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Amsterdam Red Light District Tours
Access the world's only prostitution museum & get unbiased insights into the world-famous Red Light District.
- Everything you get: Get entry to Red Light Secrets, complete with an informative audio guide in English, German, Dutch, French, and Spanish. Explore interactive exhibits and hear real-life stories from sex workers on your audio guide.
- Why choose this: Enjoy a self-paced visit with multilingual audio guides and a visit to the world’s only prostitution museum for a deeper understanding of sex work.
- Upgrades: Add a 1-hour Amsterdam canal cruise to glide past the Anne Frank House, Magere Brug, and Rijksmuseum with an audio guide in 19 languages.
Access the world's only prostitution museum & get unbiased insights into the world-famous Red Light District.
- Everything you get: Get entry to Red Light Secrets, complete with an informative audio guide in English, German, Dutch, French, and Spanish. Explore interactive exhibits and hear real-life stories from sex workers on your audio guide.
- Why choose this: Enjoy a self-paced visit with multilingual audio guides and a visit to the world’s only prostitution museum for a deeper understanding of sex work.
- Upgrades: Add a 1-hour Amsterdam canal cruise to glide past the Anne Frank House, Magere Brug, and Rijksmuseum with an audio guide in 19 languages.
Inclusions
- Entry to Red Light Secrets Museum
- Audio guide in English, German, Dutch, French, and Spanish
Additional paid upgrades:
- 1-hour Amsterdam Canal Cruise
- Audio guide in Dutch, English, German, French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Catalan, Turkish, Polish, Thai, Indonesian, Russian, Korean, Japanese, Chinese, Arabic, Hebrew, and Hindi
- Boarding from LOVERS Canal Cruise
Exclusions
- Transportation
- For safety reasons, guests under the age of 16 years are not allowed on this experience.
- This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- For your convenience, your guide dogs are welcome to join you on the cruise.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Get local insight & insider stories you won’t find in guidebooks from knowledgeable experts.
- Everything you get: A 1.5-hour walking tour of Amsterdam’s Red Light District with an English, Italian, or German-speaking guide. Visit key spots like the Oude Kerk and Condomerie while learning about sex work and the history of Amsterdam’s coffeeshops.
- Why choose this: No planning needed—get a complete overview of the Red Light District in 1.5 hours with a personalized experience in your preferred language.
Get local insight & insider stories you won’t find in guidebooks from knowledgeable experts.
- Everything you get: A 1.5-hour walking tour of Amsterdam’s Red Light District with an English, Italian, or German-speaking guide. Visit key spots like the Oude Kerk and Condomerie while learning about sex work and the history of Amsterdam’s coffeeshops.
- Why choose this: No planning needed—get a complete overview of the Red Light District in 1.5 hours with a personalized experience in your preferred language.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of the Red Light District
- English, Italian, or German-speaking guide (as per option selected)
Exclusions
- Entry to attractions
- Food and drink
- Transportation
- This experience is accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- For your convenience, your guide dogs are welcome to join you.
- For safety reasons, guests under the age of 18 years are not allowed on this experience. Guests aged 16 and 17 years must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION60 minutes - 60 minutes
FREQUENCYEvery 15 mins
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230
Arrive 15 minutes before the departure time at Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230.
Passes by
Red Light District
Oude Kerk
Amsterdam Central
Oudeschans
Montelbaanstoren
Sint Antoniesluis
Amsterdam Canals
Herengracht
Seven Bridges View Point
Prinsengracht
Anne Frank House
Westerkerk
Noorderkerk
Houseboat Museum
15
END POINT
Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230
Cruise Amsterdam’s canals with drinks aboard a cozy boat for max. 26 guests.
- Starting point: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230, near Dam Square
- Everything you get: A 1-hour cruise on a covered electric boat with a professional skipper and local host. Enjoy lively stories about the city as you sip drinks at your expense and soak in the views of the city from the iconic waterways.
- Sights covered: Red Light District, historic canal houses, city center bridges like Magere Brug, the most famous Amsterdam bridge, and waterfront streets.
