Amsterdam is one of my favorite European cities. The canals, bikes, old houses, and laid-back vibe all make it feel like a one-of-a-kind place. But after reading a lot of online conversations from locals, I noticed something interesting: tourists tend to make the same mistakes over and over.
I just read a Reddit thread where people from Amsterdam talked about what they wish tourists would stop doing when they come to the city. Their advice was honest, funny at times, and very helpful.
These tips can help you enjoy Amsterdam while also being respectful of the people who live there if this is your first trip there.
Don’t walk in the bike lane
Bike lanes are the first thing that locals always talk about. There are more bikes than people in Amsterdam, and biking is one of the main ways people get around the city. Because of this, bike lanes are almost like little highways.
A lot of tourists walk into them by mistake when they are taking pictures or looking at Google Maps. One Reddit user said that if you don’t pay attention to bike lanes, “you can and will be run over.”
Bike lanes are usually marked with red pavement and bike symbols, and bikes go fast. If you only remember one thing when you go to Amsterdam, let it be this: Stay out of the bike lane unless you are actually riding a bike.
Don’t act like the Red Light District is a theme park.
One of the most well-known parts of Amsterdam is the Red Light District. A lot of tourists go there because they’re curious, but locals often complain about how people act there.
Taking pictures of the sex workers in the windows is the worst thing tourists can do. This is not allowed and is seen as very rude. In fact, if you try to take pictures, workers or security may confront you.
Another common problem is that a lot of people stand around, laugh, yell, or act like the area is an attraction. But there are real people who live in that neighborhood, including families with kids.
Be polite and quiet when you go to the Red Light District. Remember that it is still someone’s home and workplace.
Don’t make noise in public
A lot of people who live there say tourists are just too loud. Dutch culture is mostly laid-back, but people like to have quiet places to be. People who live near the canals or in residential areas really don’t like it when people yell loudly in the streets at night. Sound travels very easily because the streets are narrow and the buildings are close together.
Just keep your voice down if you’re out late at night. Amsterdam is not a theme park for parties; it is a real city where people live and work.
Don’t think everything is about weed.
Amsterdam is known for its cannabis culture, but a lot of tourists take this idea too far. Yes, it is legal to smoke cannabis in coffee shops that have a license. But that doesn’t mean you can smoke in every part of the city.
Some busy places, like parts of the city center and the Red Light District, now have rules against smoking marijuana in public places.
Another interesting thing that locals say is that most Dutch people don’t spend their time in coffee shops smoking weed. Most of the people who go to those places are tourists.
So, if you go, keep in mind that Amsterdam has a lot more to offer than just coffee shops.
Don’t ride a bike if you don’t know how
A lot of travel guides say that the best way to see Amsterdam is on a bike. That’s true, but there is a warning that goes with it. Riding a bike in Amsterdam is not the same as riding a bike in a park. There are traffic rules, signs, and busy bike lanes all over the place.
People who live there say that tourists should only rent a bike if they are sure they can ride it in traffic. You could hurt yourself or others if you don’t. It is often easier to walk or take public transportation if you are not sure.
Don’t block the street to take pictures
Amsterdam is a great place to take pictures. Every old building, bridge, and canal looks like a postcard. But people who live there often complain that tourists stop in the middle of the street or sidewalk to take pictures. This can get in the way of trams, cyclists, and pedestrians. Many places list this kind of behavior as one of the most annoying things tourists do.
You should definitely take pictures, but first step aside.
Don’t throw away trash or litter.
People in Amsterdam are proud of how clean and tidy their city is. People don’t like it when people leave trash in parks, on the street, or in canals. There are trash cans all over the city, so there is no reason not to use them. Everyone has more fun in the city when it’s clean.
Don’t swim in the canals.
The canals are pretty, and in the summer they might look nice. But it’s not a good idea to swim in them. The water quality isn’t always good, and there are a lot of boats in the canals. Because of these things, swimming is usually not allowed and sometimes not even allowed. Instead, people from the area like to swim in places outside of the city center or go to nearby beaches.
Don’t buy things that are against the law on the street.
People on the street sometimes try to sell drugs, bikes, or other things to tourists. People who live there strongly advise against this. These things are often fake or stolen, and buying them can also get you in trouble with the law. If something seems off, it probably is.
Remember that Amsterdam is a real city.
Maybe the most important thing locals can tell you is this: Amsterdam is more than just a place for tourists. Hundreds of thousands of people live their daily lives in this city. Like everyone else, they work, raise families, and try to enjoy their neighborhoods. Everyone benefits when tourists treat the city with respect.
Last thoughts
Amsterdam is one of the prettiest and friendliest cities in Europe. Most people who live there like having visitors come to their city.
But just like anywhere else, being aware can help a lot. If you remember to stay out of bike lanes, respect the neighborhoods you visit, keep the noise down, and follow local rules, you won’t only annoy the locals, but you’ll probably also have a much better trip.
And who knows? You might even start to feel like you belong there.