11 Things Not To Do In Amsterdam, Netherlands

1. Don't get confused with coffee shops

In Amsterdam, there is a huge difference between a “coffeeshop” (with no space) and a “coffee shop.” The first is an alcohol-free establishment selling marijuana, both to take away and to smoke on the premises. That haze inside might give you a clue. The second is a normal cafe where coffee and snacks can be enjoyed. Many of the coffeeshops in Amsterdam are situated in the Red Light District.

2. Don't buy drugs from street dealers

Marijuana is legal in Amsterdam and should you want to buy some, it is best bought from a proper coffeeshop where it is carefully regulated. However, there is a problem with drug dealers in the streets, especially in the Red Light District, selling the drug as well as heroin or cocaine. To avoid being targeted by drug dealers, always walk confidently, as if you know exactly where you are going (even if you don’t). Never stare at people in the street or appear to be looking for directions. Should someone still approach you, act as if you don’t hear what they are saying and keep on walking or simply say, “No, thank you” which should be sufficient to put them off.

3. Don't drive in the city

The centre of Amsterdam has narrow streets and parking is difficult to find and is expensive. There is often construction work ongoing in the streets, making it difficult to drive. It is recommended to make your way around the centre by bicycle, just like the locals do. Alternatively, public transport in Amsterdam is excellent, with many buses, trams and taxis available.

4. Avoid eating free cookies

If someone in Amsterdam offers you a free cookie of muffin, politely decline. They are likely laced with marijuana and if you are not used to the drug, it can make you feel pretty awful and ruin your day. Just tell them thanks, but no thanks. They are likely trying to attract you as a customer.

5. Never pee in canals

This might sound strange, but peeing in a canal in Amsterdam can be lethal, especially at night. People get drunk and get the urge while walking next to the canal. It’s dark and as they stand to pee into the canal, they lose their balance, falling into the icy water. Reportedly people who have drowned in the canals often have their flies open, showing how they died. There are many urinals set up around Amsterdam, many of which are attractive and made to fit in with the surrounding architecture. Rather use one of them.

6. Don't take pictures with strangers

Be careful when taking photographs of people in the streets of Amsterdam. Some photographers have been approached by police, who threaten to arrest them. Occasionally strangers get very upset if you as much as point your camera in their general direction. If you want to take an image including the strangers, ask them politely if they would mind and tell them you are not using the image for commercial purposes. Never take photos in a railway station, as it is prohibited by law. Another photography aspect to be aware of is when someone offers to take your photo. As you pose, they may run off with your camera!

7. Don't walk on the bike paths

As mentioned previously, many people cycle in Amsterdam and the city has excellent bike paths. What pedestrians should be aware of is that the sidewalks are often narrow and are next to a separate bike lane which is usually coloured red. Bikes have the right of way on the bike paths and you could accidentally walk into the path of a bicycle, which could cause injuries to yourself and to the poor, unsuspecting cyclist. When crossing the street, which could mean walking over a bike path, always be aware that a cyclist could be heading your way.

8. Never ride a bicycle without lights at night

Amsterdam is beautiful in the evening and night, with lights emanating from people’s homes and the quaint street lighting. However, when riding a bicycle at night, always ensure you have working lights. It is illegal to cycle at night without one. If a driver or pedestrian can’t see you, because you have no light on your bike, this could lead to serious injuries all around. Bicycles should have a white or yellow light on the front and a red one at the back. Reflectors are also necessary for cycling safety.

9. Don't take photos of the Red Light District windows

While this photographer ignored the rules, establishments in the Red Light District do not tolerate anyone taking photos. If you get caught taking photos anywhere in the district, but particularly close to a brothel, you will likely have your camera confiscated and may also receive a beating. Leave your camera behind at the hotel when you are heading to the Red Light District and avoid using your phone to take images.

10. Don't confuse blue lights with red lights

While in the Red Light District, you might see a blue light in a window instead of the normal red. The blue light signifies that the person posing in the window is a transvestite or is transgender. There are approximately 400 businesses like this in Amsterdam, so be careful, as competition is fierce. It also avoids problems if you are actively looking for a brothel.

11. Don’t line up for Anne Frank’s House

A trip to the Netherlands means a pit stop to see the most iconic Anne Frank House, and for sure, lines will look endless. Best not to line up for tickets but instead, reserve and book your tickets online on their website. Credit card payment is accepted online and will also present you with an official receipt and voucher. 80% of the tickets are sold online while 20% are purchased at the door for those who braved the long lines.

The convenience of booking tickets online gives visitors the flexibility of choosing a timeslot that works for them. Those who plan to travel to Amsterdam during the offseason, from late September to early April, those who book tickets less than the minimum requirement of two months in advance will have more luck. Nevertheless, travel smart and make a rock-solid itinerary that works best for you and your companions.

Stay safe in Amsterdam

Bear all these recommendations in mind when touring this beautiful city. Stay safe by observing what not to do in Amsterdam.