- Why choose this: See Amsterdam in a unique way with drinks on board and multilingual audio commentary about the city.
- Upgrades: Upgrade to include unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks throughout your canal cruise.
Cruise Amsterdam’s canals with drinks aboard a cozy boat for max. 26 guests.
- Starting point: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230, near Dam Square
- Everything you get: A 1-hour cruise on a covered electric boat with a professional skipper and local host. Enjoy lively stories about the city as you sip drinks at your expense and soak in the views of the city from the iconic waterways.
- Sights covered: Red Light District, historic canal houses, city center bridges like Magere Brug, the most famous Amsterdam bridge, and waterfront streets.
- Why choose this: See Amsterdam in a unique way with drinks on board and multilingual audio commentary about the city.
- Upgrades: Upgrade to include unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks throughout your canal cruise.
Inclusions
- 1-hour Amsterdam Canal cruise
- Boarding from Oudezijds Voorburgwal 230, near Dam Square
- Professional skipper
- Local host
Additional paid upgrades:
- Unlimited beer, wine, or soft drinks onboard
Exclusions
- Food
- For safety reasons, guests under the age of 18 years are not allowed on this experience.
- This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Combo (Save 5%): Red Light Secrets Museum tickets + Audio tour of the Red Light District
from €21.49
€20.42
5% off
Explore the Red Light District at your leisure, then learn its inner workings at Red Light Secrets.
- Everything you get at the Red Light District: Explore Amsterdam’s Red Light District with an audio tour and uncover the area’s history and its current role in the sex industry. Spot landmarks like the Condomerie using the interactive offline map.
- Everything you get at Red Light Secrets: Access the world behind the red-lit windows. Sit in a working girl’s chair, read confessions, and hear firsthand accounts from sex workers with your audio guide for a peek into one of the world’s oldest professions.
- Why choose this combo: For a better understanding of Amsterdam's sex work district, explore the Red Light area and visit Red Light Secrets, both accessible within the same neighborhood.
Explore the Red Light District at your leisure, then learn its inner workings at Red Light Secrets.
- Everything you get at the Red Light District: Explore Amsterdam’s Red Light District with an audio tour and uncover the area’s history and its current role in the sex industry. Spot landmarks like the Condomerie using the interactive offline map.
- Everything you get at Red Light Secrets: Access the world behind the red-lit windows. Sit in a working girl’s chair, read confessions, and hear firsthand accounts from sex workers with your audio guide for a peek into one of the world’s oldest professions.
- Why choose this combo: For a better understanding of Amsterdam's sex work district, explore the Red Light area and visit Red Light Secrets, both accessible within the same neighborhood.
Inclusions
Red Light Secrets
- Entry to Red Light Secrets Museum
- Audio guide in English, German, Dutch, French, and Spanish
Red Light District
- 1.5-hour walking tour of the Red Light District
- Audio guide in English, German, Italian, or Greek
- Offline content and interactive map
Exclusions
Red Light District
- Entry to attractions
- Guide
- Food and drink
- Transportation
Red Light District
- Download the audio app beforehand to avoid network issues on-site.
- Pack earphones for your audio guide experience.
Red Light Secrets
- For safety reasons, guests under the age of 16 years are not allowed on this experience.
- This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Go behind the scenes of a luxury Amsterdam strip club with insights from a former sex worker.
- Everything you get: A partly guided, partly independent small-group tour of max. 20 people of BonTon strip club with a Q&A session with a former sex worker and a welcome drink. Explore VIP rooms, chat with your guide, and snap a photo on the pole.
- Why choose this: Hear firsthand perspectives on Amsterdam's sex industry in a Q&A session with a former sex worker.
Go behind the scenes of a luxury Amsterdam strip club with insights from a former sex worker.
- Everything you get: A partly guided, partly independent small-group tour of max. 20 people of BonTon strip club with a Q&A session with a former sex worker and a welcome drink. Explore VIP rooms, chat with your guide, and snap a photo on the pole.
