Traveling Alone In Amsterdam: Complete Solo Travel Guide

I’ve traveled to Amsterdam a few times now, mostly as part of a longer solo adventure. It’s one of the most popular European cities, and rightfully so. Amsterdam is a unique city filled with a variety of architecture, its own culture, traditional foods, and many opportunities for day trips to places like Lisse for the tulip fields or Zaanse Schans for the historic windmill village, two of my favorite areas to explore outside the city. 

I’ve always felt safe in Amsterdam and love walking its tree-lined canal streets, taking photographs along every major corner, and devouring some of its local specialties, like stroopwafels. It’s a perfect place to meet new people as a solo traveler and has plenty of things to see and do so that you won’t get bored! 

Amsterdam is known for its wonderful solo traveler community. There are a lot of social hostels in the city, plenty of tours, and a few free walking tours perfect for solo female travelers looking to be social. The city is easy to navigate with convenient public transportation and there are plenty of English speakers, which makes it even easier to explore on your own. 

When asking the question, is Amsterdam safe to travel alone? My answer is absolutely yes! Many solo travelers love visiting Amsterdam for a number of reasons. I will dive into some of those in this post and also share some of my favorite tips and helpful advice for traveling solo to Amsterdam. 

Is Amsterdam Safe To Visit For Solo Female Travelers? 

Yes, traveling solo in Amsterdam is safe for females. In 2019, Amsterdam ranked fourth on a list of the safest cities in the world, and in 2021, it ranked sixth on this same list, published in the Safe Cities Index by The Economist. 

While it might seem like Amsterdam is one of the edgier cities in Europe, with legal prostitution, drugs, and accessible marijuana, this doesn’t mean it’s a dangerous city; it is a safe place even for your first solo trip. The risk of violent crime in Amsterdam is almost zero! 

Plus, it’s walkable, has excellent public transit, and has plenty of hostels with female-only rooms. Not to mention, there’s plenty to do alone!

With a bit of common sense and situational awareness, solo travelers can easily avoid any compromising situations and enjoy many activities that are perfect for solo travelers. 

Safety Precautions For Solo Female Travelers When Visiting Amsterdam

Petty crime like pickpocketing is likely the most common threat facing females traveling solo in Amsterdam. This is most common in the city’s central areas, such as the city center, central station, and other train stations. However, the risk of pickpocketing is about the same in Amsterdam as it is throughout the rest of Europe. 

Here are a few ways to stay safe and prevent being pickpocketed:

• Always keep your bag, purse, or clutch close by and secure.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash; most establishments accept credit cards, even from international banks.
• Never leave your coat, jacket, wallet, or phone unattended, especially when drinking, grabbing a bite to eat, or picking up your order.
• Be cautious of distraction tactics. Thieves often work in pairs; while one person engages you in conversation, asks for directions, or bumps into you, the other might try to steal your belongings.
• Avoid using paper maps in public. Instead, use your phone’s GPS for directions and listen through earbuds to avoid drawing attention to yourself. 
• Always carry yourself with confidence. Don’t act like a scared, lost tourist, even if you are one.

What to Expect as a Solo Female Traveler in Amsterdam

Amsterdam city has a liberal and open-minded culture with welcoming locals, making it an excellent place for female travelers. Compared to other major cities, street harassment, especially in tourist areas, is not common (but unfortunately, it still happens).

Traveling solo in Amsterdam is quite popular. The locals are used to seeing solo travelers, and you’re likely to meet other solo travelers as you explore. Hostels, tours, and social activities like bike rides or walking tours are great places to connect with others and meet new friends. 

However, if you want to go out alone, Amsterdam is perfectly safe at night. You’ll find a lively nightlife scene – many people enjoy exploring bars, cafes, and cultural venues alone. You may want to avoid the Red Light District at night if you are by yourself since it is a popular spot for pickpockets and can get rowdy after the sun goes down.

A trip to Amsterdam can be expensive, especially for those traveling alone – particularly in terms of accommodation and dining out during peak season. However, plenty of budget-friendly options like hostels and vacation rentals outside of the city center are available for budget travelers. Hotel can run 200+ euros a night and a bed in a hostel dorm is around 50 euros a night, while single rooms are around 150 euros.

Amsterdam has a lot of low-cost attractions, outdoor markets and some free museums open to the public. There are plenty of green spaces to relax and have a picnic to save

While Dutch is the official language of the Netherlands, English is widely spoken, especially in Amsterdam. You won’t have any trouble communicating as most locals speak English fluently. Signage and information in tourist areas are also typically available in English.

What is the Safest Way to Get Around for Solo Female Travelers?

As a solo female traveler, I felt completely safe walking the city and taking the trams and trains (even at night, although I was never out after 10 p.m). Biking was the most intimidating method of travel for me, but it is still a useful way to get around if you are bike-confident!

