Oudezijds Voorburgwal Amsterdam
Iconic Amsterdam canal street, blending historic charm with the vibrant energy of the Red Light District.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful canals, fewer crowds
Oudezijds Voorburgwal Amsterdam
Best Time
Peaceful canals, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Amsterdam canal street, blending historic charm with the vibrant energy of the Red Light District.
"A beautiful canal in the heart of Red Light District. Great place for photos and just wander the streets."
🚶♀️ Peaceful Morning Walks
Enjoy the quiet canals and charming old buildings before the city gets busy. Perfect for photos!
📸 Great for Photos
The canal reflections and historic architecture make this a prime spot for memorable pictures.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canal Reflections
Along the Oudezijds Voorburgwal
Classic Amsterdam canal views with leaning houses reflected in the water. A photographer's dream!
Historic Architecture
Throughout the street
Wander past charming, centuries-old buildings that tell stories of Amsterdam's rich past.
Red Light District Ambiance
Southern end of Oudezijds Voorburgwal
Experience the unique, lively atmosphere of Amsterdam's famous district, especially vibrant at night.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Early Bird
Nighttime Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Peaceful Morning Walks
Enjoy the quiet canals and charming old buildings before the city gets busy. Perfect for photos!
📸 Great for Photos
The canal reflections and historic architecture make this a prime spot for memorable pictures.
🌃 Lively at Night
Experience the unique atmosphere of the Red Light District as it comes alive after dark.
🍜 Ramen Stop
Grab a delicious bowl of ramen at Ramen Ya, located right on the canal.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Peaceful Morning Walks
Enjoy the quiet canals and charming old buildings before the city gets busy. Perfect for photos!
📸 Great for Photos
The canal reflections and historic architecture make this a prime spot for memorable pictures.
🌃 Lively at Night
Experience the unique atmosphere of the Red Light District as it comes alive after dark.
🍜 Ramen Stop
Grab a delicious bowl of ramen at Ramen Ya, located right on the canal.
☕ Coffee Shop Culture
Explore one of Amsterdam's famous coffee shops for a unique local experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Oudezijds Voorburgwal for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, especially at night. It's a great spot for peaceful morning walks and memorable photos, though some note its location within the Red Light District. Dining options like Ramen Ya are also a highlight.
"Not far from A’DAM Lookout, I found a quiet spot by the water. Wooden benches, a wide boardwalk, pigeons pecking at the ground — and ferries going back and forth across the river.
It was one of those unplanned moments that makes a trip feel complete. Just sitting there, watching the boats, without needing to rush anywhere.
A short walk brings you to Damrak — that classic Amsterdam view you’ve probably seen in a hundred photos: leaning houses lined up along the canal, perfectly reflected in the water.
Even though it’s a tourist favourite, it still feels real when you’re there.
Later in the day, I wandered into the city center near Oudezijds Voorburgwal. More people, more bikes, and cafés opening up into the street.
It had a different energy — a bit louder, a bit livelier. And yet, still easy to walk, still easy to get lost in the best way."
Alfred Ng
"Oudezijds Voorburgwal is the perfect spot for a peaceful morning walk in Amsterdam. The quiet canals and charming old buildings make it such a scenic route to start the day. The area has a relaxed vibe early in the morning, with fewer people around, so it’s easy to just take it all in. A great way to experience the beauty of the city before it gets busy."
Abdullah Alsalamh
"Beautiful canal in the heart of Red Light District."
Paul Ciprian
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oudezijds Voorburgwal is easily accessible by public transport. You can take trams from Centraal Station to Dam Square, which is a short walk away. Many visitors also find it a pleasant walk from the station itself.
Absolutely! The entire street is very walkable, and it's best explored on foot to truly appreciate the canals and architecture.
While cycling is a quintessential Amsterdam experience, Oudezijds Voorburgwal can get very crowded, especially during peak hours. Be mindful of pedestrians and other cyclists.
The closest major stop is Dam Square, served by numerous tram lines. From there, it's a short walk to Oudezijds Voorburgwal.
Parking in the city center is notoriously difficult and expensive. It's highly recommended to use public transport or a park-and-ride facility outside the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along Oudezijds Voorburgwal is completely free and open to the public.
