Red Light District

The Red Light District of Amsterdam is the oldest district in the city and one with many faces to it. By day, it is an area brimming with tourists seeking a cultural family experience, visiting the many churches, museums and shops throughout the streets. At night, the district changes its nature, offering an adult experience for sex tourists and nightlife enthusiasts. Prostitution in Amsterdam is nearly as old as the city itself. As early as the 15th century and possibly earlier, the first prostitutes arrived to earn a living in the harbor of Amsterdam. The Red Light District is still located in the oldest part of the city. The women initially plied their trade in the streets. In the sixties, the police made it illegal to solicit from doorways. Sitting behind the window was tolerated if the curtains were almost closed. By burning a red light behind the chink, it was clear to men that they could come here for a prostitute. Today it is allowed to keep the curtains open but the red lights are still used. As a result the evening hours are the best time to visit. The Red Light District then comes to life and clearly shows where its name originated.