Here are some of the most common transportation options for solo travelers in Amsterdam:

Walking

Amsterdam is pretty compact, so you can easily and safely walk around the city. It only takes an hour or so to walk across the central city. If you are staying in a central location you may not need to use public transportation at all, you can easily explore the city by foot in a day. I always download offline maps in case the service is spotty to make sure I have reliable GPS. Make sure to look both ways for bicycles and stay out of bike lanes. Bikes can sneak up on you fast, so always be aware to help prevent an accident.

Taxis

Taxis in Amsterdam are mostly safe, but to avoid scams, it’s best to use reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps like Uber. The most reputable taxi company in Amsterdam is TCA, also known as Taxi Centrale Amsterdam. Before you get in, make sure that the taxi has a card reader and write down the number of the cab. I stuck to using Uber and found it so convenient. Sometimes, taxis are only located at taxi stands, so it can sometimes be more of an effort to find one. If you do take a taxi, make sure to have cash in case the card reader is down.

Biking

Bike riding is a popular and efficient way to get around Amsterdam. This city was designed with cyclists in mind, with extensive bike lanes and parking areas. There are currently more bikes than people in Amsterdam. However, if you’re not an experienced city cyclist, biking can be dangerous due to the heavy bike traffic and sometimes complex road rules. On the other hand, if you’re confident on a bike and good with directions, it’s a fantastic way to explore the city.

Public Transportation

Amsterdam’s public transportation system, also known as the GVB, is excellent. Trams, buses, and trains provide comprehensive coverage of the city.

• Trams: Trams are convenient for getting around the city center and are frequent and reliable. There are around 200 kilometers of rails with 650 switches and 500 stops.
• Buses: Buses cover a large portion of the Amsterdam region and run until 12:30 am. 
• Metro: The metro in Amsterdam has five lines: 50, 51, 52, 53, and 54. They all connect various parts of the city and extend into nearby suburbs
• Ferries: Several ferries transport passengers across the IJ River. The ferries are free of charge and run frequently, some 24 hours a day.

General Tips for Public Transportation:

• Buy a pass: If you plan to use public transportation frequently, consider purchasing a day or multi-day pass (you can do so on the tram or at the central train station). If you want to travel to Amsterdam and the surrounding area, an OV-chipkaart card is the best option—it costs 7.50€ and is rechargeable. You can also use your own debit or credit card with a tap on-tap off activation.
• Check schedules: Use apps like GVB or Google Maps to check schedules and plan your routes.
• Stay alert: Keep a close eye on your belongings, especially on crowded trams and buses.
• Validate your ticket: Always check in and out with your transportation card to avoid fines.
• Night transport: If you plan to stay out late, be aware of the night bus schedules, as regular services end around midnight.

What Areas Should Solo Females Avoid?

Crime rates can vary within neighborhoods and over time. Amsterdam as a whole has been implementing various measures to improve safety and reduce crime across the city. While Amsterdam is generally safe, there are a few neighborhoods with higher crime rates you’ll want to avoid when traveling alone. 

Red Light District (De Wallen)

The Red Light District is a popular tourist spot and can be safe during the day, but it’s important to stay vigilant. After dark, the area can become rowdier, attracting pickpockets or people looking to exploit tourists.

If you visit, stay in well-lit, populated areas and avoid wandering down narrow alleyways alone. Always keep your drink with you and keep a close eye on it!

Bijlmer

Located in southeast Amsterdam, Bijlmer has a reputation for higher crime rates than other parts of the city. While this has been improving, avoiding this area is still advisable, especially at night.

Slotervaart

This neighborhood is west of Amsterdam and generally has high crime rates. It is known for its residential areas, parks, and cultural diversity. Like many urban areas, it has faced challenges with crime, but the situation has been improving over the years.

Zuidoost

This large business and residential area is located outside the city center and is less welcoming to tourists. It is a borough consisting of four residential neighborhoods; Bijlmermeer, Venserpolder, Gaasperdam, and Driemond. Although some attractions are here, like the Amsterdam Arena and the Ziggo Dome, this area has higher crime rates, so it’s best to avoid it unless you are visiting for an event.

Where to Stay as a Solo Traveler in Amsterdam

Amsterdam has several fantastic neighborhoods for solo travelers, fitting all types of travel styles. The central Amsterdam borough is the heart of the city, encompassing many of Amsterdam’s most famous landmarks, attractions, and neighborhoods. The city center (Centrum) is the best area to stay in when visiting Amsterdam. It has many neighborhoods offering luxury hotels and a chic atmosphere to laid-back vibes and neighborhoods with fewer tourists.  

If you are on a budget, consider staying outside of Amsterdam Central. With Amsterdam’s efficient transportation system, you can easily reach the central train station in no time. 

Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in:

Jordaan

This is a picturesque, centrally located neighborhood with charming canals, boutique shops, and cozy cafes – Jordaan is one of the best places for those experiencing Amsterdam for the first time. It’s also a great place for solo explorers who want to experience local culture and easily access major attractions and great shopping. You will find Anne Frank’s house in this neighborhood along with the famous Nine Streets (a trendy shopping street with picturesque facades).

