain in his most important painting "The Night Watch", Frans Banning Cocq, buried. What is particularly special when visiting the church is the view of the organ from the 18th century. The musical instrument with the high number of 53 registers was built by a North German organ builder. Four bells ring in the church, symbolizing faith, love, hope and freedom. The church also houses a so-called carillon, a chime from France.

There is an entrance fee to visit the church, but this is within the normal range for the city and is largely used to maintain the church. In addition to church services, the Oude Kerk also hosts great organ concerts and one or two exhibitions worth seeing. It is often young artists who are allowed to exhibit in the church. They often work in the De Wallen district, where the Oude Kerk is located and which has gained attention in recent years for its lively art scene.

Also located in the De Wallen district you will find a secret church in an attic. Today the Amstel War Museum is located there, which is the second oldest museum in Amsterdam after the Reichsmuseum. The history of the attic church begins in the 17th century, when Catholic services were banned in Protestant Amsterdam. However, the followers of Catholicism were undeterred and held their services in the attic for more than 200 years. A fascinating story that the museum retells.

Amsterdam and the De Wallen District – Attractive, but Special - more details

Introduction – A City of Contrasts

Amsterdam is captivating. Between beautiful canals, hip cafés, and historic buildings lies a district that provokes at first glance – De Wallen. But upon closer inspection, you'll realize: It's more than just a red-light district.

Between canal idyll and urban lifestyle

The city manages to combine seemingly opposites. And nowhere is this more evident than in De Wallen, where history, eroticism, art, and tourism converge.

Why Amsterdam Polarizes – Especially De Wallen

For some, it's a place of freedom; for others, it's a sign of decay. And that's precisely what makes De Wallen so exciting – it makes you think.

What is De Wallen anyway?

A historic district with a colourful history

De Wallen is the oldest district in Amsterdam. It is located around the Oude Kerk (Old Church) and is now known worldwide as a red-light district – with shop windows, coffee shops, and museums.

Between red light district, culture, and tourism

Here, tourists mingle with artists, photographers with revellers, locals with curious explorers. A colourful mix – sometimes chaotic, but always fascinating.

The location – in the heart of Amsterdam

Just a few steps from the central station

Arriving in Amsterdam doesn't have to go far. In ten minutes, you're in De Wallen – ideal for a stroll by day or night.

Easily accessible, hard to forget

It's hard to escape the district. It draws you in – with its atmosphere, its smells, sounds, and stories.

Historical review of De Wallen

From medieval trading centre to trendy district

In the Middle Ages, this was the economic centre of the city – with taverns, artisans, and sailors. And where there were sailors, the red-light district naturally followed.

The changes over the centuries

What was once hidden and taboo was legalized and institutionalized over time – a globally unique example of pragmatic social policy.

The Red-Light District – Myth and Reality

Window Prostitution as a Part of Culture

Yes, they really do exist: the illuminated windows with the women behind them. But much of it is regulated – with registration, health checks, and clear rules.

The Legal Situation in the Netherlands

Prostitution is legal, regulated, and taxed. This sets De Wallen apart from many other cities in the world.

Tourism in De Wallen

Between Curiosity and Respect

Many come out of pure curiosity. The important thing is: Respect the people here – in front of and behind the glass. No photos, no insults.

Guided Tours and New Perspectives

There are great tours that not only shed light on the red-light district, but also explore the art, history, and transformation of the district.

The atmosphere – between shrill, safe, and surreal

Lights, sounds, crowds

De Wallen is an experience. It flashes, it smells, it's alive. A neighbourhood that never stands still – and that's what makes it so fascinating.

Why it's especially fascinating at night

When the windows glow red and the streets are bustling with life, De Wallen becomes a stage. A mix of film set and reality.

Culture meets rebellion – museums, street art, and cafés

Special spots like the Prostitution Museum

At the Red-Light Secrets Museum, you can take a look behind the scenes – literally. An exhibition about people, stories, and systems.

Cool cafés and creative spaces away from the crowds

Away from the main streets, you'll find charming cafés, alternative art projects, and thought-provoking street art.

Culinary delights in the neighbourhood

From Dutch classics to street food

Whether kibbling, stroopwafel, or international cuisine – everyone will find something to their liking here.

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

The Bulldog Palace is a cult favourite, but hidden bistros and modern food spots also invite you to linger.

Safety in De Wallen

Police, Cameras, and City Rules

The neighbourhood is surprisingly safe. A strong police presence and cameras ensure order, even at night.

Tips for Safe Exploration

Stay in groups, drink in moderation, leave valuables at home, and avoid provocation.

Between Criticism and Fascination

Voices from Locals and Politicians

Not everyone is enthusiastic. Many locals feel disturbed by mass tourism. The city is planning reforms, such as stricter rules and new visitor concepts.

The Future of the Neighbourhood – A Balancing Act

The neighbourhood should remain authentic, but become more respectful and safer. A challenge for the city and society.

Alternatives and neighbouring neighbourhoods

Jordaan, Oud-West, and others as quieter options

Those who prefer a quieter atmosphere can head to neighbouring neighbourhoods – with canals, vintage shops, and art galleries.

Amsterdam is diverse

Each neighbourhood has its own character – discover modern Amsterdam outside of the Old Town.

De Wallen by day vs. night

Completely different moods – two experiences

During the day, everything seems quieter, almost charming. At night, the district transforms into a spectacle.

When to plan your visit

Late afternoon is ideal for beginners – you get to see both sides without being overwhelmed.

Do's & Don'ts in the Red-Light District

Behaviour tips for respectful visitors

No gawking
No photos of people in windows
Remain polite, don't comment
No openly smoking weed in narrow alleys
What you should definitely not do
No photos, no disrespect, no aggression – it's that simple.

Conclusion – A neighbourhood that won't leave you cold

De Wallen is more than a red-light district – it's a mirror of social debates, a place full of history, culture, and contrasts. Those who walk through the alleys with an open mind and respect will experience a piece of Amsterdam that is emotional, surprising, and unforgettable.

FAQs about the De Wallen district in Amsterdam

1. Is visiting De Wallen dangerous?
No, the district is well-policed ​​and, if you behave normally, very safe.

2. Is it allowed to take photos?
Not of people in the windows! Architecture, yes, people, no.

3. Is prostitution legal here?
Yes, it is legal and regulated in the Netherlands.

4. When is the best time to visit?
Late afternoon or early evening – you'll experience both day and night.

5. Are there family-friendly tours?
Yes, there are culturally oriented tours with age-appropriate explanations.

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