- Why choose this: Hear firsthand perspectives on Amsterdam's sex industry in a Q&A session with a former sex worker.
Inclusions
- Guided strip-club tour of BonTon
- Independent tour of VIP rooms and dressing rooms
- Welcome drink
- Former sex worker as guide
- 1 photo on the poles
Exclusions
- Food
- For safety reasons, guests under the age of 18 years are not allowed on this experience.
- Photography is allowed at the venue (except for taking pictures of the girls).
- This experience is not accessible to wheelchair and pram/stroller users.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
AmsterdamAmsterdam Red Light District Tours
Make the most of Amsterdam
Why go on Amsterdam Red Light District tours
- Gain historical and cultural context: Red Light District tours provide insights into the history of this 800-year-old district, its evolution, and its place within Amsterdam's unique culture of tolerance and liberalism.
- Learn about the legal aspects: Understand the laws and regulations surrounding sex work in the Netherlands, which is legal and regulated in this area.
- See the architecture: Discover the historical buildings, charming canals, narrow streets, and even the windows that are lit in red that make up this part of Amsterdam's oldest area.
- Hear personal stories: Most tours share anonymized stories or insights into the lives of sex workers, aiming to provide a more human perspective. For some, these tours can be a way to learn about a topic often shrouded in secrecy and break down personal misconceptions.
- Visit unique attractions: Visit the Prostitution Museum, Red Light Secrets, or pass by other interesting spots like the Condomerie or the Old Church (Oude Kerk).
Which Amsterdam Red Light District tour is best for you
If you are on a budget
Go for: Entry tickets
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide
Explore the Museum of Prostitution at your own pace as you experience a typical day in the life of a sex worker.
Recommended tours:
Red Light Secrets Museum Tickets
If you want a guided tour
Go for: Guided walking tours
Duration: 1.5 hours
Guide: Live guide
The walking tour explores the Red Light District. You’ll also pass Amsterdam’s oldest church, Oude Kerk, and more.
Recommended tours:
Amsterdam Red Light District Walking Tour
If you want to go sightseeing
Go for: Amsterdam canal cruise
Duration: 1 hour
Guide: Audio guide
Get access to the Red Light Secrets Museum, followed by a 1-hour cruise of Amsterdam’s canals with an audio guide in 19 languages.
Recommended tours:
Red Light District Canal Cruise
If you want an insider experience
Go for: Museum tour with Q&A
Duration: 45-60 mins
Guide: Live guide
Explore a high-end strip club with a former sex worker as your tour guide for insider insights into the lives of the residents.
Recommended tours:
BonTon Amsterdam Brothel Tour
If you want a comprehensive experience
Go for: Museum tickets and walking tour
Duration: Flexible
Guide: Audio guide
Go on an audio-guided walking tour of the Red Light District and get access to the Red Light Secrets Museum.
Recommended tours:
Amsterdam Red Light District tour highlights
Red Light Secrets
Step into the Museum of Prostitution, Red Light Secrets. Housed in a former brothel, it dispels the stigmas surrounding sex work and showcases the history of the profession. Engage with audio tours and discover the plight of sex workers and anti-trafficking efforts.
Oude Kerk
Explore the heart of the Red Light District by visiting Oude Kerk, Amsterdam's oldest church. This architectural gem dates back centuries and starkly contrasts the district's lively atmosphere. Wander inside, appreciating its rich history and artistic treasures.
Dancing Houses
Capture the charm of the Red Light District's birthplace at the harbor. These distinctive, tilted buildings showcase Renaissance architecture and are a must-have photo opportunity that encapsulates the district's unique blend of history and modernity.
Tour de BonTon
Experience the epitome of adult entertainment with an exclusive tour through a high-end strip club in Amsterdam. Follow a former sex worker through the club and have a unique opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the profession, followed by an independent exploration.
