Areas to Avoid in Amsterdam: A Guide for First-Time Visitors
Attention, attention: here’s our helpful guide on restrained territories of Amsterdam! While being a first time visitor to this beautiful city, there are also certain areas of the city that one needs to be aware of as they might not present an opportune visit. Although, Amsterdam is a safe city, as a metropolitan area, there are several places where more crimes or tourist traps occur. By staying away from these places, you can make your visit a more enjoyable and a hassle-free experience. Continue to read to find out the neighborhoods to avoid when on your visit.
Red Light District (De Wallen)
Red Light District is a well-known one of Amsterdam’s neighborhoods, famous for its scandalous nightlife and legalized prostitution. Although it could be a popular tourist destination, one needs to be careful while visiting this region. The streets may get congested and disorganised, particularly in the evenings and weekends. Petty theft and pick pocketing are common here so you should always watch your things. Also, be polite to the workers and their privacy as well because taking pictures or creating chaos is not allowed.
Bijlmer
Bijlmer is a south-eastern part of Amsterdam and, at the same time, it features a greater number of crimes than other districts do. Despite the efforts to enhance the safety and security, it is advisable for the tourists to steer clear of this neighborhood, particularly at night. The Bijlmer Arena metro station is where people commute from all over the place and though it tends to be safe enough during the day it can be a bit shady at night. If you are going to an event in the Johan Cruijff ArenA or Ziggo Dome, it is best if you leave as soon as the event is over or order a cab.
Burgwallen-Nieuwe Zijde
Burgwallen-Nieuwe Zijde is another place that should be cautious as a tourist. While this neighborhood covers a part of the Red Light District, it continues further. And though it is not as sordid as the Red Light District itself, it may still be an attractor of rowdy behavior and petty crimes. The large number of people on the streets, together with numerous bars, makes it a popular place of a party, where both tourists and locals will be going. Be on high alert, particularly late nights, and avoid argumentations.
Bos en Lommer
Bos en Lommer is residential area found in the west region of the city of Amsterdam. Though it may not be as criminal as the previous neighborhoods discussed, one needs to be careful here, especially at night. As a less touristy region, it may not have many attractions for the visitors and can be a rather quiet location. At all times, one needs to remain in areas that are well lit and crowded when venturing out into unknown territories. If there is no particular reason for you to go to Bos en Lommer, then it is better to concentrate on other parts of Amsterdam.
Oosterparkbuurt
Oosterparkbuurt is one of the neighborhoods of Amsterdam and is located in its eastern region. Although it’s rather safe in the day, one must stay careful in this area after the sunset. As any city, certain parts will feel less safe during the night hours, and Oosterparkbuurt is such one. In case you are planning to visit Oosterpark and a neighboring Tropenmuseum, it is advisable to do it during the daylight and avoid being alone in not so populated areas. Trust your instincts as usual and pay attention to what is happening all around you.
In Summary
Although Amsterdam is a safe city, it does not hurt to be careful in unfamiliar places. By staying away from some neighborhoods notorious for more crime activities or tourist traps, you can reduce the possibilities of having any trouble in your visit. Don’t forget about keeping your belongings safe, following the local law and custom, and staying alert. Keeping these points in your mind you can have a memorable and safe tour of the rest that Amsterdam has to offer.
Thank you for going through our guide on areas to avoid in Amsterdam. Hope you will find it helpful and informative. Have a nice trip to this fabulous city!
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