Is Amsterdam Safe for Tourists and Expats?

How safe is Amsterdam?

Many people visit and live in Amsterdam without experiencing serious crime. Still, it is misleading to say that every street or situation is equally safe. Crowded tourist areas, transport hubs and nightlife districts bring different risks from quieter residential streets, and circumstances can change by time of day.

Amsterdam’s municipal research assesses safety at neighbourhood level using several measures, including recorded crime, nuisance and how safe residents feel. The city’s 2026 summary reported that recorded crime decreased slightly from 2024 to 2025, while reported victimisation and nuisance increased. These measures describe different aspects of safety and should not be reduced to a single claim that the whole city is either safe or dangerous.

Official data: Amsterdam safety figures and the municipality’s neighbourhood Safety Index.

Common safety risks to know about

1. Pickpocketing and bag theft

Be attentive in crowded streets, markets, stations, queues and busy public transport. Keep your phone and wallet in a secure pocket or closed bag, avoid placing valuables on café tables, and never leave luggage unattended.

2. Bicycle theft and cycling hazards

Bicycles are a major part of Amsterdam’s transport system, so pay attention when crossing cycle lanes. Look both ways before stepping onto a cycle path, avoid walking while looking at your phone, and do not assume a cyclist will stop. If you rent or own a bicycle, use a sturdy lock and follow the rental provider’s security advice.

3. Nightlife and alcohol-related situations

Busy nightlife streets can involve crowding, intoxication, arguments and opportunistic theft. Keep an eye on your drink, stay with trusted companions where possible, know your route back and leave if a situation feels uncomfortable. Be cautious of unsolicited offers, pressure to enter venues or unclear prices.

4. Scams and transport problems

Check prices before agreeing to a service, use reputable transport options and official ticket channels, and be wary of strangers creating pressure or asking you to hand over your phone, bank card or valuables. If you are unsure, step away and seek help from a staffed location.

5. Canals and water

Canal edges may be difficult to see at night or in poor weather. Keep a safe distance from the edge, especially after drinking, and supervise children closely near the water.

Choosing an area to stay or live

Amsterdam has a wide range of neighbourhoods, from the historic centre and canal belt to residential districts in Noord, Oost, Zuid, West and Nieuw-West. Each has a different atmosphere, level of activity and transport access. Do not treat a neighbourhood’s reputation as a guarantee of safety: conditions can differ from one street to the next.

• Historic centre and nightlife areas: convenient for major sights and evening venues, but can be crowded and noisy, with more opportunities for opportunistic theft.
• Residential areas: may feel calmer at certain times, but still require normal precautions and checking your specific route and surroundings.
• Areas farther from the centre: compare transit frequency, the walk between stops and your accommodation, lighting and late-night travel options before booking.

For a more evidence-based comparison, consult the City of Amsterdam’s Safety Index, which compares neighbourhoods across multiple safety measures, and the official district and neighbourhood guide.

For neighbourhood descriptions and visitor information, see I amsterdam’s neighbourhood guide.

Safety tips for tourists

• Carry only the cards, cash and documents you need for the day; keep backups separate.
• Use a closed bag and keep it where you can see or feel it in crowds.
• Save your accommodation address and keep your phone charged.
• Use official ticketing and transport information; check prices before accepting a service.
• At night, choose a route you are comfortable with and use public transport or a reputable taxi option if needed.
• Stay alert around cycle lanes and tram tracks, particularly when taking photos or crossing streets.
• Keep control of your drink and belongings in bars and clubs.
• If someone pressures or distracts you, move to a busy staffed place and ask for help.

Safety advice for expats and long-term residents

For residents, everyday safety includes more than street crime. Learn how to secure your home and bicycle, understand your building’s entry arrangements, and find the local services relevant to your address. If you move to Amsterdam, the municipality’s district information can help you identify the neighbourhood and local support options.

• Lock doors and accessible windows, and do not allow unknown visitors into a shared building without a reason.
• Register your bicycle and use appropriate locks; avoid leaving it in isolated locations for long periods.
• Keep copies of important documents and know how to contact your bank if a card is lost or stolen.
• Report crime and suspicious incidents through the appropriate police channel.
• Check official city information for your neighbourhood rather than relying only on old online rankings.

Explore more practical planning pages: life in Amsterdam for expats, monthly expenses and areas to consider when choosing a home.

Emergency numbers in Amsterdam

Use the appropriate number based on urgency. If someone is in immediate danger, do not delay calling emergency services to search online.

Official contact details: Netherlands Police contact page and Government.nl emergency number guidance.

If you are unsure whether a situation is an emergency, use the official guidance and prioritise immediate safety.

Official safety resources

• Amsterdam Safety Index — neighbourhood comparisons and safety indicators.
• Public order and safety figures 2026 — city-level reporting on crime, nuisance and perceived safety.
• I amsterdam travel and stay information — practical visitor information and links to health and safety resources.
• City of Amsterdam: districts and neighbourhoods — official local area information.
• Netherlands Police — police contact and reporting information.

Safety conditions and official guidance can change. Check current information before travel, and consult local authorities for urgent or location-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions