Things to do in De Wallen (Red Light District)

Explore a secret church

On the Oudezijds Voorburgwal, you'll find one of Amsterdam's most unexpected museums. At first glance, Ons’ Lieve Heer op Solder (Our Lord in the Attic) looks like a typical 17th-century canal house, but climb up into the rafters, and you’ll discover a stunning secret church, which dates back to the Protestant Reformation of the 16th century. Catholics were persecuted for practising their faith, and were forced to go underground (or in this case, up into the attic). In addition to the hidden church, a tour through this fascinating building reveals grand chambers, living quarters and a surprising story of religious tolerance.

Dig into world history at Allard Pierson

Encompassing 10,000 years of cultural history, Allard Pierson is the archaeology museum and knowledge institute for the heritage collections of the University of Amsterdam. Taking a tour through the permanent exhibition From Nijl tot Amstel (From Nile to Amstel), you’ll encounter everything from Egyptian mummies, Greek pottery and Roman glass to Medieval bibles, Multatuli's manuscripts and plaster casts of famous classical statues. 

Marvel at art installations in the city’s oldest building

The Oude Kerk is the city’s oldest building and one of Amsterdam's youngest art institutions. In the seven or so centuries since it was founded, the church has evolved into one of the most imposing Gothic ecclesiastical buildings in northern Europe. Keep an eye on the dynamic exhibition programme to catch installations by international artists specially designed to suit the space and acoustics of the interiors. And when you’re ready for a cup of coffee and a slice of apple cake tucked away in the cloister garden, De Koffieschenkerij next door is a true local favourite.

Pick up your next read at Oudemanhuispoort Book Market

This atmospheric book market stretches along a covered alleyway (between Oudezijds Achterburgwal and Kloveniersburgwal) and is something of a hidden gem in Amsterdam. Frequented by university students and literature buffs from all walks of life, you’ll find hundreds of second-hand editions ranging in price from €1 to €100 alongside English volumes, foreign-language editions, maps, prints and sheet music.

Get your contemporary art fix at W139

Founded in 1979 in at the height of the squatting culture, W139 is a historic contemporary art space in the heart of Amsterdam. Dedicated to experimentation, artistic freedom and and collaboration, it remains a hub for intergenerational creatives looking to push boundaries in their craft. As an artist-driven platform, W139 encourages artists to be brave and bold, tackling urgent topics. In a rapidly gentrifying inner-city area, it offers a rare and important space for dissent and discussion.

Check out innovative theatre at Frascati

Together with Flemish Cultural Centre De Brakke Grond, the intimate theatre space, Frascati hosts more than 600 performances annually. Its program features small-scale avant-garde works from the Netherlands and Flanders and offers a curated glimpse into the heart of contemporary theatre. More than just a venue, Frascati is a production company that co-produces many performances and festivals every year. Since many of its productions are language no problem, the performances at Frascati are often suitable for an international crowd.

Peek behind the red curtain

As the world's oldest profession, sex work has played an important role in the history - and present - of the city. Enter into an intriguing world that remains hidden to many, uncovering the secrets of Amsterdam’s most notorious neighbourhood. The museum of sex work, Red Light Secrets, offers visitors a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the world of sex work in Amsterdam, with first-hand stories as well as photography and film. Read more about the rules and regulations regarding sex work in the Red Light District.

Experience an intimate classical concert

De Waalse Kerk (Wallonian Church) dates back to 1586 and provides an intimate setting for classical music recitals. At almost all concerts, the audience sits around the soloist or ensemble as the music reverberates through the sublime acoustics of the space. The church often collaborates with the Conservatorium of Amsterdam, so you’ll frequently be treated to performances by some of the top up-and-coming national talents.

Drink and dine in historic watering holes

Hidden down this historic neighbourhood's narrow alleys and side streets, you’ll find various dining and drinking establishments well worth snagging reservations for. Housed in the courtyard of an old monastery where herbs and spices were once kept, Restaurant Bellezza cooks up culinary works of art paired with stunning audio-visual projections. Or, for a quiet spot for bar bites and delicious cocktails, check out the living room space at Mata Hari, filled with comfortable vintage armchairs and retro chairs. For modern Italian cuisine, try Lolo Amsterdam, paired with excellent wines and innovative cocktails - not to mention its extravagantly themed interior.

Enjoy Sunday afternoon jazz at Cafe de Engelbewaarder

As the Netherlands' longest-running jazz live jazz session, a Sunday afternoon at Cafe de Engelbewaarder is a tradition in Amsterdam. Nestled along the picturesque Kloveniersburgwal, this historic brown café is renowned for its literary influences and sweeping canal-side terrace. Every Sunday afternoon, from 16:00 to 19:00, it hosts an afternoon of swinging and soulful jazz featuring both esteemed musicians and emerging talents.