Amsterdam Fun Facts That Will Blow Your Mind

Top 36 Amsterdam Fun Facts

This list contains 36 interesting Amsterdam fun facts you probably didn’t know about.

1 | The Red Light District has 4,465 residents

The Amsterdam Red Light District is one of the most unique and renowned neighborhoods in the city. It is home to a wide variety of businesses, including hotels, restaurants, shops, and, of course, its infamous windows with Sexarbeiterinnen. The Red Light District is also home to a significant number of inhabitants, many of whom have been living there for years. In total, there are 4,465 residents who call the Red Light District home. That number may seem small, but it includes a diverse range of people from all walks of life. From sex workers to business owners, the inhabitants of the Red Light District are as varied as they are fascinating. Thanks to its residents, the Red Light District is an incredibly vibrant and lively neighborhood.

2 | Amsterdam has 8 windmills and 165 canals

Amsterdam is a city of windmills and canals. There are eight windmills in Amsterdam, and 165 canals. The windmills are used to pump water out of the canals, and the canals are used for transportation and irrigation. Amsterdam is also home to the world’s oldest stock exchange, the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, which was founded in 1602. The city is also home to the Netherlands’ largest university, the University of Amsterdam. Amsterdam is a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors each year. The city is known for its museums, including the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum, as well as its nightlife and cafes. Amsterdam is also a popular destination for cyclists, with over 800 kilometers of bike lanes.

3 | Window workers in Amsterdam pay 150 – 200 euro per night to rent a window brothel

If you’re looking for some paid companionship in Amsterdam, you’ll likely find yourself frequenting one of the city’s famous window brothels. These brothels are rentable spaces where sex workers can ply their trade, and they typically charge between 150 and 200 euros per night. This may seem like a lot, but it’s important to remember that sex workers also have to charge their clients for their time and services. In general, prices start at around 50 euros, though this can vary depending on the worker’s services and negotiation with the client. All in all, it’s important to remember that these window prostitute prices are just the starting point – be prepared to haggle or pay more depending on what you’re looking for.

4 | Amsterdam’s Red Light District is called De Wallen in Dutch

De Wallen, Amsterdam’s infamous red light district, is a series of narrow streets and alleys lined with small one-room apartments known as “windows.” These windows are usually occupied by a single woman advertising her services, and are lit up with red lights to signal that they are in business. De Wallen is thought to date back to the 14th century, when it was first established as a fishing village. It wasn’t until the 17th century that it began to develop into the red light district we know today. The number of window brothels has fluctuated over the years, but there are currently an estimated 288 in De Wallen. While some people view the district as a seedy and dangerous place, others see it as a historic and unique part of Amsterdam’s identity. Whatever your opinion, De Wallen is sure to leave a lasting impression.

5 | Femke Halsema is the first female mayor of Amsterdam

Femke Halsema is the current mayor of Amsterdam, and the first woman to hold the position. She was born in 1966 and grew up in the city, attending the University of Amsterdam. After graduation, she worked as a lawyer and then as a member of the Dutch Parliament. In 2003, she was elected to the Amsterdam City Council, and she has been active in city politics ever since. In 2018, she was elected mayor, and she has been working to improve the quality of life for all Amsterdam residents. Femke Halsema is a strong leader who is committed to making her city a better place for everyone.

6 | World’s first gay marriage took place on April 1st, 2001 in Amsterdam

On April 1st, 2001, world’s first gay marriage took place in Amsterdam. The couple who got married was Rob Kaysen and Coert Kolff. The mayor of Amsterdam officiated the ceremony. The first gay marriage was a milestone not just for the LGBT community but also for the whole world. It showed that love is love, and that marriage should be available to everyone, regardless of their sexuality. The couple who got married that day made history, and their act of love will be remembered forever.

7 | Amsterdam has 164 (cannabis) coffeeshops

Amsterdam is well known for its cannabis coffeeshops, and there are a total of 164 coffeeshops spread throughout the city. 14 of these are located in the Red Light District area, making it a popular destination for cannabis users. The coffeeshops in Amsterdam are highly regulated, and only sell cannabis to people over the age of 18. Cannabis use is also prohibited in public places, so smokers must consume their cannabis inside the coffeeshop. These strict regulations have helped to ensure that Amsterdam’s cannabis coffeeshops are safe and welcoming environments for both locals and visitors.

