Adventure Collective
City Walking Tour & History of Amsterdam's Red-Light District - Amsterdam

City Walking Tour & History of Amsterdam's Red-Light District

Amsterdameasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1.5–2 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most visitors who can comfortably walk for extended periods

Overview

Discover the true story behind Amsterdam's Red-Light District with an engaging guided walk led by sex workers. Gain insights, ask questions, and see the area through a new lens.

Amsterdam, Noord-Holland

Informative Walk and Talk

Ages 18+ • 1.5h •  Unique insight into the sex industry in the Netherlands!

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About This Adventure

Explore the intriguing history of Amsterdam's red-light district with a unique "Walk 'n Talk" experience led by sex workers. Gain firsthand insights into the sex industry, its challenges, and legal framework. Engage in open discussions, reflect on your perceptions, and discover the area’s complexities while walking at your own pace.

The history of the red-light district in De Wallen and sex work in Amsterdam!

Duration

1.5 hours

About

During the Walk ‘n Talk you will be informed about the history of the PIC as well as about the history of the neighbourhood, sex work and the current situation sex workers are facing. You get a chance to explore the red-light district and reflect on your own ideas about sex work.

Our Walk ‘n Talks are, almost always, given by sex workers from different backgrounds and different sectors in the sex industry. This is a unique opportunity to speak to a sex worker and listen to their stories first-hand.

Due to the government’s new rules and regulations, we can’t walk with you through the district. But we’ll make sure you have all the information you need to find your way around.

More information

This is NOT a tour, Red light tours are now banned in Amsterdam. But we like to think that our “Walk n’ Talk” provides an unique insight into the sex industry in the Netherlands. In the “Talk & Walk” is provided by a sex worker or long-term ally. Your host will give a detailed talk about the area and the industry, and while each host has there own area of expertise, the talk will cover:

  • The current legal framework: the benefits and critiques
  • How sex workers rent their spaces and what’s included
  • How transactions between sex workers in the windows and clients work
  • Security in the area and the role of the management companies and the police Sex shops, live sex theaters, peep shows, strip clubs
  • Stigma and discrimination that sex workers in the Netherlands experience
  • Anti-prostitution/anti-trafficking agendas, and how they may harm sex workers more than helping them

After the first half of the talk, you walk on your own through the district looking out for things that you have just learned about during the talk. Then you return to the PIC for the second half of the talk, and have an opportunity to ask questions, especially the ones you may be too nervous to ask, there are no silly questions in this space!

Adventure Tips

Respect the guides and fellow participants

Maintain a respectful demeanor during the tour, especially when discussing sensitive topics.

Wear comfortable walking shoes

The tour covers cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces, so sturdy footwear is recommended.

Bring questions in advance

Prepare some questions to make the most of the open discussion sessions.

Stay engaged and open-minded

Approach the experience with curiosity and respect for different perspectives.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Seagulls around the canals
  • House sparrows in the alleyways

History

The Red-Light District has existed since the 14th century, evolving from a trading hub to a symbol of Amsterdam's liberal culture.

Conservation

The district's businesses work to promote safe, consensual work environments and sustainable tourism practices to protect its cultural heritage.

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Adventure Hotspots in Amsterdam

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Sturdy footwear will help you navigate Amsterdam's cobblestone streets comfortably.

Notebook or smartphone

Take notes or capture photos of interesting sights and insights during the tour.

Water bottle

Stay hydrated while walking through the lively district.

Layered clothing

Dress in layers to stay comfortable in any weather conditions.