Amsterdam Alone: Solo Trip Guide For Women + Map

Planning a solo trip to Amsterdam and concerned about safety? One of the biggest questions I had before my journey was: Is Amsterdam safe for solo female travellers?

Absolutely, Amsterdam is a secure destination for females traveling solo. I can vouch for this, having journeyed to Amsterdam alone on three separate occasions over the last decade.

Based on my travel experiences, I assess places on various factors like safety, friendliness, culture, and overall atmosphere. Consistently, the Netherlands ranks at the top of my list.

If you’re considering your first solo adventure, a trip to Amsterdam is an excellent choice.

Let me help you plan a perfect stay in Amsterdam and inspire you to visit!

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Should I Go Alone To Amsterdam?

Solo travel, in general, has so many benefits. I use solo travel as a sort of therapy or mental health check-in. It didn’t always start as something that I loved, but rather something that made me feel sad.

Once I flipped the switch in my head about being “alone,” the world opened up.

I write a lot about how solo traveling changed my life. If you find yourself curious, even just a little, I urge you to read more.

But, as for Amsterdam, it is perfect for your solo trip for several reasons.

Is Amsterdam Safe for Female Tourists?

Amsterdam is definitely safe for solo female travelers. When visiting any city solo, my main concern is, “will I feel safe”? I mean, who would want to visit a destination where they felt insecure, with their guard up all the time?

That is why I am so happy to report, that Amsterdam is safe! It is one of those laid-back cities that checks all the boxes. I experienced Amsterdam as a safe place.

Of course, there are some areas considered “iffy” and not a great idea to hang around in. Avoid the Biljmer as well as most areas of the Bos and Lommer neighborhoods.

If you are a solo female traveling and still undecided about where to go, keep in mind Amsterdam is a smooth start for beginner solo travelers.

Many bloggers will agree that Holland is one of the best places to travel alone for the first time.

Why Getting Travel Insurance Is Important

Travel insurance is often regarded as an optional expense, something to consider but not essential. This perception might be especially strong if you’re visiting a place known for its safety, like Amsterdam.

However, it’s crucial to understand that travel insurance isn’t just about covering worst-case scenarios or protecting against danger; it’s about having a financial safety net for the unforeseen.

Even in the safest destinations, unexpected situations can occur: you could fall ill, have an accident, or even face a sudden family emergency that requires immediate travel. Without insurance, the costs for medical treatment or last-minute flights could be astronomical.

Amsterdam may be one of Europe’s safest cities, but it’s not without its risks. For example, the city is known for its biking culture, and even the most experienced cyclist can have an accident.

Additionally, like any major city, it has its share of pickpockets and petty crime. Travel insurance can cover you for things like theft, loss of personal items, and even cancellations or delays with flights or accommodations.

If you were to encounter any of these issues without insurance, not only would you have to deal with the stress of the situation itself, but also the financial burden it brings.

By having a comprehensive travel insurance plan, you’re allowing yourself to fully enjoy your trip to Amsterdam, knowing you’re protected against the unpredictability of life. I love using Safety Wing for all my trips! Get a quote in seconds!

Tips for Solo Female Travelers in Amsterdam

1. Research your area before visiting– familiarize yourself with the city and its neighborhoods. Make sure you know where the safest areas are, especially at night.

2. Stay in a hotel in the best neighborhood. Amsterdam is expensive when it comes to accommodations, but it is worth saving a little extra money and spending it on a nice hotel.

3. Don’t carry around too much cash or valuable items – keep your valuables in a hotel safe or lockers at the hostel. You can use credit cards everywhere in Amsterdam.

4. Make sure to keep your copy of your passport and important documents with you at all times, but make sure they are not visible to others. I take pictures of these things and have them on my phone.

5. Don’t accept drinks from strangers; it can be easy for someone to slip something into them. This sounds obvious, but when you are on vacation your guard comes down.

6. Avoid walking alone at night and stick to well-lit areas. I also don’t have more than 2 drinks at night when I am traveling solo.

7. Be aware of pickpockets and scams. Don’t show off your cash or be too trusting of strangers. The busier the area, such as train stations, are the areas to pay closer attention to your wallet.

8. Make sure to always keep your phone charged and connected in case of an emergency. Pack a portable charger just in case you can’t find a place to charge it. I like this one since it attaches to your phone with no extra cords!

Is it Safe in the Infamous Red Light District?

I suppose you can’t write a city guide for the Dutch capital of Amsterdam without talking about the infamous Red Light District. If you don’t know anything about the Red Light District, let me give you a brief overview.

The red-light streets contain businesses with legal prostitution. You can walk down the streets and view a variety of sex-driven displays in-store windows. Often the women working in the shops are advertising themselves as open for business.

There is NO PHOTOGRAPHY allowed on these streets and no open alcohol containers. For obvious, you could understand why.

