Amsterdam at night for couples: pickpockets, fake police and drugs

Amsterdam attracts visitors with its canals and nightlife, but it pays to travel informed. This guide is informative and educational for travellers: it does not recommend venues and contains no explicit content. It is based on the UK government's (FCDO) travel advice for the Netherlands, consulted on 7 November 2026. That page does not cover the red light district, nightlife specifically, bicycle theft or the 112 number, so we do not comment on them.

Pickpockets and fake police

The FCDO says pickpocketing and bag-snatching are common, particularly in central Amsterdam and around Amsterdam Central Station. Gangs operate on trains and trams to and from Schiphol and Central Station. It advises keeping luggage in sight, keeping valuables on you and not hanging bags on restaurant chairs. Dozing on public transport makes you an easy target.

It also warns of fake police officers who ask tourists for cash or cards, often citing a counterfeit-money investigation. According to the advice, genuine officers rarely do this and Dutch police do not carry shiny badges; to check you can call 0900 8844.

Street, drinks and organised crime

If someone offers you drugs, avoid confrontation and quiet or dark alleys, especially at night. The advice flags a particular risk of drink spiking for young women and solo travellers: do not leave a drink unattended, stay with your group and, if you suspect spiking, seek medical help and contact the police. It also mentions violent clashes between drug gangs in several cities.

Drugs and local laws

Drug use is tolerated only in designated premises in major cities; buying or possessing prohibited drugs elsewhere, including in transit at airports, is illegal and can lead to prison. Smoking soft drugs in public is illegal. Specific cafés may sell cannabis in limited quantities under strict conditions. Fresh and dried psychoactive mushrooms are illegal; truffles are regulated in smart shops. Mixing alcohol, cannabis and mushrooms can be fatal.

Anyone aged 14 or over must carry ID; the fine for failing to identify yourself is 100 euros from age 16. Swimming in the canals carries a 160 euro fine and people drown every year, mostly after heavy drinking or cannabis use. Trams have priority and cyclists often ignore red lights.

Before you go

For specific venues, read our guide to clubs near Amsterdam and always check the official website. Advice changes: confirm on gov.uk before travelling.