Netherlands : Safety by City
Netherlands - safety as a country
Travelers sometimes call Amsterdam the “Venice of the North” because of its historical charm.
This city in the Netherlands is a mix of century-old canal houses and modern conveniences.
Bikes are pretty much everywhere you look.
There are an estimated 800,000 bikes in Amsterdam because cycling is one of the easiest ways to get around.
Amsterdam exists on a foundation of wooden piles that keep the structures above sea level.
It’s the contrasts in this beautiful place that draw travelers to it.
You could spend a whole day staring at the masterpieces created by one of its most famous residents, Van Gogh, and then spend an evening walking through the neon-lit alleys in the infamous Red Light District.
How safe is it to travel to Amsterdam?
Warnings & Dangers in Amsterdam
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Amsterdam is one of the safest capital cities in the world, in part because of its stable government and low crime rates. It is the global leader in sustainability, design, and social tolerance. There may be some minor petty theft, especially in large crowds, but otherwise it is a safe place for travelers to enjoy.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
The city has a strong and safe public transit system that includes buses, trams, and metros. The one risk for tourists is the gypsy or unofficial taxis at main transport hubs such as Schiphol or Centraal Station. Use the official taxi queue or mobile rideshare apps to avoid overcharging. Bikes have the right of way in every scenario in Amsterdam, so watch out for them. They move fast.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Amsterdam is a major tourist destination in Europe, so pickpocketing is always a risk. More so in Amsterdam, though, because there are residents who literally make their living this way. They tend to frequent the Red Light District, Dam Square, and the crowded tram lines. They work in teams of two, using one person as a distraction while the other steals your wallet. It is best to keep your cash and credit cards in a zipped compartment of a crossbody or hidden travel bag.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Despite being at sea level, this area has historically experienced few natural disasters. The city has a sophisticated flood defense system, one of the best in the world. There is minimal risk of hurricanes or earthquakes here, so large-scale disasters are rare.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
Pickpocketing is common, but muggings are not. Amsterdam has a few violent street robberies. The city is well lit and, as a tourist destination, most areas have a strong police presence. Residents may experience some isolated incidents of muggings, but travelers who stick to the main thoroughfares and populated areas are not typically targets.
TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM
The terrorism threat in the Netherlands is high. It currently sits at Level 4, according to the government there. It reflects the trend in European cities, rather than a concern about a specific threat to Amsterdam. The town maintains high security, and the major visible landmarks are well-guarded, but travelers should be vigilant and aware of their surroundings when in crowded areas.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
As with most heavily visited tourist areas, there are always scams. Amsterdam often sees fake police officers who ask to check your wallet for counterfeit money. There are also street dealers who sell knock-offs as brand items or discounted electronics that are stolen goods. When planning to go to an attraction such as the Anne Frank House, buy tickets from official websites. Don’t get them from street vendors, because they may be fake.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Amsterdam is a good place for women traveling solo. It is a city known for its diversity and social grace. There are many activities at night, so it is always crowded. Women rarely walk alone on a street. Women should be cautious in bars and not leave their drinks unattended. Also, stick to well-lit paths when going from place to place.
TAP WATER RISK: LOW
Amsterdam has some of the highest-quality drinking water in Europe. It undergoes a rigorous filtration process that does not include chlorine. There is no need for bottled water when traveling in Amsterdam. Feel free to reuse containers and fill them at public fountains or from the tap.
Safest Places to Visit in Amsterdam
There are many safe places to visit in Amsterdam.
For the highest security and the most charm, consider the Jordaan district.
This area was once a working-class neighborhood, but today, it’s home to upscale boutiques, cafés, and residential homes.
It is safe to visit this neighborhood at any hour of the day.
Another safe choice is Oud-Zuid (Old South).
It is home to the Museum Quarter, with well-known locations such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.
If you prefer greenery to art, the Vondelpark is the place to go.
It is a family-oriented landmark with walking and jogging trails.
The Plantage neighborhood is a quiet place to escape to while in Amsterdam.
It houses botanical gardens and the zoo without the crowds.
Places to Avoid in Amsterdam
There is no place in Amsterdam to avoid, but you might take precautions when visiting certain areas, such as the Red Light District.
It is safe during the day, but can be overwhelming at night.
It lives up to its reputation as a place of intoxication, sex workers, and street dealers.
The area around the Amsterdam Centraal Station can be a hotspot for petty crime and scammers.
Bijlmer (Amsterdam-Zuidoost) has the highest crime rate in the city, but it has gone through some revitalization in the last few years.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Amsterdam
- Watch out for the bikes: This is the number one safety rule in Amsterdam. Travelers should avoid walking on the designated bike paths. Of all the risks in Amsterdam, bikes are the largest. Bikers move very fast in this city and don’t always see pedestrians.
- Only use official taxis: The independent or gypsy cab may approach you, but they will likely overcharge. You can also use a rideshare app such as Uber, Bolt, or TCA (Taxi Centrale Amsterdam), which ensures you pay a regulated rate for your ride.
- Watch your belongings while on trams: They are the most active places for pickpockets. Keep all your valuables in the front. So, if you are wearing a backpack, turn it around. A better option is a hidden travel pack or a crossbody bag. If you sit on the tram, keep your bag in your lap and your arm through the strap.