The street is always accessible, 24/7. However, the atmosphere and accessibility of specific establishments like coffee shops or restaurants will vary.
There are no entrance fees to walk through the Red Light District, which includes parts of Oudezijds Voorburgwal.
Yes, there are several coffee shops located on Oudezijds Voorburgwal. Be aware of their individual opening hours and rules.
To avoid the biggest crowds, aim for early mornings. Evenings can be very busy, especially on weekends.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire canal offers stunning photo opportunities, especially with the reflections of the historic buildings. Look for charming bridges and unique architectural details.
Photography of the window displays and the workers in the Red Light District is strictly prohibited and can lead to serious consequences. Be respectful and discreet.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the serene canal views. Evenings provide a different charm with the city lights reflecting on the water.
While not specific to Oudezijds Voorburgwal, many Amsterdam photography tours cover this area. You can also hire local photographers for personalized sessions.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the canal vistas. A tripod can be useful for low-light evening shots, but be mindful of space in crowded areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you'll find a variety of dining options. Ramen Ya is a popular spot for ramen, and Ivy and Bros offers a nice restaurant experience with canal views. 
You can find diverse options, from traditional Dutch snacks to international cuisine like ramen and various cafe fare.
While some restaurants can be pricey, you can find more affordable options like street food vendors or casual cafes if you explore a bit.
Yes, there are cafes and coffee shops where you can enjoy a coffee or other beverages.
Ramen Ya for ramen and Ivy and Bros for a pleasant dining experience are frequently mentioned.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the early morning for a more serene experience, focusing on the picturesque canals and architecture. There are also family-friendly dining options like Ramen Ya.
If exploring the Red Light District, it's best to do so during daylight hours and focus on the general ambiance rather than specific elements. Many other Amsterdam attractions are more explicitly geared towards children.🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Enjoy leisurely walks along the canals, pop into a coffee shop for a unique local experience, or grab a bite at one of the many eateries. The vibrant energy, especially at night, can be exhilarating, and the picturesque scenery provides endless opportunities for reflection and photography.
📸 Photographers
Early mornings provide soft, diffused light and fewer crowds, perfect for capturing the serene beauty of the canals. Evenings offer a different kind of magic with the city lights creating a warm glow on the water. Be mindful of the Red Light District's photography restrictions – focus on the architecture and canal scenes rather than the windows.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Oudezijds Voorburgwal Canals
+1Walking along the Oudezijds Voorburgwal provides a constant visual feast. You'll encounter charming bridges, houseboats, and the gentle flow of canal water. It's a place where you can truly feel the history of Amsterdam. Many visitors find it to be a peaceful escape, particularly in the early mornings, offering a serene start to the day before the city becomes bustling.
For those interested in photography, the canal offers endless opportunities. The interplay of light and shadow on the buildings, the reflections in the water, and the unique character of Amsterdam's waterways make it a photographer's paradise. Remember to be respectful of residents and other visitors while capturing the beauty of this iconic Amsterdam street.
The Red Light District Experience
Visitors often describe the Red Light District as having a lively and sometimes intense energy, particularly after dark. While it's a popular spot for exploration, it's crucial to approach it with respect and awareness. Photography of the window displays and sex workers is strictly forbidden and can lead to serious consequences.
Beyond the more controversial aspects, the Red Light District also boasts historical significance and architectural beauty. Exploring the side streets and canals within this area can reveal hidden gems and a deeper understanding of Amsterdam's complex history. Many visitors find that experiencing the district at night offers a particularly memorable, albeit different, perspective on the city.
Dining and Coffee Culture
If you're looking for a more relaxed dining experience with canal views, Ivy and Bros is a popular choice. Amsterdam's famous coffee shop culture is also present along Oudezijds Voorburgwal. These establishments offer a unique local experience, providing a place to relax and enjoy a variety of cannabis products. It's important to be aware of the rules and etiquette associated with visiting coffee shops.
Beyond these specific recommendations, the street and its surrounding alleys are dotted with numerous cafes and eateries, offering everything from quick snacks to full meals. Whether you're looking for a morning coffee, a hearty lunch, or a delightful dinner, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy your appetite.
Social
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