De Pijp

Known for its trendy atmosphere in south Amsterdam, De Pijp is home to the iconic Albert Cuyp Market, the popular Heineken Experience, trendy bars, and diverse dining options. Many locals hang out at its trendy cafes and art galleries. If you’re a foodie, you’ll definitely want to visit this neighborhood!

Museumplein

Staying near Museumplein, also known as Museum Square, puts you within walking distance of major museums like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Stedelijk Museum, along with the world-famous concert hall, Concertgebouw. This area is quiet and offers ample green spaces, making it a great place for picnics, outdoor activities, and leisurely walks while being well-connected by public transport.

Leidseplein

This neighborhood near Museumplein has a little bit of everything. It is known for its nightlife, theaters, and entertainment options, with street performers, small nightclubs, Irish pubs, and great restaurants lining the square. Leidseplein has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels, and easy transportation options, making it a convenient area for tourists to stay.

Canal Belt

Less of a specific neighborhood and more of a general area in central Amsterdam, the Canal Belt, also known as Grachtengordel in Dutch, boasts beautiful views, historic architecture, and a central location. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most picturesque and historically significant areas in Amsterdam. If you want a quintessential Amsterdam experience, this is the spot.

Best Places to Stay in Amsterdam

• Flying Pig Downtown Hostel: Enjoy a central location and complimentary breakfast at this no-frills party hostel.
• Ecomama: This eco-friendly hostel in a central location mixes sustainability with style and comfort.
• Max Brown in Museum Square: This eclectic hotel has complimentary breakfast, airy rooms, and easy access to Amsterdam’s main attractions.
• Hotel Mercer: This cozy 4-star boutique hotel is located in Jordaan, is an easy walk to many sights, and has a posh bar open to the public.
• Hilton Amsterdam in Amsterdam-Zuid: Outside the center, this hotel offers a relaxing space in a residential neighborhood. It’s only a 10-minute walk to the nearest tram, and the neighborhood has boutique shops and cafes. It’s perfect for those wanting a quieter pace outside of the city center. I’ve stayed here before with Hilton Points and really enjoyed the quiet area, but it’s a long walk to the city center, so using the tram is ideal here.

Additional Things to Know When Visiting Amsterdam Alone

• Book early: The best hotels and hostels often sell out early for the peak season. 
• When to visit: The best time to visit is in the spring or fall. Weather is unpredictable but you can enjoy the colorful tulips in April and May, while you’ll see gorgeous autumn colors from September through October. Summer is high season
• Food: Many restaurants are welcoming to solo travelers. Grab a spot at the bar, bring a book to a streetside cafe, or enjoy street food like stroopwafels.
• Consider getting a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for your phone. I bought an E-sim from Airlo on my last trip, and it worked great.
• Know the difference between coffee shops and cafes in Amsterdam
  • Coffee Shops: Sell and allow the consumption of cannabis.
  • Cafes: Serve coffee, food, and other beverages; do not sell or allow the consumption of cannabis
  • Although cannabis is tolerated in coffee shops, it’s still illegal to consume it in most public spaces outside these establishments.

The Best Things To Do While Visiting Amsterdam Solo

As far as things to do, you can easily do solo what many people do in groups. There is actually a benefit to being solo in Amsterdam if you want to jump on a last-minute canal cruise or eat at a popular restaurant without reservations. But there are also plenty of group tours and museums worth exploring.

Royal Palace of Amsterdam

Located in Dam Square, the Royal Palace is one of the best places for history buffs. In this ornate building, you’ll learn more about Dutch identity, the royal family, and admire sculptures and paintings by famous artists. 

Explore Museums

Amsterdam has no shortage of incredible museums. The Van Gogh Museum is one of the most popular options, showcasing an extensive collection of Van Gogh’s work. You could also easily spend an entire day at the Rijksmuseum, showcasing exhibits on Dutch art and history.

The Anne Frank House is another must-visit – this 17th-century canal house was the home of Anne Frank and her family as they hid from Nazi persecution.

Go Shopping on the 9 Streets

Located in a picturesque canal-side neighborhood, the Nine Streets have a variety of designer boutiques and galleries, plus several cozy cafes where you can stop for a coffee and a treat. Spend an entire afternoon shopping, strolling, and snacking!

Enjoy a Canal Cruise

I took three cruises the last time I was in Amsterdam. I didn’t have the best weather and it was a great way to see the city while staying dry. There are a variety of cruise otions from sunset cruises to dinner cruises and traditional hop on- hop off sightseeing cruises. There are canal cruise docks around the city, but especially in the Jordaan neighborhood and near central train station. 

Visit the Ten Katemarkt

The Ten Katemarkt is a popular street market located in the Oud-West neighborhood of Amsterdam, featuring a wide variety of stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, flowers, clothing, accessories, household items, and more. It’s known for its diverse selection and affordable prices. It’s a great place to experience local culture, interact with vendors, and enjoy street food.

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The Dutch capital is a popular tourist destination for a reason. It sometimes gets a bad rap, but there is truly a lot to see and do that has nothing to do with cannabis culture. Overall, Amsterdam is a very safe city and a great place to explore solo. It makes a fantastic jumping-off point for exploring more of Europe!