Amsterdam is a major urban area and is at least as safe as other major European cities.  Violent street crime is virtually unheard of. That said, always be aware of where your valuables are.  As in all crowded situations men should keep their wallets in their front pockets.  Women should have a good hold on their handbags. Pickpockets do work the train station (Centraal Station), the trains back and forth to the airport, trams, and crowded areas. Make sure your other valuables, i.e., cell phones, iPods, cameras, etc, aren't hanging out there to be snatched by passers by.

In the Red Light District, do not attempt to take pictures of the women on display in the windows because somebody is bound to harass you or even take your camera.  If you think nobody is watching you, you are wrong.  They have eyes everywhere which you never notice.  Be respectful.

It is possible that you will be offered drugs on the street in the city centre of Amsterdam. Even if you are not interested in drugs you may still be approached, in some cases aggressively. The merchandise on offer is often fake and the dealers are often only interested in robbing or deceiving you.

It is a well-known fact that tourists often do not go to the police to report being robbed. This is partly because they are in unfamiliar territory, but also because the drugs are strictly forbidden in their home country.

The local authorities are of course doing their best to ensure that your stay in Amsterdam is as safe and as pleasant as possible. The police are vigilant when it comes to dealers and will take strong action against them. There are also a number of things you can do yourself to make your stay as safe as possible.

What can you do yourself?

• Never buy drugs on the street.
• Ignore dealers and beggars. Never let them take you anywhere with them.
• Keep your valuables well hidden.
• Report to a police station if you become the victim of a crime.
• Remember that soft drugs are legally available in coffee shops.

What actions are being taken by the Amsterdam authorities?
The police are taking strong action against dealers, including dealers of fake drugs. There is also camera surveillance in a part of the city centre. Apart from their role in crime prevention, the recorded images are important in identifying suspects. If arrested, a dealer in fake drugs can expect a heavy penalty.

The municipal council and the police are working together with all parties involved to ensure that your stay in the city is both safe and pleasant.

Who can you call?
In an emergency you can call the international emergency telephone number 112. To find out the location of your nearest police station or to obtain information from the police, call +31 (0)3435 7844.