You could be surprised to know that I found the area to be very safe and orderly. Other bloggers seem to agree if you do more research on this area.

If you are interested in seeing live shows or visiting the historical museum, do a bit more research on tickets and reservation policies. A self-guided walking tour is also encouraged.

Even if you are a solo traveler in Amsterdam, I would suggest having a look if you are curious.

❗️Worried about exploring the Red Light District alone? I get it! I recommend joining this tour of the Red Light District!

Fast Facts for Amsterdam

Currency: Euro
Average Summer Temperatures: 22 / 13 degrees Celsius
Average Winter Temperatures: 6 / 0 degrees Celcius
Language Spoken: Dutch
Airport to City Center Travel Time: 15 minutes
Crime Report: according to Numbeo

How to Get Around Amsterdam Solo

When traveling to Amsterdam alone, don’t fear public transport! I found it to be very well-organized and convenient.

It is one of the main factors I consider Amsterdam to be a great city that is very well-suited for first-time solo travelers.

If you are going to be in Amsterdam for more than 3 days, I highly recommend getting a Go City Card.

💰 Solo Travel Time & Money Saving Tip: The best way to explore the inner city of Amsterdam is by getting the GO CITY Amsterdam City Card! Gain FREE entrance to many museums and ALL public transport within the city limits!

Solo Travel To Amsterdam

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Transit from Schipol Airport to Amsterdam City Center

I know when traveling solo it can be a little daunting to arrive in a new city alone. This is why I always research my transit options ahead of time.

When arriving by plane reaching the center of Amsterdam, there are two choices:

• A taxi is an option that I advise against unless you are coming with a million bags. Traveling by taxi will cost will vary, but you could pay up to 50€.
• The train is my favorite mode of transportation! This option is affordable at 4.60€ and takes about 20 mins to get into the Amsterdam Centraal Station. Get the Travel Ticket for 1-3 days.

*Trains don’t run from the airport between midnight and 5 am so you will need to take a taxi.

It’s possible if you arrive in Amsterdam by train, you may be able to walk to your hotel.

If your hotel is a bit too far to walk, there are several trams to take you and your belongings.

I did purchase the three-day public transport pass upon arriving; I used it quite often.

When Should You Visit Amsterdam Alone?

Looking for the best time to visit Amsterdam on a solo trip? Anytime is a good time to come to Amsterdam!

Amsterdam attracts a crowd year round as it’s a great city for celebratory events such as birthdays.

I recommend you create a 3 day Amsterdam itinerary in the summer months. You’ll encounter more solo travelers which is a nice opportunity to make friends and join tours.

Things To Do in Amsterdam On Your Own

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Daytime Ideas

For a first-time solo traveler in Amsterdam, there is no shortage of things to do! This city is packed with so much cultural diversity that it is hard not to define it as a first-time solo traveler paradise.

One of the best ways to ensure you see everything on your Amsterdam itinerary is by jumping on a Hop-on-Hop bus!

And of course, there are lots to see on the ground such as historical museums and landmarks!

If you looking to meet other fellow solo travelers consider joining a tour for some of the suggestions below!

Anne Frank’s House

Anne Frank’s House If you are thinking I’ll just get tickets a couple of weeks in advance, think again. They sell out months and months in advance.

You should know that 80% of Anne Frank tickets are released exactly two months ahead of time.

The other 20% are available online on the day of the tour from 9 am. Check the site regularly and keep refreshing your screen. Don’t give up!

🎟️ Tickets: Anne Frank’s House & 🚶‍♀️Walking Tour: Jewish Quarter Tour Tickets

Jewish Culture Private Walking Tour

This 3-hour walking tour starts at Anne Frank’s House but DOES NOT tour the house. On this private walking tour of the Jewish Quarter, you will be visiting key areas in Amsterdam with a professional tour guide.

The tour commentary will be focused on the story of Anne Frank and the part the Netherlands played in the Second World War.

Visit the Portuguese Synagogue, the Jewish Museum, and all the important Jewish landmarks.

🚶‍♀️TICKETS: Private Jewish Culture Walking Tour

Solo Trip to the Van Gogh Museum

Van Gogh Museum Getting tickets to Van Gogh is far more reasonable than tickets to Anne Frank’s House. Often you can go on the same day.

The website has tickets available for purchase for 13 euros.

You can really spend a day wandering between Van Gogh’s Museum and Rijksmuseum.

🎟️ TICKETS: Van Gough Museum including Canal Cruise

Rijksmuseum

Rijksmuseum is the Dutch National Museum that entails arts, and history and has a fair number of Van Gogh’s paintings too. You will find the Rijksmuseum in the historical museum square. The entrance tickets can be purchased online without much of a hassle.

