Ready to explore the city of bikes and blooming tulips? Amsterdam is one of Europe’s safest capitals, but when you’re traveling, it’s not a bad idea to be as prepared as you can be.
Are you planning a last minute trip to Amsterdam? We’ve put together all the resources you’ll need for a fun & safe travel:
🛌 Best & Safest Places to Stay in Amsterdam:
👉 Hotel Okura Amsterdam – Indoor swimming pool, Key card access, Garden
👉 Bilderberg Garden Hotel – Fitness centre, Room service, Good breakfast
👉 Hilton Amsterdam – Pets allowed, Key card access, Fitness centre
👉 Pillows Grand Hotel – Fitness centre, 2 restaurants, Spa and wellness centre
⛱️ Fun Activities & Tours in Amsterdam:
👉 Van Gogh Museum – Exclusive Guided Museum Tour
👉 Guided Bike Tour of Amsterdam’s Highlights and Hidden Gems
👉 Amsterdam Luxury Boat Canal Cruise w/ Live Guide and Onboard Bar
🚗 Best & Safest Amsterdam Transportation Services:
👉 Airport Pickup Service – Welcome Pickups
👉 Rent a Car – DiscoverCars
🙏 Stay Safe While Travelling:
👉 Safetywing (for medical insurance)
👉 VisitorsCoverage (for trip insurance)
Is Amsterdam Safe?
Amsterdam is one of the safest destinations globally. In fact, according to The Economist, the capital ranks 6th in safety, and it’s safer than other popular European or global destinations like Barcelona, New York, London, and Paris.
Here’s what we’ve found:
- Amsterdam’s crime level is low, with a rating of 27.77. Main concerns include drug-related offenses, petty crimes, and public violence.
- Amsterdam has over 50 safe neighborhoods, the safest being Jordaan, Apollobuurt, Middenmeer, Station-Zuid WTC, Buitenveldert-West, and Buitenveldert-Oost.
- The capital boasts around 65,000 officers.
- The public transport system is reliable, but caution is advised against pickpockets.
- The city’s healthcare system is excellent, ranking 11th globally.
- Occasional storms may occur, so stay up-to-date with weather forecasts.
- There’s a slight possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning; carrying a CO detector is advised.
Travel Advisory for Amsterdam
Canada rates Amsterdam at Level 1, suggesting “Normal Caution” due to low levels of crime. Travelers should be mostly cautious of pickpockets, credit card and ATM frauds, and Wi-Fi breaches with the intent of stealing personal information.
The Canadian travel advisory urges an added vigilance of “individuals posing as plain-clothes police officers” who approach foreigners “to verify their documents or foreign currency with the intent to rob them.” However, such instances are very rare.
The United States travel advisory, on the other hand, places Amsterdam at Level 2, advising “Increased Caution.” The advisory gives a note on the (very rare) possibility of terrorist attacks, warning tourists that terrorists “continue plotting possible attacks in the Netherlands,” targeting a range of potential locations like tourist hotspots, transportation hubs, malls, government buildings, schools, hotels, restaurants, events, etc.
Some of the crimes mentioned might seem harsh, but the authorities actually rate the Netherlands in the safest categories. Plus, they give a warning for the entire country, not just Amsterdam. What’s important is that both advisories give Amsterdam the green light. They’re just making sure tourists are ready for the worst-case scenario.
A Comprehensive Look at Amsterdam Crime Rates
Amsterdam has an impressively low crime rating of 27.77.
The Netherlands had a total of 142 homicides in 2022, and only 11 happened in Amsterdam. Compare that to NYC’s 434! No wonder Amsterdam is ranked as the 6th safest spot in the world.
Amsterdam has over 50 safe neighborhoods, with the safest areas including Jordaan, Apollobuurt, Middenmeer, Station-Zuid WTC, Buitenveldert-West, and Buitenveldert-Oost. The areas with higher crime are Nieuwendam-Noord, Geuzenveld, Slotermeer-Noordoost, Slotermeer-Zuidwest, and Osdorp-Midden—just five in the whole of Amsterdam!
Drug-related offenses top the list of crimes, with 1,255 cases reported in 2022. Petty crimes like theft, burglaries, and pickpocketing counted a total of 43,800 reported incidents in 2022.
| Safety Concerns | Crime Rate | Status |
| Overall Crime Level | 28.82 | Low |
| Increase in Crime (Past 3 Years) | 45.93 | Moderate |
| Home Break-Ins and Thefts | 24.90 | Low |
| Mugging and Robbery | 24.84 | Low |
| Car Theft | 19.85 | Very Low |
| Theft from Vehicles | 30.60 | Low |
| Personal Attacks | 23.50 | Low |
| Verbal Insults | 26.89 | Low |
| Racial, Ethnic, Gender, or Religious-Based Attacks | 20.02 | Low |
| Drug Use and Dealing | 39.92 | Low |
| Property Crimes (Vandalism and Theft) | 34.54 | Low |
| Violent Crimes (Assault and Armed Robbery) | 25.19 | Low |
| Corruption and Bribery | 18.67 | Very Low |
| Safety Walking Alone in Daylight | 82.51 | Very High |
| Safety Walking Alone at Night | 66.74 | High |
Police Presence in Amsterdam
The Netherlands Police is quite large, with 65,000 employees, including 51,000 police officers and 14,000 staff in supporting roles.