8 | In 2019, 11% of all jobs in Amsterdam were in tourism. (source)

In 2019, Amsterdam was one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Nearly 18 million visitors came to the city, and tourism generated over €9 billion in revenue. As a result, the tourism industry is a major source of employment for city residents. According to the Amsterdam Tourism Board, nearly 11% of all jobs in the city are directly or indirectly related to tourism. In other words; one out of nine people worked in the tourism-industry. This includes jobs in hospitality, transportation, retail, and other sectors. In other words, one out of every nine jobs in Amsterdam is in the tourism industry. With such a large number of jobs depending on visitors, it is crucial that the city continue to attract tourists from all over the world.

9 | The oldest building in Amsterdam is The Old Church

Amsterdam is a city with a rich history dating back centuries, and this is reflected in its architecture. The Alte Kirche (Oude Kerk) – or De Oude Kerk in Dutch – is the city’s oldest building, and it stands in the middle of the Red Light District. The church was originally built in the 13th century, and it has been through a lot in its 800-year history. It has been damaged by fire, rebuilt, and even used as a stable at one point. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, and it is also used for concerts and other events. Even if you’re not religious, the Old Church is worth a visit for its historical significance.

10 | Ocean’s Twelve was recorded in Amsterdam. In the film George Clooney’s team wants to steal shares of the Dutch East India Company. One of the scenes took place in coffeeshop De Dampkring. (source)

Ocean’s Twelve is a 2004 American heist comedy film directed by Steven Soderbergh. The sequel to Ocean’s Eleven (2001), the film stars an ensemble cast including Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Andy García, Julia Roberts, and George Clooney. A heist takes them to Amsterdam, Rome, and Paris.

One of the scenes in Ocean’s Twelve was filmed in De Dampkring, a coffeeshop located in Amsterdam. In the scene, Clooney’s character meets with one of his henchmen inside the coffeeshop. This particular coffeeshop is famous for its relaxed atmosphere and its wide selection of cannabis strains.

11 | The Trompettersteeg is narrowest alley of Amsterdam. It is 75 cm wide and is located in the Red Light District. (source)

The narrowest alley in Amsterdam is the Trompettersteeg, which is just 75 cm wide. It’s located in the Red Light District, so it’s probably not surprising that it’s one of the narrowest streets in the city. Despite its narrow width, the Trompettersteeg is a busy street with plenty of foot traffic. So if you’re looking for a quiet, peaceful place to stroll, this isn’t the street for you. But if you want to experience some of the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, the Trompettersteeg is definitely worth a visit.

12 | The minimum age to use cannabis in the Netherlands is 18. (Dutch source)

The legal age for using cannabis in the Netherlands is 18. This is lower than the legal age for alcohol and tobacco, which is 21. The Dutch government has set the legal age for cannabis use at 18 in order to reduce harm to young people. Cannabis use can lead to mental health problems, such as anxiety and paranoia, and it can also interfere with brain development. The Dutch government hopes that by setting the legal age at 18, young people will be less likely to start using cannabis. However, it is important to note that the legal age for buying and selling cannabis is 21. This means that even if you are over 18, you will not be able to buy cannabis from a coffee shop.

13 | Coffeeshops are not allowed to sell more than 5 grams of cannabis per person. (source)

Coffeeshops in the Netherlands are not allowed to sell more than 5 grams of cannabis per person. This maximum amount is set by the Dutch government in order to prevent people from selling cannabis to minors. However, many coffeeshops do not strictly enforce this rule, and some even sell cannabis in bulk. As a result, it is important to be aware of the maximum amount that you are allowed to purchase before entering a coffeeshop. Otherwise, you may end up with more cannabis than you can legally consume.