Stedelijk Museum

Love modern and contemporary art? Don’t miss a trip to the Stedelijk Museum! The collections here encompass art and design from the early 20th century!

Most famously artists such as Van Gough, Andy Warhol and Willem de Kooning are here.

Plantage Amsterdam

Plantage Amsterdam– The Plantage is a large green space and luscious park located in the center of Amsterdam. It is here that you will find the zoo and botanical gardens.

If you join a bike tour, you will likely come through this area. Plantage is a great place to enjoy some quiet time on your solo trip. An idea would be to go here with a good book or journal.

Best Canal Tour of Amsterdam For Solos

One of the best things to do solo in Amsterdam is to go on a canal tour, like this one. This Flagship Canal Cruise in a classic boat includes unlimited drinks of wine, beer, and soft drinks AND some Dutch cheese.

The hour-long canal cruise will take you on a guided tour through all of the hot spots in Amsterdam including, Anne Frank’s house, Rijksmuseum, and St. Nicholas Basilica!

Worried about being alone on a boat full of couples and groups?! You need to change your mindset. The reason you are a solo traveller in Amsterdam is to enjoy the world and treat yourself.

I promise you will meet people more when traveling alone than with anyone else. A canal tour is the perfect place to be social in a new city!

Remember, to do what you want on your trip, don’t let the “what would someone else think” determine your good time.

🚣‍♀️ TICKETS: Grab Tickets for Canal Tour

Best Bike Tours for Solo Travellers in Amsterdam

In a city of 847,000 bikes, how could you not try a bike tour!? Well, unless you are someone who has never ridden a bike, then think again!

I won’t lie to you; it can be a little stressful on spots of the tour. You are riding on the road with other local bikers and cars. If you want to feel like a local, I recommend it.

My favorite bike tour in Amsterdam takes you to all the back streets and hidden gems of the city. The 3-hour city tour costs 37 dollars, and it is my preferred tour alternative. The guide was personable, friendly, and knowledgeable.

You can easily rent bikes by the day if you are feeling like a self-guided experience!

🚴‍♀️ TICKETS: Get Bike Tour Tickets Here!

Best of What to Do Solo in Amsterdam At Night

Visit the “Coffee Shops” in Amsterdam

If you are visiting Amsterdam solo you might wonder if you should visit a “coffee shop”?

In Amsterdam, a coffee shop doesn’t just serve coffee, coffee houses do… In a coffee shop, you can expect a unique and relaxed experience that combines the enjoyment of coffee, socializing, and the legal consumption of cannabis.

Coffee Shops in Amsterdam primarily refer to establishments where cannabis can be purchased and consumed, and they are different from traditional cafés that serve coffee and food.

Here’s what you can generally expect when visiting a coffee shop in Amsterdam:

1. Welcoming Atmosphere: Coffee shops in Amsterdam tend to have a laid-back and friendly atmosphere.
2. Menu Selection: Coffee shops typically offer an extensive menu of cannabis strains, including various types of marijuana and hashish. Some coffee shops also provide edible cannabis products and pre-rolled joints.
3. Knowledgeable Staff: The staff members at coffee shops are usually well-informed about the different cannabis strains and products they offer.
4. Smoking and Consumption: Most coffee shops have designated smoking areas where visitors can consume their cannabis products.
5. Non-Cannabis Offerings: I personally don’t care for cannabis, but I knew I wanted to visit a coffee shop for the experience of it all. Many coffee shops also serve a variety of non-alcoholic beverages, such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, and juices.

Legal Requirements

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While cannabis is legally available for purchase and consumption in coffee shops in the Netherlands, there are specific regulations to be aware of. You must be at least 18 years old to enter a coffee shop, and proof of age may be required.

It’s important to note that public smoking of cannabis is generally prohibited, and it’s recommended to consume cannabis products within the designated areas of the coffee shop.

 Evening Canal Cruise

If you want to spend your daytime visiting museums you can save your canal cruise for the evening!

Personally, I think the best time to do a small group tour on the canal is at night! It is a great way to see the city all lit up as you cruise along the different neighborhoods through the canals of Amsterdam.

🎟️ TICKETS: Evening Canal Cruise Tickets

Go Find Live Music

A fun way to experience Amsterdam at night is to go find a live music show! Amsterdam is full of great spots offering concerts from local performers.

Patronaat, Haarlem is a spot where you will find all kinds of music such as hip hop, rock, country, and alternative.

For more of a club scene, check out Warehouse Elementenstraat! Here you will find music from the best DJs featuring house, techno, and electronica music.

Best of Where to Eat Solo in Amsterdam

Are You a Solo Traveling Foodie?

I believe in having a list of places to eat researched and mapped out before you land. Nothing can sour the day for me like having a bad overpriced meal while away.

Now I understand that eating alone in a new city can be intimidating, so I chose the list of restaurants below based on my experience of how welcoming they felt.

