Is Amsterdam safe? 3 areas to avoid in Amsterdam

Is Amsterdam a safe city? Find out how safe the Dutch capital is and if there are any areas to avoid in Amsterdam.

Ivandzhelin

2 minute read

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Updated on 21 Aug 2024

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Living

Is Amsterdam a safe city? Well, the Dutch capital might have a bit of a notorious reputation, but Amsterdam is actually one of the safest cities in Europe. With a low crime rate of 28, Amsterdam is one of the best cities in the Netherlands to live in.

Like any big city, however, the Dutch capital has some areas that are more prone to crime than others. So before you start exploring homes for rent in Amsterdam, read on to learn which are the 3 areas to avoid in Amsterdam if you want to live there.

With a safety index of 71, Amsterdam is one of the safest cities in Europe. The city mainly experiences petty crime, bike theft, and drug-related offenses. Although it’s safe to live in, Amsterdam’s popularity as a tourist destination means you should keep an eye on your belongings, especially around tourist hotspots. Additionally, some neighborhoods in Amsterdam, such as Bijlmer and the city center, have higher crime rates than others.

There aren’t many areas to avoid in Amsterdam because of crime. Most neighborhoods in the city are safe and welcoming to newcomers. According to the municipality of Amsterdam, the areas with the highest number of registered crimes in Amsterdam are:

• Bijlmer-Gaasperdam (particularly Nellestein and Reigersbos/Amstel III/Bullewijk)
• Amsterdam Centrum
• Museumkwartier

Let’s see why these 3 are considered areas to avoid in Amsterdam.

Bijlmer-Gaasperdam

Located in the southeastern part of the city, the Bijlmer-Gaasperdam neighborhooods are considered areas to avoid in Amsterdam as they have the highest number of registered crimes, particularly in Nellestein and Reigersbos/Amstel III/Bullewijk. Residents in these areas report experiencing more crimes like threats and muggings than the rest of Amsterdam.

However, the Reigersbos/Amstel III/Bullewijk neighborhood has seen a significant decrease in crime over the past year, thanks to municipal programs focused on enhancing neighborhood safety and improving the overall quality of life. Nellestein is also set to undergo similar improvements in the next three years.

Amsterdam Centrum

The center of Amsterdam has a high crime rate, mostly due to pickpocketing. The area is a prime spot for stolen items, as many sights like Dam Square, Madame Tussauds, and the Central station are located there. However, as long as you’re mindful of your belongings, the center isn’t really an area to avoid in Amsterdam.

The Centrum is also home to the Red Light District, which can get rowdy at night. If you decide to visit after dark, it’s best to go with friends. Although the likelihood of experiencing crime is low, the presence of many intoxicated tourists can make you feel uncomfortable.

Museumkwartier

The Museumkwartier is where you’ll find most of Amsterdam’s museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Stedelijk Museum. Like the Centrum, pickpocketing and bike theft are potential issues, but as long as you keep a close eye on your belongings, there’s no need to avoid the area of Amsterdam. Due to its popularity with tourists, it’s better to explore housing options on smaller streets further from the museums if you’re looking for homes for rent in Amsterdam.

With a crime index of 28, Amsterdam has low crime rate. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and bike theft, largely contribute to Amsterdam’s crime rate. Bike theft is particularly common regardless of where you live. To minimize the chances of your bike being stolen, invest in 2 sturdy bike locks and always secure your bike to a rack or pole. Another tip is to buy a second-hand bike that thieves are less likely to target.

Yes, Amsterdam is safe at night. The Dutch capital has a 65% index for safety at night, with women also feeling confident walking during the late hours. Yet, it’s always best to exercise caution as Amsterdam is very popular with tourists and gets very busy. Keep in mind that some metro stations, particularly those in the center, like Rokin, Central Station, and Vijzelgracht, can get rowdy at night.