Is Amsterdam a safe city?
Amsterdam, though the capital of the Netherlands, is a small city with a pleasant atmosphere which will make you soon feel at home. Amsterdam is also a relatively safe city; violent crime is rare.
Safety
'Petty' crime such as theft – especially of bicycles - and pick pocketing is more common, in particular in the city centre, on trains, trams and near the tourist sites.
There is no need to feel anxious if you take some precautions which you should take when visiting any big city:
- Make sure you always watch your belongings:
Always keep an eye on your bag(s). Do not place it behind you where you cannot see it. This goes any time and anywhere: when waiting at a bus stop, when travelling by public transport, when shopping, and so on.
Never leave your belongings unattended. When visiting a café for instance, keep your bag with you, do not leave it for example on the hat stand. - Watch your purse, especially in shops, trams and trains. Do not tempt pickpockets by leaving your purse sticking out of your pocket, or by keeping your bag open.
- Do not use ATM’s at night in quiet areas.
- Bike theft is common in Amsterdam. If you have a bicycle, make sure to always lock both wheel and frame properly, preferably by locking it to a bicycle rack.