14 | The oldest house in Amsterdam is a gay club. (source)

15 | The minimum age to work as a window prostitute in Amsterdam Red Light District is 21. (source)

In Amsterdam’s Red Light District, the minimum age for a window prostitute is 21. This is higher than the minimum age for other types of prostitution in the Netherlands, which is 18. The reasons for this are not entirely clear, but it may be due to the fact that Amsterdam’s Red Light District is a major tourist attraction. As a result, there are concerns that younger prostitutes may be more likely to be exploited by pimps or customers. There is also a concern that younger prostitutes may be more vulnerable to coercion and violence. Whatever the reasons, the minimum age for window prostitution in Amsterdam’s Red Light District is 21.

16 | In coffeeshops in Amsterdam it is not allowed to smoke tobacco. (source)

Since the early 1990s, Amsterdam coffeeshops have been renowned for their relaxed atmosphere and tolerant attitude towards drug use. However, in recent years there has been a change in policy regarding tobacco smoking. In an effort to reduce health risks, many coffeeshops now prohibit patrons from smoking tobacco. While this ban may be troublesome for some smokers, it is generally well-received by the majority of coffee shop visitors. Non-smokers appreciate being able to enjoy their experience without being subjected to second-hand smoke, and many smokers find that they enjoy cannabis more when it is not mixed with tobacco. As a result of these changes, Amsterdam coffeeshops are now cleaner and healthier environments for everyone to enjoy.

17 | The first condom shop in the world is located in Amsterdam’s Red Light District.

Condomerie is a unique shop located in the Red Light District of Amsterdam. As the world’s first condom shop, it has been providing customers with high-quality condoms and sexual health information for over 30 years. Condomerie stocks a wide range of condoms, from basic latex varieties to more exotic options like flavoured and glow-in-the-dark varieties. They also sell a variety of lubricants, sexual health products, and books on sexual health and pleasure. In addition to being a source of high-quality condoms, Condomerie is also a valuable resource for sexual health information. The knowledgeable staff are always happy to answer questions and provide advice on everything from safer sex practices to choosing the right condom size. Whether you’re looking for a new type of condom or just need some advice on sexual health, Condomerie is the perfect place to start.

18 | STD-testing for sex workers in Amsterdam are not mandatory. (source)

STD testing for sex workers in Amsterdam is not mandatory. However, many sex workers choose to get STD tests on a regular basis. STD tests can help to identify infections early, before they have a chance to cause serious damage. STD tests can also help to prevent the spread of infection by identifying carriers who may be unaware of their status. In addition, STD testing can provide peace of mind for both sex workers and their clients. Although STD testing is not required in Amsterdam, it is highly recommended for those who are sexually active.

19 | The oldest non-religious building of Amsterdam is De Waag.

20 | The first coffeeshop in Amsterdam – Mellow Yellow – was founded in 1972.

21 | The former CEO of Heineken (Freddy Heineken) was kidnapped in 1983 by an infamous criminal

Willem Holleeder is one of the Netherlands’ most notorious criminals. Although he has been active in criminal activity since the early 1980s, he achieved notoriety with his involvement in the 1983 kidnapping of Freddy Heineken, the chairman of Heineken brewery. After Mr. Heineken was freed following a ransom payment, Willem Holleeder and his associates were arrested and sentenced to prison sentences ranging from 8 -12 years. At the time, Holleeder and his fellow kidnappers invested the obtained ransom in buildings in Amsterdam Red Light District. After being released on parole in 1992, Holleeder continued to engage in criminality until 2007 when he was arrested and prosecuted for several crimes including extortion. His half-sister Astrid recently wrote a book about her brother’s life which made it to the top of bestseller lists all across the Netherlands. Despite his long criminal history, there is still much to be discovered about Willem Holleeder’s pervious actions and motivations.

22 | The Red Light District in Amsterdam gets 3.1 million visitors per year. (source: Amsterdam Red Light District wiki)

23 | Amsterdam’s Central Station and The Rijksmuseum were designed by the same architect – Pierre Cuypers. (source)

Amsterdam’s Central Station was designed by the Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers, who also designed the Rijksmuseum. The Rijksmuseum was originally designed by Cuypers in the late 19th century, and it underwent a major renovation and expansion in the early 21st century by the Spanish architect Antonio Cruz and the Dutch architect Antonio Ortiz. The renovated Rijksmuseum was completed in 2013.

