Things to avoid in Amsterdam
- Damrak ... a main thoroughfare of the city, comprising of endless hotels, fast food restaurants and souvenir shops.
- Kalverstraat ... during weekends, when the narrow street and the shops are very crowded.
- tourist restaurants in the Leidseplein district.
- Taxis ... are quite expensive in Amsterdam. Buy a 24-hour ticket (24-uurskaart)
which is a cost effective way to get around on public transport. Amsterdam has an efficient network of public transport in the form of trams, buses, trains and the metro.- Do not take photos of the occupied windows in Amsterdam's Red Light District - this is strictly prohibited and any attempt will be quickly (and roughly) corrected.
- Walking on bike paths, which are distinguished by their reddish colour: cyclists will show no mercy. Also take care when crossing roads, even at a green pedestrian light. Cyclists consider themselves pedestrians in Amsterdam, and so tend to ignore traffic lights.
- Parking ... in Amsterdam is a stressful and unpleasant experience. Not only can it be difficult to find a parking space, paying at the meter can bring its own set of problems. It's not a matter of coins and withdrawing a parking ticket anymore. At the new meters the licence plate has to be entered.
- Kalverstraat ... during weekends, when the narrow street and the shops are very crowded.
Tips for visitors
Where to sleep in Amsterdam?
Find out what our recommendations are.
Red Light District
also known as De Wallen, Walletjes or Rosse Buurt, is the largest and best-known red-light district in Amsterdam