Red Light District & Coffeeshops

The Red Light District (De Wallen) is Amsterdam's oldest and perhaps most infamous neighborhood. The red windows along the Oudezijds Achterburgwal and Oudezijds Voorburgwal are world-famous. Prostitution is legal and regulated in the Netherlands — sex workers are self-employed, pay taxes, and have access to healthcare.

Beyond the red windows, De Wallen is also one of the most historically interesting neighborhoods: The Oude Kerk (Old Church, Amsterdam's oldest building, circa 1306) stands in the middle, the Museum Ons' Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic) houses a secret Catholic church from the Reformation period, and the canals here are particularly picturesque.

Coffeeshops — Tips for Visitors

In the Netherlands, the sale of cannabis in licensed coffeeshops is tolerated (not legalized — a typical Dutch gray area). Important rules:

• Coffeeshop ≠ Coffee Shop — A coffeeshop sells cannabis, a Coffee Shop (two words) is a regular café. Beware of confusion!
• Minimum age: 18 years, bring ID
• Maximum: 5 grams per person per purchase
• Do not smoke on the street — Consumption only in the coffeeshop or privately. In many neighborhoods in Amsterdam, there is a street smoking ban.
• No alcohol — Coffeeshops are not allowed to sell alcohol
• Space Cakes with Caution — The effect takes time to set in (30–90 min.). Don't take more because you don't feel anything!

Popular coffeeshops: The Bulldog (the oldest, since 1975, touristy), Dampkring (from the movie Ocean's Twelve), Barney's (good breakfast). For a more relaxed atmosphere: Visit coffeeshops outside the Red Light District.