Lunch & Dinner

Seafood Bar Spui

Seafood Bar Spui is located center of Amsterdam. If you are a seafood lover, put this on your list.

The restaurant is large, so you may not need to book ahead, but in summer, you might want to.

I sat in the bar area, which made it feel super casual and comfortable.

Pastini

Pastini might be the best Italian food I’ve ever had!! Here is a quaint little restaurant serving up fresh and flavorful dishes.

I’m confident that it would satisfy even a jaded palate. Try literally any of the pasta dishes! So good!

Cafe Modern

Cafe Modern is a must-try restaurant when visiting the Noord. It is located just north of Amsterdam Central station in the Amsterdam Noord, by taking the free 5 min ferry.

Cafe Modern will be full of surprises, with a seasonally inspired menu.

Vegan Junk Food Bar

Vegan Junk Food Bar has several locations and is worth seeking out! I had the “bitter balls” curry style. So good, I had a second order.

Another must-try is the plant-based burger, which is soy-free, and made with Beyond Meat!

Pacific

At Pacific, you can have breakfast through to dinner. If you are looking for variety, this place has you covered!

Lots of vegetarian and vegan options can be found here! Pacific is located on the west side of the city!

De Plantage

De Plantage is such a beautiful restaurant! Located in the lovely Plantage area, this place has something for everyone!

No matter what time of day, you can eat here at De Plantage. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner!

Cafes

Pluk

Pluk Amsterdam is half store half coffee shop! But, when I say a coffee shop, I mean a cafe. Just actual coffee and pastry!

If you are shopping around The 9 Streets, you should stop here. Indulge in cupcakes and cappuccino!

Breweries

Looking for Breweries in Amsterdam? If you are a beer drinker you are in for a big treat!

Brouwerij ‘t IJ

Located in an old windmill (I love it already) Brouwerij ‘t IJ is one of the most popular breweries in Amsterdam.

Could be a great spot for solo travelers to meet other solo travelers!

Brouwerij de Prael

Another great spot for beer in Amsterdam is Brouwerij de Prael! This microbrew is located on the western side of Amsterdam and draws a decent crowd.

Best known for milk stouts and pales ales!

Where to Stay Solo in Amsterdam

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If you don’t already know, let me be the first to tell you. Amsterdam is expensive! Staying in the most central part of Amsterdam might just cost you an arm and a leg. It can really make or break your budget when picking hotels and hostels.

Here is where public transport links come into play. It is perfectly acceptable to stay a little outside of the centre of Amsterdam. In some cases, depending on your budget will be necessary.

Never have I visited a place quite like Amsterdam! Every neighborhood had a unique vibe and charming feel.

Best Boutique Hotels in Amsterdam

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Pulitzer Amsterdam

Pulitzer Amsterdam is a swanky five-star hotel occupying two renovated 17th and 18th-century houses. It is located on the canal not too far from Anne Frank’s House! This hotel is my ultimate favorite.

The hotel features a range of elegant and contemporary accommodation options including Superior, Deluxe, and Suite rooms as well as Executive Apartments.

Other Boutique Hotels In Amsterdam

• The Hoxton is perfect for those looking for a modern and luxurious stay in Amsterdam.
• Highland House in Amsterdam is great for solo female travelers who want to maximize their travel experience.

Best Budget Hotels Safe for Solo Females

• Urban Vibes Guesthouse is a stylishly decorated, modern, and vibrant guesthouse located near the city centre.
• A-Train Hotel is a great choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay while visiting the city.

Best Hostels in Amsterdam

Finding a cheap hotel room in Amsterdam is not that easy, even in the off-season, it can be a little more expensive than other European destinations.

Have a look at all the great hostel options in Amsterdam by clicking here.

Best Destinations For Solo Trip Nearby Amsterdam

After your visit to Amsterdam, you might be looking for your next destination?! As I mentioned at the start of the post, the public transport in the area is fantastic.

The Netherlands borders Germany and would be a lovely place for you to travel to next! Take the train or rent a car and head to Bremen! It is the perfect next stop for solo female travellers!

I can suggest the Most Idyllic Small German Towns, all reachable by train. Each place will offer you a safe environment with lots to explore!

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Conclusion: Solo Travel Amsterdam

So, there you have it, folks! I absolutely fell in love with Amsterdam and I can’t recommend it enough for solo female travellers out there. Whether it’s your first time hitting the road alone or you’re a solo travel pro, this city’s got something special for everyone.

Trust me, from the dreamy canals to the buzzing street life, you’re gonna have the time of your life!

Got questions about safety or how to plan your solo trip to Amsterdam? Feel free to hit me up! I’m more than happy to share tips and answer any questions you’ve got. Safe travels!

Amsterdam Solo Travel Female FAQs