De Wallen (Red Light District), often conjures images of seedy streets and neon lights. While this side of De Wallen does exist, there’s much more to this historic neighborhood than meets the eye. Let’s explore De Wallen in this article.
The Oude Kerk: Amsterdam’s oldest building and newest art institute (since 2012)
Nestled amidst the bustling city of Amsterdam, the Oude Kerk (Old Church) stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. This Gothic church, one of the oldest in the Netherlands, has witnessed centuries of change and continues to captivate visitors with its timeless beauty and historical significance. The church, with its soaring arches and intricate details, reflects the city’s medieval past. The church has played a central role in the history of Amsterdam, serving as a place of worship, a community hub, and a refuge during times of turmoil.
- Address: Oudekerksplein 23, 1012 GX Amsterdam
- Opening hours:
- Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
- Tickets:
- Adult: €10
- Students and <21, CJP: €5
- Children under 13 years: Free
Visit Our Lord in the Attic Museum (Former Hidden Catholic Church)
In 1663, wealthy Catholic merchant Jan Hartman commissioned a secret church within his canal house. At the time, Amsterdam was under Protestant rule, making public Catholic worship illegal. Despite this, the city’s principle of freedom of conscience allowed for private religious practices. Behind closed doors, Hartman and his family could secretly celebrate Mass, joining a network of hidden house churches that provided a safe haven for Catholics in the city. The museum is located in the heart of the old city centre of Amsterdam, hidden in a 17th century canal house. This could be the reason why it is maybe not so easy to find the museum.
- Location: Oudezijds Voorburgwal 38-40, 1012 GD Amsterdam
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, all weekdays
Visit Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum
Amsterdam’s Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Museum is a tribute to Robert Ripley’s insatiable curiosity and his lifelong quest for the extraordinary. Nestled in the heart of Amsterdam since 2016, the museum showcases a captivating collection of unique and unusual artifacts that Ripley gathered on his global adventures. From mind-boggling illusions to world record breaking feats, the museum offers a amazing journey into a world where the strange becomes fascinating. As you explore its halls, you’ll be immersed in a legacy of exploration, curiosity, and the endless wonder of the unknown.
- Location: Dam 21, 1012 JS Amsterdam
- Opening hours: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, all weekdays
- Visit homepage of Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
You can come there:
- By Tram: Take tram lines 2, 11, or 12 and get off at the Rokin station. From there, it’s just a quick 2-minute walk to the museum entrance.
- By Metro: Take the metro to Nieuwmarkt station, then transfer to tram lines 4, 14, or 24. Get off at Dam station, and the museum will be a short 5-minute walk away.
- By Bus: Catch bus lines 22, 48, or 52 to Dam station. After your bus ride, it’s just a 5-minute walk to Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum.
- By Car: If you’re driving, use GPS to navigate to the museum. The nearest parking lot is Q-Park Kalverstraat.
Red Light Secrets (The Red Light Museum)
Learn about the history and culture of prostitution in the Netherlands at this fascinating museum. Visitors can visit, explore, learn and listen to presentations about prostitution culture through recreated brothels, historical artifacts: including photos, documents and personal items, … to have more multi-dimensional perspective on the topic of prostitution, sex workers, challenges facing this profession and social prejudices.
The museum is located in the De Wallen, a vibrant area. Visitors may encounter explicit content or activities in the surrounding streets.
Age Restrictions: Red Light Secrets is suitable for adults only. Children are not allowed to enter the museum.
- Location: Oudezijds Achterburgwal 60h, 1012 DP Amsterdam.
- Opening hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
Friday – Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM - Tickets:
- Minimum age is 16: €14.5
Find out more about the museum, click here
The Amsterdam Museum: A journey through the city’s history
Explore the city’s rich history and culture at the Amsterdam Museum. From the Dutch Golden Age to the present day, the museum offers a captivating journey through time.
Highlights of the Amsterdam Museum:
The Golden Age: Explore the lives of wealthy merchants, artists, scholars and the city’s most prosperous period through paintings, sculptures and decorative objects from the 17th century.
Canal District: Learn about the city’s transformation from a medieval fishing village to a global trading hub with Amsterdam’s iconic canal system through maps, models and illustrated historical photos.
The fascinating history of the Dutch East India Company: Explore the trade routes, the impact this enterprise had on global commerce, and the cultural exchange of one of the most powerful corporations in history.
You can also explore and learn about the daily life of Amsterdam residents through a collection of household items, clothing, furniture, traditional crafts, cuisine and customs. With its diverse collection and engaging exhibits, the museum provides a valuable insight into the city’s rich heritage.
- Location: Amstel 51, 1018 EJ Amsterdam, near the Anne Frank House and the Rijksmuseum.
- Opening hours: daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Tickets:
- Adults: €18.00
- Students: €7.5
- Visitors under 18 years: Free
- Find out more about the museum, click here
Discover the Begijnhof
Nestled amidst the bustling city, the Begijnhof is a serene oasis. This historic courtyard was once home to a community of Catholic women known as Beguines. Today, it’s a peaceful haven with charming houses, a small church, and a beautiful garden.
- Location: Begijnhof 1, 1012 WS Amsterdam.
- Opening hours: daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the best time to visit De Wallen?
The best time to visit is during the day to avoid crowds and experience the historic architecture. - How to get to De Wallen?
De Wallen is easily accessible by foot, tram, or bike. It’s located in the city center, close to Amsterdam Central Station. - Are there any guided tours of De Wallen?
Yes, there are many guided tours that offer insights into the history and culture of the Red Light District. - Can I take photos of sex workers?
No, taking photos of sex workers is strictly prohibited and can lead to legal consequences. - Are there any age restrictions for visiting De Wallen?
There are no age restrictions for visiting De Wallen, but many establishments, such as coffee shops and sex shops, have age limits.