In Amsterdam, you’ll often see municipal enforcement officials known as “handhavers.” They wear blue uniforms labeled “handhaving” on their back. Their daily tasks include managing parking, preventing illegal waste dumping, and addressing anti-social behavior.
Handhavers have the authority to ask for identification or issue fines for minor offenses including:
- €150 ($162) for public urination
- €150 ($162) for littering
- €150 ($162) for noise pollution
- €100 ($108) for drunkenness
- € 140 ($150) for sleeping in a vehicle
If you’re a victim of a crime, you can report it online, dial 911, or visit a police station in the city. Amsterdam’s police officers are easily approachable and can help with directions or answer any type of questions regarding the city. So don’t hesitate to reach out for help!
Public Transportation Safety in Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s public transport system is super reliable, smoothly taking you to all the must-see spots in the city. Tickets are always checked—so you’ll rarely see homeless people or anyone who hasn’t gotten a ticket.
The main concern is pickpockets, especially in rush hours. So, keep an eye on your stuff—phones in back pockets, open bags, or unattended wallets are big no-nos. While Amsterdam is one of Europe’s safest cities, it’s not like being in Disneyland. Stay cautious and use common sense, just like you would anywhere else.
Medical Care Quality in Amsterdam
Amsterdam boasts a fantastic healthcare system, ranking 11th globally in the CEOWORLD Magazine Health Care Index for 2021. The capital has a special healthcare initiative called Amsterdam Tourist Doctors with professionals dedicated to offering top-notch medical care to tourists and expats.
You can book appointments online or visit their clinic from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays, and from 11 am to 3 pm on Saturdays. It’s located at the Makroon Medical Center in the heart of Amsterdam, on Nieuwe Passeerdersstraat. So, if you ever need medical attention while in Amsterdam, you know where to go.
Is It Safe to Travel Solo in Amsterdam?
Amsterdam is among the safest European cities, making it great for solo travelers. While exploring, be confident but stay vigilant. Travel smart and avoid dimly-lit streets late at night, take it easy in the coffee shops, explore the Red Light District during the day, be cautious on public transportation, know your way to the hotel, and keep in touch with friends and family. If someone makes you uncomfortable, trust your instincts and step away for extra safety.
Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in Amsterdam
Amsterdam is not at risk of earthquakes, hurricanes, or volcanoes, but every now and then, the city might suffer from storms.
Storms Information and Prevention
Amsterdam is close to the North Sea and sometimes gets a visit from North Sea storms. These incidents can bring strong winds that may cause damage to buildings and trees, induce floods, and even cause airport delays.
Amsterdam faced one of its mightiest summer storms in July of 2023. The storm was so intense that Schiphol Airport had to cancel 400 flights. Dutch authorities advised people to stay at home, emphasizing the importance of safety. Sadly, in the city of Haarlem near Amsterdam, a 51-year-old woman lost her life when a tree fell on her car during the storm.
Storms are unpredictable, so accidents like these are a reminder to take weather warnings seriously and prioritize safety. While Amsterdam doesn’t face storms every day, it’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date on weather forecasts and plan your trip accordingly.
Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in Amsterdam
In Amsterdam, a 25-year-old man tragically lost his life to carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, caused by a faulty gas heater and possibly poor ventilation. This sneaky gas messes with the blood’s ability to carry oxygen, potentially leading to fainting or, in severe cases, be fatal. While this incident isn’t directly tied to tourists, it’s a reminder that CO leaks can happen anywhere, including hotels, hostels, and rental apartments.
Sadly, three American tourists in Mexico City lost their lives to CO poisoning in an Airbnb hotel. In Amsterdam, it’s a good idea to check if your hotel has carbon monoxide detectors in the rooms. These devices monitor the air quality and alert you if there’s a dangerous gas leak. For extra safety, you can carry a portable CO detector with you, just in case your room doesn’t have one.
Amsterdam Weather Patterns: What to Expect
In Amsterdam, the weather plays out like this: summers are warm and partly cloudy, while winters are long, very cold, and often cloudy.
The warm season spans June to September, peaking in July with temperatures above 65°F (18.3°C). The cool season runs from November to March, hitting its chilliest point in January with temperatures below 48°F (8.8°C).
The skies are clearest from late March to early October, with July being the brightest and December the cloudiest. Rain is part of the Amsterdam scene year-round. December sees the most rain, averaging 2.4 inches (60mm), while April gets the least, with an average of 1.2 inches (30.48mm).
Day length in Amsterdam changes a lot throughout the year. In 2023, the shortest day was December 22, with 7 hours and 41 minutes of daylight, while the longest day was June 21, with a whopping 16 hours and 48 minutes of daylight.
