Some recommendations for a safe and pleasant stayEnjoy Amsterdam, but not everything is allowed
- Weapons are illegal.
- The consumption of alcohol is banned in some places.
- Do not use the street as a toilet.
- Noise, loud music and screaming are not allowed.
- Hard drugs such as XTC, heroin and cocaine are illegal.
- Soft drugs are not to be used in public places.
- Camping is only allowed at campsites.
- No cycling in pedestrian areas.
Please do...
- Beware of pickpockets.
- Ignore hotel runners. The Tourism Board will help you find accomodation.
- Ignore beggars. Begging is banned in The Netherlands.
- Cooperate with (uniformed!) police officers if they want to search you for possession of illegal arms.
- Behave in the Red Light District.
Preventing car crimeWrite down the address where you've parked your car. Buy a parking ticket and put it visibly on your dashboard. Before you leave, empty your car to prevent window breaking and theft. Never leave anything in your car, no sun glasses, no money, no CD's, nor empty bags. Don't hide anything under the seats or in the trunk. Leave your glove compartment open.
Amsterdam Tourist Assistance Service
Are you a foreign visitor in Amsterdam and a victim of crime? The Amsterdam Tourist Assistance Service offers practical help and support. After you have reported the crime at a police station, the volunteers of ATAS will support you in obtaining substitute travel documents, money, any medical assistance needed and anything else you may require. ATAS office hours are from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m., seven days a week.
Address:
Police station (wijkteam) Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal
Nieuwezijds Voorburgwal 104-108
Amsterdam
Telephone: +31 (0)20-625 32 46.
Further information
Leaflet "Welcome to Amsterdam, but..." (PDF)
This information you also can get in the offices from Amsterdam Tourism & Convention Board (ATCB) and the police stations.
