Staying in the old center and Red Light District
The useful distinction here is between the streets around Damrak and the smaller lanes east of it. A room overlooking a canal can still face late evening foot traffic. Check the exact street before booking, and use Nieuwmarkt as an alternative starting point for walks toward the Amstel and the eastern canals.
At a glance
- Best for
- Short stops, arrivals
- At night
- Loud, especially in the Red Light District
- Getting around
- Centraal Station; trams, metro
- Price level
- €€€
The medieval core, five minutes from Centraal Station and the loudest, most crowded part of the city.
Good for
- A late arrival or an early train
- Seeing the Dam, the Royal Palace and Nieuwmarkt on foot
- A one-night stop
Think twice if
- You want quiet at night, especially around the Red Light District
- You are traveling with young children
- You dislike crowds and pickpocket warnings
How The old center and Red Light District compares with the rest of Amsterdam
What is near The old center and Red Light District
Oude Kerk
From Nieuwmarkt, walk about five minutes to the church square, taking care where narrow lanes meet canal bridges.
Dam Square
Allow about ten minutes from Nieuwmarkt, following the smaller streets west toward the Royal Palace and Nieuwe Kerk.
Oosterdok waterfront
Walk about fifteen minutes from Nieuwmarkt toward the water for open views and a route toward the public library.
Eating in The old center and Red Light District
Around Zeedijk and Nieuwmarkt, look for Chinese restaurants, small takeaway counters and casual dining rooms. The streets nearest Damrak have plenty of quick meals, but compare menus before sitting down. For a quieter breakfast, try a side street away from the main station approach.
Getting around from The old center and Red Light District
Centraal is the main rail connection, while Nieuwmarkt station gives access to metro lines 51, 53 and 54. Walking usually works best within the old center. For tram journeys, head toward the stops around Centraal or Dam and check the current route before boarding.
Hotels in The old center and Red Light District
Search the area on the booking sites, where the prices are. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Other areas of Amsterdam
Staying in the old center and Red Light District
How can I choose a quieter room?
Ask whether the room faces the street or an internal courtyard, and check recent reviews for noise from nearby venues and passing groups.
Is this area easy with a suitcase?
The walk from Centraal is manageable, but cobbles, narrow pavements and busy crossings slow you down. Check whether your accommodation has steep stairs.
Can I photograph the Red Light District?
Do not photograph people in the windows. Follow posted restrictions and keep your camera away from windows when walking through the district.