Safety in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is one of the safest countries in Europe and the world. Violent crime is rare, and most expats report feeling very safe in their daily lives.
Safety Rankings
- Global Peace Index 2025: 14th safest country
- Numbeo Safety Index: 19th globally
- Safest Dutch cities: Utrecht, Groningen, The Hague (ranked 10th globally)
- Amsterdam: Ranked 55th globally (higher crime but still safe)
Crime Statistics
| Crime Type | Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Violent crime | Very low | Rare, concentrated in specific areas |
| Property crime | Moderate | Bike theft is most common |
| Pickpocketing | Moderate | Tourist areas, transit |
| Burglary | Low-moderate | Varies by neighborhood |
| Drug-related | Low | Mostly cannabis, which is tolerated |
Main Safety Concerns
Bike theft: The #1 crime affecting daily life. An estimated 500,000+ bikes are stolen annually.
- Always use a quality lock (€50+)
- Lock through frame AND wheel
- Use designated bike parking
- Register your bike
- Consider insurance
Pickpocketing: Concentrated in tourist areas:
- Amsterdam Central Station
- Dam Square
- Red Light District
- Tourist attractions
- Crowded trams/metros
Scams: Targeting tourists and newcomers:
- Fake accommodation listings
- Street scams in tourist areas
- Online marketplace fraud
Neighborhood Safety
Generally safe everywhere: The Netherlands doesn't have "no-go zones." All areas are accessible, though some feel less comfortable at night.
Amsterdam safe areas: Jordaan, Oud-West, Oud-Zuid, De Pijp, Plantage
Amsterdam areas with more issues: Bijlmer (improving), some Nieuw-West areas, Red Light District at night
Other cities: Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht are all safe with standard urban precautions.
Night Safety
- Generally safe to walk alone at night
- Women report feeling safe in most areas
- Stick to well-lit streets in unfamiliar areas
- Trams and trains run late but may feel empty
- The Red Light District has police presence but attracts petty crime
Emergency Contacts
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Emergency (police, fire, ambulance) | 112 |
| Non-emergency police | 0900-8844 |
| National anti-terrorism hotline | 0800-1351 |
| Tourist police (Amsterdam) | 020-625 2313 |
Drug Policy
The Netherlands has a tolerance policy (gedoogbeleid) toward soft drugs:
- Cannabis is technically illegal but tolerated in licensed coffee shops
- Hard drugs are illegal and actively enforced
- Don't buy drugs on the street - often scams or dangerous
- Drug use in public is discouraged
Natural Disasters
- Flooding: Historical concern but excellent flood management
- Storms: Occasional severe winter storms
- No earthquakes, hurricanes, or major natural disasters
Practical Safety Tips
- Invest in a good bike lock - this cannot be overstated
- Be aware in tourist areas and on public transport
- Don't leave valuables visible in cars
- Register expensive items (bikes, electronics)
- Get contents insurance for your apartment
Pro Tips
- •Spend €50+ on a good bike lock - cheap locks get cut easily
- •Keep bags closed and in front of you in tourist areas
- •The Netherlands is genuinely safe - don't over-worry
- •Register your bike and valuables for insurance/recovery
- •Non-emergency police: 0900-8844 for reporting thefts
Have questions about safety in Netherlands?