Red Light District

Amsterdam's notorious Red Light District is a place where history and controversy intertwine on every corner. On this self-guided walking tour, you'll explore the oldest neighborhood in Amsterdam where tolerance has been a pragmatic business strategy for centuries. Discover how this former swampy fishing village became the epicenter of Amsterdam's unique approach to prostitution, religion, and cannabis, all while learning about the complex social dynamics that keep this district functioning.

The tour starts at Dam Square, the very center of Amsterdam where the city itself began. You'll walk down Warmoesstraat, one of the oldest streets in the city, where merchants once sold vegetables but now caters to tourists and locals seeking entertainment. As you weave through narrow medieval alleyways alongside picturesque canals, you'll discover hidden Catholic churches that operated during times when Catholicism was technically illegal, illustrating Amsterdam's long-standing tradition of gedogen – tolerance within the law.

You'll explore the famous red-light windows that line certain streets, learning about the legalization of prostitution in 2000 and the measures in place to protect sex workers. You'll discover surprising contrasts, from a former monastery to modern sex theaters, and from quiet residential areas to bustling nightlife spots. The tour ends at the Belle statue, a tribute to sex workers worldwide that stands as a reminder of the respect due to all who work in this controversial industry.

On this 60-minute tour, you'll have a chance to:

• Visit the Oude Kerk (Old Church), Amsterdam's oldest building, which stands in stark contrast to the red-light windows surrounding it
• Discover Our Dear Lord in the Attic, a hidden Catholic church built during times when Catholicism was officially prohibited
• Learn about the Dutch concept of gedogen and how it shaped Amsterdam's pragmatic approach to controversial activities
• Explore one of Europe's oldest Asian districts along the historic Zeedijk street
• See the transformation of Nieuwmarkt Square from its medieval origins to today's hipster haven
• Understand the complex issues facing the Red Light District today, from human trafficking concerns to gentrification
• View symbolic artworks like the Belle statue that honors sex workers worldwide

This walking tour provides a nuanced understanding of the Red Light District beyond sensationalism, revealing how it represents Amsterdam's broader attitudes toward freedom, tolerance, and pragmatism. Remember to be respectful – you're walking through a real neighborhood where people live and work.