What to see in the Red Light District
See all photos
Plan your visit to the Red Light District
Getting there
Accessibility
Rules
Dine
Stay
Nearby
Address: De Wallen, Amsterdam | Find on Maps
- By metro: 52
Nearest station: Rokin - By tram: 14
Nearest stop: Rokin - By car: Via Amstel
Nearest parking: Q-Park, Onepark
- The Amsterdam Red Light District is partially wheelchair accessible, with some limitations. The main streets are generally flat and accessible. However, there are some inaccessible cobblestone sections and narrow sidewalks.
- Some establishments, like bars and cafes, may have steps or narrow entrances that are not fully accessible.
- Respect the workers: Remember that the individuals working in the Red Light District are professionals. Treat them with respect, just as you would any other person. Avoid making derogatory comments or engaging in any disrespectful behavior.
- Age restrictions: Red District Light tours are exclusively for guests aged 18 and older. No one under 18 is permitted to participate.
- Photography: Taking photographs in the Red Light District is prohibited. Respect the privacy of the workers and follow any rules regarding photography that are in place.
- Pets: Only guide dogs for visually impaired guests are allowed on this tour.
- Local laws: The Red Light District is primarily an area for sex work and adult entertainment. It's essential to understand and respect the boundaries of this area. Follow all local laws, including those related to public intoxication, drug use, and noise. The police are active in the area. Engaging in any illegal activities or harassing the workers is not only disrespectful but also illegal.
- Bird Thais Restaurant: A Thai restaurant that offers a variety of Thai dishes, including Thai chicken curry, pork, and chili.
- Cau Steakhouse: An Argentine Steakhouse that offers a variety of dishes, including steak and grill options.
- Restaurant Bougainville: A Michelin-starred restaurant offering a unique and sensory gastronomic experience with a panoramic view of Amsterdam’s city center.
- Ivy & Bros: This restaurant has a variety of items on its menu, including open sandwiches, frittatas, shakshuka, and salads.
- Budget stays: Xplore Hostel Amsterdam (from €46), EasyStayAmsterdam (from €59), Stayokay Hostel Amsterdam Stadsdoelen (from €70)
- Mid-range stays: Hotel The Globe (from €80), The Flying Pig Downtown Hostel (from €85), White Tulip Amsterdam Hostels (from €93), Heart of Amsterdam (from €95)
- Luxury stays: Inntel Hotels Amsterdam Centre (from €171), Hotel NH City Centre Amsterdam (from €227), Radisson Blu Hotel, Amsterdam City Center (from €230), Anantara Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Amsterdam (from €285)
- Anne Frank House: The museum is dedicated to Jewish WWII diarist Anne Frank, as well as a place for all Holocaust victims to be remembered. It holds within authentic stories you can experience through pictures, quotes, and videos.
- Van Gogh Museum: Dive into the world of Van Gogh; witness and experience the master himself!
- Rijksmuseum: The museum has been completely rebuilt and offers a variety of exhibits that illustrate how life was for people in the Netherlands from the medieval period to the 20th century. The museum is a 5-minute walk from Tour de BonTon.
- Body Worlds: The Happiness Project is part exhibition, part symposium, dedicated to showing new ways to connect people with their inner selves and their surroundings to live happier lives.
Frequently Asked Questions about Amsterdam Red Light District tours
What types of businesses are in the Red Light District?
The Red Light District primarily consists of window brothels, sex shops, peep shows, adult theaters, and coffee shops.
How big is the Red Light District in Amsterdam?
The Red Light District covers approximately 50 city blocks in the historical center of Amsterdam.
Can I interact with the workers in the Red Light District?
No, it is generally discouraged to interact with the workers unless you intend to engage their services.
Is visiting the Red Light District legal?
Yes, visiting the Red Light District is legal and a popular tourist attraction in Amsterdam.
Can I walk through the Red Light District without entering the establishments?
Yes, you can simply walk through the area to experience the unique atmosphere without entering any establishments.
Can I visit during the day?
Yes, you can visit the Red Light District during the day, but keep in mind that the area's ambiance is different compared to the evening and nighttime.
What are the busiest times to visit?
The Red Light District tends to be busiest in the evenings and on weekends, particularly during peak tourist seasons.