Areas to Avoid in Amsterdam
Netherlands
|🛡️ SafeHonest 2026 safety guide for travellers visiting Amsterdam. Which areas need extra caution, common scams to watch for, and safe neighbourhoods to stay instead.
Last updated: March 2026
Skip the risky areas. Compare hotels in safe neighbourhoods on Expedia.
Amsterdam is generally Safe
2 areas to be aware of · Best areas to stay: Jordaan, De Pijp, Centrum (Canal Ring)
Travel Insurance for Amsterdam
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Quick tip: Most tourist areas in Amsterdam are safe. This guide covers areas locals recommend avoiding.
Areas That Need Extra Caution
These areas are not necessarily dangerous, but travellers should be more aware
Red Light District (De Wallen) - outside specific attractions
While a famous tourist spot, the residential areas within and immediately surrounding it can feel sleazy and unsafe at night due to its nature; stick to the main, well-lit streets if visiting out of curiosity.
🛡️ Stay here instead: Jordaan
Charming canals, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes define this picturesque historic district.
Areas directly around the main train station (Centraal Station) late at night
Can attract a seedier element and feel less safe than other central areas, especially on less populated side streets.
🛡️ Stay here instead: De Pijp
Bohemian and lively, known for its diverse food scene, vibrant market, and youthful energy.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Amsterdam
Now you know which areas to avoid, here are the best guided experiences to explore the city with confidence.
Amsterdam Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Amsterdam on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
View Tour Details
Amsterdam Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Amsterdam with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
View Tour Details
Best of Amsterdam: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Amsterdam's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
View Tour Details
Day Trip from Amsterdam: Scenic Excursion
Escape Amsterdam for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
View Tour Details
Amsterdam Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Amsterdam's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
View Tour DetailsWe earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep FindYourStay free.
Stay Safe, Explore Confidently
Book a hotel in a safe neighbourhood or join a guided tour in Amsterdam
Stay in a safe neighbourhood
Compare hotels in Amsterdam on Expedia
Book a guided tour
Explore Amsterdam safely with a local guide
We earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Book a Hotel in a Safe Neighbourhood
These areas are recommended by locals and popular with travellers
Jordaan
Charming canals, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes define this picturesque historic district.
Generally very safe; well-lit and busy streets at night, though some quieter side streets can feel isolated.
De Pijp
Bohemian and lively, known for its diverse food scene, vibrant market, and youthful energy.
Generally safe, but can get rowdy late at night around bars and clubs; be aware of pickpockets in crowded market areas.
General Safety Tips for Amsterdam
At Night
Most areas are safe and well-lit, but avoid poorly lit, quiet side streets. Stick to main roads and areas with people. Be mindful of cyclists.
Solo Female Travel
Amsterdam is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and at night, but there are rarely issues.
Emergency Number
112
Stay Connected
Save your accommodation address and emergency contacts on your phone. Download offline maps before exploring.
Common Scams to Watch For in Amsterdam
- 1Pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas (Dam Square, Red Light District, markets).
- 2Overpriced 'hash brownies' or drugs offered on the street.
- 3Bogus police officers asking to check your wallet for counterfeit money (rare but possible).
Travel Insurance for Amsterdam
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance. Medical cover from $45/month, designed for travellers. 10% back if unused.
Safe Neighborhoods to Stay Instead
These areas are popular with travellers and rated well for safety
Jordaan
Charming canals, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes define this picturesque historic district.
Generally very safe; well-lit and busy streets at night, though some quieter side streets can feel isolated.
De Pijp
Bohemian and lively, known for its diverse food scene, vibrant market, and youthful energy.
Generally safe, but can get rowdy late at night around bars and clubs; be aware of pickpockets in crowded market areas.
Centrum (Canal Ring)
The historic heart of the city, bustling with tourists, major attractions, and iconic canal views.
Generally safe due to high foot traffic, but be extremely vigilant against pickpockets, especially around Dam Square and the Red Light District. Nighttime can be chaotic.
Oud-West
A diverse and rapidly developing area offering a mix of local life, trendy eateries, and green spaces.
Generally safe; quiet residential streets are well-lit, but it's wise to be aware of your surroundings in less populated areas after dark.
Safety in Amsterdam
SafeSolo Female Travel
Amsterdam is generally very safe for solo female travelers. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas and at night, but there are rarely issues.
At Night
Most areas are safe and well-lit, but avoid poorly lit, quiet side streets. Stick to main roads and areas with people. Be mindful of cyclists.
Emergency
112
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Pickpocketing in crowded tourist areas (Dam Square, Red Light District, markets).
- 2Overpriced 'hash brownies' or drugs offered on the street.
- 3Bogus police officers asking to check your wallet for counterfeit money (rare but possible).
Found your hotel in Amsterdam?
We search 30+ sites including members-only platforms like Secret Escapes and Voyage Privé. Most people save 14-23%.
Areas to Avoid in Other Popular Cities
Safety guides for other destinations travellers are researching
Areas to Avoid in London
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Paris
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Barcelona
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Rome
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Tokyo
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Areas to Avoid in Dubai
Safety guide & neighbourhood tips
Plan Your Perfect Amsterdam Trip
Tell us what you love and we'll build a personalised day-by-day itinerary with the best spots, tours, and hotels. Completely free.