So you are thinking of doing a solo trip to Amsterdam? Right on, Amsterdam is awesome.
But is the city safe? An important question to ask for sure. Let me give you some assurance, YES! Amsterdam is safe.
Take it from me, someone who’d spend hours searching “Is Amsterdam safe for solo female travelers?” reading all the forums, asking in Facebook groups, etc.
Now, after hitting up Amsterdam solo on three different occasions over the years, I can confidently write about my experiences.
For anyone considering their first solo adventure, Amsterdam is an excellent choice. It’s an inviting city that stands out as a safe and welcoming place for solo explorers.
I’m here to guide you to the perfect Amsterdam experience and to inspire your next solo journey!
Human-written content, by me, and nearly all original images, unless stated. Posts could have affiliate links to help offset the cost of maintaining this blog. When you click on a link, we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affiliate Policy and Advertiser Disclosure for more info.
What Solo Travel to Amsterdam Is Really Like…
Being in Amsterdam is incredible. The city is so freaking charming, it’s like a dream.
Being alone here didn’t feel scary or lonely even, and I was worried about that.
Now, if you are feeling unsure or hesitant about traveling alone to the Netherlands, I get it.
Going abroad can bring up a lot of feelings and nerves. Just know it’s totally NORMAL!
When I first got to Amsterdam I was pretty relieved when I realized how small the city felt.
I wasn’t overwhelmed even though there were a lot of people, it felt very manageable.
A little warning, you need to get used to the bike culture and how fast they go on the street.
But, overall the city is a 10 out of 10!
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.
Looking for a Solo Female Travel Community?
Are you looking to be part of a tribe of like-minded travelers? As a solo travel expert since 2009, I share my travel hacks and tips inside my exclusive FREE Facebook Group. Join today!
Is Amsterdam Safe for Female Tourists?
I know I went over this, but Yes it’s a safe place, especially for solo female travelers.
Nobody wants to spend their trip feeling uneasy. Thankfully, Amsterdam is that chill city where you can wander solo with ease, ticking all the right boxes for safety and vibe.
Sure, some spots like the Biljmer and certain parts of Bos and Lommer are best avoided.
But overall, Amsterdam is a fantastic choice for first timer’s.
It’s widely recognized as one of the best spots for a first solo trip, backed by many travel bloggers.
8 Tips for Solo Female Travelers in Amsterdam
1. Research your area before visiting– familiarize yourself with the city and its neighborhoods, and get a quick visual, you can do this by using Google Maps street view. Make sure you know where the safest areas are, especially at night, for this I use Numbeo.
2. Stay in a hotel in the best neighborhood, for example, De Jordaan. 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, and after I was pickpocketed when I was solo traveling in Athens, I use Apple Pay for everything.
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 areas, 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!
Getting To Amsterdam
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.
How to Get Around Amsterdam
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!
📲 Downloadable Map of Amsterdam
📍 Download my pre-pinned Google map of all the best locations in this post!
My favorite restaurants, bars, hotels and top sights are all saved and ready to use!
👩🏻💻 Need Help Planning Your Trip? Get a customized itinerary!
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!
When Should You Visit Amsterdam Alone?
The summer is really ideal for a visit to Amsterdam. Going anytime between May and September you will have the best shot at getting some comfortable weather.
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 travelers which is a nice opportunity to make friends and join tours.
Where to Stay Solo in Amsterdam
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.
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.
Best Budget Hotels in Safe Areas
- 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 a some of the hostels in Amsterdam here.
Things To Do in Amsterdam On Your Own
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 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 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
Van Gogh Museum
Van Gogh Museum Getting tickets to Van Gogh is far more reasonable. 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.
My Favorite Canal Tour in Amsterdam
One of the best things to do alone 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 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 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!
Things to Do 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, they don’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.
Legal Requirements
While cannabis is legally available for purchase and consumption 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.
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.
Check Out The 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.
- Brouwerij de Prael- One of my favorite places for beer in Amsterdam is Brouwerij de Prael! This microbrew is located on the western side of Amsterdam and draws a decent crowd.
Best Destinations Nearby Amsterdam
After you visit 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!
Stay in touch and join the monthly newsletter below! If ever you have any questions, be sure to reach out to me on the Contact page!
Wrapping Up
So, there you have it, folks! I absolutely fell in love with Amsterdam and I can’t recommend it enough for 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 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!
Looking For A Solo Travel Community?
It’s all about community! There is something here for everyone, whether you are just getting started or consider yourself a veteran solo traveler.
Find support, inspiration, and friendship by joining our community!
this is a great guide – thank you! I just referred to a friend who is going to Amsterdam next week for vacation.
I totally agree, Holland is an excellent place for solo travelers to strike out on their own for the first time. One of my favorite places to visit!
Wow, the vegan junk food bar sounds like a dream! Amsterdam is definitely on my list!
Sounds like a wonderful time and amazing for your fiat solo trip
European cities are always nice for solo travellers
I’ve never considered Holland as a solo female trip place. Thanks for this angle 🙂
So many great ideas on things to do in and see in Amsterdam! I love that city and after 3 visits I still cant get enough. Will check out one of your hotel recs next time for sure 🙂
Amsterdam is one of the best cities in the world! I also have always felt safe when just in Amsterdam! Thanks for the great guide.
What a great guide for a solo female! I went to Amsterdam solo in 2018 and I will be returning this summer so this guide was great, going to check out a few spots you mentioned!
Great layout! And I love the fun details you add in your posts 🙂
Not to mention that the article you wrote was fantastic. Easy to read and full of detail!
I’ve never traveled solo but it’s so nice to know that Amsterdam would give me a friendly start! Thanks for sharing, will be sure to keep in my back pocket for later.
Funny enough, I have been to Amsterdam twice in my twenties and haven’t ticked many boxes on things to do there (not even Anna Frank’s House, boohhh me). You made me want to visit again and make up for my past lazy behaviour. >D
Sooo many great ideas for a trip to Amsterdam and I loved all your advice for solo travellers too 🙂
Lovely article! Really enjoyed the description and I can imagine how much of fun it will be to travel solo to Amsterdam. After my solo trip to Prague I’ve loved the idea of exploring a place alone. I’ve visited Amsterdam with my husband but maybe one day I’ll like to make a solo trip there 🙂
You are so brave to travel solo. Love cycling so amsterdam is on my travel list. Thanks!
I really want to go back to Amsterdam as I loved the Van Gogh museum and MOCO! I will definitely save your restaurant recommendations as they look amazing!
I have read many blogs and even came across many articles that explain and describe the solo travelling by male travelers. However this is the first blog that I have came across that explains and tells us different aspects of solo travelling done by a female traveler. It has even encouraged me to opt for solo travelling and plan a trip to Amsterdam because it is easily accessible and safe for females. I just want to know more about applying for a Netherlands visa appointment so that I can get a visa for my travelling.
Hey Carby! I don’t have experience with getting a visa in the Netherlands, however I do with Germany. Germany has a lot of options to consider. Have a look at my post about getting the German Freelance visa!