- Beware of the Street Drug Dealers: Amsterdam is a city famous for its adult recreation. Dealers may approach you on the street, especially near the city center, and try to sell you illegal substances. They tend to be fake or laced with dangerous chemicals. Ignore them and walk on.
- Pre-book the attractions: The Anne Frank House and Van Gogh Museum sell out weeks in advance, so book early and ensure you are buying on the official website. Don’t try to buy tickets from street vendors or people on the street.
- Watch out for Gezellig or social drinking: The Dutch beer can be stronger than you might expect. It can leave you lost in the maze that is Amsterdam. The city is made up of canals that can be disorienting, especially when drinking alcohol. If you think you’ve had too much, call an Uber to get you back to the hotel.
- Don’t be fooled by fake police: Real police will not ask to look in your wallet or take cash from you. If someone flashes a badge at you and asks to check your currency, refuse. This is a common scam in Amsterdam.
- Protect your rental bike: Bikes are the primary source of transportation in this city. If you rent a bike, make sure to lock it twice. There will be a wheel lock on the bike. Lock that and then chain the bike to a fixed object with a second lock.
- Keep a digital copy of your passport: Don’t carry your physical passport around with you as you see the sites of Amsterdam. Keep it secure at the hotel and use a digital copy of your passport if needed. You must carry an ID with you while visiting anywhere in the Netherlands. You can use a digital passport or even a photocopy of one.
- Watch Your Phone: Don’t board a tram with your phone in your hand. It is a common tactic to grab phones just as the tram doors close. Put your phone in a safe bag before boarding the tram.
So... How Safe Is Amsterdam Really?
Amsterdam is one of the safest cities in the world for travelers.
It consistently ranks among the top 10 safest cities in major publications, including the Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection report.
It has a very low violent crime rate, especially when compared to other European capital cities like Paris or London.
The Dutch have a very loose but compartmentalized system when it comes to drugs and sex work, which seems to work in their favor.
It actually leads to a more controlled atmosphere by reducing the power of organized crime.
The most prevalent dangers in the city are mainly environmental and petty crime.
Amsterdam has 165 canals, so there is a risk of drowning, especially when drinking.
The town reports dozens of people who end up in the canals each year.
Also, the sheer volume of bikes makes them a real danger for tourists who are not used to having to watch for them.
As a European city, there is some risk of terrorism.
The warnings are primarily preventative, though.
They want people coming into the city to be aware of their surroundings.
How Does Amsterdam Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Amsterdam |
78 |
| Eindhoven |
85 |
| Rotterdam |
63 |
| The Hague |
90 |
 Brighton | 67 |
 Toronto | 83 |
 Ludlow | 81 |
 Acapulco | 45 |
 Toulouse | 57 |
| Blacksburg | 79 |
Useful Information
Visas
The recent launch of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) means that many countries, including the US, Canada, and Australia, no longer require visas. You simply go online and apply for an ETIAS to travel in Europe. The ETIAS links directly to your passport, so it must be valid for at least three months prior to travel. Those coming from other countries can get a Schengen Visa. You can apply at the local embassy. It covers either 90 or 180 days of traveling in Europe.
Currency
The currency in Amsterdam is the Euro. It is primarily a cashless city, though. Many restaurants and shops only accept debit or credit cards, and there are no foreign transaction fees. There are bank-affiliated ATMs in the city that charge lower costs if you do need cash.
Weather
The weather in Amsterdam is somewhat unpredictable. It can change from hour to hour without warning. Travelers should expect milder temperatures from June to August and chilly days from December to February. When planning to visit Amsterdam, pack a windproof umbrella or a quality raincoat. The city has many cobblestone roads, too, so pack comfortable shoes.
Airports
The primary airport is Schiphol (AMS), which is just 9km from the city center. You can travel by train from the airport to Amsterdam Centraal, which runs 24/7. There is also a registered taxi queue if you prefer a ride directly to the hotel.
Travel Insurance
Even though Amsterdam is a safe destination, travelers should always consider travel insurance. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft. It provides peace of mind so you can enjoy your time in Amsterdam.
Amsterdam Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
6 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 19 | 15 | 10 | 7 |
| Low °C |
0 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 7 | 10 | 13 | 13 | 11 | 8 | 5 | 2 |
| High °F |
43 | 43 | 50 | 55 | 63 | 68 | 72 | 72 | 66 | 59 | 50 | 45 |
| Low °F |
32 | 32 | 36 | 39 | 45 | 50 | 55 | 55 | 52 | 46 | 41 | 36 |
Netherlands - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Amsterdam | 78 |
| Eindhoven | 85 |
| Rotterdam | 63 |
| The Hague | 90 |
The most beautiful city in the world
To me, Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Been there twice already and I plan visits almost yearly. It has everything you could think of, especially if you’re a free spirit like myself. You can ride your bike almost anywhere, go on a boat ride, plenty of museums and other things to see, a colorful nightlife and so much more. A 10 out of 5!
Stumbling upon a cozy café by the canals during my last visit felt like stepping into a different world, where the blend of history and vibrant energy truly made me appreciate Amsterdam’s unique charm.
So is it safe to wander around staring at art all day just to end up in the Red Light District at night, or should we be on high alert the whole time?
Just wandered through those neon-lit alleys after soaking in Van Gogh’s art, and it’s wild how a place can feel so peaceful and lively at the same time!