Monthly Average Temperatures in Amsterdam
| Month | Fahrenheit (°F) | Celsius (°C) |
| January | 38 | 3.3 |
| February | 38 | 3.3 |
| March | 43 | 6.1 |
| April | 48 | 8.8 |
| May | 55 | 12.7 |
| June | 60 | 15.5 |
| July | 64 | 17.7 |
| August | 63 | 17.2 |
| September | 59 | 15 |
| October | 52 | 11.1 |
| November | 45 | 7.2 |
| December | 40 | 4.4 |
When Is the Best Time to Visit Amsterdam?
For the ultimate Amsterdam experience, try to visit April to May or September to November, just before or after the busy summer season. This way, you’ll enjoy milder weather, fewer crowds, and more budget-friendly options.
June to August sees the most tourists, when the weather is at its best—so if you’re planning to visit then, book your stay early and be ready for higher prices of hotels, flights, and city tours. If you’re up for a winter trip and don’t mind super cold temperatures, you’ll find the cheapest hotel rates and fewer people at the city’s top spots. Just remember to dress in layers.
Amsterdam is beautiful year-round! It’s all about your traveling preferences and temperature tolerance.
How to Stay Safe in Amsterdam
- Walk when the light says go; crossing early can lead to fines
- Cyclists have the right of way
- Be cautious around tram rails
- Don’t walk on bike paths next to sidewalks
- Public transport runs 6 am to 12:30 am, use an OV-chipkaart for a ticket as cash isn’t accepted
- Shops are usually open from 10 am to 6 pm (8 pm for supermarkets)
- No photos in the Red Light District
- Don’t buy narcotics from street dealers; it’s illegal
- Cannabis consumption is illegal in the Red Light District
- To buy cannabis, you need to be 18+ and show your ID at coffee shops
- Purchase I Amsterdam City Card that covers all daily expenses including museums and attractions, public transport, ferry, and 1-day bicycle rental
Emergency Numbers
- Country code: +31
- Emergency number: 112
- Non-emergencies: 0900 8844
- Hearing impaired emergency number: 0800 8112
- Hearing impaired for non-emergencies: 0900 1844
FAQ
Licensed taxis in Amsterdam are safe. To spot the legit ones, look for blue number plates and a roof light with the taxi company’s name. If you want to make sure you’re not dealing with an illegal taxi, ask someone from the hotel staff to recommend a good taxi company. Uber is another convenient option. Just download the app, pay online through the app from your bank account, and you’re all set.
In Amsterdam, thieves are the most active in restaurants, cafes, and places selling soft narcotics (coffee shops). Keep an eye out around the De Wallen District (the Red Light District), Central Station, and on public transportation, especially tram routes 1, 2, and 5.
Sometimes, in big cities like Amsterdam, groups might try to distract you — one person spills something on you, or another asks for directions while someone else tries to take your belongings. Less frequently, fake police officers approach tourists to check their documents and foreign currency and rob them. If you ever doubt someone claiming to be a police officer, kindly ask to see their badge.
Before you travel to Amsterdam, it’s a smart idea to bring a photocopy or a digital copy of your passport. That way, in case of the loss or theft of an identification document, you’ll at least have some kind of identification to show the authorities. If loss/theft happens, head to the U.S. Embassy in Amsterdam, or your country’s embassy if you’re from a different place. They can help you sort things out and get you a new passport.
In Amsterdam, be extra careful when others handle your cards. Stick to using ATMs inside banks or malls, and steer clear of card readers that seem a bit different than what you’re used to. When entering your PIN, cover the keypad and make it a habit to regularly check your bank account for any transactions you didn’t authorize.
Yes, cybercrime may happen in Amsterdam. Hackers might try to snatch your credit card or personal info by messing with public Wi-Fi networks. It’s safer to skip public Wi-Fi and avoid buying stuff on unsecured websites.
In a place where cannabis is legal for everyone, there’s a risk someone might offer you food or a drink, claiming it has cannabis. But beware, it might actually have a stronger narcotic that can make you unconscious and put you at risk of harm. To stay safe, never leave your food or drinks with strangers, and don’t accept snacks or drinks from people you don’t know. Also, avoid buying cannabis-related items from unlicensed shops.
Sometimes there are demonstrations in Amsterdam, and they can mess up traffic and public transport. Most are peaceful, but they can be unpredictable and turn violent. It’s best to steer clear of places where these gatherings take place. Instead, keep an eye on the local news for updates about demonstrations and act accordingly.
The tap water in Amsterdam is considered one of the best globally. Rigorous checks and regulations ensure it’s pure and clean, so there’s really no need to buy bottled water.
Safe Trip, or, Goede Reis!
Before you head to Amsterdam, look over your country’s travel guidelines for the Netherlands, just to stay in the loop. In any case, Amsterdam is ranked the 6th safest city in the world, so you’re in good hands!
When you explore, enjoy the sights, and keep your belongings close. No need to carry more cash than necessary. Watch out for pickpockets in busy tourist spots—other than that, you can enjoy Amsterdam safely. Have a fantastic trip!