24 | Rembrandt’s wife is buried in the Red Light District.

The wife of Rembrandt, Saskia van Uylenburgh, is buried in the Oude Kerk (Old Church) in Amsterdam’s Red Light District. The Oude Kerk is a 13th-century church that is located in the heart of the Red Light District, on the Oudekerksplein. The church is the oldest building in Amsterdam and is an important cultural and historical landmark. It is open to the public and attracts many visitors each year.

25 | Amsterdam used to have a legal cocaine factory that was founded on 12 March 1900. (source)

26 | The Dutch invented stocks. World’s first stock exchange opened in Amsterdam during the 17th-century.

Amsterdam is an amazing city with a long and influential history, and it is also the location of the world’s first stock exchange. Amsterdam has been around since the late 12th century and was granted town privileges in 1200 by the Count of Holland. Amsterdam grew quickly in importance as business flourished in Europe during the Renaissance era, owing in part to Amsterdam’s bustling port. This vibrant economy attracted traders who then formed Amsterdam’s original stock exchange in 1602, making Amsterdam home to the very first stock market! It is truly remarkable how this historical city has kept up with the times and continues to be a major commercial center today.

27 | Only 1% of the Dutch smoke cannabis daily and 7.2% of the Dutch used cannabis last month. (source)

28 | The richest Dutch person is a woman

Charlene de Carvalho-Heineken is the wealthiest person in the Netherlands. As the heiress to Heineken International, Charlene inherited a large portion of the company’s total wealth and has since grown her net worth with smart investments and interest from her inheritance. Charlene also serves on the board of directors for several large companies, leading her to reap even more profits from such ventures. Charlene is one of the few people who was able to achieve a degree of success beyond that made available to most through diligent effort and shrewd investment strategies. (source)

29 | There are 31 drug testing centers in The Netherlands were illegal drugs can be tested legally (source)

Drug testing is legal in the Netherlands. Organizations like Jellinek also offer drug and alcohol tests so that individuals can measure their consumption in order to be better informed about their habit and health risks associated with substance abuse.

30 | The cover of Eminem’s album Marshall Matters LP (below) was taken on the Warmoesstraat in Amsterdam’s Red Light District. (source)

Eminem on the Warmoesstraat in the Red Light District Amsterdam.

31 | In Amsterdam Red Light District it is not allowed to drink alcohol publicly on the streets.

32 | Amsterdam’s Red Light District gets 3,1 million visitors per year.

This visitor-research was last conducted in 2017. The most busy day of that year was Saturday 9 September 2017, whereby the Red Light District had 14,675 visitors.

amsterdam red light area
The Oudezijds Achterburgwal.

33 | The Amsterdam Red Light District has a total size of 40 hectares, of which 35 is land and 6 is water (100 hectares = 1 km2)

34 | The Red Light District in Amsterdam has 3 religious buildings.

A protestant church, a buddhistic temple and a hidden catholic church

our lord in the attic amsterdam
Ons Lieve Heer op Solder is a 17th-century hidden church in Amsterdam Red Light District.

In the heart of Amsterdam’s Red Light District lies an interesting mix of religious buildings. A protestant church, Café de Kerk, stands tall amongst the hustle and bustle of this vibrant area. It proudly displays its history, which goes as far back as 1579. Also located in the district is a charming buddhistic temple known as Fo Guang Shan He Hua Temple. This beautiful building has played an important role since it opened in 2003—bringing Chinese philosophical teachings to Amsterdamers from all walks of life. Additionally, there is a catholic church called Onze Lieve Heer Op Solder that captures visitors’ hearts with its breathtaking interior. All these religious buildings are enriching the cultural fabric of Amsterdam and serve to remind us of its resiliency throughout history.

35 | The Trompettersteeg is the most narrow allow in Amsterdam.

It’s located in the Red Light District, it is 75 centimeters wide and contains nine window brothels

36 | Henk de Vries – Owner of Coffeeshop The Bulldog was born and raised in Amsterdam Red Light District.

In his younger years, the front woman of the Salvation Army put him on the right path. In return, he donates money annually to the Salvation Army. All his employees must also work for this religious organisation 1 day a year. (source)

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